Nehemiah 1:11
O Lord, please hear my prayer!
Heed the prayers of those of us who delight to honor you. Please help
me now as I go in and ask the king for a great favor—put it into his
heart to be kind to me.” (I was the king’s cupbearer.)
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’ve had to laugh lately at
our little nephew, Nathan. Since September, he has stayed with us a
couple of days each week while his parents work…and to put it mildly,
the kid thinks he “owns the joint!” So when Timothy and Zola joined him
this week for the day, Nathan did not take too kindly to sharing his
space – or us – with his older siblings. This kid knows no fear about
asking for things…and he is so darned cute that it’s hard to fuss at him
when he hollers from my office, “I need ‘shocklit’ milk!” and expects
it to magically appear in a sippy cup for him as he sits and watches
YouTube videos!
Suddenly, the chair in which Nathan sits became
“my chair” if his sibs looked at it crossways. As we read books while
sitting on the couch – Nathan on one side and Zola on the other – he was
none too happy when Zola wrapped her arms across my body. How dare she
claim even my mid-section as “hers!” And when Zola’s hand brushed
Nathan’s arm, he went into orbit! By the end of the day, there had been
a few tantrums, as one frustrated 3-year-old boy tried to claim his
“territory” and demand special favors that he had done nothing to merit.
I
love this particular passage from Nehemiah…especially how the king’s
cupbearer is so humble and faithful. He admits that he and his people
have disobeyed God. He acknowledges that by all rights, God should
scatter them to the four winds for their unfaithfulness, just as He
promised. But Nehemiah begs God to have mercy on them and reminds Him
that He also promised to restore those who repented and obeyed. So with
a humble heart – and as a lowly cupbearer to the King – Nehemiah asks
God to bless Him as he asks a favor of his earthly master.
I
wonder…how often do we humble ourselves before God? When was the last
time we asked God for something…and began our request by apologizing for
– and acknowledging – our sins? It’s pretty much the job of
3-year-olds to be jealous and self-centered…to expect others to cater to
their every whim. But are we like these toddlers in our relationship
with our Heavenly Father? Do we expect God to spoil us rotten and do
whatever we please, even when we misbehave and sin?
Isn’t it time
we began to recognize the power and sovereignty of God…as well as His
amazing grace and mercy? He doesn’t have to love us. He certainly
doesn’t have to hear our prayers – much less answer them. And yet, when
we call on His name, God is there…every time…without fail.
Some
days, our words, thoughts and actions are such that we are not even so
much as a lowly cupbearer in God’s sight. And still He loves us. When
you think about this, does it change how you approach God with your
daily list of worries, burdens and requests? Don’t you think it
should?
Isn’t it time to grow up…and lay down our immature
attitudes about our relationship with God? Are you ready to become like a
humble cupbearer to the King of Kings? Will this be the day that you
begin?
©2015 Debbie Robus
Showing posts with label humility. Show all posts
Showing posts with label humility. Show all posts
Daily Devotional for November 30, 2015
2 Corinthians 5:10-12
For we must all stand before Christ to be judged and have our lives laid bare—before him. Each of us will receive whatever he deserves for the good or bad things he has done in his earthly body.
It is because of this solemn fear of the Lord, which is ever present in our minds, that we work so hard to win others. God knows our hearts, that they are pure in this matter, and I hope that, deep within, you really know it too.
Are we trying to pat ourselves on the back again? No, I am giving you some good ammunition! You can use this on those preachers of yours who brag about how well they look and preach but don’t have true and honest hearts. You can boast about us that we, at least, are well intentioned and honest.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
We’ve been practicing on the children’s Christmas program for a month now. The first night, things were very rough. We were all just learning some of the music for the first time. It’s a mix of traditional Christmas hymns and new songs…but the rhythms and nuances of each song are a little un-traditional. I am an assistant to the leader, and I was helping the children with the tempo of the songs. I admit, I was learning right along with them - and fumbling more than a little.
Midway through the practice, a first grader got up and came to me and said, “You need to go home and practice so that you can learn these songs better and teach them to us!” And with a “Hmmph!,” the child spun around and sat down again! I laughed and agreed that yes, I did need to practice and better learn these variations on the songs. And I’ve done that!
I thought this was funny. But there were a few people with whom I shared this story who thought it was appalling. I’ve dealt with enough young children to know that they speak their mind…and this pretty well goes with the territory.
Here’s the thing…I could have played the “adult card” and told this child that I knew better how things should go. I could have spoken to the child’s mother about how I was addressed. But neither of these responses would have been appropriate. Any reaction other than a laugh would indicate that I took myself a little too seriously. And this is what Paul is telling us in this scripture passage.
None of us is perfect. We all make mistakes. Some of us are humble enough to admit that we don’t have all of the answers…that we need God’s grace, mercy and forgiveness each and every day. And some of us think we are “all that and a bag of chips”…and we at least act as if we have no flaws and never make a mess of things!
What does this say to the person who doesn’t fully understand God’s love and mercy? When someone who knows that he/she is an imperfect sinner sees a person who claims to be a Christian - yet operates with a smug arrogance - what is this person to think about the gift of salvation through Jesus?
The point is that we must serve God with respect and humility…knowing that He knows everything we think, say and do – and we will have to answer for these someday. But we must also demonstrate confidence that God is merciful and full of grace – and because we have accepted salvation through the blood of Jesus, the “slate” will be wiped clean.
We must share this same tender grace and mercy with others…and give them an example of Christian faith that they want to claim for themselves. We must give them a reason to confess their sins before God and ask for His forgiveness. We must be the example that what God is doing in our lives…He will surely do in the lives of others. And we can’t do this if we are busy trying to be better than the other guy.
What does your daily living say about who you are as a Christian? Do you operate with respect for God and a humble spirit? Or are you judgmental, arrogant, and a little too smug about your salvation? People are watching…what are you showing them?
©2015 Debbie Robus
For we must all stand before Christ to be judged and have our lives laid bare—before him. Each of us will receive whatever he deserves for the good or bad things he has done in his earthly body.
It is because of this solemn fear of the Lord, which is ever present in our minds, that we work so hard to win others. God knows our hearts, that they are pure in this matter, and I hope that, deep within, you really know it too.
Are we trying to pat ourselves on the back again? No, I am giving you some good ammunition! You can use this on those preachers of yours who brag about how well they look and preach but don’t have true and honest hearts. You can boast about us that we, at least, are well intentioned and honest.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
We’ve been practicing on the children’s Christmas program for a month now. The first night, things were very rough. We were all just learning some of the music for the first time. It’s a mix of traditional Christmas hymns and new songs…but the rhythms and nuances of each song are a little un-traditional. I am an assistant to the leader, and I was helping the children with the tempo of the songs. I admit, I was learning right along with them - and fumbling more than a little.
Midway through the practice, a first grader got up and came to me and said, “You need to go home and practice so that you can learn these songs better and teach them to us!” And with a “Hmmph!,” the child spun around and sat down again! I laughed and agreed that yes, I did need to practice and better learn these variations on the songs. And I’ve done that!
I thought this was funny. But there were a few people with whom I shared this story who thought it was appalling. I’ve dealt with enough young children to know that they speak their mind…and this pretty well goes with the territory.
Here’s the thing…I could have played the “adult card” and told this child that I knew better how things should go. I could have spoken to the child’s mother about how I was addressed. But neither of these responses would have been appropriate. Any reaction other than a laugh would indicate that I took myself a little too seriously. And this is what Paul is telling us in this scripture passage.
None of us is perfect. We all make mistakes. Some of us are humble enough to admit that we don’t have all of the answers…that we need God’s grace, mercy and forgiveness each and every day. And some of us think we are “all that and a bag of chips”…and we at least act as if we have no flaws and never make a mess of things!
What does this say to the person who doesn’t fully understand God’s love and mercy? When someone who knows that he/she is an imperfect sinner sees a person who claims to be a Christian - yet operates with a smug arrogance - what is this person to think about the gift of salvation through Jesus?
The point is that we must serve God with respect and humility…knowing that He knows everything we think, say and do – and we will have to answer for these someday. But we must also demonstrate confidence that God is merciful and full of grace – and because we have accepted salvation through the blood of Jesus, the “slate” will be wiped clean.
We must share this same tender grace and mercy with others…and give them an example of Christian faith that they want to claim for themselves. We must give them a reason to confess their sins before God and ask for His forgiveness. We must be the example that what God is doing in our lives…He will surely do in the lives of others. And we can’t do this if we are busy trying to be better than the other guy.
What does your daily living say about who you are as a Christian? Do you operate with respect for God and a humble spirit? Or are you judgmental, arrogant, and a little too smug about your salvation? People are watching…what are you showing them?
©2015 Debbie Robus
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 April 19, 2015
Isaiah 64:1-8
Rip the heavens apart! Come down, Lord; make the mountains tremble. Be a spark that starts a fire causing water to boil. Then your enemies will know who you are; all nations will tremble because you are nearby. Your fearsome deeds have completely amazed us; even the mountains shake when you come down. You are the only God ever seen or heard of who works miracles for his followers. You help all who gladly obey and do what you want, but sin makes you angry. Only by your help can we ever be saved.
We are unfit to worship you; each of our good deeds is merely a filthy rag. We dry up like leaves; our sins are storm winds sweeping us away. No one worships in your name or remains faithful. You have turned your back on us and let our sins melt us away.
You, Lord, are our Father. We are nothing but clay, but you are the potter who molded us.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Seattle's Gravity Payments CEO, Dan Price, recently did something that astounded a lot of people. He announced that he was slashing his annual salary by approximately 1 million dollars...and giving all of his employees a raise. He pledged that each employee will immediately jump to at least $50,000 in annual salary...and gradually move to the $70K mark within the next three years. The end goal will be for no one to work at Gravity Payments for less than $70,000 per year.
Price, a 30-year-old single man who runs Gravity Payments - a company that helps businesses process credit cards and offers business analytics, solutions and support - realized that there was a tremendous inequality in the pay among the employees of his firm. He could see that some of his staff struggled to make ends meet, pay off student loans, and put food on the table - all while Price was paid well over one million dollars annually. Essentially, he asked himself, "Who do you think you are?" and realized that he was only as successful and productive as the members of his team. This young business executive understood that life was about something much larger than Dan Price.
If you research Gravity Payments, you will see that they do a lot of community work and philanthropic projects...giving 10% of annual profits to charitable organizations and reaching out to the community to help in a variety of ways. It sounds like a pretty great place to work…a company that truly is striving to make a difference in the lives of others – beginning with their own employees.
The question “Who do you think you are?” is one that we should all be asking on a daily basis. Because honestly, we are nothing without the power and presence of Almighty God. Without His blessings and care, we are 100% ineffective – in anything and everything we do…at least in ways that really matter! God is truly the potter…we are merely the clay. Without salvation through the blood of Jesus Christ, we are no better than filthy rags. And certainly none of us is superior to the next guy.
This is a question that deserves to be answered by each of us. Who DO we think we are? What are we doing in the name of Jesus? If Jesus ripped open the heavens and returned today for His church, what would we have to say for ourselves? Are we making a point - or making a difference? And what are we willing to do about it?
©2015 Debbie Robus
Rip the heavens apart! Come down, Lord; make the mountains tremble. Be a spark that starts a fire causing water to boil. Then your enemies will know who you are; all nations will tremble because you are nearby. Your fearsome deeds have completely amazed us; even the mountains shake when you come down. You are the only God ever seen or heard of who works miracles for his followers. You help all who gladly obey and do what you want, but sin makes you angry. Only by your help can we ever be saved.
We are unfit to worship you; each of our good deeds is merely a filthy rag. We dry up like leaves; our sins are storm winds sweeping us away. No one worships in your name or remains faithful. You have turned your back on us and let our sins melt us away.
You, Lord, are our Father. We are nothing but clay, but you are the potter who molded us.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Seattle's Gravity Payments CEO, Dan Price, recently did something that astounded a lot of people. He announced that he was slashing his annual salary by approximately 1 million dollars...and giving all of his employees a raise. He pledged that each employee will immediately jump to at least $50,000 in annual salary...and gradually move to the $70K mark within the next three years. The end goal will be for no one to work at Gravity Payments for less than $70,000 per year.
Price, a 30-year-old single man who runs Gravity Payments - a company that helps businesses process credit cards and offers business analytics, solutions and support - realized that there was a tremendous inequality in the pay among the employees of his firm. He could see that some of his staff struggled to make ends meet, pay off student loans, and put food on the table - all while Price was paid well over one million dollars annually. Essentially, he asked himself, "Who do you think you are?" and realized that he was only as successful and productive as the members of his team. This young business executive understood that life was about something much larger than Dan Price.
If you research Gravity Payments, you will see that they do a lot of community work and philanthropic projects...giving 10% of annual profits to charitable organizations and reaching out to the community to help in a variety of ways. It sounds like a pretty great place to work…a company that truly is striving to make a difference in the lives of others – beginning with their own employees.
The question “Who do you think you are?” is one that we should all be asking on a daily basis. Because honestly, we are nothing without the power and presence of Almighty God. Without His blessings and care, we are 100% ineffective – in anything and everything we do…at least in ways that really matter! God is truly the potter…we are merely the clay. Without salvation through the blood of Jesus Christ, we are no better than filthy rags. And certainly none of us is superior to the next guy.
This is a question that deserves to be answered by each of us. Who DO we think we are? What are we doing in the name of Jesus? If Jesus ripped open the heavens and returned today for His church, what would we have to say for ourselves? Are we making a point - or making a difference? And what are we willing to do about it?
©2015 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for November 4, 2013
John 3:23-30
At this time John the Baptist was baptizing at Aenon, near Salim, because there was plenty of water there; and people kept coming to him for baptism. (This was before John was thrown into prison.) A debate broke out between John’s disciples and a certain Jew over ceremonial cleansing. So John’s disciples came to him and said, “Rabbi, the man you met on the other side of the Jordan River, the one you identified as the Messiah, is also baptizing people. And everybody is going to him instead of coming to us.”
John replied, “No one can receive anything unless God gives it from heaven. You yourselves know how plainly I told you, ‘I am not the Messiah. I am only here to prepare the way for him.’ It is the bridegroom who marries the bride, and the best man is simply glad to stand with him and hear his vows. Therefore, I am filled with joy at his success. He must become greater and greater, and I must become less and less.
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.
All teachers know that Halloween is a turning point in the fall semester, particularly for little ones. Once the kids get their Halloween “sugar high,” it’s pretty much “Katy bar the door” until Christmas! So when my niece told me that Timothy’s teachers had declared him to be “rowdy” on November 1st, I can’t say I was surprised. I told her that my experience had proven that there would be lots of “rowdiness” between now and Christmas… and she said Timothy’s teachers had pretty much said the same thing.
This explanation doesn’t excuse “rowdy” behavior in young children… and they must accept responsibility for their actions. So when Timothy told us on Sunday, “I didn’t get to come to your house after Halloween,” I reminded him that it was because he had misbehaved… that in order to visit us overnight on Saturday, he must be good at school – and at home – during the week. That’s a tall order for a four-year-old. But he can do it. And at some point, we must hold him more accountable for his actions and intervene on his behalf less and less. Even now, as he learns in Sunday school that God created everything… that God wants us to do our very best…that God will help us with our challenges… we must allow Him to lean more on God and less on us for these things.
Learning to let go – even of your child’s spiritual journey - is a hard “parenting” lesson. It’s even harder for us sometimes as we become adults. We often have trouble recognizing Who is really in charge. We want to do things ourselves… our way…and to receive credit for our independence. So we find it hard to admit that God is in charge… that while we are allowed to handle things somewhat on our own at times, the end result came from Him – by His hand, not our own.
By the same token, we must accept responsibility for our actions and not try to blame God. Rather, we must learn to rely on Him. Just as young children must learn to develop a trust in God… to listen to Him and follow His lead… to acknowledge right from wrong and strive to do what He desires… we must do the same. And we must lead by example…not because we are wonderful, strong and mighty… but because we are made so by God’s great sacrifice – His love, grace and mercy over us.
It’s not about us… it’s about Jesus and what He did for us on the cross. It’s about God and the love He has for us that is so great that He was willing to sacrifice His only Son for our sins. It’s about the privilege of serving Him… of allowing God to use us to reach others in His name… and giving Him all of the glory and credit. We are very much still the rowdy child who has lessons to learn... but it’s high time we grew up a bit and started comprehending what we have been taught!
Where are you in this journey? Are you taking credit for the things that God has done in and through you? Are you showing the proper respect for your position in life… or do you think more highly of yourself than you ought? Are you trying to be the bridegroom instead of the best man? Do you need to acknowledge your “rowdiness” and make an effort to behave better? Isn’t it time you got started?
©2013 Debbie Robus
At this time John the Baptist was baptizing at Aenon, near Salim, because there was plenty of water there; and people kept coming to him for baptism. (This was before John was thrown into prison.) A debate broke out between John’s disciples and a certain Jew over ceremonial cleansing. So John’s disciples came to him and said, “Rabbi, the man you met on the other side of the Jordan River, the one you identified as the Messiah, is also baptizing people. And everybody is going to him instead of coming to us.”
John replied, “No one can receive anything unless God gives it from heaven. You yourselves know how plainly I told you, ‘I am not the Messiah. I am only here to prepare the way for him.’ It is the bridegroom who marries the bride, and the best man is simply glad to stand with him and hear his vows. Therefore, I am filled with joy at his success. He must become greater and greater, and I must become less and less.
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.
All teachers know that Halloween is a turning point in the fall semester, particularly for little ones. Once the kids get their Halloween “sugar high,” it’s pretty much “Katy bar the door” until Christmas! So when my niece told me that Timothy’s teachers had declared him to be “rowdy” on November 1st, I can’t say I was surprised. I told her that my experience had proven that there would be lots of “rowdiness” between now and Christmas… and she said Timothy’s teachers had pretty much said the same thing.
This explanation doesn’t excuse “rowdy” behavior in young children… and they must accept responsibility for their actions. So when Timothy told us on Sunday, “I didn’t get to come to your house after Halloween,” I reminded him that it was because he had misbehaved… that in order to visit us overnight on Saturday, he must be good at school – and at home – during the week. That’s a tall order for a four-year-old. But he can do it. And at some point, we must hold him more accountable for his actions and intervene on his behalf less and less. Even now, as he learns in Sunday school that God created everything… that God wants us to do our very best…that God will help us with our challenges… we must allow Him to lean more on God and less on us for these things.
Learning to let go – even of your child’s spiritual journey - is a hard “parenting” lesson. It’s even harder for us sometimes as we become adults. We often have trouble recognizing Who is really in charge. We want to do things ourselves… our way…and to receive credit for our independence. So we find it hard to admit that God is in charge… that while we are allowed to handle things somewhat on our own at times, the end result came from Him – by His hand, not our own.
By the same token, we must accept responsibility for our actions and not try to blame God. Rather, we must learn to rely on Him. Just as young children must learn to develop a trust in God… to listen to Him and follow His lead… to acknowledge right from wrong and strive to do what He desires… we must do the same. And we must lead by example…not because we are wonderful, strong and mighty… but because we are made so by God’s great sacrifice – His love, grace and mercy over us.
It’s not about us… it’s about Jesus and what He did for us on the cross. It’s about God and the love He has for us that is so great that He was willing to sacrifice His only Son for our sins. It’s about the privilege of serving Him… of allowing God to use us to reach others in His name… and giving Him all of the glory and credit. We are very much still the rowdy child who has lessons to learn... but it’s high time we grew up a bit and started comprehending what we have been taught!
Where are you in this journey? Are you taking credit for the things that God has done in and through you? Are you showing the proper respect for your position in life… or do you think more highly of yourself than you ought? Are you trying to be the bridegroom instead of the best man? Do you need to acknowledge your “rowdiness” and make an effort to behave better? Isn’t it time you got started?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for October 7, 2013
Proverbs 16:19
You are better off to be humble and poor than to get rich from what you take by force.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I have spent most of the day trying to figure out what to share with you in this devotional. This was not an especially busy day for me. When I awoke this morning, I knew that I had plenty of time to do a few household chores, write this devotional – and even squeeze in a workout before dinner time. This morning, two friends telephoned to visit with me – one delivered some sad news, and the other was checking on a mutual acquaintance. Both calls were important. Then another friend called to discuss a sewing project on which she was working and to seek some advice. That was important also. AND…I phoned my mother to share the sad news that one of the friends had delivered earlier…per her request.
In all, a lot of my morning was spent on the telephone. I decided to “park” this scripture and get in a workout. Greg was delivering Meals on Wheels, as he does each Monday. He returned before I finished exercising and said, “It’s such a beautiful day… I was hoping we could go for a bike ride.” My friend with the sewing project was due to visit later in the afternoon so that I could help her. I told Greg that it shouldn’t take long to do the sewing, and we could ride afterward… and we did. What a beautiful afternoon we shared… bright, sunny skies and cool, crisp fall air. We returned home just before time for dinner.
After we ate, Greg went to his office to watch a ballgame, and I was going to work on this devotional. My friend called… her sewing project was not going well. She had difficulties that I could not “talk her through” over the phone, so I insisted she drive back to our house, so that I could help her finish the project. As she drove away from our house, I thought… “Here’s my devotional!”
See, the “richest” part of my day was not what I was able to check off my list. It was the people with whom I spent time. Dishes can wait… that television show I might have wanted to watch can be recorded and viewed later (or skipped altogether)…the little “projects” I had hoped to work on today will still be there tomorrow – or next week – but my friends and family wanted and/or needed me today. Had I stomped my foot or made excuses and said, “I’m not answering the phone again!” or “I will not do another thing with someone else until I check XYZ off of my own list,” I might have missed out on some wonderful blessings.
The point is that we are missing out on the riches found in the little things of life, because we are focused on getting ahead or accomplishing as much as possible in as little time as possible. We truly would be “better off humble and poor” than to have trampled over the feelings of others to get what we want. To make another feel like your priorities and preferences are more important than his/hers… in even small matters… is the same as getting rich – or getting ahead – by force. When we choose to stop focusing on our own desires more than the needs of others, we have truly begun to understand what it is to be a disciple of Christ.
On any given day, our plans don’t go as we hoped. Sometimes that is our own doing… other times God is showing us opportunities to serve in His name… or even to receive a blessing that He wants to bestow. Whether we tap into what God is offering or not is totally up to us. It’s our choice. We start by being attuned to His will for our lives…and learning to ask Him, “What do YOU think I should do in this situation?” When we listen to His lead, we always make the right choice in the end. The question is… are you listening? Isn’t it time you were?
©2013 Debbie Robus
You are better off to be humble and poor than to get rich from what you take by force.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I have spent most of the day trying to figure out what to share with you in this devotional. This was not an especially busy day for me. When I awoke this morning, I knew that I had plenty of time to do a few household chores, write this devotional – and even squeeze in a workout before dinner time. This morning, two friends telephoned to visit with me – one delivered some sad news, and the other was checking on a mutual acquaintance. Both calls were important. Then another friend called to discuss a sewing project on which she was working and to seek some advice. That was important also. AND…I phoned my mother to share the sad news that one of the friends had delivered earlier…per her request.
In all, a lot of my morning was spent on the telephone. I decided to “park” this scripture and get in a workout. Greg was delivering Meals on Wheels, as he does each Monday. He returned before I finished exercising and said, “It’s such a beautiful day… I was hoping we could go for a bike ride.” My friend with the sewing project was due to visit later in the afternoon so that I could help her. I told Greg that it shouldn’t take long to do the sewing, and we could ride afterward… and we did. What a beautiful afternoon we shared… bright, sunny skies and cool, crisp fall air. We returned home just before time for dinner.
After we ate, Greg went to his office to watch a ballgame, and I was going to work on this devotional. My friend called… her sewing project was not going well. She had difficulties that I could not “talk her through” over the phone, so I insisted she drive back to our house, so that I could help her finish the project. As she drove away from our house, I thought… “Here’s my devotional!”
See, the “richest” part of my day was not what I was able to check off my list. It was the people with whom I spent time. Dishes can wait… that television show I might have wanted to watch can be recorded and viewed later (or skipped altogether)…the little “projects” I had hoped to work on today will still be there tomorrow – or next week – but my friends and family wanted and/or needed me today. Had I stomped my foot or made excuses and said, “I’m not answering the phone again!” or “I will not do another thing with someone else until I check XYZ off of my own list,” I might have missed out on some wonderful blessings.
The point is that we are missing out on the riches found in the little things of life, because we are focused on getting ahead or accomplishing as much as possible in as little time as possible. We truly would be “better off humble and poor” than to have trampled over the feelings of others to get what we want. To make another feel like your priorities and preferences are more important than his/hers… in even small matters… is the same as getting rich – or getting ahead – by force. When we choose to stop focusing on our own desires more than the needs of others, we have truly begun to understand what it is to be a disciple of Christ.
On any given day, our plans don’t go as we hoped. Sometimes that is our own doing… other times God is showing us opportunities to serve in His name… or even to receive a blessing that He wants to bestow. Whether we tap into what God is offering or not is totally up to us. It’s our choice. We start by being attuned to His will for our lives…and learning to ask Him, “What do YOU think I should do in this situation?” When we listen to His lead, we always make the right choice in the end. The question is… are you listening? Isn’t it time you were?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 30, 2013
Psalm 26:8-12
I love your sanctuary, Lord,
the place where your glorious presence dwells.
Don’t let me suffer the fate of sinners.
Don’t condemn me along with murderers.
Their hands are dirty with evil schemes,
and they constantly take bribes.
But I am not like that; I live with integrity.
So redeem me and show me mercy.
Now I stand on solid ground,
and I will publicly praise the Lord.
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
My husband and I have spent much of this week sorting through old photographs – ours and my grandmothers, mostly. We’ve looked at each one and compared this one and that… “Aren’t they almost identical? Is this one more blurry than the next? Why are we saving a picture of someone we don’t even know?” We’ve “culled” the ones that we did not deem worthy of keeping for some reason. Some went to the shredder… others were sent to those featured in the picture for their albums – or trash cans!
Our qualifying criteria for keeping a picture were that it had to have some sort of value – or integrity – or it had to be something we could scan and improve the quality. More than once, one of us would be ready to toss a picture, and the other would say, “I know that’s not a great photo… but I like the way So-and-so is smiling…” or “Yes, that’s a little blurry, but that is good of XYZ…you never saw him/her without that object!” So we were merciful and returned more than a few less-than-stellar specimens to the “save” pile.
I’d like to think that I have more redeeming qualities than poor ones. I strive to live with integrity… to please God with my thoughts, words and actions. But on any given day, He could easily toss me to the “cull” stack if He chose… and I know this. So I make a concerted effort to live in a way that honors God each day. I try not to murder… even with sharp words or gossip. I try very hard not to be manipulated or bribed into doing or saying something I shouldn’t. Even when I feel that others won’t like my comments or actions, I work hard at standing on solid ground and operating in God’s truth – and I hope I do so with kindness and grace.
I do love God’s sanctuary… the place where His glorious presence dwells. I am forever indebted to Him for His gift of Jesus Christ… and for the sacrifice that He made for you and me on the cross. I am forever grateful that Jesus rose from the grave and ascended into heaven… that He waits for me there. Ultimately, I praise God for taking a second look at me… for putting me back in the “keep” pile to live for Him another day… and I’m doing everything I can to stay there. What about you?
©2013 Debbie Robus
I love your sanctuary, Lord,
the place where your glorious presence dwells.
Don’t let me suffer the fate of sinners.
Don’t condemn me along with murderers.
Their hands are dirty with evil schemes,
and they constantly take bribes.
But I am not like that; I live with integrity.
So redeem me and show me mercy.
Now I stand on solid ground,
and I will publicly praise the Lord.
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
My husband and I have spent much of this week sorting through old photographs – ours and my grandmothers, mostly. We’ve looked at each one and compared this one and that… “Aren’t they almost identical? Is this one more blurry than the next? Why are we saving a picture of someone we don’t even know?” We’ve “culled” the ones that we did not deem worthy of keeping for some reason. Some went to the shredder… others were sent to those featured in the picture for their albums – or trash cans!
Our qualifying criteria for keeping a picture were that it had to have some sort of value – or integrity – or it had to be something we could scan and improve the quality. More than once, one of us would be ready to toss a picture, and the other would say, “I know that’s not a great photo… but I like the way So-and-so is smiling…” or “Yes, that’s a little blurry, but that is good of XYZ…you never saw him/her without that object!” So we were merciful and returned more than a few less-than-stellar specimens to the “save” pile.
I’d like to think that I have more redeeming qualities than poor ones. I strive to live with integrity… to please God with my thoughts, words and actions. But on any given day, He could easily toss me to the “cull” stack if He chose… and I know this. So I make a concerted effort to live in a way that honors God each day. I try not to murder… even with sharp words or gossip. I try very hard not to be manipulated or bribed into doing or saying something I shouldn’t. Even when I feel that others won’t like my comments or actions, I work hard at standing on solid ground and operating in God’s truth – and I hope I do so with kindness and grace.
I do love God’s sanctuary… the place where His glorious presence dwells. I am forever indebted to Him for His gift of Jesus Christ… and for the sacrifice that He made for you and me on the cross. I am forever grateful that Jesus rose from the grave and ascended into heaven… that He waits for me there. Ultimately, I praise God for taking a second look at me… for putting me back in the “keep” pile to live for Him another day… and I’m doing everything I can to stay there. What about you?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for February 25, 2013
1 Corinthians 13:3-7
If I give everything I own to the poor and even go to the stake to be burned as a martyr, but I don’t love, I’ve gotten nowhere. So, no matter what I say, what I believe, and what I do, I’m bankrupt without love.
Love never gives up.
Love cares more for others than for self.
Love doesn’t want what it doesn’t have.
Love doesn’t strut,
Doesn’t have a swelled head,
Doesn’t force itself on others,
Isn’t always “me first,”
Doesn’t fly off the handle,
Doesn’t keep score of the sins of others,
Doesn’t revel when others grovel,
Takes pleasure in the flowering of truth,
Puts up with anything,
Trusts God always,
Always looks for the best,
Never looks back,
But keeps going to the end.
Love never dies. Inspired speech will be over some day; praying in tongues will end; understanding will reach its limit. We know only a portion of the truth, and what we say about God is always incomplete. But when the Complete arrives, our incompletes will be canceled.
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.
The quote for this date in my desktop flip calendar came from the late Gilda Radner… “I base my fashion taste on what doesn’t itch.” I like that… and I would add, “…or cinch me too tightly, creep or crawl!” The truth is that our lives are filled with “itchy, scratchy, creeping, crawly, too-tight situations”… and not just in our fashions! The only “garment” that will always fit is the “robe” of love in Christ Jesus. This is the “full armor of God” – but it is never too heavy or uncomfortable. Jesus’ love is easy to wear… and “one size fits all.”
Our pastor reminded us again yesterday that there is at least one broken heart on every pew. You may think you have problems… but wait until you hear the next guy’s! No one is immune to struggles and challenges. I have been asking God to reveal Himself to me and answer several questions… and this scripture popped up on my outline. In a word…God’s answer seems to be… “Love.” I’m not talking “pie-in-the-sky-let’s-just-love-everybody-and-all-will-be-well” love. I’m talking 1 Corinthians 13 love. And there is a difference.
In this passage, Paul isn’t telling us that a “peace-and-love-mumu-type-love” from the 1970s will make everything okay. He is saying that the love of Christ is our “one-size-fits-all” garment… because this love has many facets. The love Paul speaks of is patient, kind, calm and enduring. So when you are struggling in a relationship with another person – friend, family member, co-worker, classmate or teacher, significant other, or even a fellow believer… remember to put on your “love robe.” When you have challenges of any kind, don’t forget to put on your “raincoat” of kind, humble, self-less, trusting, optimistic, persistent love. Even though others give up on you and your relationship... God never gives up. He keeps on loving… and so should we.
This does not mean that we allow others to walk over us… or that we look the other way when there is injustice or disobedience. But we are called to handle every situation with the love of Christ. Sure… there will be times when you are angry, frustrated, insulted, and deeply wounded. You may be the person on the pew with a broken heart! But the love of Christ is what will sustain you… and you must never stop extending that love to others. I’ve talked to God a lot lately about how hard this is… how I often find it difficult to be a loving disciple when what I really want to do is yell, kick and scream! And each time, I hear Him saying… “Now you know how I feel most of the time!” And I am truly humbled.
I feel so shrouded in the protective love of God… covered by the “robe” of Jesus’ grace, mercy, kindness and forgiveness. I know that God has a closet full of “robes” that He wants to distribute to others… and we are the vehicle for this circulation. How are you doing? Are you fully operating in 1 Corinthians 13 love? Does the love of Christ fit you like a silken, flowing robe that never binds, creeps, crawls or itches? What are you wearing these days? Do you need to make a “wardrobe change?”
©2013 Debbie Robus
If I give everything I own to the poor and even go to the stake to be burned as a martyr, but I don’t love, I’ve gotten nowhere. So, no matter what I say, what I believe, and what I do, I’m bankrupt without love.
Love never gives up.
Love cares more for others than for self.
Love doesn’t want what it doesn’t have.
Love doesn’t strut,
Doesn’t have a swelled head,
Doesn’t force itself on others,
Isn’t always “me first,”
Doesn’t fly off the handle,
Doesn’t keep score of the sins of others,
Doesn’t revel when others grovel,
Takes pleasure in the flowering of truth,
Puts up with anything,
Trusts God always,
Always looks for the best,
Never looks back,
But keeps going to the end.
Love never dies. Inspired speech will be over some day; praying in tongues will end; understanding will reach its limit. We know only a portion of the truth, and what we say about God is always incomplete. But when the Complete arrives, our incompletes will be canceled.
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.
The quote for this date in my desktop flip calendar came from the late Gilda Radner… “I base my fashion taste on what doesn’t itch.” I like that… and I would add, “…or cinch me too tightly, creep or crawl!” The truth is that our lives are filled with “itchy, scratchy, creeping, crawly, too-tight situations”… and not just in our fashions! The only “garment” that will always fit is the “robe” of love in Christ Jesus. This is the “full armor of God” – but it is never too heavy or uncomfortable. Jesus’ love is easy to wear… and “one size fits all.”
Our pastor reminded us again yesterday that there is at least one broken heart on every pew. You may think you have problems… but wait until you hear the next guy’s! No one is immune to struggles and challenges. I have been asking God to reveal Himself to me and answer several questions… and this scripture popped up on my outline. In a word…God’s answer seems to be… “Love.” I’m not talking “pie-in-the-sky-let’s-just-love-everybody-and-all-will-be-well” love. I’m talking 1 Corinthians 13 love. And there is a difference.
In this passage, Paul isn’t telling us that a “peace-and-love-mumu-type-love” from the 1970s will make everything okay. He is saying that the love of Christ is our “one-size-fits-all” garment… because this love has many facets. The love Paul speaks of is patient, kind, calm and enduring. So when you are struggling in a relationship with another person – friend, family member, co-worker, classmate or teacher, significant other, or even a fellow believer… remember to put on your “love robe.” When you have challenges of any kind, don’t forget to put on your “raincoat” of kind, humble, self-less, trusting, optimistic, persistent love. Even though others give up on you and your relationship... God never gives up. He keeps on loving… and so should we.
This does not mean that we allow others to walk over us… or that we look the other way when there is injustice or disobedience. But we are called to handle every situation with the love of Christ. Sure… there will be times when you are angry, frustrated, insulted, and deeply wounded. You may be the person on the pew with a broken heart! But the love of Christ is what will sustain you… and you must never stop extending that love to others. I’ve talked to God a lot lately about how hard this is… how I often find it difficult to be a loving disciple when what I really want to do is yell, kick and scream! And each time, I hear Him saying… “Now you know how I feel most of the time!” And I am truly humbled.
I feel so shrouded in the protective love of God… covered by the “robe” of Jesus’ grace, mercy, kindness and forgiveness. I know that God has a closet full of “robes” that He wants to distribute to others… and we are the vehicle for this circulation. How are you doing? Are you fully operating in 1 Corinthians 13 love? Does the love of Christ fit you like a silken, flowing robe that never binds, creeps, crawls or itches? What are you wearing these days? Do you need to make a “wardrobe change?”
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for November 10, 2012
Matthew 10:40-42
“We are intimately linked in this harvest work. Anyone who accepts what you do, accepts me, the One who sent you. Anyone who accepts what I do accepts my Father, who sent me. Accepting a messenger of God is as good as being God’s messenger. Accepting someone’s help is as good as giving someone help. This is a large work I’ve called you into, but don’t be overwhelmed by it. It’s best to start small. Give a cool cup of water to someone who is thirsty, for instance. The smallest act of giving or receiving makes you a true apprentice. You won’t lose out on a thing.”
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.
My husband and I went shopping for a used car this week. You can learn a lot about life – and even Christian witness – from used car salespeople! There are those who seem to appear from nowhere as soon as your car hits their lot. They pounce on you like vultures… “What can I show you? What do you think about this one? How much were you planning to spend? What don’t you like?”
Then there are those who amble over as you peer into the window of a vehicle, stick out their hand and say, “Welcome! I’m here if you need me or have any questions, but otherwise, I’ll just let you look around.” They step back and let you look…kick the tires… and maybe unlock a door or two for you to take a peek inside. In other words, they start small. They don’t throw everything on the table all at once… they let you look and think and absorb the situation in manageable doses.
Now, who do you think you would rather buy a car from… the pushy salesperson who tries to cram his/her product down your throat… or the laidback, patient one who shows you hospitality and almost acts like you are doing them a favor by visiting their establishment?
It’s the same with our Christian witness. If we approach people with an all-out, “you’ve-got-to-believe-in-Jesus-like-I-do-or-you’ll-go-to-hell” attitude or demeanor, we will not be welcome… nor will our message. Nobody wants to be coerced or made to feel inferior. Think about people you know who are “preachy” and pious… those who are always ready to tell you that your real problem is that you don’t know Jesus… or at least you don’t know Him like they do! These are the ones who are always talking about “Christian” behavior while acting anything BUT “Christian” themselves. How open are you to their message? Are these people truly welcome in your life… or are they merely tolerated, at best?
I think of all of the people I know who go about their lives with a quiet, peaceful confidence… making occasional references to their faith and how God has blessed them… but more importantly, busy loving others and caring about them in ways great and small. I am so inspired and motivated by how they conduct themselves… how they handle crises… their inner strength and their outer goodness. THIS is the hospitality of Jesus in action! These are the people I welcome with open arms and with whom I desire fellowship! Theirs is the example I wish to follow and emulate. In other words, I want some of what they have!
Which camp are you in? What sort of “salesperson” for Jesus are you… a pushy, know-it-all… or one who exudes hospitality and offers a hearty welcome? Remember…our job as Christ’s Disciples is to share His Good News and to serve as His hands and feet on this earth… and then to be on our way. Nowhere in the Bible does it say, “Stay and push until people bend and break.” God doesn’t want coercion… He wants willing servants who come to Him with an open heart and a deep hunger for what He offers. And He needs harvest hands that will show Christian hospitality and welcome to those they encounter.
Are you a welcoming witness for Jesus? Do you demonstrate hospitality and a faith in Christ that is appealing to others? Ask God to show you how and where to make needed changes. Learn to operate in warmth and cordiality… to show others a quiet faith and service that is genuine, humble, and inviting. Start small and watch the impact of your Christian welcome grow. See how God can multiply your efforts, as others accept and serve Him because you do. Be a blessing to be blessed… and don’t miss out on a single thing God has for you!
©2012 Debbie Robus
“We are intimately linked in this harvest work. Anyone who accepts what you do, accepts me, the One who sent you. Anyone who accepts what I do accepts my Father, who sent me. Accepting a messenger of God is as good as being God’s messenger. Accepting someone’s help is as good as giving someone help. This is a large work I’ve called you into, but don’t be overwhelmed by it. It’s best to start small. Give a cool cup of water to someone who is thirsty, for instance. The smallest act of giving or receiving makes you a true apprentice. You won’t lose out on a thing.”
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.
My husband and I went shopping for a used car this week. You can learn a lot about life – and even Christian witness – from used car salespeople! There are those who seem to appear from nowhere as soon as your car hits their lot. They pounce on you like vultures… “What can I show you? What do you think about this one? How much were you planning to spend? What don’t you like?”
Then there are those who amble over as you peer into the window of a vehicle, stick out their hand and say, “Welcome! I’m here if you need me or have any questions, but otherwise, I’ll just let you look around.” They step back and let you look…kick the tires… and maybe unlock a door or two for you to take a peek inside. In other words, they start small. They don’t throw everything on the table all at once… they let you look and think and absorb the situation in manageable doses.
Now, who do you think you would rather buy a car from… the pushy salesperson who tries to cram his/her product down your throat… or the laidback, patient one who shows you hospitality and almost acts like you are doing them a favor by visiting their establishment?
It’s the same with our Christian witness. If we approach people with an all-out, “you’ve-got-to-believe-in-Jesus-like-I-do-or-you’ll-go-to-hell” attitude or demeanor, we will not be welcome… nor will our message. Nobody wants to be coerced or made to feel inferior. Think about people you know who are “preachy” and pious… those who are always ready to tell you that your real problem is that you don’t know Jesus… or at least you don’t know Him like they do! These are the ones who are always talking about “Christian” behavior while acting anything BUT “Christian” themselves. How open are you to their message? Are these people truly welcome in your life… or are they merely tolerated, at best?
I think of all of the people I know who go about their lives with a quiet, peaceful confidence… making occasional references to their faith and how God has blessed them… but more importantly, busy loving others and caring about them in ways great and small. I am so inspired and motivated by how they conduct themselves… how they handle crises… their inner strength and their outer goodness. THIS is the hospitality of Jesus in action! These are the people I welcome with open arms and with whom I desire fellowship! Theirs is the example I wish to follow and emulate. In other words, I want some of what they have!
Which camp are you in? What sort of “salesperson” for Jesus are you… a pushy, know-it-all… or one who exudes hospitality and offers a hearty welcome? Remember…our job as Christ’s Disciples is to share His Good News and to serve as His hands and feet on this earth… and then to be on our way. Nowhere in the Bible does it say, “Stay and push until people bend and break.” God doesn’t want coercion… He wants willing servants who come to Him with an open heart and a deep hunger for what He offers. And He needs harvest hands that will show Christian hospitality and welcome to those they encounter.
Are you a welcoming witness for Jesus? Do you demonstrate hospitality and a faith in Christ that is appealing to others? Ask God to show you how and where to make needed changes. Learn to operate in warmth and cordiality… to show others a quiet faith and service that is genuine, humble, and inviting. Start small and watch the impact of your Christian welcome grow. See how God can multiply your efforts, as others accept and serve Him because you do. Be a blessing to be blessed… and don’t miss out on a single thing God has for you!
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for October 19, 2012
Matthew 5:2-12
Jesus' disciples gathered around him, and he taught them:
God blesses those people who depend only on him. They belong to the kingdom of heaven!
God blesses those people who grieve. They will find comfort!
God blesses those people who are humble. The earth will belong to them!
God blesses those people who want to obey him more than to eat or drink. They will be given what they want!
God blesses those people who are merciful. They will be treated with mercy!
God blesses those people whose hearts are pure. They will see him!
God blesses those people who make peace. They will be called his children!
God blesses those people who are treated badly for doing right. They belong to the kingdom of heaven.
God will bless you when people insult you, mistreat you, and tell all kinds of evil lies about you because of me. Be happy and excited! You will have a great reward in heaven. People did these same things to the prophets who lived long ago.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Remember the story of The Little Red Hen? She asked for help with planting, harvesting and grinding her wheat into flour, and no one was available. So she quietly and dutifully went about getting everything done. When she turned her flour into warm, tasty loaves of bread, all of those who had refused to help were suddenly interested in “helping” her eat the bread. Now I ask you, what should she do? In the story, she reminds all of her friends that they refused to help… so now they will not get to eat! She then eats the bread herself… and feeds her chicks.
Apparently the Little Red Hen didn’t read this scripture passage! The moral of the story is that “only those who work will eat.” But for Christians, there is more to the story. Can we really refuse to feed our neighbor who is hungry just because he/she won’t work? When someone fails to help us out when we are in need, does this give us license to do the same in return? Do we have the right to lie for our boss or a friend just to keep our job? Will God understand if we let our relationship with Him lapse because we are busy or preoccupied… sick or in trouble?
This passage is a wonderful outline for how to live as a disciple of Christ. Coupled with the commandments in Luke 10:27 to “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, strength, and mind,” and “Love your neighbors as much as you love yourself,” these verses give us a great road map for Christian living. When we follow these teachings, we live in a manner that pleases God and leads to incredible blessings – both on this earth and in heaven.
These guidelines are not always easy to follow. Yes, there will be ridicule, difficulty, and frustration as you strive to follow them. But as the scriptures tell us, there will also be great rewards and blessings. You will not serve alone… your efforts will not be in vain. When you get to the point where your “Little Red Hen” story includes feeding those who are hungry – even when they didn’t help – you have truly turned a corner in your Christian living. When you care more about serving God than about what others think, an entirely new world of possibilities with Christ opens up to you. When you humble yourself and begin to depend totally on God… and genuinely grieve over the sufferings of others, you discover the joys of knowing that God will more than meet your every need. He will bless and care for you in this lifetime… and for all eternity.
Where are you in your Disciple life? Are you still a “Little Red Hen” Christian who is out to get all you can for yourself and those in your circle? Or are you “in it to win it” with Jesus… totally focused on Him and allowing Him to work in and through you for His glory? Do others see Jesus in your actions and daily living? Isn’t it time they did?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Jesus' disciples gathered around him, and he taught them:
God blesses those people who depend only on him. They belong to the kingdom of heaven!
God blesses those people who grieve. They will find comfort!
God blesses those people who are humble. The earth will belong to them!
God blesses those people who want to obey him more than to eat or drink. They will be given what they want!
God blesses those people who are merciful. They will be treated with mercy!
God blesses those people whose hearts are pure. They will see him!
God blesses those people who make peace. They will be called his children!
God blesses those people who are treated badly for doing right. They belong to the kingdom of heaven.
God will bless you when people insult you, mistreat you, and tell all kinds of evil lies about you because of me. Be happy and excited! You will have a great reward in heaven. People did these same things to the prophets who lived long ago.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Remember the story of The Little Red Hen? She asked for help with planting, harvesting and grinding her wheat into flour, and no one was available. So she quietly and dutifully went about getting everything done. When she turned her flour into warm, tasty loaves of bread, all of those who had refused to help were suddenly interested in “helping” her eat the bread. Now I ask you, what should she do? In the story, she reminds all of her friends that they refused to help… so now they will not get to eat! She then eats the bread herself… and feeds her chicks.
Apparently the Little Red Hen didn’t read this scripture passage! The moral of the story is that “only those who work will eat.” But for Christians, there is more to the story. Can we really refuse to feed our neighbor who is hungry just because he/she won’t work? When someone fails to help us out when we are in need, does this give us license to do the same in return? Do we have the right to lie for our boss or a friend just to keep our job? Will God understand if we let our relationship with Him lapse because we are busy or preoccupied… sick or in trouble?
This passage is a wonderful outline for how to live as a disciple of Christ. Coupled with the commandments in Luke 10:27 to “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, strength, and mind,” and “Love your neighbors as much as you love yourself,” these verses give us a great road map for Christian living. When we follow these teachings, we live in a manner that pleases God and leads to incredible blessings – both on this earth and in heaven.
These guidelines are not always easy to follow. Yes, there will be ridicule, difficulty, and frustration as you strive to follow them. But as the scriptures tell us, there will also be great rewards and blessings. You will not serve alone… your efforts will not be in vain. When you get to the point where your “Little Red Hen” story includes feeding those who are hungry – even when they didn’t help – you have truly turned a corner in your Christian living. When you care more about serving God than about what others think, an entirely new world of possibilities with Christ opens up to you. When you humble yourself and begin to depend totally on God… and genuinely grieve over the sufferings of others, you discover the joys of knowing that God will more than meet your every need. He will bless and care for you in this lifetime… and for all eternity.
Where are you in your Disciple life? Are you still a “Little Red Hen” Christian who is out to get all you can for yourself and those in your circle? Or are you “in it to win it” with Jesus… totally focused on Him and allowing Him to work in and through you for His glory? Do others see Jesus in your actions and daily living? Isn’t it time they did?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for October 17, 2012
Matthew 3:13-17
Jesus left Galilee and went to the Jordan River to be baptized by John. But John kept objecting and said, “I ought to be baptized by you. Why have you come to me?”
Jesus answered, “For now this is how it should be, because we must do all that God wants us to do.” Then John agreed.
So Jesus was baptized. And as soon as he came out of the water, the sky opened, and he saw the Spirit of God coming down on him like a dove. Then a voice from heaven said, “This is my own dear Son, and I am pleased with him.”
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Have you ever gotten an extravagant gift? Maybe someone did something for you that in no way could you repay or reciprocate. Perhaps you protested genuinely… “Oh, you shouldn’t have. I cannot accept.” Maybe the person persisted… “I insist! I want you to have this,” or “I want to do this for you.” Maybe someone offered to do something incredibly generous for you and said, “You must let me do this for you. I won’t allow you to refuse.”
Learning to accept gifts graciously is a big life lesson for many of us. And accepting Jesus’ gifts with obedience and gratitude is no exception. See, none of us deserves anything from Jesus. We truly are not worthy to even hear Him whisper our name, much less receive any of the blessings He bestows on us. Truly, John… the anointed forerunner of Christ… acknowledged that he was not worthy to baptize Jesus. But at the same time, John realized that obedience trumps worthiness. So when Jesus said, “… this is how it should be,” John listened.
I wonder…how well are we listening to God? Does it even occur to us that we really are not worthy of the things Jesus has done for us… the blessings, grace and mercy He continues to shower on us through His Holy Spirit each and every day? Have we grown so used to His gifts that we no longer feel the urge to protest? Do we act out of a sense of obedience to a God who has given so generously to us, or have we become complacent and now take Him for granted?
John’s baptism of Jesus was a major turning point in Christian history. Not only was Jesus’ significance to God emphasized, but both Jesus and John exemplified obedience. Jesus also demonstrated grace. In this moment, the importance of listening to God and doing what He commands was brought home in a profound way. We will never deserve a single thing from God. Yet He continues to shower us with His goodness. Our responsibility is to be obedient… even if it is to say, “Thank You for such a wonderful gift.”
With God, there is no need for “Oh, you shouldn’t have…” because that is a “given.” But a heartfelt, “Thank You, Master… how can I serve You?” is always appropriate. Have you stopped lately to thank God for what He does for you every minute of the day? Are you respectful and submissive? Do you attend to His will out of a sense of gratitude and faithfulness… or because you think you have to earn your way? When we come to a point in our Christian living where we operate from a profound sense of obedience and gratitude, we have turned a corner. When God calls on you to do something, how will you answer?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Jesus left Galilee and went to the Jordan River to be baptized by John. But John kept objecting and said, “I ought to be baptized by you. Why have you come to me?”
Jesus answered, “For now this is how it should be, because we must do all that God wants us to do.” Then John agreed.
So Jesus was baptized. And as soon as he came out of the water, the sky opened, and he saw the Spirit of God coming down on him like a dove. Then a voice from heaven said, “This is my own dear Son, and I am pleased with him.”
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Have you ever gotten an extravagant gift? Maybe someone did something for you that in no way could you repay or reciprocate. Perhaps you protested genuinely… “Oh, you shouldn’t have. I cannot accept.” Maybe the person persisted… “I insist! I want you to have this,” or “I want to do this for you.” Maybe someone offered to do something incredibly generous for you and said, “You must let me do this for you. I won’t allow you to refuse.”
Learning to accept gifts graciously is a big life lesson for many of us. And accepting Jesus’ gifts with obedience and gratitude is no exception. See, none of us deserves anything from Jesus. We truly are not worthy to even hear Him whisper our name, much less receive any of the blessings He bestows on us. Truly, John… the anointed forerunner of Christ… acknowledged that he was not worthy to baptize Jesus. But at the same time, John realized that obedience trumps worthiness. So when Jesus said, “… this is how it should be,” John listened.
I wonder…how well are we listening to God? Does it even occur to us that we really are not worthy of the things Jesus has done for us… the blessings, grace and mercy He continues to shower on us through His Holy Spirit each and every day? Have we grown so used to His gifts that we no longer feel the urge to protest? Do we act out of a sense of obedience to a God who has given so generously to us, or have we become complacent and now take Him for granted?
John’s baptism of Jesus was a major turning point in Christian history. Not only was Jesus’ significance to God emphasized, but both Jesus and John exemplified obedience. Jesus also demonstrated grace. In this moment, the importance of listening to God and doing what He commands was brought home in a profound way. We will never deserve a single thing from God. Yet He continues to shower us with His goodness. Our responsibility is to be obedient… even if it is to say, “Thank You for such a wonderful gift.”
With God, there is no need for “Oh, you shouldn’t have…” because that is a “given.” But a heartfelt, “Thank You, Master… how can I serve You?” is always appropriate. Have you stopped lately to thank God for what He does for you every minute of the day? Are you respectful and submissive? Do you attend to His will out of a sense of gratitude and faithfulness… or because you think you have to earn your way? When we come to a point in our Christian living where we operate from a profound sense of obedience and gratitude, we have turned a corner. When God calls on you to do something, how will you answer?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for September 11, 2012
James 4:1-6
Where do you think all these appalling wars and quarrels come from? Do you think they just happen? Think again. They come about because you want your own way, and fight for it deep inside yourselves. You lust for what you don’t have and are willing to kill to get it. You want what isn’t yours and will risk violence to get your hands on it.
You wouldn’t think of just asking God for it, would you? And why not? Because you know you’d be asking for what you have no right to. You’re spoiled children, each wanting your own way.
You’re cheating on God. If all you want is your own way, flirting with the world every chance you get, you end up enemies of God and his way. And do you suppose God doesn’t care? The proverb has it that “he’s a fiercely jealous lover.” And what he gives in love is far better than anything else you’ll find. It’s common knowledge that “God goes against the willful proud; God gives grace to the willing humble.”
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.
Eleven years ago today, a horrific terroristic attack occurred in New York City at the World Trade Center. I can’t imagine there is a person alive over the age of 10 who hasn’t at least heard about “9-11,” as it is commonly known. And yes, evil people who wanted their way took matters into their own hands, using violence and killing innocent people in an attempt to make their point.
While we cannot – and must not – forget what happened on September 11, 2001, we must remember that in our own way, we all fight and quarrel and would do anything to get what we want. More than a few of us wage an inner battle with such things as controlling our anger, our tongue or our thoughts… weight loss and/or keeping fit and healthy… addictions from smoking to drinking, drug abuse, gambling, overeating, overspending, and more… and a variety of things we crave to satisfy our ego. We trick ourselves into thinking we are asking God for His will by praying, “LORD, please help me with this,” but our translation is, “LORD… please give me what I want!” And the results wreak havoc in our own life… and the lives of many of those we encounter on a daily basis.
Let’s be honest, a lot of us are willing to go to great lengths to get what we want or to have things our way. Thankfully, very few among us will physically kill another person to accomplish this, but we destroy our health and our relationships, wipe out our bank accounts, and compromise our faith… all because we want what isn’t ours – or we want to do and say whatever we please. And in many ways, these actions are as much a form of murder as if we had pulled the trigger on a gun. We don’t ask God to give us what we want, because we know in our gut that He will say “No” – and with good reason. So we connive, argue and wage battle within our self and with others… and we make a huge mess of things.
Now that you’ve tried “having it your way” and seen how futile this can be… why not give God’s way a chance? Isn’t it time you tried humility and genuinely asked God to meet your daily needs? What if you humbly and honestly asked God to guide your steps… to give you the determination to kick that bad habit or actually engage in a daily workout… to grant you the willpower to resist buying things you don’t need and participating in activities that are wrong for you, at best – or downright immoral at their core… to control your thoughts and your tongue?
What if we started to think about the wide-ranging ramifications of our words and actions and asked God to help us do what is right for us – and for those we encounter? This passage tells us that what God gives in love is better than anything we will find on our own… that He gives His grace to the willing humble. What do you supposed could happen if we dropped pretense and ego… and operated humbly in the will of God? Are you ready to find out? Isn’t today a great day to begin?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Where do you think all these appalling wars and quarrels come from? Do you think they just happen? Think again. They come about because you want your own way, and fight for it deep inside yourselves. You lust for what you don’t have and are willing to kill to get it. You want what isn’t yours and will risk violence to get your hands on it.
You wouldn’t think of just asking God for it, would you? And why not? Because you know you’d be asking for what you have no right to. You’re spoiled children, each wanting your own way.
You’re cheating on God. If all you want is your own way, flirting with the world every chance you get, you end up enemies of God and his way. And do you suppose God doesn’t care? The proverb has it that “he’s a fiercely jealous lover.” And what he gives in love is far better than anything else you’ll find. It’s common knowledge that “God goes against the willful proud; God gives grace to the willing humble.”
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.
Eleven years ago today, a horrific terroristic attack occurred in New York City at the World Trade Center. I can’t imagine there is a person alive over the age of 10 who hasn’t at least heard about “9-11,” as it is commonly known. And yes, evil people who wanted their way took matters into their own hands, using violence and killing innocent people in an attempt to make their point.
While we cannot – and must not – forget what happened on September 11, 2001, we must remember that in our own way, we all fight and quarrel and would do anything to get what we want. More than a few of us wage an inner battle with such things as controlling our anger, our tongue or our thoughts… weight loss and/or keeping fit and healthy… addictions from smoking to drinking, drug abuse, gambling, overeating, overspending, and more… and a variety of things we crave to satisfy our ego. We trick ourselves into thinking we are asking God for His will by praying, “LORD, please help me with this,” but our translation is, “LORD… please give me what I want!” And the results wreak havoc in our own life… and the lives of many of those we encounter on a daily basis.
Let’s be honest, a lot of us are willing to go to great lengths to get what we want or to have things our way. Thankfully, very few among us will physically kill another person to accomplish this, but we destroy our health and our relationships, wipe out our bank accounts, and compromise our faith… all because we want what isn’t ours – or we want to do and say whatever we please. And in many ways, these actions are as much a form of murder as if we had pulled the trigger on a gun. We don’t ask God to give us what we want, because we know in our gut that He will say “No” – and with good reason. So we connive, argue and wage battle within our self and with others… and we make a huge mess of things.
Now that you’ve tried “having it your way” and seen how futile this can be… why not give God’s way a chance? Isn’t it time you tried humility and genuinely asked God to meet your daily needs? What if you humbly and honestly asked God to guide your steps… to give you the determination to kick that bad habit or actually engage in a daily workout… to grant you the willpower to resist buying things you don’t need and participating in activities that are wrong for you, at best – or downright immoral at their core… to control your thoughts and your tongue?
What if we started to think about the wide-ranging ramifications of our words and actions and asked God to help us do what is right for us – and for those we encounter? This passage tells us that what God gives in love is better than anything we will find on our own… that He gives His grace to the willing humble. What do you supposed could happen if we dropped pretense and ego… and operated humbly in the will of God? Are you ready to find out? Isn’t today a great day to begin?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for September 10, 2012
James 3:13-16
Do you want to be counted wise, to build a reputation for wisdom? Here’s what you do: Live well, live wisely, live humbly. It’s the way you live, not the way you talk, that counts. Mean-spirited ambition isn’t wisdom. Boasting that you are wise isn’t wisdom. Twisting the truth to make yourselves sound wise isn’t wisdom. It’s the furthest thing from wisdom—it’s animal cunning, devilish conniving. Whenever you’re trying to look better than others or get the better of others, things fall apart and everyone ends up at the others’ throats.
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.
One of our niece’s high school classmates is a pediatrician at a hospital in Little Rock, where she also teaches at a university hospital. She is also a newlywed whose husband was diagnosed this summer with a very serious form of brain cancer – a highly aggressive malignancy known as glioblastoma. Through surgery, radiation and chemo treatments, this young woman has kept family and friends updated via a CaringBridge journal. In recent posts, she has noted that she doesn’t know how people without her knowledge and expertise navigate the unbelievable maze of medical jargon, paperwork, diagnoses, and treatment directives.
While this ordeal is incredibly heartbreaking, this woman also notes that she has become a better physician as a result of her experience. Many of us have been in a situation where medical staff threw big words, acronyms, numbers and data at us in rapid-fire succession – assuming we understood what they were telling us… while we wondered, “What in the world does this all mean?” – or our mind raced in a thousand other directions. Our niece’s friend writes …”I have become a more compassionate doctor for my families that turn up in the ED (Emergency Department) because they just didn't know what else to do. And while I can rarely solve their problem, I can sit and let them vent about the mess that for-profit medicine has created.”
We can’t merely point to the medical community as the only example of this, because we all act this way, to some degree. We set ourselves up on a pedestal and offer our supreme wisdom to others… often with a hefty dose of condescension or pride in our own capabilities. We lord it over others who really only needed to vent or – as this physician put it – just didn’t know what else to do. We operate in arrogance… that we are better at our job, our sport, parenting our children, being a good friend – and worst of all, being a Christian. By operating in mean-spirited ambition or superiority, we are anything but wise.
Each one of us needs to take a good look at our own life and how we act toward others. Ask yourself, “Am I operating in humility and wisdom… or arrogance and selfish ambition? Am I more concerned with how I appear and stroking my own ego… or sharing my God-given blessings with others? Do others come to me because they know I will offer humble, non-judgmental wisdom and comfort… or am I avoided because of my know-it-all attitude and hypercriticism?”
Won’t you ask God today to grant you true wisdom… and a spirit of honesty, generosity, and humility – as you interact with others? Ask God to make you a person others actually want to be around. Be the humble Christian witness who shares the love of Christ without cramming your vast Bible knowledge or “direct line” arrogance down the throats of others. Build a reputation as someone who lives well, wisely, and humbly. And while you are at it… please pray for this young woman and her husband – and their two young sons – who continue to fight “the beast,” as she describes glioblastoma.
As the adage goes…“People don’t care what you know until they know that you care.” What do others know about you?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Do you want to be counted wise, to build a reputation for wisdom? Here’s what you do: Live well, live wisely, live humbly. It’s the way you live, not the way you talk, that counts. Mean-spirited ambition isn’t wisdom. Boasting that you are wise isn’t wisdom. Twisting the truth to make yourselves sound wise isn’t wisdom. It’s the furthest thing from wisdom—it’s animal cunning, devilish conniving. Whenever you’re trying to look better than others or get the better of others, things fall apart and everyone ends up at the others’ throats.
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.
One of our niece’s high school classmates is a pediatrician at a hospital in Little Rock, where she also teaches at a university hospital. She is also a newlywed whose husband was diagnosed this summer with a very serious form of brain cancer – a highly aggressive malignancy known as glioblastoma. Through surgery, radiation and chemo treatments, this young woman has kept family and friends updated via a CaringBridge journal. In recent posts, she has noted that she doesn’t know how people without her knowledge and expertise navigate the unbelievable maze of medical jargon, paperwork, diagnoses, and treatment directives.
While this ordeal is incredibly heartbreaking, this woman also notes that she has become a better physician as a result of her experience. Many of us have been in a situation where medical staff threw big words, acronyms, numbers and data at us in rapid-fire succession – assuming we understood what they were telling us… while we wondered, “What in the world does this all mean?” – or our mind raced in a thousand other directions. Our niece’s friend writes …”I have become a more compassionate doctor for my families that turn up in the ED (Emergency Department) because they just didn't know what else to do. And while I can rarely solve their problem, I can sit and let them vent about the mess that for-profit medicine has created.”
We can’t merely point to the medical community as the only example of this, because we all act this way, to some degree. We set ourselves up on a pedestal and offer our supreme wisdom to others… often with a hefty dose of condescension or pride in our own capabilities. We lord it over others who really only needed to vent or – as this physician put it – just didn’t know what else to do. We operate in arrogance… that we are better at our job, our sport, parenting our children, being a good friend – and worst of all, being a Christian. By operating in mean-spirited ambition or superiority, we are anything but wise.
Each one of us needs to take a good look at our own life and how we act toward others. Ask yourself, “Am I operating in humility and wisdom… or arrogance and selfish ambition? Am I more concerned with how I appear and stroking my own ego… or sharing my God-given blessings with others? Do others come to me because they know I will offer humble, non-judgmental wisdom and comfort… or am I avoided because of my know-it-all attitude and hypercriticism?”
Won’t you ask God today to grant you true wisdom… and a spirit of honesty, generosity, and humility – as you interact with others? Ask God to make you a person others actually want to be around. Be the humble Christian witness who shares the love of Christ without cramming your vast Bible knowledge or “direct line” arrogance down the throats of others. Build a reputation as someone who lives well, wisely, and humbly. And while you are at it… please pray for this young woman and her husband – and their two young sons – who continue to fight “the beast,” as she describes glioblastoma.
As the adage goes…“People don’t care what you know until they know that you care.” What do others know about you?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for August 19, 2012
1 Peter 3:8-11
Finally, all of you should agree and have concern and love for each other. You should also be kind and humble. Don’t be hateful and insult people just because they are hateful and insult you. Instead, treat everyone with kindness. You are God’s chosen ones, and he will bless you. The Scriptures say,
“Do you really love life? Do you want to be happy? Then stop saying cruel things and quit telling lies. Give up your evil ways and do right, as you find and follow the road that leads to peace.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
On July 20, 2012, a deranged individual in Aurora, Colorado, entered a movie theater and shot 70 people, killing twelve of them. Almost immediately, people began to ask, “Why? What caused this person to become so mentally unstable… so sick and violent?” Many began to call for his execution… for swift and speedy retribution for his heinous crimes.
A few days later, survivors of another horrific shooting… this one in Tucson, Arizona, on January 8, 2011… spoke publicly about their ordeal after the shooter pled guilty and was sentenced to life in prison. This shooter was also psychologically unsound. Several of his victims noted after the sentencing that what they wanted… to bring back those who died… was not possible. They stated that they believe this sentence represents the best outcome, as this killer will never be free to harm anyone else. As one victim put it, he has learned to follow three steps… to do justice, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God. He said, “I think today that first step was achieved… and the second step was put into play. If we all take that third step, then our society will be a lot better to live in.”
To hear victims of such a horrendous shooting speak with peace and hope truly echoes the words of this scripture passage from 1 Peter. That those who were wounded as they stood alongside others who did not survive can stand and publicly say, “This is the best outcome we could have expected… we can put this behind us now,” exemplifies treating everyone with kindness. These people are not trading “insults” (and I use this word respectfully) and hate for what was given to them. These individuals genuinely want to be happy… to move forward and humbly give of themselves to others. And in order to do this, they have to release the hatred, pain and insults that have been hurled in their direction.
Surely, if victims of these unimaginable, gruesome crimes can do this… we can operate this way in our daily living. Few if any of us have experienced this level of abuse and mistreatment. But the insults and hatred we spew toward those in our path can be just as hurtful. The lies we tell, the unkindness we wield, the arrogance and piety with which we conduct our lives can all have incredible consequences…damage our reputations… and grieve God.
I honestly believe that God is at work in both of these dreadful experiences. He is using the victims of these shootings to show those of us who, by comparison, have incredibly small problems how to walk humbly in love, kindness and truth. These folks are showing us that we make mountains out of molehills. And many of us are operating in evil and wouldn’t know peace and happiness if it hit us over the head!
It’s time to change. We can, you know! The first step for us is to do what the Tucson shooting victim suggested… to live justly… to treat others fairly and with kindness and humility. In the same breath, I believe we must seek the mercy of God for our own life – and our own mercy for the lives of others. We must then strive to humbly walk with God every single day. We can do this… but we cannot do it on our own.
Where do you fit into this picture? Are hatred and insults eating you alive, or are you walking with God in peace and happiness? As Pastor Joel Osteen likes to say, “Are you a victim, or a victor?” The choice is yours… which will you decide?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Finally, all of you should agree and have concern and love for each other. You should also be kind and humble. Don’t be hateful and insult people just because they are hateful and insult you. Instead, treat everyone with kindness. You are God’s chosen ones, and he will bless you. The Scriptures say,
“Do you really love life? Do you want to be happy? Then stop saying cruel things and quit telling lies. Give up your evil ways and do right, as you find and follow the road that leads to peace.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
On July 20, 2012, a deranged individual in Aurora, Colorado, entered a movie theater and shot 70 people, killing twelve of them. Almost immediately, people began to ask, “Why? What caused this person to become so mentally unstable… so sick and violent?” Many began to call for his execution… for swift and speedy retribution for his heinous crimes.
A few days later, survivors of another horrific shooting… this one in Tucson, Arizona, on January 8, 2011… spoke publicly about their ordeal after the shooter pled guilty and was sentenced to life in prison. This shooter was also psychologically unsound. Several of his victims noted after the sentencing that what they wanted… to bring back those who died… was not possible. They stated that they believe this sentence represents the best outcome, as this killer will never be free to harm anyone else. As one victim put it, he has learned to follow three steps… to do justice, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God. He said, “I think today that first step was achieved… and the second step was put into play. If we all take that third step, then our society will be a lot better to live in.”
To hear victims of such a horrendous shooting speak with peace and hope truly echoes the words of this scripture passage from 1 Peter. That those who were wounded as they stood alongside others who did not survive can stand and publicly say, “This is the best outcome we could have expected… we can put this behind us now,” exemplifies treating everyone with kindness. These people are not trading “insults” (and I use this word respectfully) and hate for what was given to them. These individuals genuinely want to be happy… to move forward and humbly give of themselves to others. And in order to do this, they have to release the hatred, pain and insults that have been hurled in their direction.
Surely, if victims of these unimaginable, gruesome crimes can do this… we can operate this way in our daily living. Few if any of us have experienced this level of abuse and mistreatment. But the insults and hatred we spew toward those in our path can be just as hurtful. The lies we tell, the unkindness we wield, the arrogance and piety with which we conduct our lives can all have incredible consequences…damage our reputations… and grieve God.
I honestly believe that God is at work in both of these dreadful experiences. He is using the victims of these shootings to show those of us who, by comparison, have incredibly small problems how to walk humbly in love, kindness and truth. These folks are showing us that we make mountains out of molehills. And many of us are operating in evil and wouldn’t know peace and happiness if it hit us over the head!
It’s time to change. We can, you know! The first step for us is to do what the Tucson shooting victim suggested… to live justly… to treat others fairly and with kindness and humility. In the same breath, I believe we must seek the mercy of God for our own life – and our own mercy for the lives of others. We must then strive to humbly walk with God every single day. We can do this… but we cannot do it on our own.
Where do you fit into this picture? Are hatred and insults eating you alive, or are you walking with God in peace and happiness? As Pastor Joel Osteen likes to say, “Are you a victim, or a victor?” The choice is yours… which will you decide?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for July 29, 2012
Matthew 6:12
Keep us forgiven with you and forgiving others.
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.
Our 13-year-old cats are fairly asocial. They particularly do not like sudden movements, loud noises… and children. Ironically, our little ones like Timothy and my cousin Owen want nothing more than to get close to the cats. They so want to see them, touch them, talk to them… and become friends! So one day when Owen bent down in front of a chair that housed our cat, Lucy, she reached out and gave him a declawed swat on the head. Owen was devastated. He cried, “That kitty hit me! Why that kitty not like me?” We all justified Lucy’s little swat as a reaction to someone she didn’t know – an innate fear and dislike of something unfamiliar. And even Owen still asks every time, “Where are the kitties?” Although he has not forgotten the swat, he has forgiven the cat!
Isn’t it funny that we can forgive the outburst of a small animal… but not of a human being? We can readily understand – and excuse – the behavior of a pet that reacts to particular situations and circumstances, but we have no compassion for people who are responding out of their own fears and stresses.
I’m not saying that people have a license to be rude and disgruntled – or to gripe, complain and snap at others and expect to be given a free pass. But we often react to others quickly – and rashly – (if only in our thoughts) and fail to consider what may be their “back-story”… what may be really happening within their heart and mind. More importantly, we don’t see how often we do the very same thing… toward others, and toward God. We snap, we are rude, brash, unkind, judgmental and uncaring… and we expect God and others to forgive and forget our own lapses.
I’m pretty sure that most of us have a deep desire for forgiveness. We want God to bury the hatchet and offer us a chance to make a fresh start – and we want this from our human counterparts, as well. What we don’t realize is that we have to make the first move. We have to let bygones be bygones with others and reconcile our differences in order to unblock our own forgiveness.
The more you put this into practice, the easier it becomes… and the more you see areas where you need to offer mercy and compassion to others. When you stop and consider how you feel when you are judged and unforgiven… how much you desire God’s grace and understanding in your own life… you will see more clearly how important it is that you forgive others in the same way.
The most important thing you say today could possibly be, “I am willing to forgive one person.” If you can say that you are willing to stop judging and criticizing others, or harboring ill feelings toward even one person, you will have taken a step closer to operating in God’s love and redemption. As we strive to walk more closely with Jesus every day – to emulate His tenderness and affection for us in our daily living – amazing things will happen. We will be released from the burdens of our own recklessness. We will have the peace of God’s forgiveness – and knowing His pleasure as we forgive others.
Who are you willing to forgive today?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Keep us forgiven with you and forgiving others.
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.
Our 13-year-old cats are fairly asocial. They particularly do not like sudden movements, loud noises… and children. Ironically, our little ones like Timothy and my cousin Owen want nothing more than to get close to the cats. They so want to see them, touch them, talk to them… and become friends! So one day when Owen bent down in front of a chair that housed our cat, Lucy, she reached out and gave him a declawed swat on the head. Owen was devastated. He cried, “That kitty hit me! Why that kitty not like me?” We all justified Lucy’s little swat as a reaction to someone she didn’t know – an innate fear and dislike of something unfamiliar. And even Owen still asks every time, “Where are the kitties?” Although he has not forgotten the swat, he has forgiven the cat!
Isn’t it funny that we can forgive the outburst of a small animal… but not of a human being? We can readily understand – and excuse – the behavior of a pet that reacts to particular situations and circumstances, but we have no compassion for people who are responding out of their own fears and stresses.
I’m not saying that people have a license to be rude and disgruntled – or to gripe, complain and snap at others and expect to be given a free pass. But we often react to others quickly – and rashly – (if only in our thoughts) and fail to consider what may be their “back-story”… what may be really happening within their heart and mind. More importantly, we don’t see how often we do the very same thing… toward others, and toward God. We snap, we are rude, brash, unkind, judgmental and uncaring… and we expect God and others to forgive and forget our own lapses.
I’m pretty sure that most of us have a deep desire for forgiveness. We want God to bury the hatchet and offer us a chance to make a fresh start – and we want this from our human counterparts, as well. What we don’t realize is that we have to make the first move. We have to let bygones be bygones with others and reconcile our differences in order to unblock our own forgiveness.
The more you put this into practice, the easier it becomes… and the more you see areas where you need to offer mercy and compassion to others. When you stop and consider how you feel when you are judged and unforgiven… how much you desire God’s grace and understanding in your own life… you will see more clearly how important it is that you forgive others in the same way.
The most important thing you say today could possibly be, “I am willing to forgive one person.” If you can say that you are willing to stop judging and criticizing others, or harboring ill feelings toward even one person, you will have taken a step closer to operating in God’s love and redemption. As we strive to walk more closely with Jesus every day – to emulate His tenderness and affection for us in our daily living – amazing things will happen. We will be released from the burdens of our own recklessness. We will have the peace of God’s forgiveness – and knowing His pleasure as we forgive others.
Who are you willing to forgive today?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for July 28, 2012
July 28 ~ Matthew 6:14-15
"In prayer there is a connection between what God does and what you do. You can't get forgiveness from God, for instance, without also forgiving others. If you refuse to do your part, you cut yourself off from God's part.”
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.
In so many areas of life, we understand that there are direct correlations. Eat too much and sit on the couch all the time, and you will probably gain weight and become unhealthy. If you don’t study and do your homework, it’s likely you won’t pass your classes and graduate. Fail to show up on time for work and do a good job, and you will probably be dismissed. We get it! We know how these things work. This doesn’t mean we always do the right thing… but we are fully aware of the consequences.
Spiritually, I don’t think enough people make the connection between forgiving others and receiving God’s forgiveness. Please understand that I am not saying that God won’t forgive your sins and offer you salvation through Jesus Christ if you fail to forgive others – although forgiving others is an integral part of the life of a Christian (or should be). What I am saying is that even we Christians say and do things that displease God every single day. As faith-filled believers who continually strive to be more like Christ, we often ask God to forgive us… to strengthen us in our commitment, guide our steps, and bless us in our daily living.
The point is that we cannot ask God to do something for us that we are unwilling to do for others. We can’t say, “God, I was unkind and uncaring… please forgive me,” and then hold a grudge against someone for something they said or did that insulted us. We can’t ask God to pardon us for failing to spend time in His presence and then be critical of others who we think don’t come to church often enough or are not devoted Christians in some manner. We cannot expect God to excuse our lack of faith and courage in Spiritual matters… and become angry with those who fail to encourage us or seem to let us down along the way.
In other words, before we ask God for love, grace, mercy and forgiveness, we should ask ourselves… “Is there someone to whom I need to offer these same gifts?” When we come before God in the right frame of mind, He hears our prayers with a generous heart… ready and willing to open the floodgates of heaven and bless us beyond measure. And don’t we all want this?
Who do you need to forgive today? What do you need to correct or adjust before you spend time asking God for your own favors? Have you blocked your blessings with an unforgiving spirit? Isn’t it time you got busy making this right?
©2012 Debbie Robus
"In prayer there is a connection between what God does and what you do. You can't get forgiveness from God, for instance, without also forgiving others. If you refuse to do your part, you cut yourself off from God's part.”
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.
In so many areas of life, we understand that there are direct correlations. Eat too much and sit on the couch all the time, and you will probably gain weight and become unhealthy. If you don’t study and do your homework, it’s likely you won’t pass your classes and graduate. Fail to show up on time for work and do a good job, and you will probably be dismissed. We get it! We know how these things work. This doesn’t mean we always do the right thing… but we are fully aware of the consequences.
Spiritually, I don’t think enough people make the connection between forgiving others and receiving God’s forgiveness. Please understand that I am not saying that God won’t forgive your sins and offer you salvation through Jesus Christ if you fail to forgive others – although forgiving others is an integral part of the life of a Christian (or should be). What I am saying is that even we Christians say and do things that displease God every single day. As faith-filled believers who continually strive to be more like Christ, we often ask God to forgive us… to strengthen us in our commitment, guide our steps, and bless us in our daily living.
The point is that we cannot ask God to do something for us that we are unwilling to do for others. We can’t say, “God, I was unkind and uncaring… please forgive me,” and then hold a grudge against someone for something they said or did that insulted us. We can’t ask God to pardon us for failing to spend time in His presence and then be critical of others who we think don’t come to church often enough or are not devoted Christians in some manner. We cannot expect God to excuse our lack of faith and courage in Spiritual matters… and become angry with those who fail to encourage us or seem to let us down along the way.
In other words, before we ask God for love, grace, mercy and forgiveness, we should ask ourselves… “Is there someone to whom I need to offer these same gifts?” When we come before God in the right frame of mind, He hears our prayers with a generous heart… ready and willing to open the floodgates of heaven and bless us beyond measure. And don’t we all want this?
Who do you need to forgive today? What do you need to correct or adjust before you spend time asking God for your own favors? Have you blocked your blessings with an unforgiving spirit? Isn’t it time you got busy making this right?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for July 5, 2012
Colossians 3:12-14
So, chosen by God for this new life of love, dress in the wardrobe God picked out for you: compassion, kindness, humility, quiet strength, discipline. Be even-tempered, content with second place, quick to forgive an offense. Forgive as quickly and completely as the Master forgave you. And regardless of what else you put on, wear love. It's your basic, all-purpose garment. Never be without it.
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.
My closet is probably a lot like most people’s… overflowing with garments for all kinds of occasions. And yet, I seem to wear the same things over and again. I bet if you were honest, you would have to admit that you have things you wear occasionally that you don’t even really like all that much. They don’t make you feel good about yourself... something isn’t quite right. Maybe the garment is too tight – or too loose. Maybe it’s the wrong color, out of style, or starting to show some wear. Conversely, you most likely have at least one item you can reach for that always makes you feel happy and ready to greet the world.
Our attitudes… and our Christian faith… are something like our wardrobe. God has given us all new “Spiritual clothing.” When we wear His garments, we always feel good… and our attitudes reflect this. We are especially happy and well-prepared for the challenges of the world when we put on love.
But sometimes, we drag out old “clothes” that don’t fit right or suit us… offense, unkindness, a quick temper, gossip, foul language, bigotry, and more. Let’s be honest, none of these “garments” are pretty on anybody!
I would suggest that we all consider a good closet cleaning. Sure… we may need to do this to our actual closets, too. But I’m talking about our “Spiritual closet.” Let’s take a really hard look at what is in our wardrobe and weed out anything that wasn’t placed there by God. Let’s dress in the beautiful “garments” He has provided… and be sure to wear love every day! I’m fairly certain our overall attitude will improve… and others will notice! Better yet, God will be pleased… and He will reward our efforts to “dress for Spiritual success.”
When was the last time you cleaned YOUR closet? Don’t you think you should?
©2012 Debbie Robus
So, chosen by God for this new life of love, dress in the wardrobe God picked out for you: compassion, kindness, humility, quiet strength, discipline. Be even-tempered, content with second place, quick to forgive an offense. Forgive as quickly and completely as the Master forgave you. And regardless of what else you put on, wear love. It's your basic, all-purpose garment. Never be without it.
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.
My closet is probably a lot like most people’s… overflowing with garments for all kinds of occasions. And yet, I seem to wear the same things over and again. I bet if you were honest, you would have to admit that you have things you wear occasionally that you don’t even really like all that much. They don’t make you feel good about yourself... something isn’t quite right. Maybe the garment is too tight – or too loose. Maybe it’s the wrong color, out of style, or starting to show some wear. Conversely, you most likely have at least one item you can reach for that always makes you feel happy and ready to greet the world.
Our attitudes… and our Christian faith… are something like our wardrobe. God has given us all new “Spiritual clothing.” When we wear His garments, we always feel good… and our attitudes reflect this. We are especially happy and well-prepared for the challenges of the world when we put on love.
But sometimes, we drag out old “clothes” that don’t fit right or suit us… offense, unkindness, a quick temper, gossip, foul language, bigotry, and more. Let’s be honest, none of these “garments” are pretty on anybody!
I would suggest that we all consider a good closet cleaning. Sure… we may need to do this to our actual closets, too. But I’m talking about our “Spiritual closet.” Let’s take a really hard look at what is in our wardrobe and weed out anything that wasn’t placed there by God. Let’s dress in the beautiful “garments” He has provided… and be sure to wear love every day! I’m fairly certain our overall attitude will improve… and others will notice! Better yet, God will be pleased… and He will reward our efforts to “dress for Spiritual success.”
When was the last time you cleaned YOUR closet? Don’t you think you should?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for June 28, 2012
1 Peter 2:22-23
Christ did not sin or ever tell a lie. Although he was abused, he never tried to get even. And when he suffered, he made no threats. Instead, he had faith in God, who judges fairly.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
NBC’s Today Show co-host, Ann Curry, said a tearful “Good-bye” to her faithful early-morning followers this morning. Apparently, the “powers that be” have decided that Curry’s co-hosting style is not conducive to high ratings. So she has been “re-assigned” to other projects for the “Today Show family” with a “new title and a new role.” As Curry spoke, she said, “This is not as I expected… to leave this couch after 15 years.” You could hear the pain in her voice and see the sadness on her face. Yet she did not lash out in any way. Instead, she said, “I am so grateful… especially to all of you who watch me…”
Curry thanked a lot of people who work behind the scenes, and then she said, “For all of you who saw me as a ground breaker, I’m sorry I couldn’t carry the ball over the Finish line… but man, I did try!” Curry did not lay blame on anyone… she was gracious and humble. I have no doubt there is a lot more to this story, but Ann Curry did not air any “dirty laundry” in public nor make any pointed jabs at her bosses.
In a similar manner, we watched late night comedian Conan O’Brien get the boot from NBC (is there a pattern here?) a few years ago, when Jay Leno decided he did not like “retirement” and wanted his old job back. In a recent interview with CNN’s Piers Morgan, O’Brien talked about the devastation of losing his job as a late-night host, saying… “Not that I'm a great figure, whatever that would be. But there should be -- in a good career, there should be a lot of challenges. And so I wouldn't -- I would honestly not really change anything that happened. It's been fascinating. It brought me to where I am now, which I love.”
Again, I’m not saying there wasn’t huge disappointment for Curry and O’Brien, because clearly they were both hurt and upset by their dismissals. And we don’t know what went on behind the scenes… nor how they behaved in private. But publicly, at least, they took the high road and appeared to act honorably… knowing that much of the world was watching.
Like O’Brien, most of us are not “great figures” – and we may feel that few are watching or give a hoot about how we behave or react to circumstances in our lives. But I assure you, people are watching! We would do well to take a page from the books of these two celebrities and apply it to our daily living. We should listen to the words of these verses in 1 Peter and avoid attempts to get even – or make threats. God will judge fairly… He will protect us. For every “bad” outcome, God will give us a better one. As O’Brien said, there will be lots of challenges, and like Curry, we may not always “carry the ball over the Finish line.” But these challenges will all lead to positive outcomes for those who trust God to handle the bumps in the road.
Conan O’Brien has found a new late night home on TBS, a cable network. He says he is having the time of his life there. I have no doubt that Ann Curry will land on her feet and do great things in the future. I am equally confident that we can also have wonderful lives filled with blessings… if we keep our focus on God and trust Him to number our steps.
When others look at your reactions to the challenges of life, what sort of “faith walk” will they see? Are you ready to move over and let God have control in your life?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Christ did not sin or ever tell a lie. Although he was abused, he never tried to get even. And when he suffered, he made no threats. Instead, he had faith in God, who judges fairly.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
NBC’s Today Show co-host, Ann Curry, said a tearful “Good-bye” to her faithful early-morning followers this morning. Apparently, the “powers that be” have decided that Curry’s co-hosting style is not conducive to high ratings. So she has been “re-assigned” to other projects for the “Today Show family” with a “new title and a new role.” As Curry spoke, she said, “This is not as I expected… to leave this couch after 15 years.” You could hear the pain in her voice and see the sadness on her face. Yet she did not lash out in any way. Instead, she said, “I am so grateful… especially to all of you who watch me…”
Curry thanked a lot of people who work behind the scenes, and then she said, “For all of you who saw me as a ground breaker, I’m sorry I couldn’t carry the ball over the Finish line… but man, I did try!” Curry did not lay blame on anyone… she was gracious and humble. I have no doubt there is a lot more to this story, but Ann Curry did not air any “dirty laundry” in public nor make any pointed jabs at her bosses.
In a similar manner, we watched late night comedian Conan O’Brien get the boot from NBC (is there a pattern here?) a few years ago, when Jay Leno decided he did not like “retirement” and wanted his old job back. In a recent interview with CNN’s Piers Morgan, O’Brien talked about the devastation of losing his job as a late-night host, saying… “Not that I'm a great figure, whatever that would be. But there should be -- in a good career, there should be a lot of challenges. And so I wouldn't -- I would honestly not really change anything that happened. It's been fascinating. It brought me to where I am now, which I love.”
Again, I’m not saying there wasn’t huge disappointment for Curry and O’Brien, because clearly they were both hurt and upset by their dismissals. And we don’t know what went on behind the scenes… nor how they behaved in private. But publicly, at least, they took the high road and appeared to act honorably… knowing that much of the world was watching.
Like O’Brien, most of us are not “great figures” – and we may feel that few are watching or give a hoot about how we behave or react to circumstances in our lives. But I assure you, people are watching! We would do well to take a page from the books of these two celebrities and apply it to our daily living. We should listen to the words of these verses in 1 Peter and avoid attempts to get even – or make threats. God will judge fairly… He will protect us. For every “bad” outcome, God will give us a better one. As O’Brien said, there will be lots of challenges, and like Curry, we may not always “carry the ball over the Finish line.” But these challenges will all lead to positive outcomes for those who trust God to handle the bumps in the road.
Conan O’Brien has found a new late night home on TBS, a cable network. He says he is having the time of his life there. I have no doubt that Ann Curry will land on her feet and do great things in the future. I am equally confident that we can also have wonderful lives filled with blessings… if we keep our focus on God and trust Him to number our steps.
When others look at your reactions to the challenges of life, what sort of “faith walk” will they see? Are you ready to move over and let God have control in your life?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for June 27, 2012
1 Peter 3:8-9
Finally, all of you should agree and have concern and love for each other. You should also be kind and humble. Don’t be hateful and insult people just because they are hateful and insult you. Instead, treat everyone with kindness. You are God’s chosen ones, and he will bless you.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I’m betting that somewhere along the line, someone has insulted you… or been rude or hateful. If you are a young adult, you have had classmates and acquaintances say something unkind that really stung. If you are a parent of grown children, you have likely survived the slings and arrows of teenagers… and many of you may now be dodging the jabs thrown by aging parents or loved ones. Others may have had to put up with a boss or co-worker who was hurtful or unkind… or maybe even a spouse, significant other - or even a family member.
Regardless of the “who or how,” one of the hardest lessons for us to learn as Christians is how to love those who insult us and treat us badly… and to continue to treat them with kindness. It would be so easy to lash out… to give as good (or is it as badly?) as we get. And the devil would love every second of it! But God calls us to always take the high road… to be kind and humble and continue to love others, even when they do not reciprocate.
Believe me when I say I have sometimes done this through gritted teeth! I am the first person to admit that this is not always easy. But I am also the first to tell you that God will bless your efforts – in ways you can’t begin to imagine. If you remain obedient and love even those who don’t seem to deserve it – or maybe especially those who are unlovable at any given moment – God will see to it that you are blessed. Better still - you will have the satisfaction of knowing that the devil didn’t win… you did! Isn’t that reason enough to give this a shot?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Finally, all of you should agree and have concern and love for each other. You should also be kind and humble. Don’t be hateful and insult people just because they are hateful and insult you. Instead, treat everyone with kindness. You are God’s chosen ones, and he will bless you.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I’m betting that somewhere along the line, someone has insulted you… or been rude or hateful. If you are a young adult, you have had classmates and acquaintances say something unkind that really stung. If you are a parent of grown children, you have likely survived the slings and arrows of teenagers… and many of you may now be dodging the jabs thrown by aging parents or loved ones. Others may have had to put up with a boss or co-worker who was hurtful or unkind… or maybe even a spouse, significant other - or even a family member.
Regardless of the “who or how,” one of the hardest lessons for us to learn as Christians is how to love those who insult us and treat us badly… and to continue to treat them with kindness. It would be so easy to lash out… to give as good (or is it as badly?) as we get. And the devil would love every second of it! But God calls us to always take the high road… to be kind and humble and continue to love others, even when they do not reciprocate.
Believe me when I say I have sometimes done this through gritted teeth! I am the first person to admit that this is not always easy. But I am also the first to tell you that God will bless your efforts – in ways you can’t begin to imagine. If you remain obedient and love even those who don’t seem to deserve it – or maybe especially those who are unlovable at any given moment – God will see to it that you are blessed. Better still - you will have the satisfaction of knowing that the devil didn’t win… you did! Isn’t that reason enough to give this a shot?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for June 18, 2012
Ephesians 2:8-9
You were saved by faith in God, who treats us much better than we deserve. This is God’s gift to you, and not anything you have done on your own. It isn’t something you have earned, so there is nothing you can brag about.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
If you get a job and make enough money to buy a new car, you have every right to say… “I deserve this… I worked hard for it. I earned it!” If someone gives you a new car as a gift, you have nothing to brag about, except possibly to say, “Look what So-and-So gave me!” You did nothing to earn this car. It was all the doing of the person who gave it to you.
The same can be said of our salvation… our promise of Eternal Life in Heaven… or for that matter, any blessings we receive on this earth. They are gifts from God, and we didn’t do a single thing to earn them. We can’t… it’s impossible! Moreover, we don’t deserve any of these gifts… yet they are freely given.
We can earn enough money to buy a car, but we can never “earn” the gifts of God. This is the difference… what makes our Christian faith unique. We can’t be good enough, serve sufficiently, love amply, light an adequate number of candles, say abundant prayers, or atone in any way for our salvation. God gave this gift to us completely – without merit or any expectation of repayment. We cannot brag about this, but we can tell everyone else how generous and loving, gracious and merciful our God is… and we should do this at every turn.
From time to time, we need to be reminded of God’s incredible gifts… and humbled with regard to receiving them. We need to remember that we cannot out-give God… nor can we earn our salvation and His blessings. The only thing we can do is accept Jesus… receive God’s gifts… and respect His favor by living in a way that honors and glorifies Him.
In the 1960s, there was a television show called “The Guns of Will Sonnet.” The lead character was played by Walter Brennan, who liked to brag about his prowess with guns. In the first episode, he told someone that his grandson was a better shot than his son… and that he was better than both of them, adding, “no brag, just fact.” Our salvation is a glorious blessing… and something of which we should be proud and grateful. We should tell everyone we know how to get in on this amazing, incredible gift! But we should also tell them that a new life in Christ cannot be bought… nor will it ever be deserved. Our promise of Eternal Life truly is “no brag, just fact.” Have you thanked God lately for such a generous gift? Isn’t this a good day to start?
©2012 Debbie Robus
You were saved by faith in God, who treats us much better than we deserve. This is God’s gift to you, and not anything you have done on your own. It isn’t something you have earned, so there is nothing you can brag about.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
If you get a job and make enough money to buy a new car, you have every right to say… “I deserve this… I worked hard for it. I earned it!” If someone gives you a new car as a gift, you have nothing to brag about, except possibly to say, “Look what So-and-So gave me!” You did nothing to earn this car. It was all the doing of the person who gave it to you.
The same can be said of our salvation… our promise of Eternal Life in Heaven… or for that matter, any blessings we receive on this earth. They are gifts from God, and we didn’t do a single thing to earn them. We can’t… it’s impossible! Moreover, we don’t deserve any of these gifts… yet they are freely given.
We can earn enough money to buy a car, but we can never “earn” the gifts of God. This is the difference… what makes our Christian faith unique. We can’t be good enough, serve sufficiently, love amply, light an adequate number of candles, say abundant prayers, or atone in any way for our salvation. God gave this gift to us completely – without merit or any expectation of repayment. We cannot brag about this, but we can tell everyone else how generous and loving, gracious and merciful our God is… and we should do this at every turn.
From time to time, we need to be reminded of God’s incredible gifts… and humbled with regard to receiving them. We need to remember that we cannot out-give God… nor can we earn our salvation and His blessings. The only thing we can do is accept Jesus… receive God’s gifts… and respect His favor by living in a way that honors and glorifies Him.
In the 1960s, there was a television show called “The Guns of Will Sonnet.” The lead character was played by Walter Brennan, who liked to brag about his prowess with guns. In the first episode, he told someone that his grandson was a better shot than his son… and that he was better than both of them, adding, “no brag, just fact.” Our salvation is a glorious blessing… and something of which we should be proud and grateful. We should tell everyone we know how to get in on this amazing, incredible gift! But we should also tell them that a new life in Christ cannot be bought… nor will it ever be deserved. Our promise of Eternal Life truly is “no brag, just fact.” Have you thanked God lately for such a generous gift? Isn’t this a good day to start?
©2012 Debbie Robus
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