Isaiah 66:2
I have made everything;
that’s how it all came to be.
I, the Lord, have spoken.
The people I treasure most
are the humble—
they depend only on me
and tremble when I speak.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Have
you ever gone into a room and forgotten why you were there? I know I
have. I will stop and stand still and say to myself, “Now, I know I
came in here for something!” In my case, it might be a bit of
simple forgetfulness that comes with age! But often, the problem is that
we are trying to do too much at once.
I know it sounds cliché, but this is one of the busiest times of the year. We are consumed with decorations,
parties, gifts and festivities…musical programs and parades…food galore
and opportunities at every turn for revelry. And in the midst of all of
this, we find it very easy to forget “why we came into the room.” In
other words, we get so caught up in the merriment and celebration that
we forget WHO we are celebrating.
This scripture passage from
Isaiah reminds us that God treasures most those who are humble…the ones
who depend on Him and “tremble when I speak.” In other words, God
treasures the ones who maintain focus…listen for His voice…and pay
attention to His message. God treasures those who are more interested
in what He thinks and has to say than what the world says…the ones who care more about seeking Him
in the everyday, ordinary things of life than making sure everything is
just perfect in their holiday celebrations and décor. He values those
who care more about meeting the physical, mental and spiritual needs of
others than buying the perfect gift for Aunt Sue.
At the end of
the day…we need to stop, take a breath, and refocus. Two weeks from
Friday (if not sooner) a lot of people will pack away the decorations,
undress the tree, and close the book on Christmas for another eleven
months. And more than a few will pack away their relationship with
Jesus, too.
Let’s promise right now that we won’t do this! Let’s
get our priorities straight now…today…December 16th. Let’s humble
ourselves before God and thank Him for all that He has made…for
everything that He has given us. And let’s ask Him to show us what is
most important…”why we came into the room” in the first place!
I
want to be among those whom God treasures most…don’t you? Are you
taking the necessary steps to make it so? Don’t you think it’s time you
did?
© Debbie Robus
Showing posts with label humbling yourself before God. Show all posts
Showing posts with label humbling yourself before God. Show all posts
Daily Devotional for July 11, 2015
Luke 8:13-17
“But the corrupt tax collector stood at a distance and dared not even lift his eyes to heaven as he prayed, but beat upon his chest in sorrow, exclaiming, ‘God, be merciful to me, a sinner.’ I tell you, this sinner, not the Pharisee, returned home forgiven! For the proud shall be humbled, but the humble shall be honored.”
One day some mothers brought their babies to him to touch and bless. But the disciples told them to go away.
Then Jesus called the children over to him and said to the disciples, “Let the little children come to me! Never send them away! For the Kingdom of God belongs to men who have hearts as trusting as these little children’s. And anyone who doesn’t have their kind of faith will never get within the Kingdom’s gates.”
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 spent any time at all with children – or if you think back to your own childhood – one of the top ten questions children ask (if not #1) is…”WHY?” And probably the most common answer adults give is…”Because I said so!” The interesting thing is that we grown-ups expect this to be enough explanation and justification…and quite often, it IS!
So why is it that when our Heavenly Father says, “Because I said so…” we go…”But wait a minute! What about XYZ? You haven’t heard my reasons for why I want to do it this way! What about what I want to do?!” We demonstrate little to no faith in God to know what is best for us…and in doing so, we are as good as saying, “Yeah…I know You sent Jesus to supposedly die for my sins and show me how to live for You…but I’m not sure I totally buy it!”
Where is your humility? Where is your “childlike faith” in an unseen God? Where is your hope and confidence that all of the things God has promised us are real…true…and available to everyone? When will we start living like children of the Most High God? Are you humble enough to be honored and blessed by God…or are you too proud to really receive His forgiveness? When it comes to faith in Jesus, “older and wiser” doesn’t always compute. Is your heart as trusting as a little child’s? Don’t you think you should be?
©2015 Debbie Robus
“But the corrupt tax collector stood at a distance and dared not even lift his eyes to heaven as he prayed, but beat upon his chest in sorrow, exclaiming, ‘God, be merciful to me, a sinner.’ I tell you, this sinner, not the Pharisee, returned home forgiven! For the proud shall be humbled, but the humble shall be honored.”
One day some mothers brought their babies to him to touch and bless. But the disciples told them to go away.
Then Jesus called the children over to him and said to the disciples, “Let the little children come to me! Never send them away! For the Kingdom of God belongs to men who have hearts as trusting as these little children’s. And anyone who doesn’t have their kind of faith will never get within the Kingdom’s gates.”
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 spent any time at all with children – or if you think back to your own childhood – one of the top ten questions children ask (if not #1) is…”WHY?” And probably the most common answer adults give is…”Because I said so!” The interesting thing is that we grown-ups expect this to be enough explanation and justification…and quite often, it IS!
So why is it that when our Heavenly Father says, “Because I said so…” we go…”But wait a minute! What about XYZ? You haven’t heard my reasons for why I want to do it this way! What about what I want to do?!” We demonstrate little to no faith in God to know what is best for us…and in doing so, we are as good as saying, “Yeah…I know You sent Jesus to supposedly die for my sins and show me how to live for You…but I’m not sure I totally buy it!”
Where is your humility? Where is your “childlike faith” in an unseen God? Where is your hope and confidence that all of the things God has promised us are real…true…and available to everyone? When will we start living like children of the Most High God? Are you humble enough to be honored and blessed by God…or are you too proud to really receive His forgiveness? When it comes to faith in Jesus, “older and wiser” doesn’t always compute. Is your heart as trusting as a little child’s? Don’t you think you should be?
©2015 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for July 1, 2015
Proverbs 18:12
Pride ends in destruction; humility ends in honor.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
I was working a little jigsaw puzzle with Nathan and Zola, and they were having trouble putting the pieces together. Four-year-old Zola was more patient. She would even accept my suggestions about how to turn a puzzle piece…or the gentle reminder that “I don’t think that piece fits there.” Nathan, who is not quite three, threw up his hands and walked away. This was actually Nathan’s puzzle…a picture of one of his favorite characters – Spiderman! He missed out on most of the fun of watching this superhero come together as we worked in tandem to finish the puzzle.
Frequently, children get frustrated as they try to figure out how to manipulate their toys or games. And when an adult offers to help, they often protest…”I can do it myself! I don’t need any help.” Generally, the child ends up coming to the adult at some point and asking, “Can you help me?” or “Will you fix this?”
Man! Are we ever like these little kids sometimes! It’s “our way or the highway!” We know what we are doing…and our opinion is the only one that counts – until we discover that there was more to the story - or that another point of view actually does make more sense. Or we decide that we can NOT handle whatever issue/challenge is before us…and the person who so gently and kindly offered to help might actually want to assist and have no “hidden agenda.” Rather than suspect an ulterior motive, maybe we should humbly accept their offer!
Some of us will remain steadfast and stubborn…and “let the chips fall where they may” – which is often nothing short of a train wreck. Others figure out that a little “humble pie” is a good thing from time to time…and maybe we are not always right. It might just be possible that we don’t have all of the answers – or know how to do everything under the sun.
I don’t know where you fall on this spectrum…but I do know Someone who can help you figure this out…and His name is Jesus. Call on Him today, and ask Him to show you where your pride has gotten in the way. Ask Jesus to help you see where you have a hardened and stubborn heart…and where you could use a little assistance from a friend or loved one.
Don’t hesitate to ask for help from anyone – especially Jesus. It’s time to end the wallowing in pride, destruction and self-service. Make this the day that you humble yourself and start to really enjoy all of God’s blessings. Will you have a dollop of ice cream with that slice of “pie?”
©2015 Debbie Robus
Pride ends in destruction; humility ends in honor.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
I was working a little jigsaw puzzle with Nathan and Zola, and they were having trouble putting the pieces together. Four-year-old Zola was more patient. She would even accept my suggestions about how to turn a puzzle piece…or the gentle reminder that “I don’t think that piece fits there.” Nathan, who is not quite three, threw up his hands and walked away. This was actually Nathan’s puzzle…a picture of one of his favorite characters – Spiderman! He missed out on most of the fun of watching this superhero come together as we worked in tandem to finish the puzzle.
Frequently, children get frustrated as they try to figure out how to manipulate their toys or games. And when an adult offers to help, they often protest…”I can do it myself! I don’t need any help.” Generally, the child ends up coming to the adult at some point and asking, “Can you help me?” or “Will you fix this?”
Man! Are we ever like these little kids sometimes! It’s “our way or the highway!” We know what we are doing…and our opinion is the only one that counts – until we discover that there was more to the story - or that another point of view actually does make more sense. Or we decide that we can NOT handle whatever issue/challenge is before us…and the person who so gently and kindly offered to help might actually want to assist and have no “hidden agenda.” Rather than suspect an ulterior motive, maybe we should humbly accept their offer!
Some of us will remain steadfast and stubborn…and “let the chips fall where they may” – which is often nothing short of a train wreck. Others figure out that a little “humble pie” is a good thing from time to time…and maybe we are not always right. It might just be possible that we don’t have all of the answers – or know how to do everything under the sun.
I don’t know where you fall on this spectrum…but I do know Someone who can help you figure this out…and His name is Jesus. Call on Him today, and ask Him to show you where your pride has gotten in the way. Ask Jesus to help you see where you have a hardened and stubborn heart…and where you could use a little assistance from a friend or loved one.
Don’t hesitate to ask for help from anyone – especially Jesus. It’s time to end the wallowing in pride, destruction and self-service. Make this the day that you humble yourself and start to really enjoy all of God’s blessings. Will you have a dollop of ice cream with that slice of “pie?”
©2015 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for June 4, 2015
2 Corinthians 5:14-15
Our firm decision is to work from this focused center: One man died for everyone. That puts everyone in the same boat. He included everyone in his death so that everyone could also be included in his life, a resurrection life, a far better life than people ever lived on their own.
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 wrote a post for one of my blogs in which I used the analogy of a mole that sits atop my left foot. The “birth mark” is about a quarter inch in diameter…but for my entire childhood, it was an embarrassment to me…something I made conscious efforts to hide as much as possible. I know…it was ridiculous…but not all that uncommon. I would venture to say that we all have things about ourselves that we do not like and/or wish did not exist or were not part of our “makeup.”
My brother had a much larger birthmark…on his backside. I honestly cannot remember which "cheek"…and of course, his “mole” was easy to conceal! But it was there, all the same. And my point is that we all have something…whether others see it and/or know about it or not. To every sinner who has asked Jesus to forgive them and dwell in their heart, this merciful gift of Salvation has been granted. And as this scripture translation states, we’re all in the same boat!
The GOOD NEWS is that Jesus died for each of us, so that we could all be in HIS boat. If you could take every person in Jesus’ boat, strip him/her down, x-ray inside and examine the mind and heart, you would find all sizes, shapes and colors of “moles and warts!” The only One in the boat who is blemish free would be Jesus…and yet, He welcomes each of us to share His “boat!”
This is amazing, incredible fact should be the impetus for us to get over ourselves and live for Jesus! And it’s exactly what Paul calls us to do in this passage. When we are “in Jesus’ boat” and make Him the central focus of our lives, our “moles and warts” disappear for all intents and purposes. We are free to live, love, and serve in the name of Jesus. We are unencumbered by the frustrations – and even the shame or embarrassment – of our own imperfections…because the attention is no longer on us.
Live in Jesus – and FOR Him – a “far better life” than you can ever live on your own. Make Him the focus, and take the spotlight off of yourself. Let His love, forgiveness, grace, and mercy cover your sins, warts, moles, and blemishes. Don’t wait another minute! Jump over into Jesus’ boat…He has a spot there with your name on it!
©2015 Debbie Robus
Our firm decision is to work from this focused center: One man died for everyone. That puts everyone in the same boat. He included everyone in his death so that everyone could also be included in his life, a resurrection life, a far better life than people ever lived on their own.
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 wrote a post for one of my blogs in which I used the analogy of a mole that sits atop my left foot. The “birth mark” is about a quarter inch in diameter…but for my entire childhood, it was an embarrassment to me…something I made conscious efforts to hide as much as possible. I know…it was ridiculous…but not all that uncommon. I would venture to say that we all have things about ourselves that we do not like and/or wish did not exist or were not part of our “makeup.”
My brother had a much larger birthmark…on his backside. I honestly cannot remember which "cheek"…and of course, his “mole” was easy to conceal! But it was there, all the same. And my point is that we all have something…whether others see it and/or know about it or not. To every sinner who has asked Jesus to forgive them and dwell in their heart, this merciful gift of Salvation has been granted. And as this scripture translation states, we’re all in the same boat!
The GOOD NEWS is that Jesus died for each of us, so that we could all be in HIS boat. If you could take every person in Jesus’ boat, strip him/her down, x-ray inside and examine the mind and heart, you would find all sizes, shapes and colors of “moles and warts!” The only One in the boat who is blemish free would be Jesus…and yet, He welcomes each of us to share His “boat!”
This is amazing, incredible fact should be the impetus for us to get over ourselves and live for Jesus! And it’s exactly what Paul calls us to do in this passage. When we are “in Jesus’ boat” and make Him the central focus of our lives, our “moles and warts” disappear for all intents and purposes. We are free to live, love, and serve in the name of Jesus. We are unencumbered by the frustrations – and even the shame or embarrassment – of our own imperfections…because the attention is no longer on us.
Live in Jesus – and FOR Him – a “far better life” than you can ever live on your own. Make Him the focus, and take the spotlight off of yourself. Let His love, forgiveness, grace, and mercy cover your sins, warts, moles, and blemishes. Don’t wait another minute! Jump over into Jesus’ boat…He has a spot there with your name on it!
©2015 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for May 24, 2015
Psalm 34:18
The Lord is close to those whose hearts are breaking; he rescues those who are humbly sorry for their sins.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
According to information found at GoodReads.com* about Kathryn Stockett’s book, The Help…“Aibileen is a black maid, a wise, regal woman raising her seventeenth white child. Something has shifted inside her after the loss of her own son, who died while his bosses looked the other way. She is devoted to the little girl she looks after, though she knows both their hearts may be broken.” You may have read The Help and/or seen the subsequent movie version.
At one point in the story, Aibileen tells the child, named Mae Mobley…”You is kind. You is smart. You is important.” Little Mae Mobley is chubby, has a bald spot and her mother ignores her. Even Aibileen - who adores the little girl - admits that Mae Mobley is not the cutest child in the world! But she does all she can to encourage her…and to soothe her broken heart.
We all need a champion…someone who will lift us up and encourage us – even when we aren’t so cute. And as Christians who have been rescued, we need to “pay it forward” and encourage others who are struggling. We need to know that when we mess up – and we all will at some point – we can be forgiven…redeemed…and restored. This is what Jesus does for us – not because He has to, but because He wants to do so. He suffered, bled and died for our sins, and when we humbly ask Him to forgive us…He does so.
Here’s the thing…you cannot merely say, “I’m sorry” and expect forgiveness. You have to mean it. You cannot offer lip service… to others - and especially to Jesus…and go on your merry way. You would not want to hang out with people who treated you this way. Jesus did not die for us so that we could abuse His grace and mock His generosity! In His eyes, “we is kind…we is smart…we is important”…and so much more. And it’s time we acted like it!
Jesus’ loving, forgiving, all-redeeming arms are open to all who humbly seek them. Are you ready for a Champion’s welcome, forgiveness and encouragement? When a friend or neighbor humbly seeks your mercy, will you pay forward Jesus’ gift and offer this as His disciple? Will this be the day that Jesus heals your broken places and rescues you? Don’t you want it to be?
©2015 Debbie Robus
* http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/4667024-the-help
The Lord is close to those whose hearts are breaking; he rescues those who are humbly sorry for their sins.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
According to information found at GoodReads.com* about Kathryn Stockett’s book, The Help…“Aibileen is a black maid, a wise, regal woman raising her seventeenth white child. Something has shifted inside her after the loss of her own son, who died while his bosses looked the other way. She is devoted to the little girl she looks after, though she knows both their hearts may be broken.” You may have read The Help and/or seen the subsequent movie version.
At one point in the story, Aibileen tells the child, named Mae Mobley…”You is kind. You is smart. You is important.” Little Mae Mobley is chubby, has a bald spot and her mother ignores her. Even Aibileen - who adores the little girl - admits that Mae Mobley is not the cutest child in the world! But she does all she can to encourage her…and to soothe her broken heart.
We all need a champion…someone who will lift us up and encourage us – even when we aren’t so cute. And as Christians who have been rescued, we need to “pay it forward” and encourage others who are struggling. We need to know that when we mess up – and we all will at some point – we can be forgiven…redeemed…and restored. This is what Jesus does for us – not because He has to, but because He wants to do so. He suffered, bled and died for our sins, and when we humbly ask Him to forgive us…He does so.
Here’s the thing…you cannot merely say, “I’m sorry” and expect forgiveness. You have to mean it. You cannot offer lip service… to others - and especially to Jesus…and go on your merry way. You would not want to hang out with people who treated you this way. Jesus did not die for us so that we could abuse His grace and mock His generosity! In His eyes, “we is kind…we is smart…we is important”…and so much more. And it’s time we acted like it!
Jesus’ loving, forgiving, all-redeeming arms are open to all who humbly seek them. Are you ready for a Champion’s welcome, forgiveness and encouragement? When a friend or neighbor humbly seeks your mercy, will you pay forward Jesus’ gift and offer this as His disciple? Will this be the day that Jesus heals your broken places and rescues you? Don’t you want it to be?
©2015 Debbie Robus
* http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/4667024-the-help
Daily Devotional for November 13, 2012
Matthew 12:11-13
Jesus answered, “If you had a sheep that fell into a ditch on the Sabbath, wouldn’t you lift it out? People are worth much more than sheep, and so it is right to do good on the Sabbath.” Then Jesus told the man, “Hold out your hand.” The man did, and it became as healthy as the other one.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Last week, I visited with my grandmother. I can never stay long enough with her… she always asks in one way or another, “What’s your hurry?” Last week, I explained (in terms I felt such a hard worker as she would understand) that… “I have to go home and get our laundry done and clean our house. I’m way behind on such things.” Even though a stroke has left her unable to say more than a word or two, she managed to convey… “still there.” In other words, the chores would keep! And she was right. This is the same woman who frequently commented that she didn’t feel well as she hurried out the door to do something – often for someone else – and added, “I won’t feel a bit worse there than I would sitting at home.”
What’s my point? To me, this passage is about much more than keeping the Sabbath. In actuality, Jesus is “schooling” us on priorities. We have choices to make every day. Yes, our rooms and homes have to get cleaned. Yes, we have jobs, school work, laundry, meals to prepare, yards to mow and vehicles to wash – and our own families to see after and care about. Yes, we have to take care of certain things first… we must prioritize. But we also have to look at the “fringe” activities and choose whether to minister to others in Jesus’ name or satisfy our own selfish interests.
Do you really have to watch that program on television? Could you record it for later viewing… or skip it altogether? Is it more important that you spend the next few weeks in a frenzy over Christmas shopping and attending parties… or finding ways to help those less fortunate for whom Christmas is anything but a joyful occasion? Is there someone who needs to hear from you today? Should you spend a little time sending a note or e-mail – or making a phone call – or is it more important that you have that second cup of coffee while reading the morning newspaper? Will the world come to an end if you let a few things go in the next month or two while you help a senior citizen downsize and prepare for a move to a smaller residence… or tutor a child or young person who is studying for major exams or trying to improve test scores?
What if you gave up the next several Saturdays to help a young person earn a scouting badge… or forfeited an afternoon of decorating your own home for Christmas in order to decorate your church facilities… or put a few wreaths and baubles up at the home of an elderly shut-in… or visit someone in a nursing home or hospital for whom Christmas will pretty well come and go without fanfare?
Exactly where do your priorities lie? Just as Jesus demonstrated that doing the LORD’s work on the Sabbath was more important than observing the date on the calendar… He is calling on each of us to set aside our own agendas when He presents us with an opportunity to serve. I managed to get my house clean and the laundry done… but I’m still working on the ironing. And I’ll get there. I have discovered that laying aside my own agenda to serve in the LORD’s army often gives me renewed energy for completing the tasks on my own list. Somehow, He shows us where/how to get everything done that is necessary. Are you willing to discover this for yourself?
I don’t know what your “sheep in the ditch” moments will be… but I know God will present them to you. The question is… how will you respond?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Jesus answered, “If you had a sheep that fell into a ditch on the Sabbath, wouldn’t you lift it out? People are worth much more than sheep, and so it is right to do good on the Sabbath.” Then Jesus told the man, “Hold out your hand.” The man did, and it became as healthy as the other one.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Last week, I visited with my grandmother. I can never stay long enough with her… she always asks in one way or another, “What’s your hurry?” Last week, I explained (in terms I felt such a hard worker as she would understand) that… “I have to go home and get our laundry done and clean our house. I’m way behind on such things.” Even though a stroke has left her unable to say more than a word or two, she managed to convey… “still there.” In other words, the chores would keep! And she was right. This is the same woman who frequently commented that she didn’t feel well as she hurried out the door to do something – often for someone else – and added, “I won’t feel a bit worse there than I would sitting at home.”
What’s my point? To me, this passage is about much more than keeping the Sabbath. In actuality, Jesus is “schooling” us on priorities. We have choices to make every day. Yes, our rooms and homes have to get cleaned. Yes, we have jobs, school work, laundry, meals to prepare, yards to mow and vehicles to wash – and our own families to see after and care about. Yes, we have to take care of certain things first… we must prioritize. But we also have to look at the “fringe” activities and choose whether to minister to others in Jesus’ name or satisfy our own selfish interests.
Do you really have to watch that program on television? Could you record it for later viewing… or skip it altogether? Is it more important that you spend the next few weeks in a frenzy over Christmas shopping and attending parties… or finding ways to help those less fortunate for whom Christmas is anything but a joyful occasion? Is there someone who needs to hear from you today? Should you spend a little time sending a note or e-mail – or making a phone call – or is it more important that you have that second cup of coffee while reading the morning newspaper? Will the world come to an end if you let a few things go in the next month or two while you help a senior citizen downsize and prepare for a move to a smaller residence… or tutor a child or young person who is studying for major exams or trying to improve test scores?
What if you gave up the next several Saturdays to help a young person earn a scouting badge… or forfeited an afternoon of decorating your own home for Christmas in order to decorate your church facilities… or put a few wreaths and baubles up at the home of an elderly shut-in… or visit someone in a nursing home or hospital for whom Christmas will pretty well come and go without fanfare?
Exactly where do your priorities lie? Just as Jesus demonstrated that doing the LORD’s work on the Sabbath was more important than observing the date on the calendar… He is calling on each of us to set aside our own agendas when He presents us with an opportunity to serve. I managed to get my house clean and the laundry done… but I’m still working on the ironing. And I’ll get there. I have discovered that laying aside my own agenda to serve in the LORD’s army often gives me renewed energy for completing the tasks on my own list. Somehow, He shows us where/how to get everything done that is necessary. Are you willing to discover this for yourself?
I don’t know what your “sheep in the ditch” moments will be… but I know God will present them to you. The question is… how will you respond?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for October 15, 2012
Mark 9:1-7
Then he drove it home by saying, “This isn’t pie in the sky by and by. Some of you who are standing here are going to see it happen, see the kingdom of God arrive in full force.”
Six days later, three of them did see it. Jesus took Peter, James, and John and led them up a high mountain. His appearance changed from the inside out, right before their eyes. His clothes shimmered, glistening white, whiter than any bleach could make them. Elijah, along with Moses, came into view, in deep conversation with Jesus.
Peter interrupted, “Rabbi, this is a great moment! Let’s build three memorials—one for you, one for Moses, one for Elijah.” He blurted this out without thinking, stunned as they all were by what they were seeing.
Just then a light-radiant cloud enveloped them, and from deep in the cloud, a voice: “This is my Son, marked by my love. Listen to him.”
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.
Have you ever heard someone talk of an encounter with another person in which they described a turning point experience? Perhaps they said something like, “In that moment, I saw him for who he really was,” or “For the first time, I fully understood where she was coming from.” More than one of us has said something like, “I thought I knew So-and-So until THIS happened.” Sometimes, our entire perception of someone else can change in a matter of minutes.
Peter, James and John had a unique and profound experience with Jesus. God allowed them to see Him as much more than a “mere mortal.” He revealed the full glory of Jesus to them, and as described, Jesus all but glowed in brilliant white clothing. The trio was engulfed in a light-radiant cloud as they heard the voice of God himself. To say that this was a moment of transformation - a turning point for these three men - would be an understatement! And God’s statement…“This is my Son, marked by my love. Listen to Him”… is powerful!
Sadly, many of us fail to recognize the full glory of Jesus. He never becomes more than a “man among men” to us. We talk about who Jesus was/is… how important He is to us. But we don’t fully get it. While we most likely will never have such a literal “aha moment” as Peter, James and John, our relationship with Jesus can be transformed in an intense and no-less-life-changing manner. When we fully grasp what it means to be marked by God’s love… when we begin to truly comprehend the magnitude of Jesus’ sacrifices on our behalf and what it means to serve Him, we can’t help but be forever changed.
I like the image of Jesus in His glory… the awesomeness of the blinding light and the whiter than bleached clothing. It humbles me to think about Someone of this magnitude caring about the most mundane parts of my life. When I consider Jesus as “the Kingdom of God in full force,” I am wowed, astounded, and transformed! We talk about serving a mighty God, but we don’t truly picture Him this way – at least not often enough!
I encourage you to stop for a few minutes and consider Jesus in all of His glory. Re-read this passage and imagine every facet of His appearance… the blinding bright light… the whiteness of his garments… the glow that radiates from Him, and the cloud of radiant light that encompasses you as you stand before Him. Humble yourself in Jesus’ presence… picture Him embracing you in His arms. See Jesus for who He truly is… and revere Him for loving you so deeply.
I dare you to do all of this and not feel just a tad overwhelmed! Jesus’ love for us truly is astounding. We would do well to take a few minutes to bask in His glory… to give Him praise and thanks for accepting us in our unworthiness… and to marvel at His magnificence. Have you truly seen Jesus in His brilliance? Isn’t it time you did?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Then he drove it home by saying, “This isn’t pie in the sky by and by. Some of you who are standing here are going to see it happen, see the kingdom of God arrive in full force.”
Six days later, three of them did see it. Jesus took Peter, James, and John and led them up a high mountain. His appearance changed from the inside out, right before their eyes. His clothes shimmered, glistening white, whiter than any bleach could make them. Elijah, along with Moses, came into view, in deep conversation with Jesus.
Peter interrupted, “Rabbi, this is a great moment! Let’s build three memorials—one for you, one for Moses, one for Elijah.” He blurted this out without thinking, stunned as they all were by what they were seeing.
Just then a light-radiant cloud enveloped them, and from deep in the cloud, a voice: “This is my Son, marked by my love. Listen to him.”
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.
Have you ever heard someone talk of an encounter with another person in which they described a turning point experience? Perhaps they said something like, “In that moment, I saw him for who he really was,” or “For the first time, I fully understood where she was coming from.” More than one of us has said something like, “I thought I knew So-and-So until THIS happened.” Sometimes, our entire perception of someone else can change in a matter of minutes.
Peter, James and John had a unique and profound experience with Jesus. God allowed them to see Him as much more than a “mere mortal.” He revealed the full glory of Jesus to them, and as described, Jesus all but glowed in brilliant white clothing. The trio was engulfed in a light-radiant cloud as they heard the voice of God himself. To say that this was a moment of transformation - a turning point for these three men - would be an understatement! And God’s statement…“This is my Son, marked by my love. Listen to Him”… is powerful!
Sadly, many of us fail to recognize the full glory of Jesus. He never becomes more than a “man among men” to us. We talk about who Jesus was/is… how important He is to us. But we don’t fully get it. While we most likely will never have such a literal “aha moment” as Peter, James and John, our relationship with Jesus can be transformed in an intense and no-less-life-changing manner. When we fully grasp what it means to be marked by God’s love… when we begin to truly comprehend the magnitude of Jesus’ sacrifices on our behalf and what it means to serve Him, we can’t help but be forever changed.
I like the image of Jesus in His glory… the awesomeness of the blinding light and the whiter than bleached clothing. It humbles me to think about Someone of this magnitude caring about the most mundane parts of my life. When I consider Jesus as “the Kingdom of God in full force,” I am wowed, astounded, and transformed! We talk about serving a mighty God, but we don’t truly picture Him this way – at least not often enough!
I encourage you to stop for a few minutes and consider Jesus in all of His glory. Re-read this passage and imagine every facet of His appearance… the blinding bright light… the whiteness of his garments… the glow that radiates from Him, and the cloud of radiant light that encompasses you as you stand before Him. Humble yourself in Jesus’ presence… picture Him embracing you in His arms. See Jesus for who He truly is… and revere Him for loving you so deeply.
I dare you to do all of this and not feel just a tad overwhelmed! Jesus’ love for us truly is astounding. We would do well to take a few minutes to bask in His glory… to give Him praise and thanks for accepting us in our unworthiness… and to marvel at His magnificence. Have you truly seen Jesus in His brilliance? Isn’t it time you did?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for July 7, 2012
Philippians 2:1-4
If you've gotten anything at all out of following Christ, if his love has made any difference in your life, if being in a community of the Spirit means anything to you, if you have a heart, if you care— then do me a favor: Agree with each other, love each other, be deep-spirited friends. Don't push your way to the front; don't sweet-talk your way to the top. Put yourself aside, and help others get ahead. Don't be obsessed with getting your own advantage. Forget yourselves long enough to lend a helping hand.
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.
July 3, 2012, was not a good day in Pope County, Arkansas. Wildfires raged through the Ozark National Forest near Appleton, north of Atkins, and surrounding areas. Several area fire departments were called upon to help fight the fires, which raged for most of the day and into the night. In fact, there have been fires in this area of Arkansas virtually every day this week. My friend Missy Ellis and her husband, Randy, own a well-known family restaurant in nearby Russellville, Arkansas, called Whatta-Burger… located across the highway from the campus of Arkansas Tech University. Missy and Randy are still involved in the daily operation of this establishment… known for its made-to-order hamburgers and more-than-ample servings of everything!
Missy kept people updated on the fire locations, area evacuations and the firefighter’s progress via Facebook. At one point she noted that she had driven to one fire site to deliver 14 cases of water and 16 bundles of Gatorade to the firefighters… and she was waiting on 150 Whatta-Burgers to be prepared for delivery to the crew. Randy is a volunteer firefighter, and Missy posted photos of him manning a pumper truck. This is not an isolated incident. Missy and Randy do things like this all the time. I’ve known them over 30 years, and they’ve always stepped up and out whenever and wherever needed to help others.
You can’t mention the names of Missy and Randy - or their children - in the Pope County area without eliciting a smile – and probably a story or two. They are known far and wide for their generosity, moral character, and loving spirit. Because of part-time jobs at Whatta-Burger, thousands of kids have been able to attend college. Missy has taught a children’s Sunday School at her church for nearly 40 years. If I told you how much she prepares at Christmas time – cookies and candy – and delivers to area policemen, fire departments, doctor’s offices and more, you would probably faint just reading the list! I honestly believe they get up every morning and ask, “Okay, LORD… what’s on tap for today?”
I honestly have never known of these two friends to think of themselves first… in any situation. They truly are amazing. Most of us could not hold up to their level of commitment… nor do we have the energy to accomplish what they do in any given day. But we can all do our share. We can make an attempt to think less of ourselves and more of the other guy. We can make a concerted effort to get along… and we can look around for ways to make life a little easier or better for someone else rather than always asking, “When is it MY turn?” or “What’s in this for me?”
There is no greater joy or blessing than to be able to lighten another person’s load. To know that you operated in the love of Christ and did something for another person - with no thought of what you might gain in the process - is to truly be the hands and feet of Jesus. I didn’t mention that Missy had a total knee replacement a few months ago… and Randy had a surgery, as well. Yet they were both up and out this week, making life better for others and doing what they could… with no regard for the heat or the toll this would take on their own lives. I’m sure they are both exhausted. I’ve seen the comments on Facebook…the recipients of this kindness are regarding my friends as heroes of a sort… though they refuse to take any credit.
God is not calling us to be heroes… He is just asking us to do all we can without putting ourselves first – from being kind and agreeable to offering a hand up or a handout when needed. My question to you is… “Which end of this deal are you on most days?” Are you getting more than you are giving? Has the love of Christ made a difference in your life… and is this evident to others by how you are living? Shouldn’t it be?
©2012 Debbie Robus
If you've gotten anything at all out of following Christ, if his love has made any difference in your life, if being in a community of the Spirit means anything to you, if you have a heart, if you care— then do me a favor: Agree with each other, love each other, be deep-spirited friends. Don't push your way to the front; don't sweet-talk your way to the top. Put yourself aside, and help others get ahead. Don't be obsessed with getting your own advantage. Forget yourselves long enough to lend a helping hand.
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.
July 3, 2012, was not a good day in Pope County, Arkansas. Wildfires raged through the Ozark National Forest near Appleton, north of Atkins, and surrounding areas. Several area fire departments were called upon to help fight the fires, which raged for most of the day and into the night. In fact, there have been fires in this area of Arkansas virtually every day this week. My friend Missy Ellis and her husband, Randy, own a well-known family restaurant in nearby Russellville, Arkansas, called Whatta-Burger… located across the highway from the campus of Arkansas Tech University. Missy and Randy are still involved in the daily operation of this establishment… known for its made-to-order hamburgers and more-than-ample servings of everything!
Missy kept people updated on the fire locations, area evacuations and the firefighter’s progress via Facebook. At one point she noted that she had driven to one fire site to deliver 14 cases of water and 16 bundles of Gatorade to the firefighters… and she was waiting on 150 Whatta-Burgers to be prepared for delivery to the crew. Randy is a volunteer firefighter, and Missy posted photos of him manning a pumper truck. This is not an isolated incident. Missy and Randy do things like this all the time. I’ve known them over 30 years, and they’ve always stepped up and out whenever and wherever needed to help others.
You can’t mention the names of Missy and Randy - or their children - in the Pope County area without eliciting a smile – and probably a story or two. They are known far and wide for their generosity, moral character, and loving spirit. Because of part-time jobs at Whatta-Burger, thousands of kids have been able to attend college. Missy has taught a children’s Sunday School at her church for nearly 40 years. If I told you how much she prepares at Christmas time – cookies and candy – and delivers to area policemen, fire departments, doctor’s offices and more, you would probably faint just reading the list! I honestly believe they get up every morning and ask, “Okay, LORD… what’s on tap for today?”
I honestly have never known of these two friends to think of themselves first… in any situation. They truly are amazing. Most of us could not hold up to their level of commitment… nor do we have the energy to accomplish what they do in any given day. But we can all do our share. We can make an attempt to think less of ourselves and more of the other guy. We can make a concerted effort to get along… and we can look around for ways to make life a little easier or better for someone else rather than always asking, “When is it MY turn?” or “What’s in this for me?”
There is no greater joy or blessing than to be able to lighten another person’s load. To know that you operated in the love of Christ and did something for another person - with no thought of what you might gain in the process - is to truly be the hands and feet of Jesus. I didn’t mention that Missy had a total knee replacement a few months ago… and Randy had a surgery, as well. Yet they were both up and out this week, making life better for others and doing what they could… with no regard for the heat or the toll this would take on their own lives. I’m sure they are both exhausted. I’ve seen the comments on Facebook…the recipients of this kindness are regarding my friends as heroes of a sort… though they refuse to take any credit.
God is not calling us to be heroes… He is just asking us to do all we can without putting ourselves first – from being kind and agreeable to offering a hand up or a handout when needed. My question to you is… “Which end of this deal are you on most days?” Are you getting more than you are giving? Has the love of Christ made a difference in your life… and is this evident to others by how you are living? Shouldn’t it be?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 20, 2012
James 4:7-10
So let God work his will in you. Yell a loud no to the Devil and watch him scamper. Say a quiet yes to God and he'll be there in no time. Quit dabbling in sin. Purify your inner life. Quit playing the field. Hit bottom, and cry your eyes out. The fun and games are over. Get serious, really serious. Get down on your knees before the Master; it's the only way you'll get on your feet.
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 once knew a high school student who was involved in more than a half dozen school activities. He maintained an incredibly hectic schedule of attending this practice or meeting… actual events and competitions. Additionally, he was a member of his church youth choir and participated in other activities with his congregation. I lovingly mentioned to him one day that I was concerned… and feared he was headed for an early burnout. I suggested he pick out one or two activities that he enjoyed the most… maybe ones in which he particularly excelled… and focus on being the best participant possible in those events. He protested… “But I love all of them. How could I ever choose?” He had also been told that getting involved in a lot of different activities would present him as “well-rounded” when he applied for colleges.
It saddens me to say that the pressure to keep up such a lofty schedule caught up with this person, and he ultimately (and reluctantly) did give up a few of the activities. The demands of trying to keep up with so much led to poor choices and even poorer decisions… and he eventually “hit rock bottom,” so to speak. I am happy to say that he did not stay there. In fact, he got serious… really serious, as this scripture says. He coupled wonderful support from family and friends with a renewed dedication to following God’s will. And today, he is thriving.
You and I are really no different from this student. We may not be busy with too many school activities. School may even be a distant memory for some of us. But we all have distractions and temptations… and it’s easy to fall into the trap of “playing the field” and spreading ourselves too thinly. We may try everything from self-help programs to the latest “hot” evangelist and his/her teachings. We may get so caught up in work or a hobby, possessions… or even another person or group of people… and we may let our focus on God take a back seat.
My prayer is that we won’t have to “hit rock bottom” or experience something that “pulls the rug out from under us” before we get serious about our relationship with God and raise it to the very forefront of our daily existence. I love how The Message says that we have to shout at the devil to get him to go away… but all we have to offer God is a gentle whisper, and He shows up immediately. We can rely on the devil to be persistent… but we can rely on God to keep His promises and truly meet our needs.
Aren’t you ready to send the devil and his distractions packing for good? Is today the day you shout and scream and kick him to the curb? God is waiting to set you on your feet… to restore you according to His will for your life. Will this be the day you fall to your knees and whisper His name? Are you ready to get really serious about God?
©2012 Debbie Robus
So let God work his will in you. Yell a loud no to the Devil and watch him scamper. Say a quiet yes to God and he'll be there in no time. Quit dabbling in sin. Purify your inner life. Quit playing the field. Hit bottom, and cry your eyes out. The fun and games are over. Get serious, really serious. Get down on your knees before the Master; it's the only way you'll get on your feet.
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 once knew a high school student who was involved in more than a half dozen school activities. He maintained an incredibly hectic schedule of attending this practice or meeting… actual events and competitions. Additionally, he was a member of his church youth choir and participated in other activities with his congregation. I lovingly mentioned to him one day that I was concerned… and feared he was headed for an early burnout. I suggested he pick out one or two activities that he enjoyed the most… maybe ones in which he particularly excelled… and focus on being the best participant possible in those events. He protested… “But I love all of them. How could I ever choose?” He had also been told that getting involved in a lot of different activities would present him as “well-rounded” when he applied for colleges.
It saddens me to say that the pressure to keep up such a lofty schedule caught up with this person, and he ultimately (and reluctantly) did give up a few of the activities. The demands of trying to keep up with so much led to poor choices and even poorer decisions… and he eventually “hit rock bottom,” so to speak. I am happy to say that he did not stay there. In fact, he got serious… really serious, as this scripture says. He coupled wonderful support from family and friends with a renewed dedication to following God’s will. And today, he is thriving.
You and I are really no different from this student. We may not be busy with too many school activities. School may even be a distant memory for some of us. But we all have distractions and temptations… and it’s easy to fall into the trap of “playing the field” and spreading ourselves too thinly. We may try everything from self-help programs to the latest “hot” evangelist and his/her teachings. We may get so caught up in work or a hobby, possessions… or even another person or group of people… and we may let our focus on God take a back seat.
My prayer is that we won’t have to “hit rock bottom” or experience something that “pulls the rug out from under us” before we get serious about our relationship with God and raise it to the very forefront of our daily existence. I love how The Message says that we have to shout at the devil to get him to go away… but all we have to offer God is a gentle whisper, and He shows up immediately. We can rely on the devil to be persistent… but we can rely on God to keep His promises and truly meet our needs.
Aren’t you ready to send the devil and his distractions packing for good? Is today the day you shout and scream and kick him to the curb? God is waiting to set you on your feet… to restore you according to His will for your life. Will this be the day you fall to your knees and whisper His name? Are you ready to get really serious about God?
©2012 Debbie Robus
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