James 15:13-18
Are you hurting? Pray. Do you feel great? Sing. Are you sick? Call the church leaders together to pray and anoint you with oil in the name of the Master. Believing-prayer will heal you, and Jesus will put you on your feet. And if you've sinned, you'll be forgiven — healed inside and out.
Make this your common practice: Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you can live together whole and healed. The prayer of a person living right with God is something powerful to be reckoned with. Elijah, for instance, human just like us, prayed hard that it wouldn't rain, and it didn't — not a drop for three and a half years. Then he prayed that it would rain, and it did. The showers came and everything started growing again.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
I heard it again the other day… someone asked a friend to pray for them because “You have a direct line” to God. When will we develop faith in our own prayers? When will we begin to believe that God is waiting to hear from us… and to give us the answers we need… if not exactly those that we desire?
Never doubt God’s willingness or ability to answer your prayers. To say, “I’ve prayed for healing, but I don’t believe I will ever be well,” means you have not released the miracle action of God’s word and will for your life. When we pray, “Lord if You can hear me… I need help,” we are not fully operating in faith that God always hears our prayers. We are not truly surrendering to His will and believing that He will answer. We are operating in doubt instead of faith.
When we ask someone else to join us in corporate prayer, that is one thing… but when we ask them to pray for us because we feel their prayers are more effective, we have to ask ourselves, “Why is this?” Could it be that their prayers seem to be answered more often because they believe God for His answers? Is it possible that we lack the measure of faith that these people have? Wouldn’t it be better for us to develop faith in our own prayers rather than to depend so much on the intercession of others?
God wants us to experience the fullness of joy in Him. In order to do this, we must know what His word promises… we must come to Him with a grateful heart and ask Him to meet our needs. Remember the “protocol” of prayer… come into the presence of God with thanksgiving… approach Him with a grateful heart. Enter into God’s presence by way of the covenant He established with us through the blood of Jesus on the cross. God has agreed to hear our prayers and answer them. Recognize the full meaning of this covenant. Realize that God will always deliver on His promises… you can count on Him to hear you and answer, according to His will.
You may get tired of hearing people offer prayer as the solution to whatever challenges you face. It may seem trite or hollow… and in some cases, it is. People glibly toss out, “I’ll pray for you” and often fail to carry through with effective, fervent, faith-filled intercessions. By the same token, so many of our own prayers are little more than an empty waste of breath. We don’t back them up with God’s Word and promises – and we don’t really believe He will answer us. The time has come for us to pray effectively and stop short-circuiting our own prayers. Prayer does change things…God does answer. It’s up to us to ask the right things in the right way… and operate in faith that He will deliver exactly what we need.
©2012 Debbie Robus
Showing posts with label intercession. Show all posts
Showing posts with label intercession. Show all posts
Daily Devotional for February 22, 2012
Romans 8:26-28
In certain ways we are weak, but the Spirit is here to help us. For example, when we don't know what to pray for, the Spirit prays for us in ways that cannot be put into words. All of our thoughts are known to God. He can understand what is in the mind of the Spirit, as the Spirit prays for God's people. We know that God is always at work for the good of everyone who loves him. They are the ones God has chosen for his purpose...
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
It’s getting progressively harder for my grandmother to talk. The words she wants to use do not come… nor do her thoughts. Often, when she is trying to tell me something, I do a lot of guessing… or she uses hand gestures that mean something to me, and I know what she is trying to say. When we are with others and she wants to say something, she will often end up waving her hand and saying, “Debbie will tell you.” I’ve come to know her so well that quite frequently I can do a fairly good job of understanding what is in her mind and putting it into words for others.
This is what the Holy Spirit often does for us. He knows our heart… our innermost thoughts… desires… needs… and He can convey them to God when we cannot seem to find the words. We often think of Romans 8:28 as a justification of God’s will, or an explanation of failures… “all things work together for the good”. But actually, this passage refers to all forms of communication with God – all forms of prayer - working together for the good that God desires for us. Whether we are talking to him directly, speaking in tongues, singing praises, or allowing the Holy Spirit to speak for us… all forms of prayerful communication work together to accomplish God’s will.
Just because my grandmother cannot always verbalize what she is thinking or needing doesn’t mean we cannot communicate. For several years following a stroke that claimed her mother’s speech, my dear friend “talked” with her mom via a system of pointing to letters of the alphabet to spell things. Helen Keller was deaf and blind, but she was able to communicate with others via human touch. And we can use a variety of methods to communicate clearly with God every minute of the day. The key is to recognize that there are many ways to speak with God, and even when we can’t seem to find the right words to express our thoughts and feelings, He still hears us.
I sometimes have a hard time understanding what my grandmother is telling me… and often we both get frustrated before I figure out what she is saying – or we both give up and move on to something else. But that never happens with God. He always knows exactly what we are saying… His responses are given in love, timely, and perfect. He never gives up or grows weary… and He weaves everything we communicate to Him together to give us the best possible outcome.
I am glad that God hears me in so many ways. I am glad that when I can’t express myself, the Holy Spirit takes over for me. Doesn’t it give you hope, peace, and comfort to know that all you have to say is, “Here I am, LORD… I need you…” and He does the rest? Do you have the power of the Holy Spirit working in your heart – and on your behalf? Do you have all forms of prayer working together for the good in your life? Isn’t today a good time to begin to utilize them?
©2012 Debbie Robus
In certain ways we are weak, but the Spirit is here to help us. For example, when we don't know what to pray for, the Spirit prays for us in ways that cannot be put into words. All of our thoughts are known to God. He can understand what is in the mind of the Spirit, as the Spirit prays for God's people. We know that God is always at work for the good of everyone who loves him. They are the ones God has chosen for his purpose...
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
It’s getting progressively harder for my grandmother to talk. The words she wants to use do not come… nor do her thoughts. Often, when she is trying to tell me something, I do a lot of guessing… or she uses hand gestures that mean something to me, and I know what she is trying to say. When we are with others and she wants to say something, she will often end up waving her hand and saying, “Debbie will tell you.” I’ve come to know her so well that quite frequently I can do a fairly good job of understanding what is in her mind and putting it into words for others.
This is what the Holy Spirit often does for us. He knows our heart… our innermost thoughts… desires… needs… and He can convey them to God when we cannot seem to find the words. We often think of Romans 8:28 as a justification of God’s will, or an explanation of failures… “all things work together for the good”. But actually, this passage refers to all forms of communication with God – all forms of prayer - working together for the good that God desires for us. Whether we are talking to him directly, speaking in tongues, singing praises, or allowing the Holy Spirit to speak for us… all forms of prayerful communication work together to accomplish God’s will.
Just because my grandmother cannot always verbalize what she is thinking or needing doesn’t mean we cannot communicate. For several years following a stroke that claimed her mother’s speech, my dear friend “talked” with her mom via a system of pointing to letters of the alphabet to spell things. Helen Keller was deaf and blind, but she was able to communicate with others via human touch. And we can use a variety of methods to communicate clearly with God every minute of the day. The key is to recognize that there are many ways to speak with God, and even when we can’t seem to find the right words to express our thoughts and feelings, He still hears us.
I sometimes have a hard time understanding what my grandmother is telling me… and often we both get frustrated before I figure out what she is saying – or we both give up and move on to something else. But that never happens with God. He always knows exactly what we are saying… His responses are given in love, timely, and perfect. He never gives up or grows weary… and He weaves everything we communicate to Him together to give us the best possible outcome.
I am glad that God hears me in so many ways. I am glad that when I can’t express myself, the Holy Spirit takes over for me. Doesn’t it give you hope, peace, and comfort to know that all you have to say is, “Here I am, LORD… I need you…” and He does the rest? Do you have the power of the Holy Spirit working in your heart – and on your behalf? Do you have all forms of prayer working together for the good in your life? Isn’t today a good time to begin to utilize them?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for November 7, 2011
John 16:23-28
"This is what I want you to do: Ask the Father for whatever is in keeping with the things I've revealed to you. Ask in my name, according to my will, and he'll most certainly give it to you. Your joy will be a river overflowing its banks!
"I've used figures of speech in telling you these things. Soon I'll drop the figures and tell you about the Father in plain language. Then you can make your requests directly to him in relation to this life I've revealed to you. I won't continue making requests of the Father on your behalf. I won't need to. Because you've gone out on a limb, committed yourselves to love and trust in me, believing I came directly from the Father, the Father loves you directly. First, I left the Father and arrived in the world; now I leave the world and travel to the Father."
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.
Several years ago, a new program was enacted that required everyone who is covered by Medicare to choose an insurance company to cover the cost of their prescription drugs. It’s called Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Coverage… or “Part D” for short. Since I handle my grandmother’s business affairs, this decision for her coverage fell to me. As with all new programs, there were kinks and things that didn’t work like they should… and a huge learning curve.
After several weeks of frustration and getting passed from one person to another, I sent e-mail messages to all of my Congressmen and women… and my governor… to complain about the treatment I was receiving and the inefficiency of the system. Eventually I was given the number of a representative named Donna, who worked directly for Medicare. Donna was such a blessing, and by the time we had everything settled, I had her telephone number on speed dial in my phone! I could now go directly to Donna for answers… I didn’t have to contact agency after agency and get passed around like a hot potato. And for several years, I phoned Donna to get clarification about my decisions.
Imagine if we had to go through this agency and that person and someone else just to talk to God. What if we had to “leave a message” with our pastor or another church official, who would in turn talk to God and “get back to us” with a response. How much would you really try to communicate with God? Do you think your relationship with Him would be very strong?
I am so thankful for Jesus. Because He came to earth and lived among us… taught us how to live as His Disciples, and then died on the cross for our sins… we have DIRECT access to God any time we want! We don’t have to sacrifice an animal or burn an offering. We don’t have to talk to church leaders and ask them to intercede for us. We just have to open our heart – and our mouth – and say, “Hello, LORD… I’m back, and I need you!” Because of Jesus, we can ask, “LORD, please handle this for me, according to Your will,” and He will do it!
I don’t know about you, but I don’t like having to leave messages and go through this person or that one to get my answers… and I surely would not like having this kind of relationship with God. Aren’t you glad we don’t have to do this? Isn’t it time you put God on your “speed dial” and talk with Him as often as you can?
©2011 Debbie Robus
"This is what I want you to do: Ask the Father for whatever is in keeping with the things I've revealed to you. Ask in my name, according to my will, and he'll most certainly give it to you. Your joy will be a river overflowing its banks!
"I've used figures of speech in telling you these things. Soon I'll drop the figures and tell you about the Father in plain language. Then you can make your requests directly to him in relation to this life I've revealed to you. I won't continue making requests of the Father on your behalf. I won't need to. Because you've gone out on a limb, committed yourselves to love and trust in me, believing I came directly from the Father, the Father loves you directly. First, I left the Father and arrived in the world; now I leave the world and travel to the Father."
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.
Several years ago, a new program was enacted that required everyone who is covered by Medicare to choose an insurance company to cover the cost of their prescription drugs. It’s called Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Coverage… or “Part D” for short. Since I handle my grandmother’s business affairs, this decision for her coverage fell to me. As with all new programs, there were kinks and things that didn’t work like they should… and a huge learning curve.
After several weeks of frustration and getting passed from one person to another, I sent e-mail messages to all of my Congressmen and women… and my governor… to complain about the treatment I was receiving and the inefficiency of the system. Eventually I was given the number of a representative named Donna, who worked directly for Medicare. Donna was such a blessing, and by the time we had everything settled, I had her telephone number on speed dial in my phone! I could now go directly to Donna for answers… I didn’t have to contact agency after agency and get passed around like a hot potato. And for several years, I phoned Donna to get clarification about my decisions.
Imagine if we had to go through this agency and that person and someone else just to talk to God. What if we had to “leave a message” with our pastor or another church official, who would in turn talk to God and “get back to us” with a response. How much would you really try to communicate with God? Do you think your relationship with Him would be very strong?
I am so thankful for Jesus. Because He came to earth and lived among us… taught us how to live as His Disciples, and then died on the cross for our sins… we have DIRECT access to God any time we want! We don’t have to sacrifice an animal or burn an offering. We don’t have to talk to church leaders and ask them to intercede for us. We just have to open our heart – and our mouth – and say, “Hello, LORD… I’m back, and I need you!” Because of Jesus, we can ask, “LORD, please handle this for me, according to Your will,” and He will do it!
I don’t know about you, but I don’t like having to leave messages and go through this person or that one to get my answers… and I surely would not like having this kind of relationship with God. Aren’t you glad we don’t have to do this? Isn’t it time you put God on your “speed dial” and talk with Him as often as you can?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 7, 2011
Romans 15:30-31
My friends, by the power of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the love that comes from the Holy Spirit, I beg you to pray sincerely with me and for me. Pray that God will protect me from the unbelievers in Judea, and that his people in Jerusalem will be pleased with what I am doing.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
This has been a week of heavy-duty prayer for me… for those whose lives are changing due to moves, illness, and even death… for others who are sick and suffering… and for some who are grieving the loss of a loved one. I know that my prayers are working – alongside those of other Christians who are also praying for these same people. There is POWER in prayer. Don’t you believe this? Do you pray for your friends and loved ones? Did you know that people are praying for YOU on a regular basis? How does that make you feel?
It is hard some days to find time to do everything that needs to be done… and quite often, prayer gets kicked to the curb as something that is “optional.” But this is really poor thinking on our part. Surely we want to live “by the love that comes from the Holy Spirit”… don’t we? Do we not want this for our friends and loved ones, also? Certainly, God knows our needs, desires, hurts, heartaches, joys and fears. But He wants to HEAR them expressed by us. He wants us to give them a VOICE! He wants us to physically come before Him and present everything in our lives for His consideration.
Imagine… if YOU pray for yourself and others… and others pray for YOU… then exponentially, the voices calling out to God on a regular basis are beyond what we can even imagine… and so are the blessings! There IS power in prayer… and as prayer warriors, we can call on God’s power to work in any situation! Have you tapped into the power of prayer today? Shouldn’t you?
©2011 Debbie Robus
My friends, by the power of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the love that comes from the Holy Spirit, I beg you to pray sincerely with me and for me. Pray that God will protect me from the unbelievers in Judea, and that his people in Jerusalem will be pleased with what I am doing.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
This has been a week of heavy-duty prayer for me… for those whose lives are changing due to moves, illness, and even death… for others who are sick and suffering… and for some who are grieving the loss of a loved one. I know that my prayers are working – alongside those of other Christians who are also praying for these same people. There is POWER in prayer. Don’t you believe this? Do you pray for your friends and loved ones? Did you know that people are praying for YOU on a regular basis? How does that make you feel?
It is hard some days to find time to do everything that needs to be done… and quite often, prayer gets kicked to the curb as something that is “optional.” But this is really poor thinking on our part. Surely we want to live “by the love that comes from the Holy Spirit”… don’t we? Do we not want this for our friends and loved ones, also? Certainly, God knows our needs, desires, hurts, heartaches, joys and fears. But He wants to HEAR them expressed by us. He wants us to give them a VOICE! He wants us to physically come before Him and present everything in our lives for His consideration.
Imagine… if YOU pray for yourself and others… and others pray for YOU… then exponentially, the voices calling out to God on a regular basis are beyond what we can even imagine… and so are the blessings! There IS power in prayer… and as prayer warriors, we can call on God’s power to work in any situation! Have you tapped into the power of prayer today? Shouldn’t you?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for September 15, 2010
James 2:1
My friends, if you have faith in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ, you won't treat some people better than others.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I saw a video recently that you may have seen, also. It was about two men whose ship wrecked, and they were the only survivors. They drifted to an island where each man took half. On one side of the island, the man prayed for food, clothing, shelter, companionship, and ultimately … rescue. And he got everything he asked for, while the man on the other side had none of these things. The man who received so much began to feel pretty smug, until he asked God why he got so much while his buddy didn’t. The bottom line was that the man who had “nothing” had asked God only to answer the prayers of his friend on the other side of the island.
We like to think that God hears our prayers because we are special to Him … and we are! But we’re no more special than anyone else. Nobody has an “inside track” or a “direct line.” It doesn’t work that way. So it follows that, as people who want to imitate Jesus, we should have no favorites on this earth, either.
That means we shouldn’t be willing to cook a meal for this family in crisis … but not that one. It means that the words, “they don’t attend our church” should never roll off our tongue in the context of helping someone. This means we should be willing to pray for others regardless of where they attend a church – or whether they attend at all. This means we should be willing to pray for – and care about – people in ALL political parties … people of all races, religions, genders, and lifestyles.
We must understand that God does not choose one football team to win over another on Friday night because He favors one more than the other. He doesn’t elect a president or the next American Idol based on favoritism. We need to be very careful about how we pray and what we ask from God in this regard. We need to remember to pray for His will … meaning what outcome will best serve God’s overall plans and purpose … not that God will choose one person or outcome over another out of favoritism. To do so would be the same as to declare that Jesus died on the cross for a chosen few … and that simply is not true. And we should never pray for God to harm another person or cause bad things to happen to him/her!
The bottom line is that we can easily get caught up in everyday vernacular and common talk, and before we know it, we’ve made statements that directly imply one thing or another about our faith … and may give others the wrong impression. We must be very careful to guard our heart, our thoughts, our speech, and our actions, so that others see the unconditional all-consuming love of Jesus in us. God does not “play favorites” … and when it comes to serving in His name - neither should we.
©2010 Debbie Robus
My friends, if you have faith in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ, you won't treat some people better than others.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I saw a video recently that you may have seen, also. It was about two men whose ship wrecked, and they were the only survivors. They drifted to an island where each man took half. On one side of the island, the man prayed for food, clothing, shelter, companionship, and ultimately … rescue. And he got everything he asked for, while the man on the other side had none of these things. The man who received so much began to feel pretty smug, until he asked God why he got so much while his buddy didn’t. The bottom line was that the man who had “nothing” had asked God only to answer the prayers of his friend on the other side of the island.
We like to think that God hears our prayers because we are special to Him … and we are! But we’re no more special than anyone else. Nobody has an “inside track” or a “direct line.” It doesn’t work that way. So it follows that, as people who want to imitate Jesus, we should have no favorites on this earth, either.
That means we shouldn’t be willing to cook a meal for this family in crisis … but not that one. It means that the words, “they don’t attend our church” should never roll off our tongue in the context of helping someone. This means we should be willing to pray for others regardless of where they attend a church – or whether they attend at all. This means we should be willing to pray for – and care about – people in ALL political parties … people of all races, religions, genders, and lifestyles.
We must understand that God does not choose one football team to win over another on Friday night because He favors one more than the other. He doesn’t elect a president or the next American Idol based on favoritism. We need to be very careful about how we pray and what we ask from God in this regard. We need to remember to pray for His will … meaning what outcome will best serve God’s overall plans and purpose … not that God will choose one person or outcome over another out of favoritism. To do so would be the same as to declare that Jesus died on the cross for a chosen few … and that simply is not true. And we should never pray for God to harm another person or cause bad things to happen to him/her!
The bottom line is that we can easily get caught up in everyday vernacular and common talk, and before we know it, we’ve made statements that directly imply one thing or another about our faith … and may give others the wrong impression. We must be very careful to guard our heart, our thoughts, our speech, and our actions, so that others see the unconditional all-consuming love of Jesus in us. God does not “play favorites” … and when it comes to serving in His name - neither should we.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for August 26, 2010
Psalm 138:8
You, LORD, will always treat me with kindness. Your love never fails. You have made us what we are. Don't give up on us now!
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When it comes to imitating Jesus, this scripture passage represents a tall order. If we are truly Christ’s disciples – if we truly imitate Him in our everyday lives, then we have to treat others with kindness. Our love must never fail. That also means we can’t give up on others.
Have you ever wanted to “wash your hands and walk away” from someone? “That’s it! I’ve had it! I’m done with So-and-So!” Oh, how all of us have wanted to utter that phrase … and many do exactly that. And I’m not saying we have to take repeated abuse from someone. We don’t have to be their best buddy, or even maintain continual contact with those who are unkind toward us or ungrateful, disrespectful, a constant mooch, or just plain unlovely. But we still have to love them.
We still have to pray for those who are hard to love. We still have to pray for the alcoholic or drug addict who can’t seem to get it together. We still have to pray for the bully in our class and the deadbeat dad. We still have to pray for those who are abusive or negative, and those who appear to simply be “losers” in life. Because at the end of the day, every single one of these people is as much a child of the LORD as you and I … and precious to Him. And what He has done for us, He can do for them … and He wants to do that and more!
So the LORD, whom we are asking to continue to treat us with kindness… the same LORD we are asking not to give up on us, is the very LORD who loves those we find difficult. We must love them and pray for them and offer reasonable encouragement and support. That doesn’t mean we have to be involved in their lives or their drama … that we have to give them money, or bail them out of troubles, or even necessarily give them our time and attention. But we have to give them our love and prayers … our kindness and the hope of better days and better ways through Jesus Christ.
It’s not always easy. I’ve literally had the door slammed in my face as I tried to help. I’ve been told my encouragement and witness was not welcome. I’ve felt the slings and arrows of others, and I’ve found it very hard to be kind and loving and to sincerely pray for those people. But I’ve seen the results of my efforts and how God can use us. I’ve seen the outcome make a positive turnaround – more than once. And I can assure you, I will never, ever give up on other people. As long as we are alive … and more importantly - JESUS is alive … there is hope and a chance for change.
Who do you need to offer prayers for today? Who do you need to encourage? Where could your kindness make a difference? Who have you felt like giving up on lately? This is the day to change your mind. This is the day to trust Jesus to make a difference … then get busy doing for others what He is doing for you. Sit back and watch Him work, and be amazed at the power of His love and kindness.
©2010 Debbie Robus
You, LORD, will always treat me with kindness. Your love never fails. You have made us what we are. Don't give up on us now!
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When it comes to imitating Jesus, this scripture passage represents a tall order. If we are truly Christ’s disciples – if we truly imitate Him in our everyday lives, then we have to treat others with kindness. Our love must never fail. That also means we can’t give up on others.
Have you ever wanted to “wash your hands and walk away” from someone? “That’s it! I’ve had it! I’m done with So-and-So!” Oh, how all of us have wanted to utter that phrase … and many do exactly that. And I’m not saying we have to take repeated abuse from someone. We don’t have to be their best buddy, or even maintain continual contact with those who are unkind toward us or ungrateful, disrespectful, a constant mooch, or just plain unlovely. But we still have to love them.
We still have to pray for those who are hard to love. We still have to pray for the alcoholic or drug addict who can’t seem to get it together. We still have to pray for the bully in our class and the deadbeat dad. We still have to pray for those who are abusive or negative, and those who appear to simply be “losers” in life. Because at the end of the day, every single one of these people is as much a child of the LORD as you and I … and precious to Him. And what He has done for us, He can do for them … and He wants to do that and more!
So the LORD, whom we are asking to continue to treat us with kindness… the same LORD we are asking not to give up on us, is the very LORD who loves those we find difficult. We must love them and pray for them and offer reasonable encouragement and support. That doesn’t mean we have to be involved in their lives or their drama … that we have to give them money, or bail them out of troubles, or even necessarily give them our time and attention. But we have to give them our love and prayers … our kindness and the hope of better days and better ways through Jesus Christ.
It’s not always easy. I’ve literally had the door slammed in my face as I tried to help. I’ve been told my encouragement and witness was not welcome. I’ve felt the slings and arrows of others, and I’ve found it very hard to be kind and loving and to sincerely pray for those people. But I’ve seen the results of my efforts and how God can use us. I’ve seen the outcome make a positive turnaround – more than once. And I can assure you, I will never, ever give up on other people. As long as we are alive … and more importantly - JESUS is alive … there is hope and a chance for change.
Who do you need to offer prayers for today? Who do you need to encourage? Where could your kindness make a difference? Who have you felt like giving up on lately? This is the day to change your mind. This is the day to trust Jesus to make a difference … then get busy doing for others what He is doing for you. Sit back and watch Him work, and be amazed at the power of His love and kindness.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for August 25, 2010
Titus 2:7
Always set a good example for others. Be sincere and serious when you teach.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
My husband and I have become quite familiar with a show on NickJr. called “The Wonder Pets.” Timothy loves it! The program features three animals in a pre-school … Linny the guinea pig, Tuck the turtle, and “Ming-Ming, too!” – a fuzzy yellow duckling. In each episode, the three animals are happily playing in their tanks or cages, until the “phone” (a recycled food can filled with pencils) begins to ring, signaling that “there’s an animal in trouble somewhere.” They hear the animal’s story and figure out how they can assist. Ming-Ming always says, “This is serious!” (Although her “serious” sounds like “sewious!”)
The Wonder Pets have figured out that there is a time to have fun … and a time to be serious. When it comes to the nuts and bolts of performing a rescue, they get very serious and work together to get the job done. Then they can have some fun with the animal and its family. And in much the same way, there are times for Christians to have fun … and times for us to be serious.
Yes, we want people to know that Christian living is fun. Retreats, float trips, get-aways and socials are wonderful. Having fun at Sunday School, laughing in worship, and celebrating special events are all part of God’s plan. But the saving of souls for all eternity is serious business, and there are times when we need to settle in and settle down … and really get into what God’s word tells us.
The happy, joy-filled Christian also needs to spend time with those who are sad and in need of a sympathetic ear … those who are sick … the poor and downtrodden. We have to show others that we can be sincere and serious and help them in times of need … that we can pray with them and for them, and that we can offer encouragement and support. We have to have time when we come together to study and worship in a spirit of humility and holiness … quiet reflection and a solemn attitude. We are not saying that Christian living is sad or somber … we are showing respect and honor for the teachings and ministries of Jesus … and meeting the needs of others His name.
Just like The Wonder Pets, there is a time for Christians to be playful and have fun … and there is a time to get serious. The Wonder Pets theme song says, “We’re not too big, and we’re not too tough, but when we work together, we’ve got the right stuff!” That should be the motto for us as Christians. We should “play” together and share the joy of our faith, but we should also roll up our sleeves and work together to accomplish the serious work for the Kingdom of Heaven.
What is our behavior saying to others these days? Do we, as Christians, have “the right stuff” – and are we showing this to others? Are we setting a good example for Christ … and are we keeping a good balance between “fun” and the serious work of His Kingdom? There’s “a person in trouble somewhere” – the “phone” is ringing … how will we answer?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Always set a good example for others. Be sincere and serious when you teach.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
My husband and I have become quite familiar with a show on NickJr. called “The Wonder Pets.” Timothy loves it! The program features three animals in a pre-school … Linny the guinea pig, Tuck the turtle, and “Ming-Ming, too!” – a fuzzy yellow duckling. In each episode, the three animals are happily playing in their tanks or cages, until the “phone” (a recycled food can filled with pencils) begins to ring, signaling that “there’s an animal in trouble somewhere.” They hear the animal’s story and figure out how they can assist. Ming-Ming always says, “This is serious!” (Although her “serious” sounds like “sewious!”)
The Wonder Pets have figured out that there is a time to have fun … and a time to be serious. When it comes to the nuts and bolts of performing a rescue, they get very serious and work together to get the job done. Then they can have some fun with the animal and its family. And in much the same way, there are times for Christians to have fun … and times for us to be serious.
Yes, we want people to know that Christian living is fun. Retreats, float trips, get-aways and socials are wonderful. Having fun at Sunday School, laughing in worship, and celebrating special events are all part of God’s plan. But the saving of souls for all eternity is serious business, and there are times when we need to settle in and settle down … and really get into what God’s word tells us.
The happy, joy-filled Christian also needs to spend time with those who are sad and in need of a sympathetic ear … those who are sick … the poor and downtrodden. We have to show others that we can be sincere and serious and help them in times of need … that we can pray with them and for them, and that we can offer encouragement and support. We have to have time when we come together to study and worship in a spirit of humility and holiness … quiet reflection and a solemn attitude. We are not saying that Christian living is sad or somber … we are showing respect and honor for the teachings and ministries of Jesus … and meeting the needs of others His name.
Just like The Wonder Pets, there is a time for Christians to be playful and have fun … and there is a time to get serious. The Wonder Pets theme song says, “We’re not too big, and we’re not too tough, but when we work together, we’ve got the right stuff!” That should be the motto for us as Christians. We should “play” together and share the joy of our faith, but we should also roll up our sleeves and work together to accomplish the serious work for the Kingdom of Heaven.
What is our behavior saying to others these days? Do we, as Christians, have “the right stuff” – and are we showing this to others? Are we setting a good example for Christ … and are we keeping a good balance between “fun” and the serious work of His Kingdom? There’s “a person in trouble somewhere” – the “phone” is ringing … how will we answer?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for August 17, 2010
1 John 1:6-7
If we say that we share in life with God and keep on living in the dark, we are lying and are not living by the truth.
But if we live in the light, as God does, we share in life with each other. And the blood of his Son Jesus washes all our sins away.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Recently, I attended a bridal shower for a friend. I had never met the hostess before, but she was warm and friendly, and we found we instantly had quite a few things in common. The conversation turned to Facebook, and how some people utilize it to communicate with others. She noted a childhood friend who is undergoing chemotherapy for cancer. This friend is using Facebook to keep her “friends” updated on her condition … posting comments about chemotherapy treatments, sharing photos of her newest hair scarves, and more.
On the other hand, the woman had a co-worker who became ill with cancer last March, but she chose not to tell anyone except a very small number of close friends and family. She endured her illness in secret, not allowing most people to visit her or even be advised of her condition. And in May, she died. The woman related that she felt badly that she did not know her co-worker was ill and suffering virtually in secret.
I was reminded of a friend whose mother became ill and didn’t want anyone to know. I asked, “If people don’t know she is ill, how can they know to pray for her healing?” I respect a person’s right to privacy. But at the same time I am reminded of what a former pastor once told me … “I can’t visit someone who is sick if I don’t know about them.” Frankly, if I am ill, I want all of the prayers I can get … don’t you?!
Looking at this passage another way … if we are claiming to have faith in God, but we pretend we have no needs … or we make a concerted effort to hide our situation out of embarrassment or a sense that we should be able to handle things on our own – or that some aspect of our life is too dark or ugly to admit to anyone else - we are not living by the truth. And certainly, if we are acting smugly and giving others the impression they cannot be “real” with us for fear of judgment or retribution, we are lying and failing to share in life with each other.
When Jesus died for our sins, He gave us a new life in Him – a life in which He charges us to go into the world and be His light – to offer hope and healing to others in His name, and to love unconditionally, with grace and mercy. This means we must welcome opportunities to pray for others and to share their concerns. We must offer others the promise of help in Jesus … reconciliation and restoration because of the cross. It’s somewhat the “go big or go home” concept. Because of the blood of Jesus, we can no longer hide in the shadows and darkness and live a lie. We must step up and step out … live and love in the light of God.
What about you? Where do you stand today? How “big” are you going with your faith and ministry?
©2010 Debbie Robus
If we say that we share in life with God and keep on living in the dark, we are lying and are not living by the truth.
But if we live in the light, as God does, we share in life with each other. And the blood of his Son Jesus washes all our sins away.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Recently, I attended a bridal shower for a friend. I had never met the hostess before, but she was warm and friendly, and we found we instantly had quite a few things in common. The conversation turned to Facebook, and how some people utilize it to communicate with others. She noted a childhood friend who is undergoing chemotherapy for cancer. This friend is using Facebook to keep her “friends” updated on her condition … posting comments about chemotherapy treatments, sharing photos of her newest hair scarves, and more.
On the other hand, the woman had a co-worker who became ill with cancer last March, but she chose not to tell anyone except a very small number of close friends and family. She endured her illness in secret, not allowing most people to visit her or even be advised of her condition. And in May, she died. The woman related that she felt badly that she did not know her co-worker was ill and suffering virtually in secret.
I was reminded of a friend whose mother became ill and didn’t want anyone to know. I asked, “If people don’t know she is ill, how can they know to pray for her healing?” I respect a person’s right to privacy. But at the same time I am reminded of what a former pastor once told me … “I can’t visit someone who is sick if I don’t know about them.” Frankly, if I am ill, I want all of the prayers I can get … don’t you?!
Looking at this passage another way … if we are claiming to have faith in God, but we pretend we have no needs … or we make a concerted effort to hide our situation out of embarrassment or a sense that we should be able to handle things on our own – or that some aspect of our life is too dark or ugly to admit to anyone else - we are not living by the truth. And certainly, if we are acting smugly and giving others the impression they cannot be “real” with us for fear of judgment or retribution, we are lying and failing to share in life with each other.
When Jesus died for our sins, He gave us a new life in Him – a life in which He charges us to go into the world and be His light – to offer hope and healing to others in His name, and to love unconditionally, with grace and mercy. This means we must welcome opportunities to pray for others and to share their concerns. We must offer others the promise of help in Jesus … reconciliation and restoration because of the cross. It’s somewhat the “go big or go home” concept. Because of the blood of Jesus, we can no longer hide in the shadows and darkness and live a lie. We must step up and step out … live and love in the light of God.
What about you? Where do you stand today? How “big” are you going with your faith and ministry?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for August 9, 2010
Proverbs 17:17
A friend is always a friend, and relatives are born to share our troubles.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
This devo begins a group that relate to “Sharing the Good News – and God’s Love,” and it’s probably where you may think I’ve gone to meddling! But I am convinced that many of us have fallen short in this area. I have to believe that when I hear of children who have not spoken to their parents in months, or even years. I know we have grown insensitive and self-absorbed when I hear in the news of someone who died alone in their home from heat exhaustion and malnutrition, because not even their next-door neighbors bothered to check on them. I am convinced of this when I hear in the news of a child who committed suicide because he/she was bullied relentlessly and nobody did anything to stop it.
You can call it what you want … busyness, your own set of troubles, “work got in the way,” or just plain not wanting to get involved. The fact is, we are called as Christians to love one another … and that means we’re going to have to become involved at some point. If you are to love your neighbor as you love yourself, you will have to check on him/her. If you are going to honor your father and mother, you will have to call and visit them once in a while. We’re going to have to look up from our own lives and see those around us – and get busy meeting the needs of others.
Imagine if Jesus had said, “I’m too busy,” or “It’s not my problem… I need to stay out of this.” What if Jesus had held a grudge against His Father and refused to communicate! I know … pretty preposterous, isn’t it?! But that’s what many of us do. We claim to have dozens of “close friends,” but we couldn’t tell you much about the thoughts, dreams, desires and needs of a single one of them. We’re so busy collecting acquaintances, possessions and whatever satisfies our every whim that we often fail to stop and ask, “Lord, who do I need to call today?” or “Father, do I need to reach out to a friend or family member?”
My prayer today is that we would become more genuinely concerned about the welfare of our family and friends. I pray that we would ask God to open our hearts, eyes and ears … that we would see the needs of others – and meet them! If you need help getting started, pick up the church bulletin and read the prayer concerns. I bet there is someone on there you could call, visit, or mail a card of encouragement. Or … read through the birthday list and send someone good wishes to brighten their day. Or here’s a good one … I have a card on my desk that says, “Have you prayed for your pastor today?” Well, have you?
Being a Christian is more than accepting Jesus – or even receiving the Holy Spirit. If you keep everything to yourself, you really have not fulfilled Jesus’ gift. Think of it like a credit card that doesn’t work until you call the headquarters and activate it. It’s time we activated our “Christian card” and got busy using it. Where will you “spend” some of God’s love today?
©2010 Debbie Robus
A friend is always a friend, and relatives are born to share our troubles.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
This devo begins a group that relate to “Sharing the Good News – and God’s Love,” and it’s probably where you may think I’ve gone to meddling! But I am convinced that many of us have fallen short in this area. I have to believe that when I hear of children who have not spoken to their parents in months, or even years. I know we have grown insensitive and self-absorbed when I hear in the news of someone who died alone in their home from heat exhaustion and malnutrition, because not even their next-door neighbors bothered to check on them. I am convinced of this when I hear in the news of a child who committed suicide because he/she was bullied relentlessly and nobody did anything to stop it.
You can call it what you want … busyness, your own set of troubles, “work got in the way,” or just plain not wanting to get involved. The fact is, we are called as Christians to love one another … and that means we’re going to have to become involved at some point. If you are to love your neighbor as you love yourself, you will have to check on him/her. If you are going to honor your father and mother, you will have to call and visit them once in a while. We’re going to have to look up from our own lives and see those around us – and get busy meeting the needs of others.
Imagine if Jesus had said, “I’m too busy,” or “It’s not my problem… I need to stay out of this.” What if Jesus had held a grudge against His Father and refused to communicate! I know … pretty preposterous, isn’t it?! But that’s what many of us do. We claim to have dozens of “close friends,” but we couldn’t tell you much about the thoughts, dreams, desires and needs of a single one of them. We’re so busy collecting acquaintances, possessions and whatever satisfies our every whim that we often fail to stop and ask, “Lord, who do I need to call today?” or “Father, do I need to reach out to a friend or family member?”
My prayer today is that we would become more genuinely concerned about the welfare of our family and friends. I pray that we would ask God to open our hearts, eyes and ears … that we would see the needs of others – and meet them! If you need help getting started, pick up the church bulletin and read the prayer concerns. I bet there is someone on there you could call, visit, or mail a card of encouragement. Or … read through the birthday list and send someone good wishes to brighten their day. Or here’s a good one … I have a card on my desk that says, “Have you prayed for your pastor today?” Well, have you?
Being a Christian is more than accepting Jesus – or even receiving the Holy Spirit. If you keep everything to yourself, you really have not fulfilled Jesus’ gift. Think of it like a credit card that doesn’t work until you call the headquarters and activate it. It’s time we activated our “Christian card” and got busy using it. Where will you “spend” some of God’s love today?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for August 3, 2010
Romans 15:30
My friends, by the power of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the love that comes from the Holy Spirit, I beg you to pray sincerely with me and for me.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I had a really good visit recently with my cousin, J.D., and he was telling me that he has begun spending two hours or more in prayer each morning. He readily admitted that he is blessed to have uninterrupted time to devote to prayer. But he also said repeatedly, “I’m telling you, it works!” Having said this, we both agreed that sometimes we Christians become too legalistic about such things as prayer. In other words, we decide that we have to pray a certain way for a certain length of time on certain days. We become slaves to the “law” of prayer – and we lose the holiness and power that genuine prayer and communion with God brings.
If you think that genuine prayer with and for others doesn’t work, I have J.D.’s permission to tell you differently. See, he reminded me today that “someone prayed for me for years.” I was that someone, although I know countless others prayed for him, too. I do not recall this particular incident, but J.D. says that when my dad died eleven years ago, I approached him at the cemetery, touched his arm, and said, “I’m praying for you.” At that time, J.D. was a serious crystal methamphetamine addict. Ultimately, he spent time in prison because of his addiction and associated activities. And while he was in prison, I continued to pray for him – even when he wrote letters and demanded that I stop praying and told me how much he hated the world … and God.
Today, J.D. is a full-time Holy Spirit-filled evangelist, spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ and leading worship wherever he gets an opportunity. He said he can hardly talk to anyone these days without saying, “I love you,” and meaning it. We laughed as I told him that nowadays, when I come up against a seemingly impossible situation, I remind myself and others, “If God can change J.D., He can change this!” J.D. wholeheartedly agreed … and anyone who spends a few minutes with him can see the joy he has found in his relationship with Jesus.
I will be the first to tell you that my prayer life could use some polishing. I need to be more diligent in my efforts to bring my own concerns and the needs of others before God. I need to make a more concerted effort to spend time in communion with God each day. I’m not saying there is a magic formula for all of us – and two hours a day may be far too difficult for many of us to set aside, while for others, much more time may be needed. But often, we hear people say, “All we can do is pray.” The fact is, often that is all we need to do, because in many circumstances, sincere prayer is enough! God will handle the rest.
By the power of the Lord Jesus Christ, and by the love that comes from the Holy Spirit, I challenge each of us to pray sincerely – with me and for me. I can’t even fathom the ramifications if we all got serious about our prayer life. The same God who changed my cousin J.D. is waiting to change zillions of other situations presented to Him in prayer. Are you willing to commit to this? Isn’t it worth a shot?
©2010 Debbie Robus
My friends, by the power of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the love that comes from the Holy Spirit, I beg you to pray sincerely with me and for me.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I had a really good visit recently with my cousin, J.D., and he was telling me that he has begun spending two hours or more in prayer each morning. He readily admitted that he is blessed to have uninterrupted time to devote to prayer. But he also said repeatedly, “I’m telling you, it works!” Having said this, we both agreed that sometimes we Christians become too legalistic about such things as prayer. In other words, we decide that we have to pray a certain way for a certain length of time on certain days. We become slaves to the “law” of prayer – and we lose the holiness and power that genuine prayer and communion with God brings.
If you think that genuine prayer with and for others doesn’t work, I have J.D.’s permission to tell you differently. See, he reminded me today that “someone prayed for me for years.” I was that someone, although I know countless others prayed for him, too. I do not recall this particular incident, but J.D. says that when my dad died eleven years ago, I approached him at the cemetery, touched his arm, and said, “I’m praying for you.” At that time, J.D. was a serious crystal methamphetamine addict. Ultimately, he spent time in prison because of his addiction and associated activities. And while he was in prison, I continued to pray for him – even when he wrote letters and demanded that I stop praying and told me how much he hated the world … and God.
Today, J.D. is a full-time Holy Spirit-filled evangelist, spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ and leading worship wherever he gets an opportunity. He said he can hardly talk to anyone these days without saying, “I love you,” and meaning it. We laughed as I told him that nowadays, when I come up against a seemingly impossible situation, I remind myself and others, “If God can change J.D., He can change this!” J.D. wholeheartedly agreed … and anyone who spends a few minutes with him can see the joy he has found in his relationship with Jesus.
I will be the first to tell you that my prayer life could use some polishing. I need to be more diligent in my efforts to bring my own concerns and the needs of others before God. I need to make a more concerted effort to spend time in communion with God each day. I’m not saying there is a magic formula for all of us – and two hours a day may be far too difficult for many of us to set aside, while for others, much more time may be needed. But often, we hear people say, “All we can do is pray.” The fact is, often that is all we need to do, because in many circumstances, sincere prayer is enough! God will handle the rest.
By the power of the Lord Jesus Christ, and by the love that comes from the Holy Spirit, I challenge each of us to pray sincerely – with me and for me. I can’t even fathom the ramifications if we all got serious about our prayer life. The same God who changed my cousin J.D. is waiting to change zillions of other situations presented to Him in prayer. Are you willing to commit to this? Isn’t it worth a shot?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for June 3, 2010
June 3 ~ 2 Kings 6:16
"Don't be afraid," Elisha answered. "There are more troops on our side than on theirs."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Nobody likes to feel outnumbered. The good news is, in our Christian life, it may seem that way, but in truth, we have more “troops” on our side than we even realize! Truly, no weapon formed against us will prosper, if we are living within God’s will.
I will be honest… I didn’t really understand this when I was a teenager and young adult. And I now see just how generous God’s grace was over me during those years. I still remember being laughed at because I didn’t smoke cigarettes and wouldn’t try marijuana or other drugs. I still recall the sting of not being included in trips to the lake or other outings because I wasn’t allowed to wear a bikini bathing suit or the crop tops and low-rise jeans my girlfriends were wearing. I’ve heard the names… “prude,” “goody two-shoes,” and more. And I admit…at the time, these things really hurt. They made me feel like I was an outsider… like I was outnumbered, and everyone else was having more fun and laughing at me. And honestly, Satan delighted in this… and he could have so easily won me over, had God’s grace not covered me.
See, I didn’t realize it then, but for every temptation Satan hurled at me, God stood back, arms folded, watching His angels surround me and give me the resolve and courage I needed to muddle through each situation. It wasn’t easy, and I don’t have a spotless record! But now I see so clearly that I was I just didn’t realize Who had my back… I was never outnumbered! And neither are you!
God has a army of angels surrounding each of us, ready to fight off Satan’s attackers. We can call on them any hour of the night or day. All we have to do is say, “Lord, I need you. I’m upset, and I’m about to say something that I know I will regret later.” Or, “Lord, everyone else is doing this… I really, really want to fit in… can you help me?” Or, “Father, I don’t think I can fight this disease and the ailments of aging any more. Can you please give me strength and peace?”
When I sleepily rock our nephew Timothy in the middle of the night, and he will not settle down, I have prayed for God to give him rest and relaxation. I’ve envisioned him surrounded by angels who lovingly soothe him and calm him as he returns to sleep in his crib. I have felt the presence of angels in a hospital room as my dad lay dying, and I have acknowledged that they were far more powerful than the demons of his illness and suffering. I have been tempted to lash out in anger and frustration at someone when I felt they were mistreating me, and I’ve asked God to surround me with legions of angels to protect me – and my intended target. And always… ALWAYS… God answers when I call on Him. AND… He will do the very same thing for you. Nothing is too big or too small for God… and we do not have to operate one second more in fear.
Are you calling on God and His army of angels to calm your fears and give you courage – and encouragement? Do you recognize the enemy and confront him headlong by calling on The Great Commander? Isn’t it time we stopped giving in, compromising and declaring defeat unnecessarily? We need recognize that we are never outnumbered as Christians. Help is only a prayer away. I wish I had used them more often when I was younger, but I am making up for lost time now! God is truly my ultimate “lifeline” – is He yours?
©2010 Debbie Robus
"Don't be afraid," Elisha answered. "There are more troops on our side than on theirs."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Nobody likes to feel outnumbered. The good news is, in our Christian life, it may seem that way, but in truth, we have more “troops” on our side than we even realize! Truly, no weapon formed against us will prosper, if we are living within God’s will.
I will be honest… I didn’t really understand this when I was a teenager and young adult. And I now see just how generous God’s grace was over me during those years. I still remember being laughed at because I didn’t smoke cigarettes and wouldn’t try marijuana or other drugs. I still recall the sting of not being included in trips to the lake or other outings because I wasn’t allowed to wear a bikini bathing suit or the crop tops and low-rise jeans my girlfriends were wearing. I’ve heard the names… “prude,” “goody two-shoes,” and more. And I admit…at the time, these things really hurt. They made me feel like I was an outsider… like I was outnumbered, and everyone else was having more fun and laughing at me. And honestly, Satan delighted in this… and he could have so easily won me over, had God’s grace not covered me.
See, I didn’t realize it then, but for every temptation Satan hurled at me, God stood back, arms folded, watching His angels surround me and give me the resolve and courage I needed to muddle through each situation. It wasn’t easy, and I don’t have a spotless record! But now I see so clearly that I was I just didn’t realize Who had my back… I was never outnumbered! And neither are you!
God has a army of angels surrounding each of us, ready to fight off Satan’s attackers. We can call on them any hour of the night or day. All we have to do is say, “Lord, I need you. I’m upset, and I’m about to say something that I know I will regret later.” Or, “Lord, everyone else is doing this… I really, really want to fit in… can you help me?” Or, “Father, I don’t think I can fight this disease and the ailments of aging any more. Can you please give me strength and peace?”
When I sleepily rock our nephew Timothy in the middle of the night, and he will not settle down, I have prayed for God to give him rest and relaxation. I’ve envisioned him surrounded by angels who lovingly soothe him and calm him as he returns to sleep in his crib. I have felt the presence of angels in a hospital room as my dad lay dying, and I have acknowledged that they were far more powerful than the demons of his illness and suffering. I have been tempted to lash out in anger and frustration at someone when I felt they were mistreating me, and I’ve asked God to surround me with legions of angels to protect me – and my intended target. And always… ALWAYS… God answers when I call on Him. AND… He will do the very same thing for you. Nothing is too big or too small for God… and we do not have to operate one second more in fear.
Are you calling on God and His army of angels to calm your fears and give you courage – and encouragement? Do you recognize the enemy and confront him headlong by calling on The Great Commander? Isn’t it time we stopped giving in, compromising and declaring defeat unnecessarily? We need recognize that we are never outnumbered as Christians. Help is only a prayer away. I wish I had used them more often when I was younger, but I am making up for lost time now! God is truly my ultimate “lifeline” – is He yours?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for May 31, 2010
May 31 ~ Deuteronomy 1:20-21
…and I told you, " We have reached the hill country. It belongs to the Amorites now, but the LORD our God is giving it to us. He is the same God our ancestors worshiped, and he has told us to go in and take this land, so don't hesitate and be afraid."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Do you know someone who seems like a hopeless case? No matter how hard you pray for them… no matter how hard you try to help them… nothing seems to work. Their situation never seems to change, much less actually improve. You feel frustrated… maybe even angry or disappointed… and sometimes, you want to give up and walk away. But something (or is it Someone?) won’t let you. Somehow you feel this nagging sense that you need to keep plugging away. You need to keep being a friend and loving this person and doing what you feel GOD is telling you to do… and you trust that HE will handle the outcome.
This is what I got from today’s passage. Sometimes it looks like we are fighting a losing battle – that we have reached “the hill country, and it belongs to someone else.” It appears that things are settled in one direction… yet God says, “Keep going… we can do this together, and I’ll make the difference!”
I urge you today to be bold in your faith. If you are struggling with something or someone over a particular situation, and you simply don’t seem to see any progress, yet you have this pervading sense to continue to witness and be of help, listen to your heart! Be attuned to God’s guidance and instruction, and when HE says move, then you move… but not a minute sooner. If God tells you He is giving you victory, don’t hesitate and be afraid… move forward… keep on “keepin’ on!”… and believe Him for His promises.
©2010 Debbie Robus
…and I told you, " We have reached the hill country. It belongs to the Amorites now, but the LORD our God is giving it to us. He is the same God our ancestors worshiped, and he has told us to go in and take this land, so don't hesitate and be afraid."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Do you know someone who seems like a hopeless case? No matter how hard you pray for them… no matter how hard you try to help them… nothing seems to work. Their situation never seems to change, much less actually improve. You feel frustrated… maybe even angry or disappointed… and sometimes, you want to give up and walk away. But something (or is it Someone?) won’t let you. Somehow you feel this nagging sense that you need to keep plugging away. You need to keep being a friend and loving this person and doing what you feel GOD is telling you to do… and you trust that HE will handle the outcome.
This is what I got from today’s passage. Sometimes it looks like we are fighting a losing battle – that we have reached “the hill country, and it belongs to someone else.” It appears that things are settled in one direction… yet God says, “Keep going… we can do this together, and I’ll make the difference!”
I urge you today to be bold in your faith. If you are struggling with something or someone over a particular situation, and you simply don’t seem to see any progress, yet you have this pervading sense to continue to witness and be of help, listen to your heart! Be attuned to God’s guidance and instruction, and when HE says move, then you move… but not a minute sooner. If God tells you He is giving you victory, don’t hesitate and be afraid… move forward… keep on “keepin’ on!”… and believe Him for His promises.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for February 6, 2010
February 6 ~ Genesis 17:18-20
Then he asked God, "Why not let Ishmael inherit what you have promised me?" But God answered: No! You and Sarah will have a son. His name will be Isaac, and I will make an everlasting promise to him and his descendants. I have heard what you asked me to do for Ishmael, and so I will also bless him with many descendants. He will be the father of twelve princes, and I will make his family a great nation.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
You may have seen the movie Pay It Forward. The premise is that when someone does
something nice for you, instead of repaying the person who did the good deed, you “pay it forward” and do something nice for another person. Often, this has remarkable results for everyone involved.
Intercessory prayer – praying for someone else – is a lot like “paying it forward.” And when we pray for others from our heart… out of a deep sense of love and concern for that person and not just “lip service,” the blessings multiply. That’s what happened with Abraham. Rather than ask God to do extraordinary things and give him a child with his wife Sarah, Abraham said (paraphrasing here), “Just bless my son Ishmael, and we’ll call it good.” But God saw Abraham’s humility and heart and decided to bless him and his wife, Sarah – AND his son Ishmael.
I’m not saying that every time you pray for someone else, you will get an inheritance or some big prize. But I can tell you from experience that the times I have reached out to someone else, in prayer or in some other gesture, I felt like I got the bigger blessing. God hears our prayers – and he hears the prayers we offer for others. Who have you prayed for lately? Are you “paying it forward?”
©2009 Debbie Robus
Then he asked God, "Why not let Ishmael inherit what you have promised me?" But God answered: No! You and Sarah will have a son. His name will be Isaac, and I will make an everlasting promise to him and his descendants. I have heard what you asked me to do for Ishmael, and so I will also bless him with many descendants. He will be the father of twelve princes, and I will make his family a great nation.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
You may have seen the movie Pay It Forward. The premise is that when someone does
something nice for you, instead of repaying the person who did the good deed, you “pay it forward” and do something nice for another person. Often, this has remarkable results for everyone involved.
Intercessory prayer – praying for someone else – is a lot like “paying it forward.” And when we pray for others from our heart… out of a deep sense of love and concern for that person and not just “lip service,” the blessings multiply. That’s what happened with Abraham. Rather than ask God to do extraordinary things and give him a child with his wife Sarah, Abraham said (paraphrasing here), “Just bless my son Ishmael, and we’ll call it good.” But God saw Abraham’s humility and heart and decided to bless him and his wife, Sarah – AND his son Ishmael.
I’m not saying that every time you pray for someone else, you will get an inheritance or some big prize. But I can tell you from experience that the times I have reached out to someone else, in prayer or in some other gesture, I felt like I got the bigger blessing. God hears our prayers – and he hears the prayers we offer for others. Who have you prayed for lately? Are you “paying it forward?”
©2009 Debbie Robus
October 2009 Devos - Week 3
October 21 ~ Proverbs 25:14
Broken promises are worse than rain clouds that don't bring rain.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
Let’s face it… most of us are familiar with broken promises. Some of you may feel they are a constant in your life. I don’t know a single person who enjoys being on the receiving end of a broken promise. Some are seemingly minor, like promising to show up at a party or a ballgame and not coming. Others are more serious, like promising to pay back a debt and not doing so or promising to tell the truth, then lying. The worst is promising God you will serve Him and follow His will… then living a life of sin and selfishness.
Whether a promise is “major or minor,” is not really the issue. The bottom line is that any time you promise something to someone, you have given your word. And as a Christian, your word is serious business. You are making a commitment to someone, and any failure to follow through discredits you and dishonors God. If you cannot fulfill your promise, do all you can to make things right. If you cannot make it to the party or ballgame, let your friend know. If you have trouble repaying a debt, go to the lender and work out something or at least let them know you have not forgotten you owe it. As Christians, we should always be truthful… even when the truth is unpleasant or difficult.
The GOOD NEWS is that God never breaks a promise. He has promised us Eternal Life with Him because of Jesus Christ. He has promised to always be with us and never leave our side. He has promised to meet our needs and to bless us and keep us. And that will never change. Today my prayer is that you will thank God for His promises… and the assurance that He will never break them. I also pray that you will ask God to help you keep YOUR promises… to be the faithful, obedient, truthful servant He has called you to be… and to make you a person of your word.
©2009 Debbie Robus
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October 20 ~ Matthew 6:1
When you do good deeds, don't try to show off. If you do, you won't get a reward from your Father in heaven.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
We’re all human… and human nature often makes us vulnerable and in need of approval from others. So when we do something for someone else, human nature causes us to want recognition from others… or a pat on the back for our good deeds. The mark of a mature Christian is humility, and security in our faith that gives us the confidence that even the recipient of our good deeds doesn’t need to know we were involved. Only the approval and recognition from God matters… and God’s approval and recognition are enough! In fact, as you can see from this scripture, to report our good deeds to others effectively negates the blessing… the “star in your crown,” so to speak!
Lately, I have been asking God to give me a sense of completeness in Him. I have asked that He help me to only desire HIS approval and HIS company. Don’t misunderstand me. I love my husband, my family and friends. I enjoy their company. But I don’t want to depend on another human being to complete me. I don’t want to feel that very human need to have others around validating me. I want GOD to validate me… and I want HIM to be more than enough. And when I am obedient to His will, I want His approval to be all that I seek.
Today, I pray that this would be your desire, too. We have all that we will ever need in our relationship with God. Jesus suffered, bled and died for this privilege. He gave His very life that ours might be complete in our Heavenly Father. When we truly get this, we won’t need the recognition or approval of others for our good deeds. God will truly complete us…He will be enough.
©2009 Debbie Robus
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October 19 ~ Isaiah 38:14
I cry like a swallow; I mourn like a dove. My eyes are red from looking to you, LORD. I am terribly abused. Please come and help me.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
My second teaching assignment was a one-year position to fill in for a kindergarten teacher who was going on maternity leave. In July before my position started in August, this teacher suffered a brain aneurysm and died within hours. She left behind a husband and a 6-year-old son. I never even got to meet her. From all I have been told, Becky was a beautiful, wonderful woman and a very good teacher. Someone cleared her things out of the classroom, and I began preparing for my school year. Once in awhile, I would find something that had been missed in the cleaning… a stray coffee cup… the umbrella hanging on the back of the closet door knob. It was a bit unsettling, but I turned these in at the office and kept working. More than once, I saw fellow teachers standing in my doorway, shaking their heads. I would hear them whisper, “Becky did it this way,” or “Becky would have a fit if she saw that!”
The worst was my next-door neighbor teacher, Vickie, who had been Becky’s best friend. I realize now that her grief overshadowed everything she said and did, but at the time, I couldn’t understand that. I was only 21, and I had never experienced such personal devastation or loss. So I internalized her digs and unkind remarks. I felt terribly abused by this woman. Nothing I said or did pleased her, and I knew she said things about me to other teachers and expressed her displeasure. I took it very personally. Over and over I prayed, “Please, God! Come and help me. Take this burden from me.”
The one-year assignment became permanent, and the following year was more of the same. Vickie was still mired in her grief… and she vented toward me! When Thanksgiving break came, she and her family traveled to Oklahoma for the holiday weekend. While there, a large dump truck roared through an intersection just as Vickie entered it and literally sliced the entire top off her car. She was killed instantly. Her mother and 7-year-old son – the same age as Becky’s son - were miraculously spared.
The next few weeks were dark ones for our school. We were now all mired in grief, and for most, it was a double whammy from losing two dear friends. I befriended the teacher who replaced my next-door neighbor, and I made a point to avoid the “Vickie did this” or “This was Vickie’s” statements that had hurt me so badly. When she found some of Vickie’s things that had been overlooked, I commiserated. I see now that God allowed me to help my new neighbor through HER transition into this classroom. I also came to realize that it didn’t matter WHO replaced these teachers… the perceived wrath and venting was really just grief that had no clear target.
I've never told anyone this, but at first I was angry with God… and I felt very guilty. “Lord, this is NOT how I meant for You to fix this!” I sometimes wished I had not prayed for help. How could God answer me in this way?! Over time I came to understand that…
My point is this… you are going to face things that seem unfair. You may even feel abused and mistreated. But GOD understands. Pray. Ask God to “come and help me.” Then let it go… let Him work... and trust His outcome.
©2009 Debbie Robus
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October 18 ~ Psalm 44:24
Why do you keep looking away? Don't forget our sufferings and all of our troubles.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
Do you ever feel like God has just looked the other way and forgotten about you? First of all, I assure you that He has NOT! But I do understand that we can all feel this way from time to time. Recently, as I prayed, I told God, “I feel so helpless about this situation.” And in the next second, I felt God say to me, “You know better than that! You are NEVER helpless… I am always here to help you.”
In the times that we feel like God has looked away, we need to search our own heart and see where we have lost faith, if only momentarily. We need to confess our troubles to God (even though He knows them already – He wants to hear it from us!) and then GIVE them all to Him. We need to humbly admit that on our own, we are indeed helpless, but through Him, we can handle anything.
God has not forgotten our sufferings or our troubles… and He has not looked away. We have simply momentarily lost sight of how big He is and the fact that He can handle anything… and we have forgotten to let Him. Maybe today we need to give God our burdens and our cares again… and trust Him this time to handle them for us.
©2009 Debbie Robus
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October 17 ~ Psalm 119:121, 134
I did what was fair and right! Don't hand me over to those who want to mistreat me.
Verse 134: Protect me from abuse, so I can obey your laws.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
Let’s say you are out with friends on a Friday night, and some of them start drinking. They offer you a drink, but you refuse. In fact, you refuse to ride in a car with them and try to persuade them not to drink and drive. But they insist they only had a couple of beers, and off they go. The car has an unfortunate meeting with a guard rail after the driver can’t negotiate a curve, and the driver wrecks. Thankfully no one is injured, but the car is a mess. Police and parents rush to interview anyone and everyone who might know something about this incident, and someone asks you, “Was anyone drinking?” What do you say? Do you lie and cover for your friends – and maybe protect your friendship? Or do you tell the truth, taking a chance that your friends will suffer consequences and never speak to you again?
The choice truly is a hard one. But think of it this way. Suppose you cover for your friends, and because basically all that happened was damage to the car, the friends feel invincible and drink and drive again. But this time the results are much different. Suppose someone is badly injured – or even killed. Can you live with the fact that you did not take action initially that might have prevented this? Of course, you will never know for sure whether admitting these friends were drinking would have resulted in prevention of the second event. Are you willing to take this risk?
So often we operate out of fear. If I do this… such-and-such will happen. If I don’t act, this other thing will result. If I do what is fair and right, I will lose my friends, or at the very least, they will pick on me and mistreat me. Someone will laugh - someone will criticize. I’ll lose my boyfriend, girlfriend, husband, wife, friends or family members. I once reported a student for suspected child abuse, and the mother came to school a few days later, intending to “whip” me!
Right choices are often HARD! But hear the good news… God has our back! He will protect us when we make the hard choices. When we stand up for what is fair and right and honor Him with our choices and behavior, He will protect us. Obey God. Be fair and right in all things. Ask Him to help you make good choices, and to protect you from the consequences (and possible wrath) that ensues. Stand tall and proud in your choices, and know that God really does have your back when you do what is right.
©2009 Debbie Robus
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October 16 ~ Psalms 17:9
Don't let my brutal enemies attack from all sides and kill me.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
What “brutal enemies” are attacking you from all sides today? Is it a test you are studying for or a class you are struggling to pass? Is it your health, a relationship, a job, or money troubles? Is your family in a crisis of some sort? Is the devil attacking you with temptations – or convincing you to choose what he says is the “fun” of sin over a relationship with God?
Whatever you are facing, God can handle it for you. But you need to ask. I’m not saying God won’t protect you anyway, but He really wants to hear from you… He wants you to come before Him and humbly ASK for His help. In a way, it’s a matter of respect and reverence. So show God the respect and honor He deserves. Acknowledge His power, and ask for His help. Don’t let Satan’s brutal enemies attack from all sides… don’t risk Spiritual death at his hands. Trust God to help – ASK Him to do so – and believe that He will!
©2009 Debbie Robus
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October 15 ~ 1 Timothy 2:1-2
First of all, I ask you to pray for everyone. Ask God to help and bless them all, and tell God how thankful you are for each of them. Pray for kings and others in power, so that we may live quiet and peaceful lives as we worship and honor God.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
Did it ever occur to you to pray for “kings and others in power?” How about Osama Bin Laden – ever prayed for him? If you get a chance to read The Kite Runner and A Thousand Splendid Suns, I encourage you to do so. These novels by Khaled Hosseini helped me to understand the people of Afghanistan better and “humanized” them for me. We get so self-absorbed sometimes that we forget that real people have real lives halfway around the world in a completely different culture from ours… but they are nonetheless God’s precious children. Christianity is not just for Americans!
So we should pray for world leaders – regardless of their faith. Don’t we believe in a God who is able to do all things? Can’t He change the heart of a ruthless dictator just as well as a sinful American? Do you remember the little children’s song, “Jesus Loves the Little Children?” In it, a verse says, “Red and yellow, black and white, they are precious in His sight.” I tell you, we do not have an exclusive on God! And we are called in scripture to pray for those in other lands – and their leaders… to thank God for them and to ask for His blessings upon them.
I guess the question today is, “How big is the God we serve?” Is He able to bring us into agreement and peaceful coexistence? Is He able to change the hearts of evil men and women? How big is your God today – and have you prayed for all of His children?
©2009 Debbie Robus
Broken promises are worse than rain clouds that don't bring rain.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
Let’s face it… most of us are familiar with broken promises. Some of you may feel they are a constant in your life. I don’t know a single person who enjoys being on the receiving end of a broken promise. Some are seemingly minor, like promising to show up at a party or a ballgame and not coming. Others are more serious, like promising to pay back a debt and not doing so or promising to tell the truth, then lying. The worst is promising God you will serve Him and follow His will… then living a life of sin and selfishness.
Whether a promise is “major or minor,” is not really the issue. The bottom line is that any time you promise something to someone, you have given your word. And as a Christian, your word is serious business. You are making a commitment to someone, and any failure to follow through discredits you and dishonors God. If you cannot fulfill your promise, do all you can to make things right. If you cannot make it to the party or ballgame, let your friend know. If you have trouble repaying a debt, go to the lender and work out something or at least let them know you have not forgotten you owe it. As Christians, we should always be truthful… even when the truth is unpleasant or difficult.
The GOOD NEWS is that God never breaks a promise. He has promised us Eternal Life with Him because of Jesus Christ. He has promised to always be with us and never leave our side. He has promised to meet our needs and to bless us and keep us. And that will never change. Today my prayer is that you will thank God for His promises… and the assurance that He will never break them. I also pray that you will ask God to help you keep YOUR promises… to be the faithful, obedient, truthful servant He has called you to be… and to make you a person of your word.
©2009 Debbie Robus
----------------------------------------------------------------
October 20 ~ Matthew 6:1
When you do good deeds, don't try to show off. If you do, you won't get a reward from your Father in heaven.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
We’re all human… and human nature often makes us vulnerable and in need of approval from others. So when we do something for someone else, human nature causes us to want recognition from others… or a pat on the back for our good deeds. The mark of a mature Christian is humility, and security in our faith that gives us the confidence that even the recipient of our good deeds doesn’t need to know we were involved. Only the approval and recognition from God matters… and God’s approval and recognition are enough! In fact, as you can see from this scripture, to report our good deeds to others effectively negates the blessing… the “star in your crown,” so to speak!
Lately, I have been asking God to give me a sense of completeness in Him. I have asked that He help me to only desire HIS approval and HIS company. Don’t misunderstand me. I love my husband, my family and friends. I enjoy their company. But I don’t want to depend on another human being to complete me. I don’t want to feel that very human need to have others around validating me. I want GOD to validate me… and I want HIM to be more than enough. And when I am obedient to His will, I want His approval to be all that I seek.
Today, I pray that this would be your desire, too. We have all that we will ever need in our relationship with God. Jesus suffered, bled and died for this privilege. He gave His very life that ours might be complete in our Heavenly Father. When we truly get this, we won’t need the recognition or approval of others for our good deeds. God will truly complete us…He will be enough.
©2009 Debbie Robus
------------------------------------------------------------------------
October 19 ~ Isaiah 38:14
I cry like a swallow; I mourn like a dove. My eyes are red from looking to you, LORD. I am terribly abused. Please come and help me.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
My second teaching assignment was a one-year position to fill in for a kindergarten teacher who was going on maternity leave. In July before my position started in August, this teacher suffered a brain aneurysm and died within hours. She left behind a husband and a 6-year-old son. I never even got to meet her. From all I have been told, Becky was a beautiful, wonderful woman and a very good teacher. Someone cleared her things out of the classroom, and I began preparing for my school year. Once in awhile, I would find something that had been missed in the cleaning… a stray coffee cup… the umbrella hanging on the back of the closet door knob. It was a bit unsettling, but I turned these in at the office and kept working. More than once, I saw fellow teachers standing in my doorway, shaking their heads. I would hear them whisper, “Becky did it this way,” or “Becky would have a fit if she saw that!”
The worst was my next-door neighbor teacher, Vickie, who had been Becky’s best friend. I realize now that her grief overshadowed everything she said and did, but at the time, I couldn’t understand that. I was only 21, and I had never experienced such personal devastation or loss. So I internalized her digs and unkind remarks. I felt terribly abused by this woman. Nothing I said or did pleased her, and I knew she said things about me to other teachers and expressed her displeasure. I took it very personally. Over and over I prayed, “Please, God! Come and help me. Take this burden from me.”
The one-year assignment became permanent, and the following year was more of the same. Vickie was still mired in her grief… and she vented toward me! When Thanksgiving break came, she and her family traveled to Oklahoma for the holiday weekend. While there, a large dump truck roared through an intersection just as Vickie entered it and literally sliced the entire top off her car. She was killed instantly. Her mother and 7-year-old son – the same age as Becky’s son - were miraculously spared.
The next few weeks were dark ones for our school. We were now all mired in grief, and for most, it was a double whammy from losing two dear friends. I befriended the teacher who replaced my next-door neighbor, and I made a point to avoid the “Vickie did this” or “This was Vickie’s” statements that had hurt me so badly. When she found some of Vickie’s things that had been overlooked, I commiserated. I see now that God allowed me to help my new neighbor through HER transition into this classroom. I also came to realize that it didn’t matter WHO replaced these teachers… the perceived wrath and venting was really just grief that had no clear target.
I've never told anyone this, but at first I was angry with God… and I felt very guilty. “Lord, this is NOT how I meant for You to fix this!” I sometimes wished I had not prayed for help. How could God answer me in this way?! Over time I came to understand that…
- We don’t get to dictate how God answers, but we must ask for help anyway.
- God may have seen that Vickie could never recover from her grief sufficiently. More likely, God knew other things I couldn’t about her circumstances, and calling her to heaven was the best option for Vickie. There was more going on here than just my prayers for relief and rescue. It’s not always just about us!
- We waste a lot of time feeling sorry for ourselves… feeling helpless and abused… when what we really need to do is to relax, be patient and give God time to work.
My point is this… you are going to face things that seem unfair. You may even feel abused and mistreated. But GOD understands. Pray. Ask God to “come and help me.” Then let it go… let Him work... and trust His outcome.
©2009 Debbie Robus
--------------------------------------------------------------------
October 18 ~ Psalm 44:24
Why do you keep looking away? Don't forget our sufferings and all of our troubles.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
Do you ever feel like God has just looked the other way and forgotten about you? First of all, I assure you that He has NOT! But I do understand that we can all feel this way from time to time. Recently, as I prayed, I told God, “I feel so helpless about this situation.” And in the next second, I felt God say to me, “You know better than that! You are NEVER helpless… I am always here to help you.”
In the times that we feel like God has looked away, we need to search our own heart and see where we have lost faith, if only momentarily. We need to confess our troubles to God (even though He knows them already – He wants to hear it from us!) and then GIVE them all to Him. We need to humbly admit that on our own, we are indeed helpless, but through Him, we can handle anything.
God has not forgotten our sufferings or our troubles… and He has not looked away. We have simply momentarily lost sight of how big He is and the fact that He can handle anything… and we have forgotten to let Him. Maybe today we need to give God our burdens and our cares again… and trust Him this time to handle them for us.
©2009 Debbie Robus
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
October 17 ~ Psalm 119:121, 134
I did what was fair and right! Don't hand me over to those who want to mistreat me.
Verse 134: Protect me from abuse, so I can obey your laws.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
Let’s say you are out with friends on a Friday night, and some of them start drinking. They offer you a drink, but you refuse. In fact, you refuse to ride in a car with them and try to persuade them not to drink and drive. But they insist they only had a couple of beers, and off they go. The car has an unfortunate meeting with a guard rail after the driver can’t negotiate a curve, and the driver wrecks. Thankfully no one is injured, but the car is a mess. Police and parents rush to interview anyone and everyone who might know something about this incident, and someone asks you, “Was anyone drinking?” What do you say? Do you lie and cover for your friends – and maybe protect your friendship? Or do you tell the truth, taking a chance that your friends will suffer consequences and never speak to you again?
The choice truly is a hard one. But think of it this way. Suppose you cover for your friends, and because basically all that happened was damage to the car, the friends feel invincible and drink and drive again. But this time the results are much different. Suppose someone is badly injured – or even killed. Can you live with the fact that you did not take action initially that might have prevented this? Of course, you will never know for sure whether admitting these friends were drinking would have resulted in prevention of the second event. Are you willing to take this risk?
So often we operate out of fear. If I do this… such-and-such will happen. If I don’t act, this other thing will result. If I do what is fair and right, I will lose my friends, or at the very least, they will pick on me and mistreat me. Someone will laugh - someone will criticize. I’ll lose my boyfriend, girlfriend, husband, wife, friends or family members. I once reported a student for suspected child abuse, and the mother came to school a few days later, intending to “whip” me!
Right choices are often HARD! But hear the good news… God has our back! He will protect us when we make the hard choices. When we stand up for what is fair and right and honor Him with our choices and behavior, He will protect us. Obey God. Be fair and right in all things. Ask Him to help you make good choices, and to protect you from the consequences (and possible wrath) that ensues. Stand tall and proud in your choices, and know that God really does have your back when you do what is right.
©2009 Debbie Robus
-----------------------------------------------------------------
October 16 ~ Psalms 17:9
Don't let my brutal enemies attack from all sides and kill me.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
What “brutal enemies” are attacking you from all sides today? Is it a test you are studying for or a class you are struggling to pass? Is it your health, a relationship, a job, or money troubles? Is your family in a crisis of some sort? Is the devil attacking you with temptations – or convincing you to choose what he says is the “fun” of sin over a relationship with God?
Whatever you are facing, God can handle it for you. But you need to ask. I’m not saying God won’t protect you anyway, but He really wants to hear from you… He wants you to come before Him and humbly ASK for His help. In a way, it’s a matter of respect and reverence. So show God the respect and honor He deserves. Acknowledge His power, and ask for His help. Don’t let Satan’s brutal enemies attack from all sides… don’t risk Spiritual death at his hands. Trust God to help – ASK Him to do so – and believe that He will!
©2009 Debbie Robus
-----------------------------------------------------------------
October 15 ~ 1 Timothy 2:1-2
First of all, I ask you to pray for everyone. Ask God to help and bless them all, and tell God how thankful you are for each of them. Pray for kings and others in power, so that we may live quiet and peaceful lives as we worship and honor God.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
Did it ever occur to you to pray for “kings and others in power?” How about Osama Bin Laden – ever prayed for him? If you get a chance to read The Kite Runner and A Thousand Splendid Suns, I encourage you to do so. These novels by Khaled Hosseini helped me to understand the people of Afghanistan better and “humanized” them for me. We get so self-absorbed sometimes that we forget that real people have real lives halfway around the world in a completely different culture from ours… but they are nonetheless God’s precious children. Christianity is not just for Americans!
So we should pray for world leaders – regardless of their faith. Don’t we believe in a God who is able to do all things? Can’t He change the heart of a ruthless dictator just as well as a sinful American? Do you remember the little children’s song, “Jesus Loves the Little Children?” In it, a verse says, “Red and yellow, black and white, they are precious in His sight.” I tell you, we do not have an exclusive on God! And we are called in scripture to pray for those in other lands – and their leaders… to thank God for them and to ask for His blessings upon them.
I guess the question today is, “How big is the God we serve?” Is He able to bring us into agreement and peaceful coexistence? Is He able to change the hearts of evil men and women? How big is your God today – and have you prayed for all of His children?
©2009 Debbie Robus
October 2009 Devos - Week 2
October 14 ~ Jeremiah 29:7
Pray for peace in Babylonia and work hard to make it prosperous. The more successful that nation is, the better off you will be.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
From the time we are little kids, we learn to recite prayers… and in doing so, we learn patterns for our meditations. We pray for Mommy and Daddy, sisters and brothers, Grandmas and Grandpas, and the family pets. As we get older and start to mature, we may personalize our prayers even more… praying for friends and other loved ones and for special needs – both ours and those of others. If we are really advanced (!) we may even pray for our fellow church members, and possibly our church leaders!
I think where we probably fall the shortest is in our prayers for people in other lands that we’ve never even met. We may pray for “our soldiers” in the war and abroad… but do we pray for the people of the homeland where the war is being fought? Do we pray for the hungry and sick in Third World countries? Do we ask God to create opportunities for these people to be witnessed to with the Gospel, food, and a smile? Do we pray for people in inner cities of our own country and the homeless in other communities and our own home town?
Jeremiah is saying in this passage that in essence, as our prayers go for those outside our back yard, so goes the nation, and yes, the world. If we only pray for those we know, we really are not “going into the world” as Jesus commanded. He wants us to care about our family and our friends and neighbors… but we must care about – pray for and minister to – those outside our immediate circle and even beyond our borders. The more we serve and minister in these areas, the more God will bless them – and all of us!
©2009 Debbie Robus
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October 13 ~ Daniel 9:15-19
Our Lord God, with your own mighty arm you rescued us from Egypt and made yourself famous to this very day, but we have sinned terribly. In the past, you treated us with such kindness, that we now beg you to stop being so terribly angry with Jerusalem. After all, it is your chosen city built on your holy mountain, even though it has suffered public disgrace because of our sins and those of our ancestors.
I am your servant, Lord God, and I beg you to answer my prayers and bring honor to yourself by having pity on your temple that lies in ruins. Please show mercy to your chosen city, not because we deserve it, but because of your great kindness. Forgive us! Hurry and do something, not only for your city and your chosen people, but to bring honor to yourself.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
Someone suggested to me not too long ago, “I don’t know why God doesn’t get fed up and just wipe us all off the earth and start over!” I’m so thankful that God is more patient than we are! But I know that our behavior grieves Him. I know He is sad about the death and destruction of war. I know He is saddened by the suffering of hungry children – and just as much, the lack of action by His children to do something about this. I know God’s heart is broken when we say and do things that are sinful.
More than this, I believe God is greatly grieved when we say unkind things about others – or skew the truth about them – in the name of Christianity. I heard a pastor say recently that we want to preach “politics” rather than the Gospel of Christ. We must be very careful not to do this. Everyone is entitled to a political opinion… and even to a personal opinion about other people. But we must be very careful not to express our thoughts under the umbrella of our faith, as in, “I vote with the Christians” or “That candidate’s party is not God’s chosen party.”
We must be just as careful not to claim that “God gave us that football win,” or “It was God’s will that such-and-such entertainer win an award or contest.” Whether it is God’s will or not, we must be very careful that we do not give others the impression that we are superior because we belong to God… or that God does not care for the “losing” team or contestants. Truly, God loves all of His children and wishes to bless each of them. Whether God chooses their team to win a football game or a particular person to excel and succeed in a certain manner has nothing to do with how much He loves them.
So often, we create problems where none exist… all in the name of our faith. We must be very careful not to do this. We seem to understand on some level how wars start on an international level, but we overlook the backbiting and dissention that goes on even in our own community. We don’t acknowledge or even understand that pitting one denomination against another… or even one athletic team against another… in the name of God is wrong and hurtful. Think carefully about what you say and how you act. If you have acted hurtfully or disrespectfully, ask God to forgive you and set you on the right path. Represent God well… serve Him with all your heart, and guard your thoughts and actions so that you act in a loving manner and don’t stir up trouble.
©2009 Debbie Robus
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October 12 ~ Daniel 9:3-14
Then, to show my sorrow, I went without eating and dressed in sackcloth and sat in ashes. I confessed my sins and earnestly prayed to the LORD my God: Our Lord, you are a great and fearsome God, and you faithfully keep your agreement with those who love and obey you. But we have sinned terribly by rebelling against you and rejecting your laws and teachings. We have ignored the message your servants the prophets spoke to our kings, our leaders, our ancestors, and everyone else.
Everything you do is right, our Lord. But still we suffer public disgrace because we have been unfaithful and have sinned against you. This includes all of us, both far and near--the people of Judah, Jerusalem, and Israel, as well as those you dragged away to foreign lands, and even our kings, our officials, and our ancestors. LORD God, you are merciful and forgiving, even though we have rebelled against you and rejected your teachings that came to us from your servants the prophets.
Everyone in Israel has stubbornly refused to obey your laws, and so those curses written by your servant Moses have fallen upon us. You warned us and our leaders that Jerusalem would suffer the worst disaster in human history, and you did exactly as you had threatened. We have not escaped any of the terrible curses written by Moses, and yet we have refused to beg you for mercy and to remind ourselves of how faithful you have always been. And when you finally punished us with this horrible disaster, that was also the right thing to do, because we deserved it so much.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
Everybody likes to talk about how evil the world is today. But truly, the world is probably no more evil now than it was in Daniel’s day… we just have the Internet and CNN and other media to tell us within the hour what horrible things are happening throughout the world. And wandering away from God is nothing new, either. Sin really has been part of our lives since the Garden of Eden.
Recently, President Barack Obama was awarded the Nobel Prize for Peace. In an e-mail he issued, President Obama stated:
“To be honest, I do not feel that I deserve to be in the company of so
many of the transformative figures who'vebeen honored by this prize --
men and women who've inspired me and inspired the entire world
through their courageous pursuit of peace.
But I also know that throughout history the Nobel Peace Prize has not
just been used to honor specific achievement; it's also been used as a
means to give momentum to a set of causes. That is why I've said that
I will accept this award as a call to action, a call for all nations and all
peoples to confront the common challenges of the 21st century. These
challenges won't all be met during my presidency, or even my lifetime.
But I know these challenges can be met so long as it's recognized that
they will not be met by one person or one nation alone.
So today we humbly recommit to the important work that we've begun
together. I'm grateful that you've stood with me thus far, and I'm honored
to continue our vital work in the years to come.”
Recommitting to work together for justice and world peace is a great thing… and we all should be ready to roll up our sleeves and help. But we should not do this just because we are Americans or because President Obama has thrown down the challenge… but because GOD has called us to do this… even from the time of Moses! How and where do we even start? I believe the simplest beginnings are often the most effective. So I am challenging each of us to say and/or do something positive for someone else today. Maybe you can post a positive comment to a friend on Facebook. Maybe you can give someone a ride to or from school/church or to the store. Maybe you can do something nice for an elderly person in your neighborhood or your church family.
Or maybe, you will further peace by keeping quiet when tempted to say something in anger or to make an unkind comment. Perhaps you will resist the urge to act out in a sinful manner. But more importantly, I pray that each of us will consciously choose today to do or say at least one positive thing. Once we get the ball rolling and start making the effort, these acts become easier and more natural to us. It’s a start… and God will see our efforts and bless them!
©2009 Debbie Robus
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October 11 ~ Joel 2:12
The LORD said: It isn't too late. You can still return to me with all your heart. Start crying and mourning! Go without eating.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
It isn’t too late… these four words are powerful! You don’t have to just imagine that God is waiting for you… it’s a FACT! You drifted away, but He will welcome you back. You got into things you shouldn’t have… bad habits, sinful activities, poor judgment and bad relationships, and tons of wrong choices. In the human world, you may feel like you have blown it – that your situation is beyond repair.
Hear this passage loudly and clearly… “It isn’t too late. You can still return to me [God] with all your heart!” The next sentences say to start crying and mourning, and to go without eating. You don’t have to be nearly so drastic or dramatic. Just humble yourself before God and admit your shortcomings and sins. Ask Him to forgive you. Then feel his amazing, massive arms wrap around you and draw you to His chest in the best hug you’ve ever experienced. Feel His love and forgiveness… the hope of another chance. Hear Him say, “We’ll figure this out together. I’m just glad you are home.” With God, it isn’t too late… this is the best news you will receive – today or any other!
©2009 Debbie Robus
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October 10 ~ Psalms 74
Our God, why have you completely rejected us?
Why are you so angry with the ones you care for?
Remember the people you rescued long ago, the tribe you chose to be your very own. Think of Mount Zion, your home; walk over to the temple left in ruins forever by those who hate us. Your enemies roared like lions in your holy temple, and they have placed their banners there. It looks like a forest chopped to pieces. They used axes and hatchets to smash the carvings. They burned down your temple and badly disgraced it. They said to themselves, "We'll crush them!" Then they burned every one of your meeting places all over the country.
There are no more miracles and no more prophets. Who knows how long it will be like this? Our God, how much longer will our enemies sneer? Won't they ever stop insulting you? Why don't you punish them? Why are you holding back? Our God and King, you have ruled since ancient times; you have won victories everywhere on this earth. By your power you made a path through the sea, and you smashed the heads of sea monsters. You crushed the heads of the monster Leviathan, then fed him to wild creatures in the desert. You opened the ground for streams and springs and dried up mighty rivers. You rule the day and the night, and you put the moon and the sun in place. You made summer and winter and gave them to the earth.
Remember your enemies, LORD! They foolishly sneer and won't respect you. You treat us like pet doves, but they mistreat us. Don't keep forgetting us and letting us be fed to those wild animals. Remember the agreement you made with us. Violent enemies are hiding in every dark corner of the earth. Don't disappoint those in need or make them turn from you, but help the poor and homeless to shout your praises. Do something, God! Defend yourself. Remember how those fools sneer at you all day long. Don't forget the loud shouts of your enemies.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
This Psalm was written by King David’s Music Director, Asaph. Let’s just say that Asaph was disillusioned. Things had happened in his life to discourage him and drag him down. And haven’t we all been like this at times? Haven’t we all had times when we wanted to say, “Do something, God!”
Some of you have maybe felt that way in school, when students or maybe even teachers or coaches seemed to pick on you and deal you grief. Surely we have all felt this way about war, the natural disasters that have plagued our world in recent years, and world hunger. It’s like Satan is attacking on all sides. We KNOW that God is powerful enough to take him out with a snap of the finger, so to speak, but here he still is! One of my pitfalls is a lack of patience with God for His timing. I want Him to answer my prayers – now! And in looking back over my life, I can see that my times of extreme frustration over what seemed like “unanswered prayers” were anything but that. In retrospect, I can see that God was working, and I am sure he wanted to say, “Just hold on to your pants, Missy… I’m in charge here!” Now, I knew He was in charge, but I just wanted to help Him along a little. And don’t we all do this from time to time?
So here’s my word for you today. It is perfectly okay to let God know you are frustrated (He knows already, but it’s still okay) and to ask Him for help. He wants you to do this… and to be honest about your feelings. But the God who smashed the heads of sea monsters and put the moon and sun in place can surely handle our problems. He can help us resolve conflicts, get a job, sell a house, pass a test, get well, survive disasters and heartaches, and much more. We need to all take a deep breath and learn to “have a little faith” – seriously! Believe me, God is not going to be brought down by His enemies. I’ve read the end of the story – God wins! Hang in there with Him, and you will win, too!
©2009 Debbie Robus
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October 9 ~ 2 Chronicles 7:13-14
Suppose I hold back the rain or send locusts to eat the crops or make my people suffer with deadly diseases.
If my own people will humbly pray and turn back to me and stop sinning, then I will answer them from heaven. I will forgive them and make their land fertile once again.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
Now remember, this is Old Testament. Jesus had not yet come to earth and died on the cross for our sins. Life with God was a series of sacrifices and rewards. But… even though God has forgiven the sins of those of us who have asked… even though all who have invited Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit to come into their lives are washed clean in the blood of Christ… God still blesses us when we turn to Him and stop sinning.
You may have heard the phrase, “The Lord helps those who help themselves.” That is NOT a scripture in the Bible, but this passage comes pretty close to saying almost the same thing. The Lord does indeed help those who work hard to serve Him and be obedient to His will. And the more we honor Him with our service and obedience, the more He blesses us in return.
Halloween is coming. If you have ever passed out candy, you know there are some little “urchins” who knock on your door and seem rather greedy. Others are sweet and patient and polite. You may have found yourself wanting to reward the sweet, polite spooks and goblins with extra candy… and maybe even to hold back on those little grabbers who tried to stick their hand in the bucket and help themselves! It’s a lot the same way with us and God. Some of us are working hard to do what is right and to please Him, and God wants to heap extra blessings on us… while others are grabby and demanding (“You owe me, God!) and more than a little arrogant, and God seems to say, “I think I’ll hold onto his/her rewards a little while longer.”
I want you to get this… God has heaps and piles of blessings He wants to give each of us. But many of us are anything but deserving of His generosity. And some of us are wondering, “Why isn’t God helping me?” The answer may be as simple as turning around and facing Him, falling to your knees, and asking, “Will you forgive me and show me how I can serve You?” It’s worth a shot, isn’t it? What are YOU waiting for? Turn around today. See how fertile your “land” can become when you humble yourself before God.
©2009 Debbie Robus
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October 8 ~ Judges 21:2-4
After the war with Benjamin, the Israelites went to the place of worship at Bethel and sat there until sunset. They cried loudly and bitterly and prayed, "Our LORD, you are the God of Israel. Why did you let this happen? Now one of our tribes is almost gone."
Early the next morning, the Israelites built an altar and offered sacrifices to please the LORD and to ask his blessing.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
In order to understand this passage, I had to go back to Judges 19 and start reading… and believe me, it is a sordid tale that I bet many of you never realized was written in the Bible! Think of it this way… imagine Americans in 12 states fighting each other and virtually wiping out all of the people from one state… and – for real - God told you to do this! Would you be able to do it? More than that, would you be able to thank God and praise Him afterward… and continue to do what He called you to do?
Sometimes God calls us to do some very hard things. Most likely He will never call us to fight and kill our neighbors in other states. But still, you will face times in your life that you know that God is showing you a decision or an action you must make, and you really, really, really don’t want to do it. Maybe God shows you that you are in an unhealthy relationship that must end. Maybe God tells you that you need to change jobs… or move to another city. Maybe God tells you that, despite all of your best efforts to care for your parents or grandparents, they need to be in assisted living or a nursing home… or maybe He is saying, “That’s where YOU need to be!” Maybe God is saying, “You need to be serving in another ministry… a different Sunday School class or Bible study… or even a different church!”
When my grandfather had a stroke in August 1984 and was left unresponsive, the neurologist came into a waiting room and spoke to my grandmother and me. He explained that there was no brain activity, and that my grandfather was not going to survive… and he asked permission to turn off the respirator that was breathing for him. My grandmother agreed, knowing that this would be my grandfather’s wish. When my grandfather died a few minutes later, my grandmother, sister and I went in to see his body. My grandmother immediately began to pray aloud and thank God for her life with this man… 53 years of marriage… and for strength to endure this loss. And God has done just that. For the last 25 years, He has seen my grandmother through times of joy AND more terribly “hard times,” like the loss of her only son. We marvel at how she appears to take seemingly unbearable experiences relatively in stride. We are amazed by her faith.
The mark of a true Christian is the ability to do the hard things that God calls us to – or to endure those that God allows – and then to praise Him and continue serving afterward. We often have a very hard time believing that what God takes us to, He will take us through! And we surely have a hard time seeing that what’s on “the other side” might even be better… or that we will be able to praise God for this hard thing. But clearly, this is nothing new. God has been calling His children to do hard things – make difficult choices – for centuries. And He has always rewarded faithfulness.
Whatever “hard things” you face today, if God is leading your choices, He will be with you “on the other side of the fence.” And once you get there, remember to thank Him and give Him praise for walking with you.
©2009 Debbie Robus
September Devos - Week 4
September 30 ~ Romans 15:30-32
My friends, by the power of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the love that comes from the Holy Spirit, I beg you to pray sincerely with me and for me. Pray that God will protect me from the unbelievers in Judea, and that his people in Jerusalem will be pleased with what I am doing. Ask God to let me come to you and have a pleasant and refreshing visit.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
If you have ever entered a haunted house, you know what a scary, unsettling experience this can be. You don’t know what is around the next corner… what obstacles you might face. Oh, sure… you are fairly certain you will make it out alive… but haven’t we all seen the scary movies where the characters truly don’t know what they will face around the next bend?
Sometimes, living for Jesus is like this. Sometimes it feels like we are entering a dark, scary territory, completely unsure of what lies ahead and how we will fare. Maybe we are inviting friends and coworkers or fellow students to church or church activities. Maybe someone has questioned the validity of Christianity and we are searching for just the right words to give them to express our faith and how/why we believe as we do. Maybe we are starting a new Sunday School class or small group or becoming involved in a volunteer effort.
Maybe we are a new Christian, and we are faced on all sides by those who don’t believe as we do – and who don’t understand us any more. We hear, “You’ve changed,” or “You used to be more fun!” or “I don’t know you any more.” And maybe we are ridiculed or ostracized because we have become a “new creature in Christ.”
Today, let’s pray for each other. Let’s pray that we will be bold and courageous as we live for Jesus… that we will open the door into the darkness of something unknown and walk right on through – straight, tall and confident that God is with us. Let’s ask God to protect us from the “slings and arrows” of unbelievers… and Satan’s attacks. Let’s ask Him to soften the hearts of those we encounter and open them to receive us and the message we bring. Let’s pray for a pleasant outcome – and believe that we will have it! This is not a scary movie… this is life as a Christian. If we will step through the darkness of the unknown and what scares us, we will step into the light and joy of living with Jesus! Pray for courage, pray for safety - then get up and get going with the power of the Lord!
©2009 Debbie Robus
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September 29 ~ Matthew 9:37-38
He said to his disciples, "A large crop is in the fields, but there are only a few workers. Ask the Lord in charge of the harvest to send out workers to bring it in."
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
Probably all of us can think of a time when we were involved in a project – or a mission – that involved a lot of work. The call went out for volunteers, and a good turnout was anticipated, because there were plenty of able-bodied people who could help. But in the end, only a handful showed up to do the work. Or maybe you have been part of a group where one or two people end up doing everything, while the rest of the group sits back and lets them.
In this passage from Matthew, Jesus is talking about Christians and non-believers… or those in need of Christian ministry. The “crop” is large… but only a few people show up to do the work. Jesus is telling us that we need to pray that God will send workers to help with the “harvest.” He is telling us to ask God to pray for willing help… for more people to desire to minister to others. It may be something like a cleanup day at The Storm Shelter – our church’s youth building. It may be helping distribute food one Saturday per month for Angel Food Ministries. It may be delivering Meals on Wheels, or knocking on doors and inviting neighbors to church. Or it may be taking time to stop and hear someone’s answer in the grocery store when you casually ask, “How are you?”
We may need to ask God to open doors for us to invite more people to S.P.A.M. and the Wednesday night children’s ministries and dinners. Or we may be called to pray for opportunities to personally serve in ministries within the church. The bottom line is, we need to be asking God to “increase our territory,” as “The Prayer of Jabez” says… and to bring more willing workers to help with His ministries.
Here’s a simple prayer to use… “Heavenly Father, I know that Your ‘crop’ is large. I know there are dozens of people who need to hear Your word and feel Your presence through all sorts of ministries. Show me how to serve You - show me where I can minister to others in Your name. Motivate other believers to help. Band us together to get the work done and share the load. And in all of our efforts, let us glorify Your name and honor You. Amen.”
©2009 Debbie Robus
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September 28 ~ 1 Timothy 2:1-2
First of all, I ask you to pray for everyone. Ask God to help and bless them all, and tell God how thankful you are for each of them. Pray for kings and others in power, so that we may live quiet and peaceful lives as we worship and honor God.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
We pray for ourselves and our family. We pray for our friends. We may even pray for our church and its ministries. But let’s be honest… how often do we stop to pray for our elected officials, much less our world leaders? Oh, sure… we pray for peace… but do we lift up those who make the decisions that contribute toward that end? We pray for our church and its ministries… but do we pray for our pastor, the Sunday School teachers, the music leaders, and even the office staff?
Do we pray for our teachers? What about – dare I say it – our school principals/counselors and the superintendent? We may pray for the coaches to have a good season, but do we ask God to give them opportunities to witness to those they are coaching? Do we ask Him to make our coaches and teachers good examples of Christian behavior – excellent role models for those in their path?
What do you suppose would happen if we did pray more earnestly for our leaders – at every level? Do you suppose our prayers could thwart some of Satan’s efforts and bring about a different outcome? Do you truly believe in the power of prayer? In this passage, Paul encourages Timothy to pray for everyone… but he specifically mentions those in power and praying for quiet, peaceful lives. We need to start putting our faith into daily action – and that means praying for everyone - including… or maybe especially - our leaders.
2009 Debbie Robus
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September 27 ~ Daniel 6:10
Daniel heard about the law, but when he returned home, he went upstairs and prayed in front of the window that faced Jerusalem. In the same way that he had always done, he knelt down in prayer three times a day, giving thanks to God.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
How important is prayer to you? If someone told you, “It’s against the law to pray. Anyone caught praying will be tortured.” – would you still pray? This is exactly what happened to Daniel – and how he ended up in the lions’ den. And truly, people all around the world risk life and limb to pray and worship God. I know a man who served in the first Gulf War, and he and his comrades gathered on rooftops in the dark to pray and worship, even though this was considered illegal activity where he was stationed. Countless Christians gather in secret in China and other countries to pray and worship God… and they risk their very lives to do so. And I wonder… would I be so brave?
Thankfully, I don’t have to worry about being tortured or killed for praying. So tell me… since we are free to pray anytime and anywhere we choose, why do we have such a sporadic prayer life? Why is it that we struggle to find time to talk to God and worship Him, even though we can do these things any hour of the day in any place we choose? Yet others are willing to go to great lengths and risk everything just for the privilege of talking to our Heavenly Father. Doesn’t make a whole lot of sense, does it?!
Today when you pray… and I do hope you will stop and pray today! – thank God for the privilege of being able to worship Him and speak with Him freely. Thank Him that we do not have to fear torture or death because we pray. And ask God to bless and protect those who do face such dangers. Ask Him to give these people courage and faith as they honor Him. And pray that someday, people around the world might have the freedom to worship God openly without fear of retribution.
©2009 Debbie Robus
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September 26 ~ 1 Kings 8:38, 52
Listen when anyone in Israel truly feels sorry and sincerely prays with arms lifted toward your temple. I am your servant, and the people of Israel belong to you. So listen when any of us pray and cry out for your help.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
These verses are from a passage (1 Kings 8:22-53) in which King Solomon is praying to God in front of all of his kingdom and dedicating the temple that God commissioned him to build. He tells God that he is asking his people to pray to Him… and he is asking God to hear them when they do this. Solomon is “interceding” for his people, and we still do this today. Why do we offer intercessory prayers? Shouldn’t people pray for themselves… shouldn’t they ask God to meet their needs?
The answer is complicated. Yes… absolutely… we should pray for ourselves. But God wants us to pray for others, too. Why is this important? First of all, intercessory prayer is an act of love – and of unselfishness. If God’s love, grace, mercy, forgiveness, and blessings are for all of us, wouldn’t it be rather selfish to only ask for these things for yourself? Additionally… others may not even realize they need prayer… or they may not be certain of how to pray and ask God to help them. Finally, because we are God’s children – and His heirs – we can ask Him for anything – including the needs of others… and God will honor our requests. This is great news!
Over the years, I have been asked to pray for countless people I’ve never even met. I do this because God knows who I’m lifting up in prayer. He knows their needs and how to best meet them. We all know that when we ask our parents for something, they want to help us or give us what we desire. It’s the same with God. He is our Heavenly Father, and He wants to answer our … and to help others for whom we have interceded.
Today, my prayer for you is that you would pray generously, not selfishly. I pray that you would read the prayer of Solomon and use it as a model of how to include the needs of others in your conversations with God. Experience the joy and privilege of talking to God about others… and watching Him work in their lives. I’m praying for you today… and I hope you are doing the same for others.
©2009 Debbie Robus
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September 25 ~ Genesis 25:21
Rebekah still had no children. So Isaac asked the LORD to let her have a child, and the LORD answered his prayer.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
Do you remember Isaac? He was the son of Abraham who was laid on the altar and offered as a sacrifice to God, as commanded. Of course, God spared Isaac and promised Abraham a long life and blessings for his family for generations to come. Earlier in this chapter of Genesis we see that Abraham left everything to Isaac when he died, and the God blessed Isaac after this. Isaac married Rebekah when he was forty, and almost 20 years later, they still had no children together. So when Isaac asked God to give Rebekah a baby, God answered his prayer and rewarded their faithfulness.
Now, you may be thinking that a baby at age 60 was not much of a reward! But this blessing meant everything to Isaac and Rebekah, and they became parents to twins, Jacob and Esau. Clearly, God had big plans for Isaac and Rebekah, and He trusted them with a huge responsibility, just as He had trusted Isaac’s father, Abraham, before him.
Let me ask you something… do you believe God has big plans for you? Are you living a life of faith and patience that is worthy of big blessings? God may not be planning to give you twins at age 60 who will become leaders of two separate nations, as He did for Isaac. But I assure you, God has a plan for your life. Can He trust you with His assignment? Can He count on you to be obedient, faithful, and patient… and to follow through as His humble servant? Do you have what it takes to accomplish whatever God calls you to do? Isn’t it time you took steps to be ready?
©2009 Debbie Robus
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September 24 ~ Isaiah 16:12
It's useless for Moab's people to wear themselves out by going to their altars to worship and pray.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
To understand this scripture, you really should read and study the entire 16th chapter of Isaiah. See, the people of Moab (Moabites) were really pretty selfish, unkind, and prideful. They were somewhat of a bully. But when things didn’t go well for them, they wanted everyone else to feel sorry for them and help them - including God. When things were good in their vineyards, the Moabites felt they really didn’t need God. But when the vines dried up and their livelihood was destroyed, they went ran to God and expected His help.
Do you know someone like this? Are you sometimes this way? If we are honest, we are all the Moabites from time to time. When things are going well, we get cocky… and sometimes we feel pretty invincible. We even get so carried away with ourselves that sometimes we forget completely about God. We certainly don’t give Him much of our time or attention. But let something happen – a crisis of some sort, or something we perceive as a crisis – and we are right there on our knees. We beg, “Please, please, PLEASE, God, help us!” We wring our hands and pace nervously, waiting to hear from Him.
I’m not going to tell you that our loving, gracious, merciful God won’t help you in a time of true crisis. But tell me… do you really think He is going to be eager to rush to the side of someone who treats Him so poorly the rest of the time? Is it worth the risk to find out? I believe it is far better to stay humble and on our knees… to spend daily time in sincere prayer and conversation with God… whether things are going great or not! This guarantees us a place in God’s presence… and His ear… at all times. For me, this is time well spent. What about you?
©2009 Debbie Robus
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September 23 ~ 1 Kings 18:25-29
Elijah said to Baal's prophets, "There are more of you, so you go first. Pick out a bull and get it ready, but don't light the fire. Then pray to your god."
They chose their bull, then they got it ready and prayed to Baal all morning, asking him to start the fire. They danced around the altar and shouted, "Answer us, Baal!" But there was no answer.
At noon, Elijah began making fun of them. "Pray louder!" he said. "Baal must be a god. Maybe he's day-dreaming or using the toilet or traveling somewhere. Or maybe he's asleep, and you have to wake him up."
The prophets kept shouting louder and louder, and they cut themselves with swords and knives until they were bleeding. This was the way they worshiped, and they kept it up all afternoon. But there was no answer of any kind.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
Baal was a false god… a pagan idol. The people could pray to him, make sacrifices, plead and beg, but he wasn’t going to answer, because he wasn’t God and had no supernatural or extraordinary “powers.” Elijah knew this, but clearly, these prophets did not. So they spun out of control in vicious circles and acted ridiculously in an effort to get Baal’s attention… and it never worked.Sadly, many of us have our own Baal. Instead of focusing on the One True God who can help us… instead of surrendering to God and listening to Him… covering ourselves in His word and asking HIM for guidance and answers, we try other avenues. For some of us, it’s as simple as trying compensate for bad behavior and lack of faith by “doing good” – going to church, helping others, giving money, serving on committees, living a “good life.” Others depend upon the advice of fellow believers… parents, teachers, pastors, counselors, and friends. These are not bad things in and of themselves… but good works alone will not get us into heaven. And if our advisors are not led by God, their suggestions won’t carry much weight or hold up for the long haul.
Still others seek answers in things like “communing with nature,” self-help courses, strengthening the mind and body through physical or mental exercise, hard work and making money. And again, these are not bad things… but they are not our God – or shouldn’t be. If you stop and look around, it is easy to see people who are spinning out of control because they are depending upon some sort of Baal more than – or instead of – a relationship with our Heavenly Father. We should all take a good hard look at our lives and examine where we are placing our emphasis and energy. Are we praying to God and seeking His will? Or are we worshipping our own form of Baal?
OUR GOD is never asleep or “out of the office.” He is always on duty and will never leave us stranded. He will always hear us and answer… and we can trust that He will guide us in the right direction. Who are you worshipping today? If you find that a “Baal” has crept into your life, ditch it now! Renew your focus on God, and see how much better your life can become.
©2009 Debbie Robus
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September 22 ~ Judges 6:36-40
Gideon prayed to God, "I know that you promised to help me rescue Israel, but I need proof. Tonight I'll put some wool on the stone floor of that threshing-place over there. If you really will help me rescue Israel, then tomorrow morning let there be dew on the wool, but let the stone floor be dry."
And that's just what happened. Early the next morning, Gideon got up and checked the wool. He squeezed out enough water to fill a bowl.
But Gideon prayed to God again. "Don't be angry at me," Gideon said. "Let me try this just one more time, so I'll really be sure you'll help me. Only this time, let the wool be dry and the stone floor be wet with dew."
That night, God made the stone floor wet with dew, but he kept the wool dry.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
“Here’s your sign.” This has become a common tag line, thanks to the “Blue Collar Comedy” of Larry the Cable Guy. I don’t know why, but I found it so funny – and so human – that Gideon had to have TWO instances of proof from God before he would believe Him. I find it even more amazing that God was patient with Gideon. How often are we like this? How often do we test God and ask for “a sign.” Better yet, how often does God give us a sign, and we miss it? And just how many signs do we have to have from God before we believe Him?
We often do such a poor job of paying attention to God. He shows us things and gives us direction, and we stand in the middle of the floor and say, “Lord, if you would just show me what to do!” Too bad God doesn’t just knock on our forehead and say, “Here’s your sign!” And yet, maybe He does, and we still don’t get it. Like Gideon we say, “Yeah, okay… but can You show me something else?”
It’s time to start paying closer attention. It’s time to start “getting it” the first time. It’s time to grow so close to God in study and prayer that we have faith in what He tells and shows us - the first time! “Here’s your Sign”… are you paying attention?
©2009 Debbie Robus
My friends, by the power of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the love that comes from the Holy Spirit, I beg you to pray sincerely with me and for me. Pray that God will protect me from the unbelievers in Judea, and that his people in Jerusalem will be pleased with what I am doing. Ask God to let me come to you and have a pleasant and refreshing visit.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
If you have ever entered a haunted house, you know what a scary, unsettling experience this can be. You don’t know what is around the next corner… what obstacles you might face. Oh, sure… you are fairly certain you will make it out alive… but haven’t we all seen the scary movies where the characters truly don’t know what they will face around the next bend?
Sometimes, living for Jesus is like this. Sometimes it feels like we are entering a dark, scary territory, completely unsure of what lies ahead and how we will fare. Maybe we are inviting friends and coworkers or fellow students to church or church activities. Maybe someone has questioned the validity of Christianity and we are searching for just the right words to give them to express our faith and how/why we believe as we do. Maybe we are starting a new Sunday School class or small group or becoming involved in a volunteer effort.
Maybe we are a new Christian, and we are faced on all sides by those who don’t believe as we do – and who don’t understand us any more. We hear, “You’ve changed,” or “You used to be more fun!” or “I don’t know you any more.” And maybe we are ridiculed or ostracized because we have become a “new creature in Christ.”
Today, let’s pray for each other. Let’s pray that we will be bold and courageous as we live for Jesus… that we will open the door into the darkness of something unknown and walk right on through – straight, tall and confident that God is with us. Let’s ask God to protect us from the “slings and arrows” of unbelievers… and Satan’s attacks. Let’s ask Him to soften the hearts of those we encounter and open them to receive us and the message we bring. Let’s pray for a pleasant outcome – and believe that we will have it! This is not a scary movie… this is life as a Christian. If we will step through the darkness of the unknown and what scares us, we will step into the light and joy of living with Jesus! Pray for courage, pray for safety - then get up and get going with the power of the Lord!
©2009 Debbie Robus
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September 29 ~ Matthew 9:37-38
He said to his disciples, "A large crop is in the fields, but there are only a few workers. Ask the Lord in charge of the harvest to send out workers to bring it in."
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
Probably all of us can think of a time when we were involved in a project – or a mission – that involved a lot of work. The call went out for volunteers, and a good turnout was anticipated, because there were plenty of able-bodied people who could help. But in the end, only a handful showed up to do the work. Or maybe you have been part of a group where one or two people end up doing everything, while the rest of the group sits back and lets them.
In this passage from Matthew, Jesus is talking about Christians and non-believers… or those in need of Christian ministry. The “crop” is large… but only a few people show up to do the work. Jesus is telling us that we need to pray that God will send workers to help with the “harvest.” He is telling us to ask God to pray for willing help… for more people to desire to minister to others. It may be something like a cleanup day at The Storm Shelter – our church’s youth building. It may be helping distribute food one Saturday per month for Angel Food Ministries. It may be delivering Meals on Wheels, or knocking on doors and inviting neighbors to church. Or it may be taking time to stop and hear someone’s answer in the grocery store when you casually ask, “How are you?”
We may need to ask God to open doors for us to invite more people to S.P.A.M. and the Wednesday night children’s ministries and dinners. Or we may be called to pray for opportunities to personally serve in ministries within the church. The bottom line is, we need to be asking God to “increase our territory,” as “The Prayer of Jabez” says… and to bring more willing workers to help with His ministries.
Here’s a simple prayer to use… “Heavenly Father, I know that Your ‘crop’ is large. I know there are dozens of people who need to hear Your word and feel Your presence through all sorts of ministries. Show me how to serve You - show me where I can minister to others in Your name. Motivate other believers to help. Band us together to get the work done and share the load. And in all of our efforts, let us glorify Your name and honor You. Amen.”
©2009 Debbie Robus
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September 28 ~ 1 Timothy 2:1-2
First of all, I ask you to pray for everyone. Ask God to help and bless them all, and tell God how thankful you are for each of them. Pray for kings and others in power, so that we may live quiet and peaceful lives as we worship and honor God.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
We pray for ourselves and our family. We pray for our friends. We may even pray for our church and its ministries. But let’s be honest… how often do we stop to pray for our elected officials, much less our world leaders? Oh, sure… we pray for peace… but do we lift up those who make the decisions that contribute toward that end? We pray for our church and its ministries… but do we pray for our pastor, the Sunday School teachers, the music leaders, and even the office staff?
Do we pray for our teachers? What about – dare I say it – our school principals/counselors and the superintendent? We may pray for the coaches to have a good season, but do we ask God to give them opportunities to witness to those they are coaching? Do we ask Him to make our coaches and teachers good examples of Christian behavior – excellent role models for those in their path?
What do you suppose would happen if we did pray more earnestly for our leaders – at every level? Do you suppose our prayers could thwart some of Satan’s efforts and bring about a different outcome? Do you truly believe in the power of prayer? In this passage, Paul encourages Timothy to pray for everyone… but he specifically mentions those in power and praying for quiet, peaceful lives. We need to start putting our faith into daily action – and that means praying for everyone - including… or maybe especially - our leaders.
2009 Debbie Robus
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September 27 ~ Daniel 6:10
Daniel heard about the law, but when he returned home, he went upstairs and prayed in front of the window that faced Jerusalem. In the same way that he had always done, he knelt down in prayer three times a day, giving thanks to God.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
How important is prayer to you? If someone told you, “It’s against the law to pray. Anyone caught praying will be tortured.” – would you still pray? This is exactly what happened to Daniel – and how he ended up in the lions’ den. And truly, people all around the world risk life and limb to pray and worship God. I know a man who served in the first Gulf War, and he and his comrades gathered on rooftops in the dark to pray and worship, even though this was considered illegal activity where he was stationed. Countless Christians gather in secret in China and other countries to pray and worship God… and they risk their very lives to do so. And I wonder… would I be so brave?
Thankfully, I don’t have to worry about being tortured or killed for praying. So tell me… since we are free to pray anytime and anywhere we choose, why do we have such a sporadic prayer life? Why is it that we struggle to find time to talk to God and worship Him, even though we can do these things any hour of the day in any place we choose? Yet others are willing to go to great lengths and risk everything just for the privilege of talking to our Heavenly Father. Doesn’t make a whole lot of sense, does it?!
Today when you pray… and I do hope you will stop and pray today! – thank God for the privilege of being able to worship Him and speak with Him freely. Thank Him that we do not have to fear torture or death because we pray. And ask God to bless and protect those who do face such dangers. Ask Him to give these people courage and faith as they honor Him. And pray that someday, people around the world might have the freedom to worship God openly without fear of retribution.
©2009 Debbie Robus
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September 26 ~ 1 Kings 8:38, 52
Listen when anyone in Israel truly feels sorry and sincerely prays with arms lifted toward your temple. I am your servant, and the people of Israel belong to you. So listen when any of us pray and cry out for your help.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
These verses are from a passage (1 Kings 8:22-53) in which King Solomon is praying to God in front of all of his kingdom and dedicating the temple that God commissioned him to build. He tells God that he is asking his people to pray to Him… and he is asking God to hear them when they do this. Solomon is “interceding” for his people, and we still do this today. Why do we offer intercessory prayers? Shouldn’t people pray for themselves… shouldn’t they ask God to meet their needs?
The answer is complicated. Yes… absolutely… we should pray for ourselves. But God wants us to pray for others, too. Why is this important? First of all, intercessory prayer is an act of love – and of unselfishness. If God’s love, grace, mercy, forgiveness, and blessings are for all of us, wouldn’t it be rather selfish to only ask for these things for yourself? Additionally… others may not even realize they need prayer… or they may not be certain of how to pray and ask God to help them. Finally, because we are God’s children – and His heirs – we can ask Him for anything – including the needs of others… and God will honor our requests. This is great news!
Over the years, I have been asked to pray for countless people I’ve never even met. I do this because God knows who I’m lifting up in prayer. He knows their needs and how to best meet them. We all know that when we ask our parents for something, they want to help us or give us what we desire. It’s the same with God. He is our Heavenly Father, and He wants to answer our … and to help others for whom we have interceded.
Today, my prayer for you is that you would pray generously, not selfishly. I pray that you would read the prayer of Solomon and use it as a model of how to include the needs of others in your conversations with God. Experience the joy and privilege of talking to God about others… and watching Him work in their lives. I’m praying for you today… and I hope you are doing the same for others.
©2009 Debbie Robus
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September 25 ~ Genesis 25:21
Rebekah still had no children. So Isaac asked the LORD to let her have a child, and the LORD answered his prayer.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
Do you remember Isaac? He was the son of Abraham who was laid on the altar and offered as a sacrifice to God, as commanded. Of course, God spared Isaac and promised Abraham a long life and blessings for his family for generations to come. Earlier in this chapter of Genesis we see that Abraham left everything to Isaac when he died, and the God blessed Isaac after this. Isaac married Rebekah when he was forty, and almost 20 years later, they still had no children together. So when Isaac asked God to give Rebekah a baby, God answered his prayer and rewarded their faithfulness.
Now, you may be thinking that a baby at age 60 was not much of a reward! But this blessing meant everything to Isaac and Rebekah, and they became parents to twins, Jacob and Esau. Clearly, God had big plans for Isaac and Rebekah, and He trusted them with a huge responsibility, just as He had trusted Isaac’s father, Abraham, before him.
Let me ask you something… do you believe God has big plans for you? Are you living a life of faith and patience that is worthy of big blessings? God may not be planning to give you twins at age 60 who will become leaders of two separate nations, as He did for Isaac. But I assure you, God has a plan for your life. Can He trust you with His assignment? Can He count on you to be obedient, faithful, and patient… and to follow through as His humble servant? Do you have what it takes to accomplish whatever God calls you to do? Isn’t it time you took steps to be ready?
©2009 Debbie Robus
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September 24 ~ Isaiah 16:12
It's useless for Moab's people to wear themselves out by going to their altars to worship and pray.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
To understand this scripture, you really should read and study the entire 16th chapter of Isaiah. See, the people of Moab (Moabites) were really pretty selfish, unkind, and prideful. They were somewhat of a bully. But when things didn’t go well for them, they wanted everyone else to feel sorry for them and help them - including God. When things were good in their vineyards, the Moabites felt they really didn’t need God. But when the vines dried up and their livelihood was destroyed, they went ran to God and expected His help.
Do you know someone like this? Are you sometimes this way? If we are honest, we are all the Moabites from time to time. When things are going well, we get cocky… and sometimes we feel pretty invincible. We even get so carried away with ourselves that sometimes we forget completely about God. We certainly don’t give Him much of our time or attention. But let something happen – a crisis of some sort, or something we perceive as a crisis – and we are right there on our knees. We beg, “Please, please, PLEASE, God, help us!” We wring our hands and pace nervously, waiting to hear from Him.
I’m not going to tell you that our loving, gracious, merciful God won’t help you in a time of true crisis. But tell me… do you really think He is going to be eager to rush to the side of someone who treats Him so poorly the rest of the time? Is it worth the risk to find out? I believe it is far better to stay humble and on our knees… to spend daily time in sincere prayer and conversation with God… whether things are going great or not! This guarantees us a place in God’s presence… and His ear… at all times. For me, this is time well spent. What about you?
©2009 Debbie Robus
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September 23 ~ 1 Kings 18:25-29
Elijah said to Baal's prophets, "There are more of you, so you go first. Pick out a bull and get it ready, but don't light the fire. Then pray to your god."
They chose their bull, then they got it ready and prayed to Baal all morning, asking him to start the fire. They danced around the altar and shouted, "Answer us, Baal!" But there was no answer.
At noon, Elijah began making fun of them. "Pray louder!" he said. "Baal must be a god. Maybe he's day-dreaming or using the toilet or traveling somewhere. Or maybe he's asleep, and you have to wake him up."
The prophets kept shouting louder and louder, and they cut themselves with swords and knives until they were bleeding. This was the way they worshiped, and they kept it up all afternoon. But there was no answer of any kind.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
Baal was a false god… a pagan idol. The people could pray to him, make sacrifices, plead and beg, but he wasn’t going to answer, because he wasn’t God and had no supernatural or extraordinary “powers.” Elijah knew this, but clearly, these prophets did not. So they spun out of control in vicious circles and acted ridiculously in an effort to get Baal’s attention… and it never worked.Sadly, many of us have our own Baal. Instead of focusing on the One True God who can help us… instead of surrendering to God and listening to Him… covering ourselves in His word and asking HIM for guidance and answers, we try other avenues. For some of us, it’s as simple as trying compensate for bad behavior and lack of faith by “doing good” – going to church, helping others, giving money, serving on committees, living a “good life.” Others depend upon the advice of fellow believers… parents, teachers, pastors, counselors, and friends. These are not bad things in and of themselves… but good works alone will not get us into heaven. And if our advisors are not led by God, their suggestions won’t carry much weight or hold up for the long haul.
Still others seek answers in things like “communing with nature,” self-help courses, strengthening the mind and body through physical or mental exercise, hard work and making money. And again, these are not bad things… but they are not our God – or shouldn’t be. If you stop and look around, it is easy to see people who are spinning out of control because they are depending upon some sort of Baal more than – or instead of – a relationship with our Heavenly Father. We should all take a good hard look at our lives and examine where we are placing our emphasis and energy. Are we praying to God and seeking His will? Or are we worshipping our own form of Baal?
OUR GOD is never asleep or “out of the office.” He is always on duty and will never leave us stranded. He will always hear us and answer… and we can trust that He will guide us in the right direction. Who are you worshipping today? If you find that a “Baal” has crept into your life, ditch it now! Renew your focus on God, and see how much better your life can become.
©2009 Debbie Robus
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September 22 ~ Judges 6:36-40
Gideon prayed to God, "I know that you promised to help me rescue Israel, but I need proof. Tonight I'll put some wool on the stone floor of that threshing-place over there. If you really will help me rescue Israel, then tomorrow morning let there be dew on the wool, but let the stone floor be dry."
And that's just what happened. Early the next morning, Gideon got up and checked the wool. He squeezed out enough water to fill a bowl.
But Gideon prayed to God again. "Don't be angry at me," Gideon said. "Let me try this just one more time, so I'll really be sure you'll help me. Only this time, let the wool be dry and the stone floor be wet with dew."
That night, God made the stone floor wet with dew, but he kept the wool dry.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
“Here’s your sign.” This has become a common tag line, thanks to the “Blue Collar Comedy” of Larry the Cable Guy. I don’t know why, but I found it so funny – and so human – that Gideon had to have TWO instances of proof from God before he would believe Him. I find it even more amazing that God was patient with Gideon. How often are we like this? How often do we test God and ask for “a sign.” Better yet, how often does God give us a sign, and we miss it? And just how many signs do we have to have from God before we believe Him?
We often do such a poor job of paying attention to God. He shows us things and gives us direction, and we stand in the middle of the floor and say, “Lord, if you would just show me what to do!” Too bad God doesn’t just knock on our forehead and say, “Here’s your sign!” And yet, maybe He does, and we still don’t get it. Like Gideon we say, “Yeah, okay… but can You show me something else?”
It’s time to start paying closer attention. It’s time to start “getting it” the first time. It’s time to grow so close to God in study and prayer that we have faith in what He tells and shows us - the first time! “Here’s your Sign”… are you paying attention?
©2009 Debbie Robus
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