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
Each day before Nathan naps, I
read to him. One of his recent favorites is a pop-up book that tells
the story of the three little pigs. We all know that story…the mother
pig sends her three little pigs out into the world, and the first pig
gets in a big hurry and builds a straw house, which the wolf promptly
blows over. Pig #2 builds his house out of sticks, and the wolf blows
it over, as well. Pig #3 has a little more sense, and he builds a brick
house. It takes longer and requires more effort…but in the end, all
three pigs live there safely…and the old wolf is sent packing for good.
There
are some interesting parallels for us in this children’s story. The
mother pig wants what is best for her children, just as God wants what
is best for us. She sends them out into the world…each one a “clean
slate” so to speak…just as we are cleansed of our sins, sent out and
commissioned by Jesus to share His message with the world. Some of us
get in a hurry and take the path of least resistance, while others just
plain do things like they want. The end result is never pretty for any
of those who choose to “pollute their lungs with unbelief and exhale
disobedience.”
Some, like the third little pig, work slowly and
steadily…keeping their focus on the end result. Not only that, they
share their blessings with others…have an “open-door policy” for even
those who disobey and cut corners. They operate in grace, mercy and
forgiveness - and in the wisdom of the LORD - at all times and in all
things.
The end result is that the wolf (a.k.a. the devil!)
doesn’t stand a chance! Those who serve with love and obedience are
rewarded for their faithfulness…and the ones who receive grace and mercy
are shown the face of Christ in these words and actions.
I agree
with the Apostle Paul…I am astounded that God doesn’t just throw up His
hands and wipe the earth clean of each and every one of us. He could
probably start over more easily than He could deal with some of the
messes we make. God could create a new people who would love more
deeply and serve more earnestly…who would treat others with more
kindness and compassion and encourage them to love Jesus and serve Him
wholeheartedly.
But God didn’t do this. For some unknown reason, He chose us…and
He really, REALLY wants us to choose Him in return. I have to tell
you, I am incredibly moved that ANYONE would do that for me…so moved
that I want more than anything to give back to Him in return…to be the
hands and feet of Jesus on this earth for as many people as I can - and
to serve Him in everything I say and do. What about you?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Showing posts with label how we affect others. Show all posts
Showing posts with label how we affect others. Show all posts
Daily Devotional for October 18, 2014
Matthew 15:29-31
After Jesus returned, he walked along Lake Galilee and then climbed a mountain and took his place, ready to receive visitors. They came, tons of them, bringing along the paraplegic, the blind, the maimed, the mute—all sorts of people in need—and more or less threw them down at Jesus’ feet to see what he would do with them. He healed them. When the people saw the mutes speaking, the maimed healthy, the paraplegics walking around, the blind looking around, they were astonished and let everyone know that God was blazingly alive among them.
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 week, we received a new picture of our “son”...Timothy Kodjo Owusu Frim. “Kodjo” will be 14 next week, and we “adopted” him via Compassion International* when he was only five. We send money each month to support Kodjo, who lives most of the time with his grandmother near the African city of Accra in the country of Ghana. Kodjo attends the Mt. Zion Methodist Child Development Center. His family engages in “petty trading” – information we are provided indicates that they make about $58 per month. Our “sponsorship” costs $38 a month.
We pay an additional $8 for HIV/AIDS response and another $8 in Compassion International partnership to help sponsor other children – both of these donations are optional. Just as importantly, we send frequent letters and photos to Kodjo. You can write to your child as often as you like...and there is even an online form to do this and send up to three photos, which makes this more convenient. We offer him encouragement, ask questions about him and the culture and life of Ghana, and we share the love of Christ with him via Bible verses. Kodjo writes us in return with the assistance of a worker at the Child Development Center.
We also send monetary “gifts” for Kodjo’s birthday and at Christmas. And there is an option to provide a “family gift” each year to help siblings (if there are any) and other family members. Compassion decides what the child/family should do with the money, and Kodjo has used his gifts for clothing, food, and a soccer ball. If you follow soccer, you know that this game (referred to as “football” in other countries) is incredibly important in other cultures, including that of Ghana. When the USA beat Ghana in the 2014 World Cup games, Kodjo told us that he was so upset that he was unable to eat or sleep! So the chance to own his own soccer ball was very special to him.
Why am I telling you this...and what does it have to do with this scripture passage in Matthew 15? I believe that when Jesus performed healings and other miracles, He knew that someday, people like Greg and I would “heal” others in His name by sponsoring children via such organizations as Compassion, International. I believe that Jesus fully understood that His demonstrations were not necessarily to be taken so literally by people who lived thousands of years later...but rather, that we were to look for situations in which “miracles” and “healings” were needed – and we were to accomplish these in His name.
There are hundreds of children just like Kodjo – all around the world – who need a sponsor. There are countless charitable organizations that need a few bucks – or a helping hand. It’s not just about money. But many of us plunk down more than $38 a WEEK for mindless purchases...totally oblivious to the impact this amount could have on someone living in a Third World country or even the hungry child in your local elementary school's third grade classroom. We fail to recognize how many lives could be touched if we gave an hour a week to deliver Meals on Wheels or to volunteer in a classroom at school or church. We don’t think about the lifelong impact of mentoring a child...or how precious our visits might be to an elderly person who is housebound. We totally underestimate the power of a simple note of encouragement...or a smile.
Notice that this passage says, “They came...tons of them.” It was no accident that Jesus ministered to these people...that He assessed their needs and met them – in droves. He did this in large part as a demonstration for us of how we are to live. He was showing us what to do to serve and honor Him – and the exponential impact of such ministries. Now it is our turn. The people may not come to us...we may have to seek out the opportunities to “heal” and “perform miracles”. But they exist, nonetheless. Our job is to look for them – and to get busy! Are you ready to do your part? Will this be the day that you begin?
©2014 Debbie Robus
* For more information on Compassion, International, visit http://compassion.com
After Jesus returned, he walked along Lake Galilee and then climbed a mountain and took his place, ready to receive visitors. They came, tons of them, bringing along the paraplegic, the blind, the maimed, the mute—all sorts of people in need—and more or less threw them down at Jesus’ feet to see what he would do with them. He healed them. When the people saw the mutes speaking, the maimed healthy, the paraplegics walking around, the blind looking around, they were astonished and let everyone know that God was blazingly alive among them.
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 week, we received a new picture of our “son”...Timothy Kodjo Owusu Frim. “Kodjo” will be 14 next week, and we “adopted” him via Compassion International* when he was only five. We send money each month to support Kodjo, who lives most of the time with his grandmother near the African city of Accra in the country of Ghana. Kodjo attends the Mt. Zion Methodist Child Development Center. His family engages in “petty trading” – information we are provided indicates that they make about $58 per month. Our “sponsorship” costs $38 a month.
We pay an additional $8 for HIV/AIDS response and another $8 in Compassion International partnership to help sponsor other children – both of these donations are optional. Just as importantly, we send frequent letters and photos to Kodjo. You can write to your child as often as you like...and there is even an online form to do this and send up to three photos, which makes this more convenient. We offer him encouragement, ask questions about him and the culture and life of Ghana, and we share the love of Christ with him via Bible verses. Kodjo writes us in return with the assistance of a worker at the Child Development Center.
We also send monetary “gifts” for Kodjo’s birthday and at Christmas. And there is an option to provide a “family gift” each year to help siblings (if there are any) and other family members. Compassion decides what the child/family should do with the money, and Kodjo has used his gifts for clothing, food, and a soccer ball. If you follow soccer, you know that this game (referred to as “football” in other countries) is incredibly important in other cultures, including that of Ghana. When the USA beat Ghana in the 2014 World Cup games, Kodjo told us that he was so upset that he was unable to eat or sleep! So the chance to own his own soccer ball was very special to him.
Why am I telling you this...and what does it have to do with this scripture passage in Matthew 15? I believe that when Jesus performed healings and other miracles, He knew that someday, people like Greg and I would “heal” others in His name by sponsoring children via such organizations as Compassion, International. I believe that Jesus fully understood that His demonstrations were not necessarily to be taken so literally by people who lived thousands of years later...but rather, that we were to look for situations in which “miracles” and “healings” were needed – and we were to accomplish these in His name.
There are hundreds of children just like Kodjo – all around the world – who need a sponsor. There are countless charitable organizations that need a few bucks – or a helping hand. It’s not just about money. But many of us plunk down more than $38 a WEEK for mindless purchases...totally oblivious to the impact this amount could have on someone living in a Third World country or even the hungry child in your local elementary school's third grade classroom. We fail to recognize how many lives could be touched if we gave an hour a week to deliver Meals on Wheels or to volunteer in a classroom at school or church. We don’t think about the lifelong impact of mentoring a child...or how precious our visits might be to an elderly person who is housebound. We totally underestimate the power of a simple note of encouragement...or a smile.
Notice that this passage says, “They came...tons of them.” It was no accident that Jesus ministered to these people...that He assessed their needs and met them – in droves. He did this in large part as a demonstration for us of how we are to live. He was showing us what to do to serve and honor Him – and the exponential impact of such ministries. Now it is our turn. The people may not come to us...we may have to seek out the opportunities to “heal” and “perform miracles”. But they exist, nonetheless. Our job is to look for them – and to get busy! Are you ready to do your part? Will this be the day that you begin?
©2014 Debbie Robus
* For more information on Compassion, International, visit http://compassion.com
Daily Devotional for May 5, 2014
John 12:37-40
Jesus said all this, and then went into hiding. All these God-signs he had given them and they still didn’t get it, still wouldn’t trust him. This proved that the prophet Isaiah was right:
God, who believed what we preached?
Who recognized God’s arm, outstretched and ready to act?
First they wouldn’t believe, then they couldn’t—again, just as Isaiah said:
Our bishop for the Arkansas United Methodists, Gary Mueller, posts a daily “GodNMe” devotional on Facebook. He focused today on how – and why – some people seem to be turning away from God. He cited several reasons, including how our culture seems to encourage this on some levels…and how technology and advances have given us a sense that we can do so many more things for ourselves, so we feel that we really don’t need God’s help. But what struck me the most was the sentence where he said that sadly…”people of faith make it hard for others to believe because of the way we behave.” He conceded that this was a hard fact to admit…but I really think he is on to something.
Dare I remind you again…people.are.watching. Like it or not, they judge us by how we behave. When we throw up our hands and blame God for our troubles, they notice. When we gossip…they see someone who either doesn’t truly love one another – or loves “selectively”. When we judge others, we do not demonstrate God’s unconditional love. When we are negative, wallow in self-pity, and criticize…they wonder, “Will they do the same to me? Is this what it means to walk with God?” If we mistreat or disrespect our family…our teachers…our coworkers and bosses…our friends…our leaders…and even our pets, others will question just how tender our hearts truly are – and whether we’ve made room there for God.
In short, I am afraid that we are often God’s worst enemy. We offer a “faith” that causes others to say, “If that is what it means to find God, I’m not up for it!” And who would blame them?!
We can’t have it both ways. And honestly, if you have really found God and made Him an integral part of your life, you won’t want to act this way. If you start every day seeking God and inviting Him to guide your steps, you will check your words AND your body language. You will bite your tongue, smile and look for the positives in every person and situation. If you trust God to meet your every need, you will look at the darkest, most desperate situation and ask, “Where are you in this, LORD?” – and then you will wait and watch for Him - because He will appear! This might not happen immediately…but your demonstration of faith and perseverance will be its own testimony. If you are kind and loving…friendly and approachable - even toward those who are unlovely and at times unlovable – others will notice. And they will want what you have…WHO you have!
Don’t be the reason that others turn away from God. Do not make it hard for them to believe. Being a Christian is challenging enough at times without fellow believers raising doubts and causing confusion. Truly seek God for yourself…make Him an integral part of your daily living…and honor His presence with your outward behavior. Soften your heart and let the healing begin – both within you and toward those around you. Do you really get it with God? Isn’t it time you did?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Jesus said all this, and then went into hiding. All these God-signs he had given them and they still didn’t get it, still wouldn’t trust him. This proved that the prophet Isaiah was right:
God, who believed what we preached?
Who recognized God’s arm, outstretched and ready to act?
First they wouldn’t believe, then they couldn’t—again, just as Isaiah said:
Their eyes are blinded,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.
their hearts are hardened,
So that they wouldn’t see with their eyes
and perceive with their hearts,
And turn to me, God,
so I could heal them.
Our bishop for the Arkansas United Methodists, Gary Mueller, posts a daily “GodNMe” devotional on Facebook. He focused today on how – and why – some people seem to be turning away from God. He cited several reasons, including how our culture seems to encourage this on some levels…and how technology and advances have given us a sense that we can do so many more things for ourselves, so we feel that we really don’t need God’s help. But what struck me the most was the sentence where he said that sadly…”people of faith make it hard for others to believe because of the way we behave.” He conceded that this was a hard fact to admit…but I really think he is on to something.
Dare I remind you again…people.are.watching. Like it or not, they judge us by how we behave. When we throw up our hands and blame God for our troubles, they notice. When we gossip…they see someone who either doesn’t truly love one another – or loves “selectively”. When we judge others, we do not demonstrate God’s unconditional love. When we are negative, wallow in self-pity, and criticize…they wonder, “Will they do the same to me? Is this what it means to walk with God?” If we mistreat or disrespect our family…our teachers…our coworkers and bosses…our friends…our leaders…and even our pets, others will question just how tender our hearts truly are – and whether we’ve made room there for God.
In short, I am afraid that we are often God’s worst enemy. We offer a “faith” that causes others to say, “If that is what it means to find God, I’m not up for it!” And who would blame them?!
We can’t have it both ways. And honestly, if you have really found God and made Him an integral part of your life, you won’t want to act this way. If you start every day seeking God and inviting Him to guide your steps, you will check your words AND your body language. You will bite your tongue, smile and look for the positives in every person and situation. If you trust God to meet your every need, you will look at the darkest, most desperate situation and ask, “Where are you in this, LORD?” – and then you will wait and watch for Him - because He will appear! This might not happen immediately…but your demonstration of faith and perseverance will be its own testimony. If you are kind and loving…friendly and approachable - even toward those who are unlovely and at times unlovable – others will notice. And they will want what you have…WHO you have!
Don’t be the reason that others turn away from God. Do not make it hard for them to believe. Being a Christian is challenging enough at times without fellow believers raising doubts and causing confusion. Truly seek God for yourself…make Him an integral part of your daily living…and honor His presence with your outward behavior. Soften your heart and let the healing begin – both within you and toward those around you. Do you really get it with God? Isn’t it time you did?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for September 10, 2013
Deuteronomy 30:19
“Today I have given you the choice between life and death, between blessings and curses. Now I call on heaven and earth to witness the choice you make. Oh, that you would choose life, so that you and your descendants might live!”
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.
Almost two decades ago, a woman I knew took her own life. Her funeral was one of the most difficult experiences I’ve ever endured. No one could understand why this vibrant, beautiful grandmother took her own life. The pastor explained at the service that this was not truly the person we all knew and loved… that surely something must have gone terribly wrong in her mind and heart in order for her to choose to die. When I think of all she had to live for… grandchildren she has never seen, all kinds of opportunities that might have been in store for her…I have to believe that my pastor was exactly right. Had she been of sound mind, there is no way she would have ever chosen to die.
As hard as it is for us to comprehend taking our own life, this is essentially what many of us choose to do when we do not follow God. Those who believe that they don’t need God’s help have virtually pulled the trigger and committed to their own spiritual death. We are not superhuman. We do not have the capacity to make it on our own in this world. When we try, we often end up like my friend…overcome by the pressures, challenges and demons… and ugly things can result that can have a ripple effect for generations to come.
So many of us know that a relationship with the Holy Spirit is the answer, but we choose otherwise… human relationships, material accumulation, work, alcohol, drugs, money, gambling, and more. We stay “on the run” – continually seeking something that will satisfy, solve all of our problems and/or answer all of our questions. Timothy has a little Sesame Street book called I Can Do It Myself. That’s a pretty good mantra when you are a toddler… but even toddlers seem to have more sense about when to ask for help than the rest of us!
Don’t misunderstand me… I look forward to heaven… but only when GOD says it’s time for me to move there! Meanwhile, I know that I cannot navigate this earth successfully on my own. Furthermore, I know that the only way to spend eternity with God is to choose to serve Him now – here – in this lifetime. Not every day will be fun… there will be challenges, sorrows, heartaches and disappointments along the way. Choosing to follow God does not mean that life becomes instantly perfect! But even the worst day with Him is better than one day without.
So what do you say? How will you choose? Are you “holding the gun to your head, ready to pull the trigger”? Isn’t it time you “let go and let God” have control in your life? Are you ready to choose Eternal Life and truly live for the rest of your days?
©2013 Debbie Robus
“Today I have given you the choice between life and death, between blessings and curses. Now I call on heaven and earth to witness the choice you make. Oh, that you would choose life, so that you and your descendants might live!”
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.
Almost two decades ago, a woman I knew took her own life. Her funeral was one of the most difficult experiences I’ve ever endured. No one could understand why this vibrant, beautiful grandmother took her own life. The pastor explained at the service that this was not truly the person we all knew and loved… that surely something must have gone terribly wrong in her mind and heart in order for her to choose to die. When I think of all she had to live for… grandchildren she has never seen, all kinds of opportunities that might have been in store for her…I have to believe that my pastor was exactly right. Had she been of sound mind, there is no way she would have ever chosen to die.
As hard as it is for us to comprehend taking our own life, this is essentially what many of us choose to do when we do not follow God. Those who believe that they don’t need God’s help have virtually pulled the trigger and committed to their own spiritual death. We are not superhuman. We do not have the capacity to make it on our own in this world. When we try, we often end up like my friend…overcome by the pressures, challenges and demons… and ugly things can result that can have a ripple effect for generations to come.
So many of us know that a relationship with the Holy Spirit is the answer, but we choose otherwise… human relationships, material accumulation, work, alcohol, drugs, money, gambling, and more. We stay “on the run” – continually seeking something that will satisfy, solve all of our problems and/or answer all of our questions. Timothy has a little Sesame Street book called I Can Do It Myself. That’s a pretty good mantra when you are a toddler… but even toddlers seem to have more sense about when to ask for help than the rest of us!
Don’t misunderstand me… I look forward to heaven… but only when GOD says it’s time for me to move there! Meanwhile, I know that I cannot navigate this earth successfully on my own. Furthermore, I know that the only way to spend eternity with God is to choose to serve Him now – here – in this lifetime. Not every day will be fun… there will be challenges, sorrows, heartaches and disappointments along the way. Choosing to follow God does not mean that life becomes instantly perfect! But even the worst day with Him is better than one day without.
So what do you say? How will you choose? Are you “holding the gun to your head, ready to pull the trigger”? Isn’t it time you “let go and let God” have control in your life? Are you ready to choose Eternal Life and truly live for the rest of your days?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for April 17, 2013
April 17 ~ James 3:7-12
This is scary: You can tame a tiger, but you can’t tame a tongue—it’s never been done. The tongue runs wild, a wanton killer. With our tongues we bless God our Father; with the same tongues we curse the very men and women he made in his image. Curses and
blessings out of the same mouth!
My friends, this can’t go on. A spring doesn’t gush fresh water one day and brackish the next, does it? Apple trees don’t bear strawberries, do they? Raspberry bushes don’t bear apples, do they? You’re not going to dip into a polluted mud hole and get a cup of clear, cool water, are you?
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, Timothy said he was hungry. I ran through a litany of items we had available, and none suited him. Finally, he said he would like a scrambled egg. When I sat it before him, he said, “That’s not the kind I wanted… it’s not white.” I asked if he wanted a fried egg… he said yes. So I fried him an egg. That wasn’t right either. I really think he wanted a hard-boiled egg. But I had already eaten a scrambled egg and a fried egg… and he had returned to his blocks and toys… so we didn’t boil any eggs!
Eggs can take on several different forms, depending on how you cook them. So you may be like Timothy and say, “No thanks!” when served a fried or scrambled egg. Your excuse would be that you simply do not care for fried or scrambled eggs. And while we all prefer our eggs prepared in different ways, nobody wants a raw or rotten egg.
When it comes to many of our words and actions, the “egg principle” directly applies. Everyone has their own personality. Some people are dry-witted or use a lot of sarcasm. Others are loud and brash, talk a lot and always say what is on their mind. Still others may be shy and hesitant… quiet and reserved. All have a voice… they just exercise it differently. But when those voices spew foul language, unkind words, disrespectful comments about someone else – or dishonorable talk against God – it’s the same as gushing raw or rotten eggs…distasteful and potentially harmful. And God is not pleased.
There are a lot of acceptable choices in life. There are plenty of instances where we are perfectly justified to say, “I prefer XYZ,” or “I do not care for fried or scrambled eggs.” But there are even more instances in which our words and actions matter greatly… and no excuses are acceptable. It is up to us to seek God’s will and wisdom and to check our behavior and our talk… to make sure we are pleasing Him at all times. Have you done this lately? Is it time for you to give yourself a “talk and action” tune-up? What sort of “eggs” are you serving these days?
©2013 Debbie Robus
This is scary: You can tame a tiger, but you can’t tame a tongue—it’s never been done. The tongue runs wild, a wanton killer. With our tongues we bless God our Father; with the same tongues we curse the very men and women he made in his image. Curses and
blessings out of the same mouth!
My friends, this can’t go on. A spring doesn’t gush fresh water one day and brackish the next, does it? Apple trees don’t bear strawberries, do they? Raspberry bushes don’t bear apples, do they? You’re not going to dip into a polluted mud hole and get a cup of clear, cool water, are you?
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, Timothy said he was hungry. I ran through a litany of items we had available, and none suited him. Finally, he said he would like a scrambled egg. When I sat it before him, he said, “That’s not the kind I wanted… it’s not white.” I asked if he wanted a fried egg… he said yes. So I fried him an egg. That wasn’t right either. I really think he wanted a hard-boiled egg. But I had already eaten a scrambled egg and a fried egg… and he had returned to his blocks and toys… so we didn’t boil any eggs!
Eggs can take on several different forms, depending on how you cook them. So you may be like Timothy and say, “No thanks!” when served a fried or scrambled egg. Your excuse would be that you simply do not care for fried or scrambled eggs. And while we all prefer our eggs prepared in different ways, nobody wants a raw or rotten egg.
When it comes to many of our words and actions, the “egg principle” directly applies. Everyone has their own personality. Some people are dry-witted or use a lot of sarcasm. Others are loud and brash, talk a lot and always say what is on their mind. Still others may be shy and hesitant… quiet and reserved. All have a voice… they just exercise it differently. But when those voices spew foul language, unkind words, disrespectful comments about someone else – or dishonorable talk against God – it’s the same as gushing raw or rotten eggs…distasteful and potentially harmful. And God is not pleased.
There are a lot of acceptable choices in life. There are plenty of instances where we are perfectly justified to say, “I prefer XYZ,” or “I do not care for fried or scrambled eggs.” But there are even more instances in which our words and actions matter greatly… and no excuses are acceptable. It is up to us to seek God’s will and wisdom and to check our behavior and our talk… to make sure we are pleasing Him at all times. Have you done this lately? Is it time for you to give yourself a “talk and action” tune-up? What sort of “eggs” are you serving these days?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for September 13, 2012
James 4:11-12
My friends, don’t say cruel things about others! If you do, or if you condemn others, you are condemning God’s Law. And if you condemn the Law, you put yourself above the Law and refuse to obey either it or God who gave it. God is our judge, and he can save or destroy us. What right do you have to condemn anyone?
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
If ever there was a season where we need these two verses… this is it! Criticisms and condemnations are flying from people in every political camp. And I get it… the temptation is surely there to rail against my candidates’ opponents in many cases… to call some of them names like “liar, idiot, or loser.” But this would be wrong on many levels… beginning with others’ entitlement to their own opinion and the right to free speech. Additionally, none of us likes it when the other guy is critical or judgmental of us or our candidates. So I have tried very hard to keep my opinions to myself… and hopefully no one has been offended by anything I have said or done.
What I had not fully considered is that judging and saying cruel or condescending things about others condemns God’s Law… and essentially puts us above the Law – and God! So we must be very careful what we say about others… how we react to their words and actions… and any impression we might give that we are condemning one another.
“But wait!” you may say… “What about terrorists? What about tyrants and dictators? Shouldn’t we condemn them?” If I read what James is telling us correctly, we must be careful that what we condemn is the behavior… the comment - or action – not the person who delivered it. So to say that the activities of a terrorist are wrong is one thing… but to say cruel things about him/her is another. For instance, when Osama bin Laden was captured and killed, few would disagree that he committed heinous atrocities towards thousands of people. But for late night comedians to joke about his death was cruel and unGodly.
When we know that someone has done reprehensible things… or spoken hatefully of another, we must not call that person names or publicly condemn the individual. This makes us no better or different than that person. But to say, “I don’t agree with his/her comments or actions,” or “I am praying that he/she has a change of heart” seems to be more in line with God’s Law. We are leaving the actual judging and consequences in His hands, rather than inserting ourselves into this mix.
As I said, I think these are incredibly important scripture verses for all of us to study and incorporate… not just for the next few weeks, but forever. We need to make this a habit… to trust God to handle these things… and to demonstrate His love, grace, mercy and forgiveness by keeping OUR opinions to ourselves… and carefully monitoring our own words and actions. When you feel the urge to say something cruel or judgmental about another person… stop and ask myself… “Would Jesus do this? How would He (who has every right to criticize and condemn) treat this person if they stood face to face?”
Let’s remember… we are all God’s children. He loves that person you have labeled a “liar, idiot or loser” just as much as He loves you. Our responsibility as Christians is to behave in a way that honors God and shows Him due respect. He can – and will – handle the rest. Are you ready to let Him?
©2012 Debbie Robus
My friends, don’t say cruel things about others! If you do, or if you condemn others, you are condemning God’s Law. And if you condemn the Law, you put yourself above the Law and refuse to obey either it or God who gave it. God is our judge, and he can save or destroy us. What right do you have to condemn anyone?
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
If ever there was a season where we need these two verses… this is it! Criticisms and condemnations are flying from people in every political camp. And I get it… the temptation is surely there to rail against my candidates’ opponents in many cases… to call some of them names like “liar, idiot, or loser.” But this would be wrong on many levels… beginning with others’ entitlement to their own opinion and the right to free speech. Additionally, none of us likes it when the other guy is critical or judgmental of us or our candidates. So I have tried very hard to keep my opinions to myself… and hopefully no one has been offended by anything I have said or done.
What I had not fully considered is that judging and saying cruel or condescending things about others condemns God’s Law… and essentially puts us above the Law – and God! So we must be very careful what we say about others… how we react to their words and actions… and any impression we might give that we are condemning one another.
“But wait!” you may say… “What about terrorists? What about tyrants and dictators? Shouldn’t we condemn them?” If I read what James is telling us correctly, we must be careful that what we condemn is the behavior… the comment - or action – not the person who delivered it. So to say that the activities of a terrorist are wrong is one thing… but to say cruel things about him/her is another. For instance, when Osama bin Laden was captured and killed, few would disagree that he committed heinous atrocities towards thousands of people. But for late night comedians to joke about his death was cruel and unGodly.
When we know that someone has done reprehensible things… or spoken hatefully of another, we must not call that person names or publicly condemn the individual. This makes us no better or different than that person. But to say, “I don’t agree with his/her comments or actions,” or “I am praying that he/she has a change of heart” seems to be more in line with God’s Law. We are leaving the actual judging and consequences in His hands, rather than inserting ourselves into this mix.
As I said, I think these are incredibly important scripture verses for all of us to study and incorporate… not just for the next few weeks, but forever. We need to make this a habit… to trust God to handle these things… and to demonstrate His love, grace, mercy and forgiveness by keeping OUR opinions to ourselves… and carefully monitoring our own words and actions. When you feel the urge to say something cruel or judgmental about another person… stop and ask myself… “Would Jesus do this? How would He (who has every right to criticize and condemn) treat this person if they stood face to face?”
Let’s remember… we are all God’s children. He loves that person you have labeled a “liar, idiot or loser” just as much as He loves you. Our responsibility as Christians is to behave in a way that honors God and shows Him due respect. He can – and will – handle the rest. Are you ready to let Him?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for July 24, 2012
Luke 6:38
"Don't pick on people, jump on their failures, criticize their faults— unless, of course, you want the same treatment. Don't condemn those who are down; that hardness can boomerang. Be easy on people; you'll find life a lot easier. Give away your life; you'll find life given back, but not merely given back—given back with bonus and blessing. Giving, not getting, is the way. Generosity begets generosity."
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 was talking with my neighbor the other day about a mutual friend who is the primary caregiver for her 103-year-old mother. Several years ago this friend and her husband moved her mother here from another community to share their home. The lady is now blind and virtually deaf… and wheelchair bound. You can imagine the stress this situation places on her daughter, son-in-law, and extended family… or maybe you can’t! But I said to my neighbor, “I think so often of Anne. As much as she loves her mother, I know this is a huge burden.”
The friend replied, “Oh… it’s not that bad… she has children who help her.” This is the same friend who only a couple of years ago was caring for her own mother… and telling me often how difficult and challenging it was! I am here to tell you that anyone who cares for an elderly loved one – especially those who do so at home – experiences challenges and a lot of stress! This woman may not openly share her frustrations and difficulties with her friends, but she surely has them! Others may see someone who seems to have it all together all the time… someone who is upbeat and positive. But on the inside, he/she may be anything but cheerful and confident.
On the other hand, we may make snap judgments about someone, based on an erratic action or a snippy comeback, missing completely that something is wrong in their life… that they are experiencing hardness. I have said this before, but I distinctly remember one weekend in February 1998, when my dad was gravely ill and at death’s door. I dashed into Wal-Mart to pick up a few groceries. People were cheerfully purchasing Valentines, candy and flowers. Everywhere I turned, “love was in the air.” People were smiling and laughing - talking about plans for their special holiday or something else fun. All I wanted to do is scream to anyone who would listen, “STOP the world! My daddy is dying!” But instead, I smiled in return and hurriedly left the store.
Before you pin on my medal for bravery and patience, be assured that I have made my fair share of brash, rude comments – and then some! – when life has been stressful and challenging. I am often critical, judgmental, and hard on people. There are plenty of times when I fail to consider the other person’s heart. I am just as guilty as the next guy of picking on people and jumping on their failures. But I am trying so very hard to do better – to be better.
There are a lot of people who have judged each of us unfairly. I’m sure there are those who wonder why I am not doing more… participating in more ministries in my church… getting more done with my days. I know there are those who think I don’t do enough for my own grandmother and family… or think I waste too much time on sewing and writing. There are plenty of people who are making similar judgments about you. They may be evaluating your character, your behavior, how you use your time and talents, and your attitude in general… all without having a clue about what is truly in your heart. They have no idea what God’s call is on your life… or how you are answering Him.
The point is this… if we want others to stop judging and criticizing us… we have to take the first step and do this for them. If we want others to go easy on us and lift us up, rather than kick us when we are down, we have to start the process by doing this for those in our circle and beyond. We have to stop paying attention to what others think… stop reacting to what others say about us or anyone else… and open our hearts and minds to the fact that we all have “issues.” Everybody is dealing with something… and how we treat each other can have a direct effect on the impact of these matters.
Be a humble, gentle person. Put on your “rose-colored glasses,” so to speak, and see others with a generous heart. Recognize that God loves us, warts and all, and we are to do the same for each other. Take the first step toward creating an atmosphere where God has room to build up His children in love and kindness and to use all of us to bless each other and strengthen His kingdom. When you have the urge to pick on someone… ask God to give you the courage and strength to give them a little slack.
Giving, not getting, is the way… and this begins with our attitude and how we treat others. Be the one who jump-start this process in your own circle of friends and influence. Always give as good as you wish to get… or better… and watch the blessings multiply for everyone.
©2012 Debbie Robus
"Don't pick on people, jump on their failures, criticize their faults— unless, of course, you want the same treatment. Don't condemn those who are down; that hardness can boomerang. Be easy on people; you'll find life a lot easier. Give away your life; you'll find life given back, but not merely given back—given back with bonus and blessing. Giving, not getting, is the way. Generosity begets generosity."
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 was talking with my neighbor the other day about a mutual friend who is the primary caregiver for her 103-year-old mother. Several years ago this friend and her husband moved her mother here from another community to share their home. The lady is now blind and virtually deaf… and wheelchair bound. You can imagine the stress this situation places on her daughter, son-in-law, and extended family… or maybe you can’t! But I said to my neighbor, “I think so often of Anne. As much as she loves her mother, I know this is a huge burden.”
The friend replied, “Oh… it’s not that bad… she has children who help her.” This is the same friend who only a couple of years ago was caring for her own mother… and telling me often how difficult and challenging it was! I am here to tell you that anyone who cares for an elderly loved one – especially those who do so at home – experiences challenges and a lot of stress! This woman may not openly share her frustrations and difficulties with her friends, but she surely has them! Others may see someone who seems to have it all together all the time… someone who is upbeat and positive. But on the inside, he/she may be anything but cheerful and confident.
On the other hand, we may make snap judgments about someone, based on an erratic action or a snippy comeback, missing completely that something is wrong in their life… that they are experiencing hardness. I have said this before, but I distinctly remember one weekend in February 1998, when my dad was gravely ill and at death’s door. I dashed into Wal-Mart to pick up a few groceries. People were cheerfully purchasing Valentines, candy and flowers. Everywhere I turned, “love was in the air.” People were smiling and laughing - talking about plans for their special holiday or something else fun. All I wanted to do is scream to anyone who would listen, “STOP the world! My daddy is dying!” But instead, I smiled in return and hurriedly left the store.
Before you pin on my medal for bravery and patience, be assured that I have made my fair share of brash, rude comments – and then some! – when life has been stressful and challenging. I am often critical, judgmental, and hard on people. There are plenty of times when I fail to consider the other person’s heart. I am just as guilty as the next guy of picking on people and jumping on their failures. But I am trying so very hard to do better – to be better.
There are a lot of people who have judged each of us unfairly. I’m sure there are those who wonder why I am not doing more… participating in more ministries in my church… getting more done with my days. I know there are those who think I don’t do enough for my own grandmother and family… or think I waste too much time on sewing and writing. There are plenty of people who are making similar judgments about you. They may be evaluating your character, your behavior, how you use your time and talents, and your attitude in general… all without having a clue about what is truly in your heart. They have no idea what God’s call is on your life… or how you are answering Him.
The point is this… if we want others to stop judging and criticizing us… we have to take the first step and do this for them. If we want others to go easy on us and lift us up, rather than kick us when we are down, we have to start the process by doing this for those in our circle and beyond. We have to stop paying attention to what others think… stop reacting to what others say about us or anyone else… and open our hearts and minds to the fact that we all have “issues.” Everybody is dealing with something… and how we treat each other can have a direct effect on the impact of these matters.
Be a humble, gentle person. Put on your “rose-colored glasses,” so to speak, and see others with a generous heart. Recognize that God loves us, warts and all, and we are to do the same for each other. Take the first step toward creating an atmosphere where God has room to build up His children in love and kindness and to use all of us to bless each other and strengthen His kingdom. When you have the urge to pick on someone… ask God to give you the courage and strength to give them a little slack.
Giving, not getting, is the way… and this begins with our attitude and how we treat others. Be the one who jump-start this process in your own circle of friends and influence. Always give as good as you wish to get… or better… and watch the blessings multiply for everyone.
©2012 Debbie Robus
Dailyl Devotional for March 13, 2012
John 19:23-24
When they crucified him, the Roman soldiers took his clothes and divided them up four ways, to each soldier a fourth. But his robe was seamless, a single piece of weaving, so they said to each other, "Let's not tear it up. Let's throw dice to see who gets it." This confirmed the Scripture that said, "They divided up my clothes among them and threw dice for my coat." (The soldiers validated the Scriptures!)
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.
Did you know that Jesus wore “designer clothes?” A robe created from a single piece of weaving with no seams was not cheap or readily available to the masses. Even today, a garment that can be made with creative piecing and seaming to save fabric is far less expensive than one that requires a single piece of woven material. Yet, when we think of Jesus, we perceive a man who dressed somewhat poorly.
Think about it… the Roman soldiers would not have thrown dice to win a filthy garment… even one belonging to Jesus. This robe had value! Yet a lot of people want to “sell everything and live like Jesus.” Our Jesus did not live poorly… He lived simply and humbly… and there is a difference! It’s not about the designer clothing you wear or your fancy car... but about how you act when you are wearing the clothes and driving the vehicle. Does everyone have to know you are wearing True Religion® jeans or carrying a Coach® bag? Do you jiggle a keychain for your Camaro or make sure everyone knows you drive a Cadillac or a Beemer? Do you have a reputation for only shopping in designer stores and snubbing discount or “middle-class” retailers as beneath your standards?
Why does this matter? Here’s the deal. Last week, I watched a video about a tyrannical monster in Uganda named Joseph Kony, who has recruited over 65 thousand children to serve in his army. He has forced them to commit heinous crimes, including mutilation and murder of their own parents, in order to show loyalty to him. To date, Kony has virtually “flown under the radar” of the world. But organizers are working to change this. By making Kony famous, they hope to expose his inhumanity to the world – and bring about his capture.
At the same time, I recently read an article about the Westboro Baptist Church in Topeka, Kansas. I’m sure you have heard of this group. They are the ones who protest at funerals and other events… the church that went to Joplin, Missouri, last spring after the devastating tornado to tell the residents of that city that they had it coming… that this horrific, deadly storm was the wrath of God for their sins. Publicity and the limelight are goals of this church body… they want people to know about them.
What is my point? Ironically, Joseph Kony is a good example of how much can be accomplished when you don’t “toot your own horn,” so to speak… when you live a quiet, simple life and don’t attract attention. Sadly, he has used this for evil… but we can use the same approach to win others to Jesus. By quietly going about the LORD’s work, people will begin to see the results – and Jesus – rather than the Disciples who are working in the background. As for the church in Kansas, we should stop talking about them completely. By giving them the attention they crave, we are encouraging them to continue to make noise… and to damage the name of Jesus in the process. Their boisterous efforts to proclaim their version of “Christianity” is the perfect example of how not to win others to Christ. When we stand up, shout and draw attention to ourselves… in the name of our faith, how wonderful our church is or how Godly and devoted we are – and in essence, how wrong the rest of the folks are – we seriously damage our service to God.
I challenge each of us today to examine our motives and our methods. Are we promoting Jesus… or ourselves? Do we have a reputation for serving God by serving others and sharing the Good News… or are we known for our possessions, our position, and our attitude? If others perceive us as anything but humble and simple – regardless of what we have or our station in life – we have failed to serve God appropriately.
How do people perceive you? How do you represent God? Michael W. Smith has a song called “Cross of Gold” in which the lyrics say in part… “Where do you stand? What is your statement? What is it you're trying to say? What's your line? Tell me why you wear your cross of gold… Is it a flame? Is it a passion? A symbol of love living in you...Or is it a game? Religion in fashion...Some kind of phase you're going through?” Ask yourself these questions today. Seek God’s wisdom and strength and begin to live simply, and humbly. Understand fully that it’s not what you have that matters – or how much – but how you share Jesus with others. Who do others see when they look at you?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Cross of Gold by Michael W. Smith – available on the CD “Change Your World” ©1993. Visit http://www.michaelwsmith.com/.
KONY2012 – http://www.kony2012.com/
When they crucified him, the Roman soldiers took his clothes and divided them up four ways, to each soldier a fourth. But his robe was seamless, a single piece of weaving, so they said to each other, "Let's not tear it up. Let's throw dice to see who gets it." This confirmed the Scripture that said, "They divided up my clothes among them and threw dice for my coat." (The soldiers validated the Scriptures!)
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.
Did you know that Jesus wore “designer clothes?” A robe created from a single piece of weaving with no seams was not cheap or readily available to the masses. Even today, a garment that can be made with creative piecing and seaming to save fabric is far less expensive than one that requires a single piece of woven material. Yet, when we think of Jesus, we perceive a man who dressed somewhat poorly.
Think about it… the Roman soldiers would not have thrown dice to win a filthy garment… even one belonging to Jesus. This robe had value! Yet a lot of people want to “sell everything and live like Jesus.” Our Jesus did not live poorly… He lived simply and humbly… and there is a difference! It’s not about the designer clothing you wear or your fancy car... but about how you act when you are wearing the clothes and driving the vehicle. Does everyone have to know you are wearing True Religion® jeans or carrying a Coach® bag? Do you jiggle a keychain for your Camaro or make sure everyone knows you drive a Cadillac or a Beemer? Do you have a reputation for only shopping in designer stores and snubbing discount or “middle-class” retailers as beneath your standards?
Why does this matter? Here’s the deal. Last week, I watched a video about a tyrannical monster in Uganda named Joseph Kony, who has recruited over 65 thousand children to serve in his army. He has forced them to commit heinous crimes, including mutilation and murder of their own parents, in order to show loyalty to him. To date, Kony has virtually “flown under the radar” of the world. But organizers are working to change this. By making Kony famous, they hope to expose his inhumanity to the world – and bring about his capture.
At the same time, I recently read an article about the Westboro Baptist Church in Topeka, Kansas. I’m sure you have heard of this group. They are the ones who protest at funerals and other events… the church that went to Joplin, Missouri, last spring after the devastating tornado to tell the residents of that city that they had it coming… that this horrific, deadly storm was the wrath of God for their sins. Publicity and the limelight are goals of this church body… they want people to know about them.
What is my point? Ironically, Joseph Kony is a good example of how much can be accomplished when you don’t “toot your own horn,” so to speak… when you live a quiet, simple life and don’t attract attention. Sadly, he has used this for evil… but we can use the same approach to win others to Jesus. By quietly going about the LORD’s work, people will begin to see the results – and Jesus – rather than the Disciples who are working in the background. As for the church in Kansas, we should stop talking about them completely. By giving them the attention they crave, we are encouraging them to continue to make noise… and to damage the name of Jesus in the process. Their boisterous efforts to proclaim their version of “Christianity” is the perfect example of how not to win others to Christ. When we stand up, shout and draw attention to ourselves… in the name of our faith, how wonderful our church is or how Godly and devoted we are – and in essence, how wrong the rest of the folks are – we seriously damage our service to God.
I challenge each of us today to examine our motives and our methods. Are we promoting Jesus… or ourselves? Do we have a reputation for serving God by serving others and sharing the Good News… or are we known for our possessions, our position, and our attitude? If others perceive us as anything but humble and simple – regardless of what we have or our station in life – we have failed to serve God appropriately.
How do people perceive you? How do you represent God? Michael W. Smith has a song called “Cross of Gold” in which the lyrics say in part… “Where do you stand? What is your statement? What is it you're trying to say? What's your line? Tell me why you wear your cross of gold… Is it a flame? Is it a passion? A symbol of love living in you...Or is it a game? Religion in fashion...Some kind of phase you're going through?” Ask yourself these questions today. Seek God’s wisdom and strength and begin to live simply, and humbly. Understand fully that it’s not what you have that matters – or how much – but how you share Jesus with others. Who do others see when they look at you?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Cross of Gold by Michael W. Smith – available on the CD “Change Your World” ©1993. Visit http://www.michaelwsmith.com/.
KONY2012 – http://www.kony2012.com/
Daily Devotional for September 9, 2011
John 9:39-41
Jesus then said, "I came into the world to bring everything into the clear light of day, making all the distinctions clear, so that those who have never seen will see, and those who have made a great pretense of seeing will be exposed as blind."
Some Pharisees overheard him and said, "Does that mean you're calling us blind?" Jesus said, "If you were really blind, you would be blameless, but since you claim to see everything so well, you're accountable for every fault and failure."
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.
You may have witnessed a young child get by with something for which you would have been “given the business” in “Leave-It-To-Beaver-speak.” You may have even asked your parent or the person in charge, “Why doesn’t he/she get in trouble for that?” The answer may be… “Because he/she doesn’t know any better.” You can forgive a toddler for dropping your precious dish and breaking it far easier than you can forgive a teenager who is rough-housing and acting irresponsibly.
In the same way, if someone knowingly tells a secret, you may feel angry or betrayed. But if someone walks into a room and innocently “spills the beans”… unaware that they are not supposed to tell… you might feel upset, but you can’t direct your frustration toward that individual… because it’s not really his/her fault.
When it comes to our relationship with God, we are the Pharisees in this passage. Let’s be honest, we claim to have it all figured out. We think we know who the “saints” and “sinners” are… and we are pretty sure we don’t fall into that last category. Our church is the best… we know more about the Bible than the next guy… and in many instances, it’s our way or the highway. And we think we have our relationship with God sewn up, too. We are so good… we go to church each Sunday… we even go sometimes on Wednesday night. We sing in the choir, and we go on mission trips… and we are active in our school and community. We’re such good people.
But at the same time, we don’t care one whit about the guy down the street. We haven’t noticed who else came to church, much less bothered to ask about that guy who used to sit next to us all the time and hasn’t been there in months. We don’t call or visit the sick, help the poor and needy, or even take time to check on our own elderly relatives. We’re so busy being good Christians! We have our hands full serving God in our own way… and looking really good doing so!
What we don’t see is that we are the rough-housing teenager. We are wielding our faith like a light saber, and then we want God to forgive us when we break something or hurt Him or some of His children. We want God to pat us on the back and say, “It’s okay… I know you didn’t mean to neglect others. I know you were too busy to care about the homeless and the hungry or speak kindly to people you meet. I understand that serving on a church mission team is far more impressive than tutoring little kids after school. You were exactly right to make that big donation to the community projects fund… no wonder you didn’t have a spare dollar to help that young mother pay her grocery bill. So what if she had to put back a few jars of baby food!”
I’ve probably overstated my point here, but let’s be honest… we get so caught up in making a show to God and others that we sometimes forget Him completely. We think we know what God wants better than He does, and we never bother to ask Him… much less listen. It’s time to humble ourselves before God and say, “I am truly blind. I don’t really see what YOU see… but I want to. Open my eyes to YOUR truths… YOUR plans… YOUR will for my life… and show me how to truly serve you.”
We are indeed accountable for every fault and failure unless we honestly and humbly surrender to God… put our shortcomings, selfishness and self-serving behaviors at the feet of Jesus, and ask Him to forgive them all. What are you seeing these days? Are you blind to your own shortcomings… or to the true will of your Heavenly Father? Have you let God expose you as blind, so that you might really see? Isn’t it time you did?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Jesus then said, "I came into the world to bring everything into the clear light of day, making all the distinctions clear, so that those who have never seen will see, and those who have made a great pretense of seeing will be exposed as blind."
Some Pharisees overheard him and said, "Does that mean you're calling us blind?" Jesus said, "If you were really blind, you would be blameless, but since you claim to see everything so well, you're accountable for every fault and failure."
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.
You may have witnessed a young child get by with something for which you would have been “given the business” in “Leave-It-To-Beaver-speak.” You may have even asked your parent or the person in charge, “Why doesn’t he/she get in trouble for that?” The answer may be… “Because he/she doesn’t know any better.” You can forgive a toddler for dropping your precious dish and breaking it far easier than you can forgive a teenager who is rough-housing and acting irresponsibly.
In the same way, if someone knowingly tells a secret, you may feel angry or betrayed. But if someone walks into a room and innocently “spills the beans”… unaware that they are not supposed to tell… you might feel upset, but you can’t direct your frustration toward that individual… because it’s not really his/her fault.
When it comes to our relationship with God, we are the Pharisees in this passage. Let’s be honest, we claim to have it all figured out. We think we know who the “saints” and “sinners” are… and we are pretty sure we don’t fall into that last category. Our church is the best… we know more about the Bible than the next guy… and in many instances, it’s our way or the highway. And we think we have our relationship with God sewn up, too. We are so good… we go to church each Sunday… we even go sometimes on Wednesday night. We sing in the choir, and we go on mission trips… and we are active in our school and community. We’re such good people.
But at the same time, we don’t care one whit about the guy down the street. We haven’t noticed who else came to church, much less bothered to ask about that guy who used to sit next to us all the time and hasn’t been there in months. We don’t call or visit the sick, help the poor and needy, or even take time to check on our own elderly relatives. We’re so busy being good Christians! We have our hands full serving God in our own way… and looking really good doing so!
What we don’t see is that we are the rough-housing teenager. We are wielding our faith like a light saber, and then we want God to forgive us when we break something or hurt Him or some of His children. We want God to pat us on the back and say, “It’s okay… I know you didn’t mean to neglect others. I know you were too busy to care about the homeless and the hungry or speak kindly to people you meet. I understand that serving on a church mission team is far more impressive than tutoring little kids after school. You were exactly right to make that big donation to the community projects fund… no wonder you didn’t have a spare dollar to help that young mother pay her grocery bill. So what if she had to put back a few jars of baby food!”
I’ve probably overstated my point here, but let’s be honest… we get so caught up in making a show to God and others that we sometimes forget Him completely. We think we know what God wants better than He does, and we never bother to ask Him… much less listen. It’s time to humble ourselves before God and say, “I am truly blind. I don’t really see what YOU see… but I want to. Open my eyes to YOUR truths… YOUR plans… YOUR will for my life… and show me how to truly serve you.”
We are indeed accountable for every fault and failure unless we honestly and humbly surrender to God… put our shortcomings, selfishness and self-serving behaviors at the feet of Jesus, and ask Him to forgive them all. What are you seeing these days? Are you blind to your own shortcomings… or to the true will of your Heavenly Father? Have you let God expose you as blind, so that you might really see? Isn’t it time you did?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for July 10, 2011
Luke 2:13-22
When the Passover Feast, celebrated each spring by the Jews, was about to take place, Jesus traveled up to Jerusalem. He found the Temple teeming with people selling cattle and sheep and doves. The loan sharks were also there in full strength.
Jesus put together a whip out of strips of leather and chased them out of the Temple, stampeding the sheep and cattle, upending the tables of the loan sharks, spilling coins left and right. He told the dove merchants, "Get your things out of here! Stop turning my Father's house into a shopping mall!" That's when his disciples remembered the Scripture, "Zeal for your house consumes me."
But the Jews were upset. They asked, "What credentials can you present to justify this?" Jesus answered, "Tear down this Temple and in three days I'll put it back together."
They were indignant: "It took forty-six years to build this Temple, and you're going to rebuild it in three days?" But Jesus was talking about his body as the Temple. Later, after he was raised from the dead, his disciples remembered he had said this. They then put two and two together and believed both what was written in Scripture and what Jesus had said.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
A lot can happen in three days. Babies can be born, people can die and be buried, natural disasters can wipe out entire communities, high school and college careers can be completed, couples can marry and start new lives together… and a lot more. It’s the building – and rebuilding – that can take much longer… creating a lifetime of memories with a new addition, moving forward with life after the loss of a loved one, restoring a community and starting over with businesses and homes, beginning that “next chapter” of life... or getting “life” back on track.
The impact of three days in the life of Jesus had worldwide ramifications for generations to come and into Eternity. His crucifixion, death and resurrection changed everything… forever! And while our restorations and rebuilds often take more than three days, simply by nature of the fact that we are mere human beings. If we are living for Jesus, this time has importance, as well. Our actions and choices may not appear to affect the world at large – or future generations. But truly, everything we do in Jesus’ name has potential for great impact. And even the “little things” matter more than we like to think.
You’ve heard me say many times that “People are watching.” If we think of our lives… our bodies and our minds… as temples of God, then everything we say and do has tremendous value – and impact on others. We can be a positive, Godly influence… or we can, in essence, totally ruin everything with our witness and our conduct. If we think of our Christian faith and our church body as the Temple of God… what we say and do as church members, in worship, and on behalf of the church itself has an incredible power – either positively or negatively. We may think that we are insignificant… or that what we are saying and doing doesn’t really matter that much. But it does!
Three days in the life of Jesus changed the world for all of us. What does this mean for you? What do three days in your life do – for you, for others… and for Jesus?
©2011 Debbie Robus
When the Passover Feast, celebrated each spring by the Jews, was about to take place, Jesus traveled up to Jerusalem. He found the Temple teeming with people selling cattle and sheep and doves. The loan sharks were also there in full strength.
Jesus put together a whip out of strips of leather and chased them out of the Temple, stampeding the sheep and cattle, upending the tables of the loan sharks, spilling coins left and right. He told the dove merchants, "Get your things out of here! Stop turning my Father's house into a shopping mall!" That's when his disciples remembered the Scripture, "Zeal for your house consumes me."
But the Jews were upset. They asked, "What credentials can you present to justify this?" Jesus answered, "Tear down this Temple and in three days I'll put it back together."
They were indignant: "It took forty-six years to build this Temple, and you're going to rebuild it in three days?" But Jesus was talking about his body as the Temple. Later, after he was raised from the dead, his disciples remembered he had said this. They then put two and two together and believed both what was written in Scripture and what Jesus had said.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
A lot can happen in three days. Babies can be born, people can die and be buried, natural disasters can wipe out entire communities, high school and college careers can be completed, couples can marry and start new lives together… and a lot more. It’s the building – and rebuilding – that can take much longer… creating a lifetime of memories with a new addition, moving forward with life after the loss of a loved one, restoring a community and starting over with businesses and homes, beginning that “next chapter” of life... or getting “life” back on track.
The impact of three days in the life of Jesus had worldwide ramifications for generations to come and into Eternity. His crucifixion, death and resurrection changed everything… forever! And while our restorations and rebuilds often take more than three days, simply by nature of the fact that we are mere human beings. If we are living for Jesus, this time has importance, as well. Our actions and choices may not appear to affect the world at large – or future generations. But truly, everything we do in Jesus’ name has potential for great impact. And even the “little things” matter more than we like to think.
You’ve heard me say many times that “People are watching.” If we think of our lives… our bodies and our minds… as temples of God, then everything we say and do has tremendous value – and impact on others. We can be a positive, Godly influence… or we can, in essence, totally ruin everything with our witness and our conduct. If we think of our Christian faith and our church body as the Temple of God… what we say and do as church members, in worship, and on behalf of the church itself has an incredible power – either positively or negatively. We may think that we are insignificant… or that what we are saying and doing doesn’t really matter that much. But it does!
Three days in the life of Jesus changed the world for all of us. What does this mean for you? What do three days in your life do – for you, for others… and for Jesus?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for May 21, 2011
Proverbs 19:6-7
Lots of people flock around a generous person;
everyone's a friend to the philanthropist.
When you're down on your luck, even your family avoids you—
yes, even your best friends wish you'd get lost.
If they see you coming, they look the other way—
out of sight, out of mind.
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.
If you have ever experienced the breakup or divorce of a couple with whom you were friends or acquaintances, you know how awkward it can be to maintain contact with the parties involved. This has happened to my husband and me… and often, we like both people and really don’t want to choose sides. Sometimes, it seems easier just to avoid both of them than to have to figure out how to deal with such a dicey situation.
Or maybe you know someone who has been injured or come down with a debilitating illness… and all of a sudden, you really don’t know how you are supposed to react to this person – or how to help. So a lot of times, we back off and pretend we are busy or make up some other excuse for not coming around… or we just completely cut the person out of our circle.
And maybe you have been on the “receiving end” of this sort of situation. Maybe because of circumstances beyond your control, things have changed in your life… health, finances, relationships… and you find that people you thought cared about you have disappeared. It happens more often than we want to think… and it hurts.
It’s easy to be friends and acquaintances with healthy, successful, generous people. And sadly, some people hang around these kind of folks because of what is in it for themselves. But God has called us to “love one another”… and that means loving others for themselves – not what they can do for you. This means not waiting to call someone and ask how they are doing until you need to follow that question with, “Listen… I need a big favor.” We are to continue to make the effort to stay in touch with people and love them – even when it’s awkward, or we don’t know how to help, or they seem so down on their luck that they feel like they have nothing to offer another human being.
We are all God’s children. He loves each and every one of us… and to Him, we are all tremendously valuable. If we are going to love one another like true Disciples of Christ, we must love in all circumstances and at all times. Ask yourself some hard questions about the people in your circle… and those from whom you have disconnected. Ask yourself why you surround yourself with some – and why you have distanced from others. The answers might astound you – and you might find that God is calling you to do some shifting in your “circle.”
Be obedient to the will of God… love others not for what they can do for you, but because of who they are and what they mean to you personally. Don’t let “out of sight – out of mind” apply to you and your relationships. Would you want others… or worse yet – God Himself… to treat you this way? Don’t be guilty of offering others any less than you would hope for yourself in relationships. Be a true vessel of the love and light of Christ, and treat others as God instructs you to do so.
©2011 Debbie Robus
Lots of people flock around a generous person;
everyone's a friend to the philanthropist.
When you're down on your luck, even your family avoids you—
yes, even your best friends wish you'd get lost.
If they see you coming, they look the other way—
out of sight, out of mind.
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.
If you have ever experienced the breakup or divorce of a couple with whom you were friends or acquaintances, you know how awkward it can be to maintain contact with the parties involved. This has happened to my husband and me… and often, we like both people and really don’t want to choose sides. Sometimes, it seems easier just to avoid both of them than to have to figure out how to deal with such a dicey situation.
Or maybe you know someone who has been injured or come down with a debilitating illness… and all of a sudden, you really don’t know how you are supposed to react to this person – or how to help. So a lot of times, we back off and pretend we are busy or make up some other excuse for not coming around… or we just completely cut the person out of our circle.
And maybe you have been on the “receiving end” of this sort of situation. Maybe because of circumstances beyond your control, things have changed in your life… health, finances, relationships… and you find that people you thought cared about you have disappeared. It happens more often than we want to think… and it hurts.
It’s easy to be friends and acquaintances with healthy, successful, generous people. And sadly, some people hang around these kind of folks because of what is in it for themselves. But God has called us to “love one another”… and that means loving others for themselves – not what they can do for you. This means not waiting to call someone and ask how they are doing until you need to follow that question with, “Listen… I need a big favor.” We are to continue to make the effort to stay in touch with people and love them – even when it’s awkward, or we don’t know how to help, or they seem so down on their luck that they feel like they have nothing to offer another human being.
We are all God’s children. He loves each and every one of us… and to Him, we are all tremendously valuable. If we are going to love one another like true Disciples of Christ, we must love in all circumstances and at all times. Ask yourself some hard questions about the people in your circle… and those from whom you have disconnected. Ask yourself why you surround yourself with some – and why you have distanced from others. The answers might astound you – and you might find that God is calling you to do some shifting in your “circle.”
Be obedient to the will of God… love others not for what they can do for you, but because of who they are and what they mean to you personally. Don’t let “out of sight – out of mind” apply to you and your relationships. Would you want others… or worse yet – God Himself… to treat you this way? Don’t be guilty of offering others any less than you would hope for yourself in relationships. Be a true vessel of the love and light of Christ, and treat others as God instructs you to do so.
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for February 26, 2011
Ecclesiastes 5:6
Don't let your mouth get you in trouble! And don't say to the worship leader, "I didn't mean what I said." God can destroy everything you have worked for, so don't say something that makes God angry.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
We’ve attended several basketball games lately… and watched a few more on television… and I’ve noticed that, when it comes to a sporting event, it doesn’t take much to make us angry! One common source of our wrath is the referees, who are all probably nice enough guys off the court. But to our way of thinking, they need glasses, they don’t know anything about the game, and they are just downright biased and “in cahoots” with the opposing team.
I’m all for having a good time at a ballgame. And I’ll admit, there have been plenty of times when I’ve stood and yelled, “C’mon ref… he walked… she was over the back…he’s all over him!” I’m not excusing my behavior, but compared to others who yell and scream the whole game, I’m a lightweight.
We recently attended a basketball game played by our college alma mater on an opposing court. The gym was small and filled with extremely loud fans. They frequently chanted in unison… “D-fense”,”Let’s Go, Let’s Go!”, and more. BUT… when an opponent fouled out of the game, they chanted as he/she stepped off the court… “Right, left, right, left” until the player sat down, and then they yelled, somewhat hatefully, “Now SIT DOWN!”
This was all in good fun, and relatively harmless, I suppose… and maybe our players didn’t even notice (but I bet they did). But let’s be honest… it’s only funny when you are the one doing the chanting. And more importantly, a lot of times the things we chant and yell… the comments and gestures we make… are not behavior that pleases God. I remind you again, people are watching. I would never want someone to see me behaving at a ballgame – or anywhere else – in a way that would make them say… “She is supposed to be a Christian. If that’s how Christians act, I’m not sure I’m interested!”
I admit, I need to check my own behavior. I don’t want someone to ask themselves, “How can she say this or act like that and then turn around and write these devos about serving God well and behaving in a way that pleases and honors Him?” And I have been convicted more than once over something I wrote and then didn’t follow. We all fall short daily, and that’s why we need to be covered in God’s grace and continually seeking renewal through Him.
So where do you stand? Are you the guy in the stands that nobody wants to sit near, because you rant and rave at the refs, players and coaches? Are you the person who posts in Facebook that “we wuz robbed by the refs” every time your team has a bad performance or the opponent plays better? Let’s be honest… most games do not come down to one call. On the other hand, one call can make a huge difference, and if that “one call” is your public outburst in an unbecoming way, it can have a lasting effect on those who witness it.
Let’s give ourselves a good check today. “I didn’t mean it” is usually uttered too late to be of much help. Let’s look at our attitudes and see if we can make some corrections before we speak or act… not afterward. Let’s make a concerted effort to honor God all the time… and to seek His protection and guidance. And when we do fail, let’s be quick to ask for grace, mercy, and God’s correction. With God’s help, our mouth can become less apt to get us into trouble… and that’s a very good thing!
©2011 Debbie Robus
Don't let your mouth get you in trouble! And don't say to the worship leader, "I didn't mean what I said." God can destroy everything you have worked for, so don't say something that makes God angry.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
We’ve attended several basketball games lately… and watched a few more on television… and I’ve noticed that, when it comes to a sporting event, it doesn’t take much to make us angry! One common source of our wrath is the referees, who are all probably nice enough guys off the court. But to our way of thinking, they need glasses, they don’t know anything about the game, and they are just downright biased and “in cahoots” with the opposing team.
I’m all for having a good time at a ballgame. And I’ll admit, there have been plenty of times when I’ve stood and yelled, “C’mon ref… he walked… she was over the back…he’s all over him!” I’m not excusing my behavior, but compared to others who yell and scream the whole game, I’m a lightweight.
We recently attended a basketball game played by our college alma mater on an opposing court. The gym was small and filled with extremely loud fans. They frequently chanted in unison… “D-fense”,”Let’s Go, Let’s Go!”, and more. BUT… when an opponent fouled out of the game, they chanted as he/she stepped off the court… “Right, left, right, left” until the player sat down, and then they yelled, somewhat hatefully, “Now SIT DOWN!”
This was all in good fun, and relatively harmless, I suppose… and maybe our players didn’t even notice (but I bet they did). But let’s be honest… it’s only funny when you are the one doing the chanting. And more importantly, a lot of times the things we chant and yell… the comments and gestures we make… are not behavior that pleases God. I remind you again, people are watching. I would never want someone to see me behaving at a ballgame – or anywhere else – in a way that would make them say… “She is supposed to be a Christian. If that’s how Christians act, I’m not sure I’m interested!”
I admit, I need to check my own behavior. I don’t want someone to ask themselves, “How can she say this or act like that and then turn around and write these devos about serving God well and behaving in a way that pleases and honors Him?” And I have been convicted more than once over something I wrote and then didn’t follow. We all fall short daily, and that’s why we need to be covered in God’s grace and continually seeking renewal through Him.
So where do you stand? Are you the guy in the stands that nobody wants to sit near, because you rant and rave at the refs, players and coaches? Are you the person who posts in Facebook that “we wuz robbed by the refs” every time your team has a bad performance or the opponent plays better? Let’s be honest… most games do not come down to one call. On the other hand, one call can make a huge difference, and if that “one call” is your public outburst in an unbecoming way, it can have a lasting effect on those who witness it.
Let’s give ourselves a good check today. “I didn’t mean it” is usually uttered too late to be of much help. Let’s look at our attitudes and see if we can make some corrections before we speak or act… not afterward. Let’s make a concerted effort to honor God all the time… and to seek His protection and guidance. And when we do fail, let’s be quick to ask for grace, mercy, and God’s correction. With God’s help, our mouth can become less apt to get us into trouble… and that’s a very good thing!
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for January 29, 2011
Matthew 5:13
"Let me tell you why you are here. You're here to be salt-seasoning that brings out the God-flavors of this earth. If you lose your saltiness, how will people taste godliness? You've lost your usefulness and will end up in the garbage.”
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.
We hear a lot these days about watching our salt intake. Doctors who report on television news stations – or have their own TV shows – are warning us to greatly reduce the amount of salt in our diet. On the other hand, professionals who are evaluating the work of chefs and “would-be chefs” on a number of cooking shows routinely mention salt. There is a delicate balance… not enough, and the dish is bland and lacks flavor. Add too much, and all you taste is salt.
Few people really enjoy bland food… or food that lacks enough salt. Most people detest a dish that is too salty! And this analogy in Matthew 5 for salt directly applies to our Christian life.
Jesus has told us that we are the salt. How we conduct ourselves… the things we say and do… enhance the “flavor” of His work. In other words, when people see us living in joy… gladly doing for others… speaking kindly and holding our tongue when many would lash out or say something ugly… they see the goodness of God through us. When we “take the high road” and quietly work behind the scenes to make life better for others… when we show compassion… and most especially, when we demonstrate faith in the midst of challenges… people see the power, grace, mercy and love of God in action.
At the same time, when we add “too much salt,” we have a negative effect. When we behave badly, then claim to be Disciples of Christ… people notice. When we go on and on about how active we are in ministries… give people the impression that the Sunday School class to which we belong, the Bible study we attend, and our mission work and generous spirit are what define our Christian life, we have “over-salted” – and it often leaves a foul taste with others. I’m not saying we can’t ever tell someone we will pray for them (if we indeed pray for them afterward), or that it is in any way wrong to attend a Bible study or Sunday School… or to do missions work. But the delicate “seasoning” comes in how we present our lives to others… how well we balance the “salt.”
Salt is a subtle flavoring. When there is not enough of it in a dish, people notice – and miss it! When there is too much salt, people notice, also… and for many, the dish is ruined. If we over-salt our Christian witness with too much outward show of how wonderful we are… how faithfully we serve… what martyrs we are for Jesus… we may do more harm than good for the kingdom of God. If we are careful and attentive with our “salt,” God can use us to bring out the very best flavor of a life in Christ… and others will take notice and want more for themselves.
We all know people who are “heavy-handed with the salt shaker”… and I’m betting you know a few who are on the bland side… literally, and in their daily Christian living. It’s time for us to take a hard look at our Christian “salt shaker” and see where we should correct the balance. Have you checked your “salt” lately?
©2011 Debbie Robus
"Let me tell you why you are here. You're here to be salt-seasoning that brings out the God-flavors of this earth. If you lose your saltiness, how will people taste godliness? You've lost your usefulness and will end up in the garbage.”
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.
We hear a lot these days about watching our salt intake. Doctors who report on television news stations – or have their own TV shows – are warning us to greatly reduce the amount of salt in our diet. On the other hand, professionals who are evaluating the work of chefs and “would-be chefs” on a number of cooking shows routinely mention salt. There is a delicate balance… not enough, and the dish is bland and lacks flavor. Add too much, and all you taste is salt.
Few people really enjoy bland food… or food that lacks enough salt. Most people detest a dish that is too salty! And this analogy in Matthew 5 for salt directly applies to our Christian life.
Jesus has told us that we are the salt. How we conduct ourselves… the things we say and do… enhance the “flavor” of His work. In other words, when people see us living in joy… gladly doing for others… speaking kindly and holding our tongue when many would lash out or say something ugly… they see the goodness of God through us. When we “take the high road” and quietly work behind the scenes to make life better for others… when we show compassion… and most especially, when we demonstrate faith in the midst of challenges… people see the power, grace, mercy and love of God in action.
At the same time, when we add “too much salt,” we have a negative effect. When we behave badly, then claim to be Disciples of Christ… people notice. When we go on and on about how active we are in ministries… give people the impression that the Sunday School class to which we belong, the Bible study we attend, and our mission work and generous spirit are what define our Christian life, we have “over-salted” – and it often leaves a foul taste with others. I’m not saying we can’t ever tell someone we will pray for them (if we indeed pray for them afterward), or that it is in any way wrong to attend a Bible study or Sunday School… or to do missions work. But the delicate “seasoning” comes in how we present our lives to others… how well we balance the “salt.”
Salt is a subtle flavoring. When there is not enough of it in a dish, people notice – and miss it! When there is too much salt, people notice, also… and for many, the dish is ruined. If we over-salt our Christian witness with too much outward show of how wonderful we are… how faithfully we serve… what martyrs we are for Jesus… we may do more harm than good for the kingdom of God. If we are careful and attentive with our “salt,” God can use us to bring out the very best flavor of a life in Christ… and others will take notice and want more for themselves.
We all know people who are “heavy-handed with the salt shaker”… and I’m betting you know a few who are on the bland side… literally, and in their daily Christian living. It’s time for us to take a hard look at our Christian “salt shaker” and see where we should correct the balance. Have you checked your “salt” lately?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for January 20, 2011
Galatians 5:9
You were doing so well until someone made you turn from the truth. And that person was certainly not sent by the one who chose you. A little yeast can change a whole batch of dough, but you belong to the Lord. That makes me certain that you will do what I say, instead of what someone else tells you to do. Whoever is causing trouble for you will be punished.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
As someone who has made her fair share of bread, I can tell you that it’s all about the yeast. Without it, the bread won’t rise. And even if you do remember to put in the yeast, you have to “jump-start” it with water that is heated to the correct temperature. Water that is too cool will keep the yeast from activating. Water that is too hot will “kill” it and have the same result.
There is another factor to yeast… it has to be fresh, because it is a living organism that ferments when mixed with water… and this produces carbon dioxide and the bubbles that give bread its texture. In the world of bread making, it matters when you add the yeast to the bread mixture. If you don’t ferment it with water first, the salt in the dough will kill it and your bread will be dense and flat. So you can see that yeast plays an important role.
In this passage, I believe Paul is telling the Galatians that “yeast” is the devil or his agents. He is saying that when we allow negative influences into our lives, the results can affect not only us… but also those around us. In other words, when we listen to Satan or his agents, the “whole batch” of dough can be affected.
I also believe we can look at this in a positive light. Yeast is a catalyst. It makes things happen. If we take care of the “yeast” – if we nurture it, mix it with water that is the right temperature, and use it while it’s fresh, we can have a really wonderful loaf of bread. So it would follow that if we look at our relationship with God in this manner – if we treat our Christian faith as “good yeast” and give it the right attention and care in the form of listening to God and following His will for our lives… serving Him well – we can have great results. By keeping our relationship with God fresh… continually nurturing our faith through prayer and Bible study, fellowship with other believers, service and surrender of self, we can affect not only our own life, but the lives of those around us, too… the “whole batch!”
I have been taken to task before by some who are adamant that Biblical references to yeast always represent the devil. But I believe that this is a prime example of God’s word being relevant for our lives in one way at one time… and in another on a different day. I haven’t changed God’s word… or His intention… by saying this. I have indicated that God’s word is right for us all the time… in all circumstances. The bottom line is that outside influences (yeast) can affect the whole batch of bread (our lives and the lives of those around us). The challenge for us is to be discerning… to recognize “good yeast” and “bad yeast”… and to act accordingly.
The end result will either be light, fluffy, warm bread… a life that glorifies Jesus – the Bread of Life… or a dense, flat piece of leathery dough… a life swayed by the devil and his agents that weighs us down and steals our joy. What are you doing with the “yeast” in your life? Do you know how to tell “good yeast” from bad? What sort of “bread” are YOU baking?
©2011 Debbie Robus
You were doing so well until someone made you turn from the truth. And that person was certainly not sent by the one who chose you. A little yeast can change a whole batch of dough, but you belong to the Lord. That makes me certain that you will do what I say, instead of what someone else tells you to do. Whoever is causing trouble for you will be punished.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
As someone who has made her fair share of bread, I can tell you that it’s all about the yeast. Without it, the bread won’t rise. And even if you do remember to put in the yeast, you have to “jump-start” it with water that is heated to the correct temperature. Water that is too cool will keep the yeast from activating. Water that is too hot will “kill” it and have the same result.
There is another factor to yeast… it has to be fresh, because it is a living organism that ferments when mixed with water… and this produces carbon dioxide and the bubbles that give bread its texture. In the world of bread making, it matters when you add the yeast to the bread mixture. If you don’t ferment it with water first, the salt in the dough will kill it and your bread will be dense and flat. So you can see that yeast plays an important role.
In this passage, I believe Paul is telling the Galatians that “yeast” is the devil or his agents. He is saying that when we allow negative influences into our lives, the results can affect not only us… but also those around us. In other words, when we listen to Satan or his agents, the “whole batch” of dough can be affected.
I also believe we can look at this in a positive light. Yeast is a catalyst. It makes things happen. If we take care of the “yeast” – if we nurture it, mix it with water that is the right temperature, and use it while it’s fresh, we can have a really wonderful loaf of bread. So it would follow that if we look at our relationship with God in this manner – if we treat our Christian faith as “good yeast” and give it the right attention and care in the form of listening to God and following His will for our lives… serving Him well – we can have great results. By keeping our relationship with God fresh… continually nurturing our faith through prayer and Bible study, fellowship with other believers, service and surrender of self, we can affect not only our own life, but the lives of those around us, too… the “whole batch!”
I have been taken to task before by some who are adamant that Biblical references to yeast always represent the devil. But I believe that this is a prime example of God’s word being relevant for our lives in one way at one time… and in another on a different day. I haven’t changed God’s word… or His intention… by saying this. I have indicated that God’s word is right for us all the time… in all circumstances. The bottom line is that outside influences (yeast) can affect the whole batch of bread (our lives and the lives of those around us). The challenge for us is to be discerning… to recognize “good yeast” and “bad yeast”… and to act accordingly.
The end result will either be light, fluffy, warm bread… a life that glorifies Jesus – the Bread of Life… or a dense, flat piece of leathery dough… a life swayed by the devil and his agents that weighs us down and steals our joy. What are you doing with the “yeast” in your life? Do you know how to tell “good yeast” from bad? What sort of “bread” are YOU baking?
©2011 Debbie Robus
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