Psalm 26:8-12
I love your sanctuary, Lord,
the place where your glorious presence dwells.
Don’t let me suffer the fate of sinners.
Don’t condemn me along with murderers.
Their hands are dirty with evil schemes,
and they constantly take bribes.
But I am not like that; I live with integrity.
So redeem me and show me mercy.
Now I stand on solid ground,
and I will publicly praise the Lord.
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
My husband and I have spent much of this week sorting through old photographs – ours and my grandmothers, mostly. We’ve looked at each one and compared this one and that… “Aren’t they almost identical? Is this one more blurry than the next? Why are we saving a picture of someone we don’t even know?” We’ve “culled” the ones that we did not deem worthy of keeping for some reason. Some went to the shredder… others were sent to those featured in the picture for their albums – or trash cans!
Our qualifying criteria for keeping a picture were that it had to have some sort of value – or integrity – or it had to be something we could scan and improve the quality. More than once, one of us would be ready to toss a picture, and the other would say, “I know that’s not a great photo… but I like the way So-and-so is smiling…” or “Yes, that’s a little blurry, but that is good of XYZ…you never saw him/her without that object!” So we were merciful and returned more than a few less-than-stellar specimens to the “save” pile.
I’d like to think that I have more redeeming qualities than poor ones. I strive to live with integrity… to please God with my thoughts, words and actions. But on any given day, He could easily toss me to the “cull” stack if He chose… and I know this. So I make a concerted effort to live in a way that honors God each day. I try not to murder… even with sharp words or gossip. I try very hard not to be manipulated or bribed into doing or saying something I shouldn’t. Even when I feel that others won’t like my comments or actions, I work hard at standing on solid ground and operating in God’s truth – and I hope I do so with kindness and grace.
I do love God’s sanctuary… the place where His glorious presence dwells. I am forever indebted to Him for His gift of Jesus Christ… and for the sacrifice that He made for you and me on the cross. I am forever grateful that Jesus rose from the grave and ascended into heaven… that He waits for me there. Ultimately, I praise God for taking a second look at me… for putting me back in the “keep” pile to live for Him another day… and I’m doing everything I can to stay there. What about you?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Showing posts with label mercy. Show all posts
Showing posts with label mercy. Show all posts
Daily Devotional for February 1, 2012
Romans 7:21-23
It happens so regularly that it's predictable. The moment I decide to do good, sin is there to trip me up. I truly delight in God's commands, but it's pretty obvious that not all of me joins in that delight. Parts of me covertly rebel, and just when I least expect it, they take charge.
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.
Suppose you want to watch the Super Bowl at home, in your sweats, while eating a big bowl of popcorn or a frozen pizza. But your parents, significant other, or best friend want you to go with them to a Super Bowl party with lots of people – many of whom you don’t know all that well. You know you won’t be able to see much of the game… and the other guests may be rooting for the opposing team. You don’t want to get dressed up and socialize with others… but you don’t want to disappoint the person who is asking you to come along. So you “play nice,” squelch your true feelings and agree to go. Whether anyone else knows or not, your heart truly is not in this.
Let’s be honest… a lot of life is about compromises. And that often means doing something when our heart truly isn’t in it, because it’s the right thing to do… on several levels. But compromising in matters of faith is another story altogether. Concessions in the natural have to do with the body… compromises in our faith have to do with the spirit. In Spiritual terms, your heart is where God resides. He has given you the Holy Spirit to live in your heart… to guide you and help you to make choices that honor Jesus and your commitment to Him.
While agreeing to go to a party that really doesn’t interest you is more a gesture of cooperation, choosing to join in a conversation that includes gossip and disrespectful talk about someone else is a rebellion against the Holy Spirit. It may be fun or feel good at the time… but on some level, we usually know (or we should know!) that this is wrong. If your “heart isn’t in” working out and eating right, that’s one thing. But if you don’t have a heart for the obeying God’s word and seeking Him in prayer, that’s another.
So often, we want to pat ourselves on the back for the smallest of gestures toward our faith. We want “brownie points” for attending worship services or helping the needy. We ask God to give us guidance – or we pray for someone in need – and we read our Bible every day for a week… then we congratulate ourselves on how well we are demonstrating our faith and living for Jesus. Even worse… we compare ourselves to others and decide that we’re really doing pretty well. After all… they aren’t serving on a committee or in a leadership role at church. They don’t go on mission trips or work in local charities. Hey… they don’t even come to church very often!
The truth is that they may have more of a heart for God than we ever will. The heart is the “hidden, inner man” and shows us God’s definition of your spirit. No one can truly know what is in your heart except for you and God. But we both know that often, what we say is in our heart… and what is truly there… are two very different things.
It’s time to reconcile our Spiritual heart with the Holy Spirit. It’s time for us to truly focus on what God has placed in our heart… and to operate from that position. We need to be deeply aware of the devil’s attempt to creep in and lure us into a false sense of security… to convince us that his way is more enjoyable. Many of us operate on the premise that as long as we do “enough” to appease God, we can do whatever feels good the rest of the time.
Remember… God knows your heart. He knows when you are operating from a place of honor and glory to Him… and when someone else has captured your attention. Don’t live in this state of limbo. Choose to seek God… to believe and serve Him with your full heart - and never miss the mark. Ask Him to give you wisdom and courage to resist the temptations that will surely come… and to stay on course.
Renew your commitment to delight in God’s commands… and to defy the devil’s petition for your attention. Give your heart fully to God… and live in the confidence that He is always in charge. You still may not have your heart in attending a Super Bowl party. But if God is telling you to in your “Spiritual heart” go, He will equip you with an attitude of love and generosity… and the grace to smile all evening.
©2012 Debbie Robus
It happens so regularly that it's predictable. The moment I decide to do good, sin is there to trip me up. I truly delight in God's commands, but it's pretty obvious that not all of me joins in that delight. Parts of me covertly rebel, and just when I least expect it, they take charge.
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.
Suppose you want to watch the Super Bowl at home, in your sweats, while eating a big bowl of popcorn or a frozen pizza. But your parents, significant other, or best friend want you to go with them to a Super Bowl party with lots of people – many of whom you don’t know all that well. You know you won’t be able to see much of the game… and the other guests may be rooting for the opposing team. You don’t want to get dressed up and socialize with others… but you don’t want to disappoint the person who is asking you to come along. So you “play nice,” squelch your true feelings and agree to go. Whether anyone else knows or not, your heart truly is not in this.
Let’s be honest… a lot of life is about compromises. And that often means doing something when our heart truly isn’t in it, because it’s the right thing to do… on several levels. But compromising in matters of faith is another story altogether. Concessions in the natural have to do with the body… compromises in our faith have to do with the spirit. In Spiritual terms, your heart is where God resides. He has given you the Holy Spirit to live in your heart… to guide you and help you to make choices that honor Jesus and your commitment to Him.
While agreeing to go to a party that really doesn’t interest you is more a gesture of cooperation, choosing to join in a conversation that includes gossip and disrespectful talk about someone else is a rebellion against the Holy Spirit. It may be fun or feel good at the time… but on some level, we usually know (or we should know!) that this is wrong. If your “heart isn’t in” working out and eating right, that’s one thing. But if you don’t have a heart for the obeying God’s word and seeking Him in prayer, that’s another.
So often, we want to pat ourselves on the back for the smallest of gestures toward our faith. We want “brownie points” for attending worship services or helping the needy. We ask God to give us guidance – or we pray for someone in need – and we read our Bible every day for a week… then we congratulate ourselves on how well we are demonstrating our faith and living for Jesus. Even worse… we compare ourselves to others and decide that we’re really doing pretty well. After all… they aren’t serving on a committee or in a leadership role at church. They don’t go on mission trips or work in local charities. Hey… they don’t even come to church very often!
The truth is that they may have more of a heart for God than we ever will. The heart is the “hidden, inner man” and shows us God’s definition of your spirit. No one can truly know what is in your heart except for you and God. But we both know that often, what we say is in our heart… and what is truly there… are two very different things.
It’s time to reconcile our Spiritual heart with the Holy Spirit. It’s time for us to truly focus on what God has placed in our heart… and to operate from that position. We need to be deeply aware of the devil’s attempt to creep in and lure us into a false sense of security… to convince us that his way is more enjoyable. Many of us operate on the premise that as long as we do “enough” to appease God, we can do whatever feels good the rest of the time.
Remember… God knows your heart. He knows when you are operating from a place of honor and glory to Him… and when someone else has captured your attention. Don’t live in this state of limbo. Choose to seek God… to believe and serve Him with your full heart - and never miss the mark. Ask Him to give you wisdom and courage to resist the temptations that will surely come… and to stay on course.
Renew your commitment to delight in God’s commands… and to defy the devil’s petition for your attention. Give your heart fully to God… and live in the confidence that He is always in charge. You still may not have your heart in attending a Super Bowl party. But if God is telling you to in your “Spiritual heart” go, He will equip you with an attitude of love and generosity… and the grace to smile all evening.
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for November 17, 2011
Psalm 130:1-4
From a sea of troubles I call out to you, LORD. Won't you please listen as I beg for mercy? If you kept record of our sins, no one could last long. But you forgive us, and so we will worship you.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
"Well, here's another nice mess you've gotten me into!" This was the familiar line uttered frequently by comedian Oliver Hardy, who partnered with Stan Laurel to create the well-known team of the 1920s-1940s known as “Laurel & Hardy.” On any given day, most of us could utter a similar sentence… “Here’s another nice mess I’ve gotten into!” It seems like we often go from creating one mess to another! And for some, the record of these “messes” follows them for years… maybe forever. Think criminal records, driving offenses, poor transcripts, and bad work histories - or even bad reputations, to name a few.
Thankfully, God stands ready to forgive us and set us upright. This is not a license to sin and behave erratically… but we can take comfort in the knowledge that God operates in grace and mercy. It is even more comforting to know that He does not keep a record of our sins.
I don’t know about you, but setting aside all of the countless other great reasons to worship our mighty God, this is reason enough to worship God! To think that God stands ready to forgive – and forget – my sins is astounding... incredible… and worthy of my praise and celebration. Don’t you agree? Have you thanked God lately for getting you out of one mess after another and scattering your sins and mistakes to the four winds? Isn’t today a good day to begin?
©2011 Debbie Robus
From a sea of troubles I call out to you, LORD. Won't you please listen as I beg for mercy? If you kept record of our sins, no one could last long. But you forgive us, and so we will worship you.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
"Well, here's another nice mess you've gotten me into!" This was the familiar line uttered frequently by comedian Oliver Hardy, who partnered with Stan Laurel to create the well-known team of the 1920s-1940s known as “Laurel & Hardy.” On any given day, most of us could utter a similar sentence… “Here’s another nice mess I’ve gotten into!” It seems like we often go from creating one mess to another! And for some, the record of these “messes” follows them for years… maybe forever. Think criminal records, driving offenses, poor transcripts, and bad work histories - or even bad reputations, to name a few.
Thankfully, God stands ready to forgive us and set us upright. This is not a license to sin and behave erratically… but we can take comfort in the knowledge that God operates in grace and mercy. It is even more comforting to know that He does not keep a record of our sins.
I don’t know about you, but setting aside all of the countless other great reasons to worship our mighty God, this is reason enough to worship God! To think that God stands ready to forgive – and forget – my sins is astounding... incredible… and worthy of my praise and celebration. Don’t you agree? Have you thanked God lately for getting you out of one mess after another and scattering your sins and mistakes to the four winds? Isn’t today a good day to begin?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for November 9, 2011
Psalm 130:1-5
From a sea of troubles I call out to you, LORD. Won't you please listen as I beg for mercy? If you kept record of our sins, no one could last long. But you forgive us, and so we will worship you. With all my heart, I am waiting, LORD, for you! I trust your promises.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Recently I watched a program called “Our America with Lisa Ling” about veterans who suffer from Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome – PTSD for short. These men and women harbor troubling – even horrific – images and memories of their wartime experiences. One man had been building up anger, rage and frustration for eight years… and taking aim at his wife and children with the emotions that overflowed. Yet he could not express himself… he could not explain what was causing him to be such an ogre. His wife was at a crossroads… should she and the children stay and be subjected to this rage - or should they leave?
The couple spent a week at a retreat in Angel Fire, New Mexico, where therapists specialize in helping veterans with PTSD. Ultimately, this man was able to express his emotions. He had served as a medic in Iraq. When the fighting ended, the civilians began to come to the medics for treatment. They were badly burned, maimed, missing limbs, and more. This man said he did all he could to treat as many as possible. But at the end of the day, many returned home untreated. There was nothing he could do for them. He said he could still see their faces… the emptiness in their eyes… their hopelessness. He said he knew that many of the children he was unable to help went home to die. And he felt guilty.
It took a lot of intensive work to get this man to release his burdens, but he was able to do it… to forgive himself and realize that he did all he could. As one therapist told him, “It’s not on you.” The veteran was able to understand this and acknowledge it… to forgive himself, and to apologize to his wife and family. He was able to accept – and love – himself again… which enabled him to love others.
So many of us are suffering from Spiritual PTSD. We are carrying burdens and sins that Jesus has already forgiven. We should let go of them… but we continue to keep a record, long after Jesus has scattered them to the four winds with His blood on the cross. If we are truly committed to Christ… if we really have invited Him to be LORD of our life and asked His Holy Spirit to dwell within us… we must express our sins and burdens to Him – then let them go. We must love and accept ourselves as Jesus does… so that we can love others in His name.
I don’t know what your “sea of troubles” is today. I don’t know what burdens are weighing you down – what sins you keep picking back up and carrying like a sack of rocks. But I do know that Jesus is waiting to relieve you of all of this. It will take a huge leap of faith on your part – and mine. It’s daunting to truly “let go and let God,” because we have gotten so used to carrying this baggage with us. Even uncomfortable/unpleasant things can become part of our “Comfort Zone,” because they are so familiar.
Today can be the first day for a new Comfort Zone in your life… one where Jesus rules and carries the big stuff, so that you are free to serve Him completely. You can love yourself and others… and do big things in His name. Worship the LORD who carries our “sea of troubles” – and scatters them. Shred the “record books” of your sins and burdens, and operate in faith and the promises of our forgiving and merciful Father.
©2011 Debbie Robus
From a sea of troubles I call out to you, LORD. Won't you please listen as I beg for mercy? If you kept record of our sins, no one could last long. But you forgive us, and so we will worship you. With all my heart, I am waiting, LORD, for you! I trust your promises.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Recently I watched a program called “Our America with Lisa Ling” about veterans who suffer from Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome – PTSD for short. These men and women harbor troubling – even horrific – images and memories of their wartime experiences. One man had been building up anger, rage and frustration for eight years… and taking aim at his wife and children with the emotions that overflowed. Yet he could not express himself… he could not explain what was causing him to be such an ogre. His wife was at a crossroads… should she and the children stay and be subjected to this rage - or should they leave?
The couple spent a week at a retreat in Angel Fire, New Mexico, where therapists specialize in helping veterans with PTSD. Ultimately, this man was able to express his emotions. He had served as a medic in Iraq. When the fighting ended, the civilians began to come to the medics for treatment. They were badly burned, maimed, missing limbs, and more. This man said he did all he could to treat as many as possible. But at the end of the day, many returned home untreated. There was nothing he could do for them. He said he could still see their faces… the emptiness in their eyes… their hopelessness. He said he knew that many of the children he was unable to help went home to die. And he felt guilty.
It took a lot of intensive work to get this man to release his burdens, but he was able to do it… to forgive himself and realize that he did all he could. As one therapist told him, “It’s not on you.” The veteran was able to understand this and acknowledge it… to forgive himself, and to apologize to his wife and family. He was able to accept – and love – himself again… which enabled him to love others.
So many of us are suffering from Spiritual PTSD. We are carrying burdens and sins that Jesus has already forgiven. We should let go of them… but we continue to keep a record, long after Jesus has scattered them to the four winds with His blood on the cross. If we are truly committed to Christ… if we really have invited Him to be LORD of our life and asked His Holy Spirit to dwell within us… we must express our sins and burdens to Him – then let them go. We must love and accept ourselves as Jesus does… so that we can love others in His name.
I don’t know what your “sea of troubles” is today. I don’t know what burdens are weighing you down – what sins you keep picking back up and carrying like a sack of rocks. But I do know that Jesus is waiting to relieve you of all of this. It will take a huge leap of faith on your part – and mine. It’s daunting to truly “let go and let God,” because we have gotten so used to carrying this baggage with us. Even uncomfortable/unpleasant things can become part of our “Comfort Zone,” because they are so familiar.
Today can be the first day for a new Comfort Zone in your life… one where Jesus rules and carries the big stuff, so that you are free to serve Him completely. You can love yourself and others… and do big things in His name. Worship the LORD who carries our “sea of troubles” – and scatters them. Shred the “record books” of your sins and burdens, and operate in faith and the promises of our forgiving and merciful Father.
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for November 2, 2011
Psalm 123
Our LORD and our God, I turn my eyes to you, on your throne in heaven. Servants look to their master, but we will look to you, until you have mercy on us. Please have mercy, LORD! We have been insulted more than we can stand, and we can't take more abuse from those proud, conceited people.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When was the last time you were insulted? I bet it wasn’t that long ago! It seems like the whole world deals in insults these days. It may have been something as seemingly small as a “dig” from a “friend” on Facebook about your political leanings. Or your “friend” may have hacked into your account and posted a dumb (and insulting) status about you… like “Mike plays with dolls” or “Susan is my favorite daughter. I love her the most.”
Or you may have been insulted on a larger scale… embarrassed by a coworker or boss in front of your peers, or by a spouse in front of friends and family. Someone may have been critical of your weight or appearance – or how you dress – someone may have tried to put you down and make you feel dumb. The media insults us several times a day. We’re not smart enough to make good decisions, so the advertisers want to make them for us. The reason you can’t sleep at night is because you don’t take XYZ pill. And if you will only eat a carton or two of ABC yogurt each day, you’ll be fit and trim and never have to diet again. What were we thinking?!
Still others want us to feel inferior because of our faith… or how we worship. Maybe you are ridiculed or made to feel badly by those who attend another church or belong to another denomination… or a different political party. Perhaps others are assuming all sorts of things about you without checking their facts… then making accusations and judgments that really sting, based on these inaccuracies. At the end of the day, we all have times when we are fed up and frustrated by the insults of others… and we are ready for mercy. Sadly, we may be the ones hurling some of those insults… and for that, we need mercy, also.
Thankfully, we serve a God who can rescue us. He stands ready to comfort us when we are hurting… and to correct us and guide our steps when we need that, as well! All we have to do is turn to God… look up and ask for His help… and trust Him to deliver. We must be open – and honest – and hear what God has to say (and listen with an obedient heart). But God will never leave us to fend for ourselves.
When was the last time you turned to God? Are you wallowing in self-pity from the insults of this world… or are you trusting Him to make things better - to shower you with grace, mercy, and unconditional love? Have you asked God to guide your steps and help you avoid insults toward others? Have you asked Him to rescue you from the slings and arrows that may come your way? We can stop the abuse… both the getting and the giving. Turn your eyes toward the heavens and say, “Lord, help me!” He can… and He will. Are you looking upward?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Our LORD and our God, I turn my eyes to you, on your throne in heaven. Servants look to their master, but we will look to you, until you have mercy on us. Please have mercy, LORD! We have been insulted more than we can stand, and we can't take more abuse from those proud, conceited people.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When was the last time you were insulted? I bet it wasn’t that long ago! It seems like the whole world deals in insults these days. It may have been something as seemingly small as a “dig” from a “friend” on Facebook about your political leanings. Or your “friend” may have hacked into your account and posted a dumb (and insulting) status about you… like “Mike plays with dolls” or “Susan is my favorite daughter. I love her the most.”
Or you may have been insulted on a larger scale… embarrassed by a coworker or boss in front of your peers, or by a spouse in front of friends and family. Someone may have been critical of your weight or appearance – or how you dress – someone may have tried to put you down and make you feel dumb. The media insults us several times a day. We’re not smart enough to make good decisions, so the advertisers want to make them for us. The reason you can’t sleep at night is because you don’t take XYZ pill. And if you will only eat a carton or two of ABC yogurt each day, you’ll be fit and trim and never have to diet again. What were we thinking?!
Still others want us to feel inferior because of our faith… or how we worship. Maybe you are ridiculed or made to feel badly by those who attend another church or belong to another denomination… or a different political party. Perhaps others are assuming all sorts of things about you without checking their facts… then making accusations and judgments that really sting, based on these inaccuracies. At the end of the day, we all have times when we are fed up and frustrated by the insults of others… and we are ready for mercy. Sadly, we may be the ones hurling some of those insults… and for that, we need mercy, also.
Thankfully, we serve a God who can rescue us. He stands ready to comfort us when we are hurting… and to correct us and guide our steps when we need that, as well! All we have to do is turn to God… look up and ask for His help… and trust Him to deliver. We must be open – and honest – and hear what God has to say (and listen with an obedient heart). But God will never leave us to fend for ourselves.
When was the last time you turned to God? Are you wallowing in self-pity from the insults of this world… or are you trusting Him to make things better - to shower you with grace, mercy, and unconditional love? Have you asked God to guide your steps and help you avoid insults toward others? Have you asked Him to rescue you from the slings and arrows that may come your way? We can stop the abuse… both the getting and the giving. Turn your eyes toward the heavens and say, “Lord, help me!” He can… and He will. Are you looking upward?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for October 13, 2011
John 13:12-17
After Jesus had washed his disciples' feet and had put his outer garment back on, he sat down again. Then he said: Do you understand what I have done? You call me your teacher and Lord, and you should, because that is who I am. And if your Lord and teacher has washed your feet, you should do the same for each other. I have set the example, and you should do for each other exactly what I have done for you. I tell you for certain that servants are not greater than their master, and messengers are not greater than the one who sent them. You know these things, and God will bless you, if you do them.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Recently I told you about using little twinkling Christmas lights throughout our home for decorating accents. If you know anything about these strands of lights, you know that often a section will stop working, while the rest of the lights continue to glow. Several years ago, my husband told me that he was rescuing “bad” strands of lights I would throw away, and he was recycling them… replacing burned out bulbs from one strand with good bulbs from another, and creating a restored, working set of lights.
Now you may ask, “Why would a man who can afford a small strand of twinkling lights go to this much trouble?” There are at least two answers:
Each of us is so eager for Jesus to make us shine… to forgive us… to treat us with grace, mercy and kindness… and to see our value even when we cannot. Yet we find it nearly impossible to do this for others. We have to change this. We must stop and look at each person in our path and ask, “How do I wish to be treated by this person?” The answer will directly identify how we should treat him/her.
None of us is better than the next guy. A strand of bulbs that partially sparkles still shines… even if some of the bulbs are not burning at the moment. Those who have frustrated, angered, annoyed, disappointed, irritated or disgusted us still have worth to Jesus… as do we. We are called to treat all people equally… and to give them the same value as Jesus would… and as He demonstrated.
There is a saying that goes around from time to time… “You can tell a lot about a person by how he/she handles a tangled strand of Christmas lights.” How are you handling the “twinkling lights” in your life? Would Jesus handle them the same way?
©2011 Debbie Robus
After Jesus had washed his disciples' feet and had put his outer garment back on, he sat down again. Then he said: Do you understand what I have done? You call me your teacher and Lord, and you should, because that is who I am. And if your Lord and teacher has washed your feet, you should do the same for each other. I have set the example, and you should do for each other exactly what I have done for you. I tell you for certain that servants are not greater than their master, and messengers are not greater than the one who sent them. You know these things, and God will bless you, if you do them.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Recently I told you about using little twinkling Christmas lights throughout our home for decorating accents. If you know anything about these strands of lights, you know that often a section will stop working, while the rest of the lights continue to glow. Several years ago, my husband told me that he was rescuing “bad” strands of lights I would throw away, and he was recycling them… replacing burned out bulbs from one strand with good bulbs from another, and creating a restored, working set of lights.
Now you may ask, “Why would a man who can afford a small strand of twinkling lights go to this much trouble?” There are at least two answers:
- This sort of conscientious thriftiness is why we can afford to buy twinkling lights in the first place, and
- My husband sees the potential and “good” in the light strand… and he rarely wastes anything!
Each of us is so eager for Jesus to make us shine… to forgive us… to treat us with grace, mercy and kindness… and to see our value even when we cannot. Yet we find it nearly impossible to do this for others. We have to change this. We must stop and look at each person in our path and ask, “How do I wish to be treated by this person?” The answer will directly identify how we should treat him/her.
None of us is better than the next guy. A strand of bulbs that partially sparkles still shines… even if some of the bulbs are not burning at the moment. Those who have frustrated, angered, annoyed, disappointed, irritated or disgusted us still have worth to Jesus… as do we. We are called to treat all people equally… and to give them the same value as Jesus would… and as He demonstrated.
There is a saying that goes around from time to time… “You can tell a lot about a person by how he/she handles a tangled strand of Christmas lights.” How are you handling the “twinkling lights” in your life? Would Jesus handle them the same way?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for October 12, 2011
John 13:1-11
It was before Passover, and Jesus knew that the time had come for him to leave this world and to return to the Father. He had always loved his followers in this world, and he loved them to the very end.
Even before the evening meal started, the devil had made Judas, the son of Simon Iscariot, decide to betray Jesus. Jesus knew that he had come from God and would go back to God. He also knew that the Father had given him complete power. So during the meal Jesus got up, removed his outer garment, and wrapped a towel around his waist. He put some water into a large bowl. Then he began washing his disciples' feet and drying them with the towel he was wearing.
But when he came to Simon Peter, that disciple asked, "Lord, are you going to wash my feet?" Jesus answered, "You don't really know what I am doing, but later you will understand."
"You will never wash my feet!" Peter replied. "If I don't wash you," Jesus told him, "you don't really belong to me." Peter said, "Lord, don't wash just my feet. Wash my hands and my head."
Jesus answered, "People who have bathed and are clean all over need to wash just their feet. And you, my disciples, are clean, except for one of you." Jesus knew who would betray him. That is why he said, "except for one of you."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Betrayal… sadly, most of us have experienced this in some form. Certainly we have not been betrayed on the scale of Judas’ disloyalty to Jesus… but we’ve all been betrayed in some way – and possibly, we have betrayed someone else.
Someone has told something we shared in confidence. A friend or loved one may have gladly accepted our hospitality or help… then spoke unkindly of us to others. We may have trusted someone with our heart, our home, and our assets, only to wake up one day and find that person – and all of our belongings – gone.
Regardless of the magnitude of our betrayal, we are left hurt, disappointed, confused… and sometimes angry. We wonder how this could have happened… how people could be so cruel and heartless… or evil… and we wonder how to handle it all. All we really have to do is read this scripture passage.
Jesus knew that Judas would betray Him before it ever happened! Yet He performed this act of love and humility – washing the feet of His disciples. In doing so, He was demonstrating something incredibly powerful. In order to belong to Jesus, we must be washed clean by Him – by the blood He shed for us on the cross. And… no matter what we have done in the past, He stands ready and able to cleans us.
You may be a really good person. You may do and say all the right things, go to church, read your Bible, and pray. You may give your time, talents, and money to serve others… and you may behave in a manner that is beyond reproach. Betrayal of another might be the furthest thing from your mind. But unless you humble yourself before Jesus and allow Him to wash you clean in His blood… to “wash your feet,” you are not truly free of sin and entitled to be His disciple – and to enjoy Eternal Life with Him someday.
There are two lessons here today –
How clean are your feet? Could you use another “foot washing” today?
©2011 Debbie Robus
It was before Passover, and Jesus knew that the time had come for him to leave this world and to return to the Father. He had always loved his followers in this world, and he loved them to the very end.
Even before the evening meal started, the devil had made Judas, the son of Simon Iscariot, decide to betray Jesus. Jesus knew that he had come from God and would go back to God. He also knew that the Father had given him complete power. So during the meal Jesus got up, removed his outer garment, and wrapped a towel around his waist. He put some water into a large bowl. Then he began washing his disciples' feet and drying them with the towel he was wearing.
But when he came to Simon Peter, that disciple asked, "Lord, are you going to wash my feet?" Jesus answered, "You don't really know what I am doing, but later you will understand."
"You will never wash my feet!" Peter replied. "If I don't wash you," Jesus told him, "you don't really belong to me." Peter said, "Lord, don't wash just my feet. Wash my hands and my head."
Jesus answered, "People who have bathed and are clean all over need to wash just their feet. And you, my disciples, are clean, except for one of you." Jesus knew who would betray him. That is why he said, "except for one of you."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Betrayal… sadly, most of us have experienced this in some form. Certainly we have not been betrayed on the scale of Judas’ disloyalty to Jesus… but we’ve all been betrayed in some way – and possibly, we have betrayed someone else.
Someone has told something we shared in confidence. A friend or loved one may have gladly accepted our hospitality or help… then spoke unkindly of us to others. We may have trusted someone with our heart, our home, and our assets, only to wake up one day and find that person – and all of our belongings – gone.
Regardless of the magnitude of our betrayal, we are left hurt, disappointed, confused… and sometimes angry. We wonder how this could have happened… how people could be so cruel and heartless… or evil… and we wonder how to handle it all. All we really have to do is read this scripture passage.
Jesus knew that Judas would betray Him before it ever happened! Yet He performed this act of love and humility – washing the feet of His disciples. In doing so, He was demonstrating something incredibly powerful. In order to belong to Jesus, we must be washed clean by Him – by the blood He shed for us on the cross. And… no matter what we have done in the past, He stands ready and able to cleans us.
You may be a really good person. You may do and say all the right things, go to church, read your Bible, and pray. You may give your time, talents, and money to serve others… and you may behave in a manner that is beyond reproach. Betrayal of another might be the furthest thing from your mind. But unless you humble yourself before Jesus and allow Him to wash you clean in His blood… to “wash your feet,” you are not truly free of sin and entitled to be His disciple – and to enjoy Eternal Life with Him someday.
There are two lessons here today –
- When you are betrayed by another, remember Jesus. Show the love and mercy He did. “Wash their feet” by praying for them and offering forgiveness (if only in your own heart). Lose the baggage of hurt and disappointment that the devil is trying to heap upon you.
- Invite Jesus to wash YOU clean of your sins. Humble yourself before Him and say, “LORD, I need you to cleanse me completely, so that I can truly follow You and serve you as a true disciple.”
How clean are your feet? Could you use another “foot washing” today?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for September 26, 2011
Psalm 115:1-8
Not for our sake, GOD, no, not for our sake, but for your name's sake, show your glory. Do it on account of your merciful love, do it on account of your faithful ways. Do it so none of the nations can say, "Where now, oh where is their God?"
Our God is in heaven doing whatever he wants to do. Their gods are metal and wood, handmade in a basement shop: Carved mouths that can't talk, painted eyes that can't see, tin ears that can't hear, molded noses that can't smell, hands that can't grasp, feet that can't walk or run, throats that never utter a sound. Those who make them have become just like them, have become just like the gods they trust.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
Have you ever known someone who had a collection of things… coins, stamps, memorabilia, and more… and the items in the collection became so important to the collector that he/she talked about them as if they were precious children? Whatever the person focused on became an obsession… and the objects of his/her affection became almost like a god. It is very hard to talk to someone who is so focused on such things, and a lot of people would say this fixation made this person strange at best… and downright frustrating to try to relate with for certain!
Yet we do the very same thing, in a lot of ways. We become so obsessed with a sport, video games, hobbies, and more - or even another person - and we make this our god and devote all of our time and attention toward cultivating this relationship. If we were half as devoted to God as we are some of the people and things that consume us, we would accomplish unbelievable things in His name and for His glory. And we can’t begin to imagine the blessings that would flow in our direction!
I don’t know about you, but I want to serve a God who can talk to me – and hear me when I speak to Him! I want to serve the God of Heaven who loves me faithfully and mercifully… and holds me in the palm of His hand. I want to serve a God who I can trust to always have perfect plans for my life… answers to my problems… and protection for me 24/7. Do you serve the God of Heaven… or a god (or gods) you have made for yourself? Have you seen the glory of the One True God in your own life and the lives of those around you lately? Isn’t it time you did?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Not for our sake, GOD, no, not for our sake, but for your name's sake, show your glory. Do it on account of your merciful love, do it on account of your faithful ways. Do it so none of the nations can say, "Where now, oh where is their God?"
Our God is in heaven doing whatever he wants to do. Their gods are metal and wood, handmade in a basement shop: Carved mouths that can't talk, painted eyes that can't see, tin ears that can't hear, molded noses that can't smell, hands that can't grasp, feet that can't walk or run, throats that never utter a sound. Those who make them have become just like them, have become just like the gods they trust.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
Have you ever known someone who had a collection of things… coins, stamps, memorabilia, and more… and the items in the collection became so important to the collector that he/she talked about them as if they were precious children? Whatever the person focused on became an obsession… and the objects of his/her affection became almost like a god. It is very hard to talk to someone who is so focused on such things, and a lot of people would say this fixation made this person strange at best… and downright frustrating to try to relate with for certain!
Yet we do the very same thing, in a lot of ways. We become so obsessed with a sport, video games, hobbies, and more - or even another person - and we make this our god and devote all of our time and attention toward cultivating this relationship. If we were half as devoted to God as we are some of the people and things that consume us, we would accomplish unbelievable things in His name and for His glory. And we can’t begin to imagine the blessings that would flow in our direction!
I don’t know about you, but I want to serve a God who can talk to me – and hear me when I speak to Him! I want to serve the God of Heaven who loves me faithfully and mercifully… and holds me in the palm of His hand. I want to serve a God who I can trust to always have perfect plans for my life… answers to my problems… and protection for me 24/7. Do you serve the God of Heaven… or a god (or gods) you have made for yourself? Have you seen the glory of the One True God in your own life and the lives of those around you lately? Isn’t it time you did?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for September 22, 2011
Psalm 112:1-4
Shout praises to the LORD! The LORD blesses everyone who worships him and gladly obeys his teachings. Their descendants will have great power in the land, because the LORD blesses all who do right. They will get rich and prosper and will always be remembered for their fairness. They will be so kind and merciful and good, that they will be a light in the dark for others who do the right thing.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Recently I sold an item on eBay that was going down the road to another city in Arkansas. I had charged $6.00 for Priority Mail shipping, but when I saw that the buyer lived so close by, I messaged her and suggested she pay about half that amount for First Class shipping, which will be just as fast and far less expensive. I didn’t have to do this… the buyer had seen the shipping price when she bid, and she was apparently more than willing to pay $6. In fact, I could have easily shipped the package for $3.25 and pocketed the extra money. And I will have to drive to the Post Office to purchase the First Class postage instead of printing a Priority Mail label at home. But this would have been neither fair nor right. I have to stop and ask myself, “How would I feel if someone did this to me?” (You can insert my selfrighteous pat on the back here!)
In the scheme of things, this may seem rather insignificant. But when we are less than fair and honest in small things, we have taken the first step into the darkness of dishonesty and bigger transgressions. I have seen the promises of this scripture passage play out over and again. When people take the high road and do what they know is right, honest, and fair, it matters… and God notices. When we honor God – even in the smallest of things – He blesses us and remembers our “good deeds.” Some call this the “favor of God” – and believe me, I want all I can get!
So I gladly shout praises to the LORD. I try my best to be honest and fair… to do the right thing, take the high road, and be kind and merciful toward others. I know that God will bless my efforts. He will show me favor and shower me with riches (not necessarily money – but wealth in many forms) and abundance I can’t even imagine. He will grant me mercy and kindness… and He will use me to shine His light for others to see. The best part of all of this is that what God does for me, He will gladly do for you, also. But you must do your part. You must operate in honesty and fairness, kindness and mercy, and do the right thing.
How are you operating these days? Are you honest, fair, and striving to do the right thing… even in small matters? Do you feel the favor of God on your life? Have you praised Him lately for blessing you and keeping you on course? Isn’t today a good day to do just that?!
©2011 Debbie Robus
Shout praises to the LORD! The LORD blesses everyone who worships him and gladly obeys his teachings. Their descendants will have great power in the land, because the LORD blesses all who do right. They will get rich and prosper and will always be remembered for their fairness. They will be so kind and merciful and good, that they will be a light in the dark for others who do the right thing.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Recently I sold an item on eBay that was going down the road to another city in Arkansas. I had charged $6.00 for Priority Mail shipping, but when I saw that the buyer lived so close by, I messaged her and suggested she pay about half that amount for First Class shipping, which will be just as fast and far less expensive. I didn’t have to do this… the buyer had seen the shipping price when she bid, and she was apparently more than willing to pay $6. In fact, I could have easily shipped the package for $3.25 and pocketed the extra money. And I will have to drive to the Post Office to purchase the First Class postage instead of printing a Priority Mail label at home. But this would have been neither fair nor right. I have to stop and ask myself, “How would I feel if someone did this to me?” (You can insert my selfrighteous pat on the back here!)
In the scheme of things, this may seem rather insignificant. But when we are less than fair and honest in small things, we have taken the first step into the darkness of dishonesty and bigger transgressions. I have seen the promises of this scripture passage play out over and again. When people take the high road and do what they know is right, honest, and fair, it matters… and God notices. When we honor God – even in the smallest of things – He blesses us and remembers our “good deeds.” Some call this the “favor of God” – and believe me, I want all I can get!
So I gladly shout praises to the LORD. I try my best to be honest and fair… to do the right thing, take the high road, and be kind and merciful toward others. I know that God will bless my efforts. He will show me favor and shower me with riches (not necessarily money – but wealth in many forms) and abundance I can’t even imagine. He will grant me mercy and kindness… and He will use me to shine His light for others to see. The best part of all of this is that what God does for me, He will gladly do for you, also. But you must do your part. You must operate in honesty and fairness, kindness and mercy, and do the right thing.
How are you operating these days? Are you honest, fair, and striving to do the right thing… even in small matters? Do you feel the favor of God on your life? Have you praised Him lately for blessing you and keeping you on course? Isn’t today a good day to do just that?!
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for September 7, 2011
John 9:1-11
As Jesus walked along, he saw a man who had been blind since birth. Jesus' disciples asked, "Teacher, why was this man born blind? Was it because he or his parents sinned?" "No, it wasn't!" Jesus answered. "But because of his blindness, you will see God work a miracle for him. As long as it is day, we must do what the one who sent me wants me to do. When night comes, no one can work. While I am in the world, I am the light for the world."
After Jesus said this, he spit on the ground. He made some mud and smeared it on the man's eyes. Then he said, "Go and wash off the mud in Siloam Pool." The man went and washed in Siloam, which means "One Who Is Sent." When he had washed off the mud, he could see.
The man's neighbors and the people who had seen him begging wondered if he really could be the same man. Some of them said he was the same beggar, while others said he only looked like him. But he told them, "I am that man."
"Then how can you see?" they asked. He answered, "Someone named Jesus made some mud and smeared it on my eyes. He told me to go and wash it off in Siloam Pool. When I did, I could see."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Imagine having a baby… anticipating the birth… preparing, planning, and counting the days… and then the doctors tell you, “Your child is blind.” Surely you would ask, “What happened?” and wonder if perhaps you (the parents) did something wrong. Even if you knew you did everything perfectly and followed doctors’ orders to the letter during the pregnancy, you might ask, “Is this God’s way of punishing me for something I’ve done?” Clearly, Jesus mandates to all parents here in this passage that this is not God’s intention. In fact, He explains that such things are opportunities for us to witness God’s miracles in action.
This was the case for my friend, MawMac, who recently died. A tragic set of circumstances at birth caused her precious daughter, Mary, to have cerebral palsy. Born nearly 60 years ago, Mary could easily have been tucked away at home or in an institution, as people did with children who suffered such maladies “back then.” But Mary’s parents treated her as normally as possible… and I don’t have time or space to tell you all of the miracles that countless people witnessed through her affliction and how her family handled them.
In much the same manner, we all have challenges and issues that we would love to blame on our childhood, our parents, or even God’s punishment. But we cannot. Remember… God does not make mistakes. Each challenge, blemish, unfortunate circumstance, or deformity is a chance for us to see God’s miraculous power at work. God can use these situations to teach us faith, grace, mercy… to show us His healing power… and to teach us patience and perseverance. God can show us how to grow in our love for Him… and how to have courage when things seem to go awry at every turn.
Every circumstance is an opportunity for God to teach us more about Him… to share His miraculous love and power. What is He teaching you today? What challenges are you facing? Are you allowing Him to help you see them as stumbling blocks… or miracles in the making?
©2011 Debbie Robus
As Jesus walked along, he saw a man who had been blind since birth. Jesus' disciples asked, "Teacher, why was this man born blind? Was it because he or his parents sinned?" "No, it wasn't!" Jesus answered. "But because of his blindness, you will see God work a miracle for him. As long as it is day, we must do what the one who sent me wants me to do. When night comes, no one can work. While I am in the world, I am the light for the world."
After Jesus said this, he spit on the ground. He made some mud and smeared it on the man's eyes. Then he said, "Go and wash off the mud in Siloam Pool." The man went and washed in Siloam, which means "One Who Is Sent." When he had washed off the mud, he could see.
The man's neighbors and the people who had seen him begging wondered if he really could be the same man. Some of them said he was the same beggar, while others said he only looked like him. But he told them, "I am that man."
"Then how can you see?" they asked. He answered, "Someone named Jesus made some mud and smeared it on my eyes. He told me to go and wash it off in Siloam Pool. When I did, I could see."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Imagine having a baby… anticipating the birth… preparing, planning, and counting the days… and then the doctors tell you, “Your child is blind.” Surely you would ask, “What happened?” and wonder if perhaps you (the parents) did something wrong. Even if you knew you did everything perfectly and followed doctors’ orders to the letter during the pregnancy, you might ask, “Is this God’s way of punishing me for something I’ve done?” Clearly, Jesus mandates to all parents here in this passage that this is not God’s intention. In fact, He explains that such things are opportunities for us to witness God’s miracles in action.
This was the case for my friend, MawMac, who recently died. A tragic set of circumstances at birth caused her precious daughter, Mary, to have cerebral palsy. Born nearly 60 years ago, Mary could easily have been tucked away at home or in an institution, as people did with children who suffered such maladies “back then.” But Mary’s parents treated her as normally as possible… and I don’t have time or space to tell you all of the miracles that countless people witnessed through her affliction and how her family handled them.
In much the same manner, we all have challenges and issues that we would love to blame on our childhood, our parents, or even God’s punishment. But we cannot. Remember… God does not make mistakes. Each challenge, blemish, unfortunate circumstance, or deformity is a chance for us to see God’s miraculous power at work. God can use these situations to teach us faith, grace, mercy… to show us His healing power… and to teach us patience and perseverance. God can show us how to grow in our love for Him… and how to have courage when things seem to go awry at every turn.
Every circumstance is an opportunity for God to teach us more about Him… to share His miraculous love and power. What is He teaching you today? What challenges are you facing? Are you allowing Him to help you see them as stumbling blocks… or miracles in the making?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for September 3, 2011
Proverbs 20:27
Our inner thoughts are a lamp from the LORD, and they search our hearts.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
We all know that there are some things that escape our notice without a bright light. Doctors have strong lights to shine into our throats and take a look at our tonsils. Dentists use a bright light to better examine our teeth and gums. Even the “American Pickers” use a strong flashlight to search the depths of musty barn lofts, attics and drawers as they look for hidden treasures.
Often, I will shine a flashlight under the couch and pieces of furniture to locate missing toys that belong to Timothy or our cats. And sometimes, I’m surprised at what I find there… things I am almost embarrassed to describe, like big lint balls and such!
It comes as no surprise that we can’t see everything clearly in the dark. When it comes to matters of the heart, a few of us would probably prefer that no light ever shone there! We don’t want our “lint balls” illuminated! But if we are going to truly follow Jesus, we must have an open heart… one that is ready for inspection at all times.
The cool thing is that God knows what’s in our heart anyway, but His light helps expose our hidden motives… our impure thoughts and desires… and allows us to correct them. He doesn’t condemn us for what is in our heart…He just points His lamp at our “swollen tonsil” and says, “There’s your problem!” It’s up to us to make adjustments and corrections… and God is more than willing to help us with that, as well.
Our goal should be to get so comfortable and familiar with living for Jesus that we no longer have hidden motives or “lint ball desires.” The devil will never stop trying to plant these in our heart… but God will never stop shining His light on them, either! I pray that God is winning the war in your heart… that there is more of Him in your heart than the devil’s “lint balls.” How does your heart look today?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Our inner thoughts are a lamp from the LORD, and they search our hearts.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
We all know that there are some things that escape our notice without a bright light. Doctors have strong lights to shine into our throats and take a look at our tonsils. Dentists use a bright light to better examine our teeth and gums. Even the “American Pickers” use a strong flashlight to search the depths of musty barn lofts, attics and drawers as they look for hidden treasures.
Often, I will shine a flashlight under the couch and pieces of furniture to locate missing toys that belong to Timothy or our cats. And sometimes, I’m surprised at what I find there… things I am almost embarrassed to describe, like big lint balls and such!
It comes as no surprise that we can’t see everything clearly in the dark. When it comes to matters of the heart, a few of us would probably prefer that no light ever shone there! We don’t want our “lint balls” illuminated! But if we are going to truly follow Jesus, we must have an open heart… one that is ready for inspection at all times.
The cool thing is that God knows what’s in our heart anyway, but His light helps expose our hidden motives… our impure thoughts and desires… and allows us to correct them. He doesn’t condemn us for what is in our heart…He just points His lamp at our “swollen tonsil” and says, “There’s your problem!” It’s up to us to make adjustments and corrections… and God is more than willing to help us with that, as well.
Our goal should be to get so comfortable and familiar with living for Jesus that we no longer have hidden motives or “lint ball desires.” The devil will never stop trying to plant these in our heart… but God will never stop shining His light on them, either! I pray that God is winning the war in your heart… that there is more of Him in your heart than the devil’s “lint balls.” How does your heart look today?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for August 21, 2011
John 6:30-33
They replied, "What miracle will you work, so that we can have faith in you? What will you do? For example, when our ancestors were in the desert, they were given manna to eat. It happened just as the Scriptures say, `God gave them bread from heaven to eat.' "Jesus then told them, "I tell you for certain that Moses wasn't the one who gave you bread from heaven. My Father is the one who gives you the true bread from heaven. And the bread that God gives is the one who came down from heaven to give life to the world."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Most of us are probably familiar with the scene in the movie “Jerry Maguire” where Cuba Gooding, Jr. screams, “Show me the money!” Gooding portrays a pro football player who is disgruntled with his contract. As his agent (played by Tom Cruise) tries to appease him, Gooding’s character is totally dissatisfied with the explanation. He wants proof of what Cruise’s character is promising… he wants more… he wants Cruise to “show me the money!”
Isn’t this how we operate with God many times? If we are really honest, don’t we want God to “show me the money!”? Oh, I don’t mean we literally want money… though some do! We are not satisfied with the things God does for us every minute of the day… the subtle mercies He offers us… the way He loves us when we don’t deserve it… the grace He extends as we muddle through our lives. We want Him to bring lightning bolts and thunder and pull out the BIG guns and really do miraculous things that are clearly visible. Maybe then we will really recognize Him and give Him due credit!
Does this sound familiar? How many times have you said, “LORD, I need a miracle!”? We fail to recognize that the fact that God loves us in the first place is probably one of the biggest miracles ever! Beyond this, we don’t stop to acknowledge all of the countless ways He is present in our lives on a daily basis. In essence, we don’t really recognize GOD! Unless He “shows us the money” in a grand way that makes a spectacular production for the world to see, we aren’t interested.
Look around. Take a good, hard look at your life in the light of what God has done – and continues to do – for you every day. See His hand in the smallest of events, as well as those larger ones. Get a grip on how much God loves us, and understand that He really does “show you the money” every minute of the day. Now humble yourself and thank Him… really thank Him for His tender love, grace and mercy… and start to operate in a spirit of full awareness of His presence – and gratitude for His blessings.
©2011 Debbie Robus
They replied, "What miracle will you work, so that we can have faith in you? What will you do? For example, when our ancestors were in the desert, they were given manna to eat. It happened just as the Scriptures say, `God gave them bread from heaven to eat.' "Jesus then told them, "I tell you for certain that Moses wasn't the one who gave you bread from heaven. My Father is the one who gives you the true bread from heaven. And the bread that God gives is the one who came down from heaven to give life to the world."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Most of us are probably familiar with the scene in the movie “Jerry Maguire” where Cuba Gooding, Jr. screams, “Show me the money!” Gooding portrays a pro football player who is disgruntled with his contract. As his agent (played by Tom Cruise) tries to appease him, Gooding’s character is totally dissatisfied with the explanation. He wants proof of what Cruise’s character is promising… he wants more… he wants Cruise to “show me the money!”
Isn’t this how we operate with God many times? If we are really honest, don’t we want God to “show me the money!”? Oh, I don’t mean we literally want money… though some do! We are not satisfied with the things God does for us every minute of the day… the subtle mercies He offers us… the way He loves us when we don’t deserve it… the grace He extends as we muddle through our lives. We want Him to bring lightning bolts and thunder and pull out the BIG guns and really do miraculous things that are clearly visible. Maybe then we will really recognize Him and give Him due credit!
Does this sound familiar? How many times have you said, “LORD, I need a miracle!”? We fail to recognize that the fact that God loves us in the first place is probably one of the biggest miracles ever! Beyond this, we don’t stop to acknowledge all of the countless ways He is present in our lives on a daily basis. In essence, we don’t really recognize GOD! Unless He “shows us the money” in a grand way that makes a spectacular production for the world to see, we aren’t interested.
Look around. Take a good, hard look at your life in the light of what God has done – and continues to do – for you every day. See His hand in the smallest of events, as well as those larger ones. Get a grip on how much God loves us, and understand that He really does “show you the money” every minute of the day. Now humble yourself and thank Him… really thank Him for His tender love, grace and mercy… and start to operate in a spirit of full awareness of His presence – and gratitude for His blessings.
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for July 14, 2011
John 3:16-18
"This is how much God loved the world: He gave his Son, his one and only Son. And this is why: so that no one need be destroyed; by believing in him, anyone can have a whole and lasting life. God didn't go to all the trouble of sending his Son merely to point an accusing finger, telling the world how bad it was. He came to help, to put the world right again. Anyone who trusts in him is acquitted; anyone who refuses to trust him has long since been under the death sentence without knowing it. And why? Because of that person's failure to believe in the one-of-a-kind Son of God when introduced to him.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
I was watching a movie recently about a family of con artists. One day there was a knock at the door, and one of the children saw a policemen standing there. She froze… scared to open the door. The father opened the door and had a pleasant, innocent conversation with the policeman who was merely making a courtesy call. Afterward, the father told his family, “People in this neighborhood don’t fear the police… the police are their friends!” He added that most people in that neighborhood had no reason to expect something bad when the policeman knocked on their door… they had not done anything wrong, so they knew that nothing was going to happen.
If you don’t get anything else today from this writing, get this… God didn’t send Jesus to condemn us… to wag his finger and tell us how perfectly awful we are. We have every reason to be like those who feared the policeman. We’ve done wrong, and we know it… yet that is not why Jesus knocks on the door of our hearts. That is not why He gave His very life on the cross for us. If you don’t understand anything else today, try as hard as you can to see how much Jesus loves you! He wants you to be with Him – now and forever. He doesn’t want to see you condemned – to hell… or to an existence akin to hell on earth. He wants to capture your heart and fill you with hope and peace and joy.
The thing of it is… we will never be forced to choose Jesus. It’s all up to us. God sent Him to earth to save us… but only if we wish to be rescued. Choosing Jesus changes everything. Choosing Jesus says, “I love you for loving me.”
There are a zillion other reasons to choose Jesus… but what could be better than pure love - His… and ours in return? Have you chosen Jesus?
©2011 Debbie Robus
"This is how much God loved the world: He gave his Son, his one and only Son. And this is why: so that no one need be destroyed; by believing in him, anyone can have a whole and lasting life. God didn't go to all the trouble of sending his Son merely to point an accusing finger, telling the world how bad it was. He came to help, to put the world right again. Anyone who trusts in him is acquitted; anyone who refuses to trust him has long since been under the death sentence without knowing it. And why? Because of that person's failure to believe in the one-of-a-kind Son of God when introduced to him.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
I was watching a movie recently about a family of con artists. One day there was a knock at the door, and one of the children saw a policemen standing there. She froze… scared to open the door. The father opened the door and had a pleasant, innocent conversation with the policeman who was merely making a courtesy call. Afterward, the father told his family, “People in this neighborhood don’t fear the police… the police are their friends!” He added that most people in that neighborhood had no reason to expect something bad when the policeman knocked on their door… they had not done anything wrong, so they knew that nothing was going to happen.
If you don’t get anything else today from this writing, get this… God didn’t send Jesus to condemn us… to wag his finger and tell us how perfectly awful we are. We have every reason to be like those who feared the policeman. We’ve done wrong, and we know it… yet that is not why Jesus knocks on the door of our hearts. That is not why He gave His very life on the cross for us. If you don’t understand anything else today, try as hard as you can to see how much Jesus loves you! He wants you to be with Him – now and forever. He doesn’t want to see you condemned – to hell… or to an existence akin to hell on earth. He wants to capture your heart and fill you with hope and peace and joy.
The thing of it is… we will never be forced to choose Jesus. It’s all up to us. God sent Him to earth to save us… but only if we wish to be rescued. Choosing Jesus changes everything. Choosing Jesus says, “I love you for loving me.”
There are a zillion other reasons to choose Jesus… but what could be better than pure love - His… and ours in return? Have you chosen Jesus?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for July 6, 2011
Psalm 97:10-12
God loves all who hate evil,
And those who love him he keeps safe,
Snatches them from the grip of the wicked.
Light-seeds are planted in the souls of God's people,
Joy-seeds are planted in good heart-soil.
So, God's people, shout praise to God,
Give thanks to our Holy God!
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.
Through the magic of television, many around the world have been glued to the Casey Anthony trial, in which a young mother was accused of murdering her small child, Caylee, and covering up the death for 31 days. I have heard a few bits and pieces of information, but I chose not to follow the minute coverage of this trial. And I guess because so many did watch every single second of testimony on the airwaves, they feel that they have an “informed” opinion about whether this young mother is guilty or not. I find the whole situation very sad and heartbreaking. But honestly, I do not have an opinion one way or the other about this woman’s guilt or innocence… and that is not the point of this devotional.
I have a different “take” on some things. My perspective changed greatly when I read The Shack by William P. Young. In his fictional story, Young tells of a little girl who disappeared from her family while they are on a camping trip. Her body was never found, but the authorities did find her blood-soaked red dress, and a little “ladybug” pin – the signature “calling card” of a serial killer. The guilt-ridden father goes on a Spiritual journey that culminates in a healing experience for him, as he makes several profound discoveries about God and his faith… that God never left this child… that He was right beside her through all of the brutality… and that He swept her into His arms and carried her safely to heaven… and that the father must forgive all involved – including himself – in order to truly heal.
As I listened to the snippets of coverage about this latest trial, I was reminded over and over that God was with little Caylee Anthony every step of the way. He shielded her in ways we can’t even imagine from the horror of the events… He swept her up, kept her safe, and snatched her from the grip of evil and wickedness that might have been her life on this earth. In The Shack, Young writes as if he were speaking as God… “Nobody knows what horrors I have saved the world from ‘cuz people can’t see what never happened. All evil flows from independence, and independence is your choice. Evil is the chaos of this age that you brought to me, but it will not have the final say. Now it touches everyone that I love, those who follow me and those who don’t. If I take away the consequences of people’s choices, I destroy the possibility of love. Love that is forced is no love at all.” We don’t know why God allowed this to happen. But we do know that God never stops loving us… even in the midst of evil.
I would never venture to suggest to any of you how you should feel about this trial or any other event. But I do suggest that you spend some time in prayer for all concerned… and thank God that He is still in control. God knows every detail surrounding this horrific tragedy, and He will mete out perfect justice to everyone involved. Little Caylee Anthony is safe and whole in His arms. Any lies, cover-ups, deceit, and evil that occurred before, during, and after her death will be dealt with as only God can.
Regardless of how you are feeling about this particular case, be joyful that in the end, evil will not win. God always has the last say… and He will prevail. He will mete out perfect justice to those who embrace evil… and He will bless and keep those who are innocent. Praise God for His fairness, grace and mercy… praise Him for loving each of us… and for always meeting our needs.
©2011 Debbie Robus
God loves all who hate evil,
And those who love him he keeps safe,
Snatches them from the grip of the wicked.
Light-seeds are planted in the souls of God's people,
Joy-seeds are planted in good heart-soil.
So, God's people, shout praise to God,
Give thanks to our Holy God!
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.
Through the magic of television, many around the world have been glued to the Casey Anthony trial, in which a young mother was accused of murdering her small child, Caylee, and covering up the death for 31 days. I have heard a few bits and pieces of information, but I chose not to follow the minute coverage of this trial. And I guess because so many did watch every single second of testimony on the airwaves, they feel that they have an “informed” opinion about whether this young mother is guilty or not. I find the whole situation very sad and heartbreaking. But honestly, I do not have an opinion one way or the other about this woman’s guilt or innocence… and that is not the point of this devotional.
I have a different “take” on some things. My perspective changed greatly when I read The Shack by William P. Young. In his fictional story, Young tells of a little girl who disappeared from her family while they are on a camping trip. Her body was never found, but the authorities did find her blood-soaked red dress, and a little “ladybug” pin – the signature “calling card” of a serial killer. The guilt-ridden father goes on a Spiritual journey that culminates in a healing experience for him, as he makes several profound discoveries about God and his faith… that God never left this child… that He was right beside her through all of the brutality… and that He swept her into His arms and carried her safely to heaven… and that the father must forgive all involved – including himself – in order to truly heal.
As I listened to the snippets of coverage about this latest trial, I was reminded over and over that God was with little Caylee Anthony every step of the way. He shielded her in ways we can’t even imagine from the horror of the events… He swept her up, kept her safe, and snatched her from the grip of evil and wickedness that might have been her life on this earth. In The Shack, Young writes as if he were speaking as God… “Nobody knows what horrors I have saved the world from ‘cuz people can’t see what never happened. All evil flows from independence, and independence is your choice. Evil is the chaos of this age that you brought to me, but it will not have the final say. Now it touches everyone that I love, those who follow me and those who don’t. If I take away the consequences of people’s choices, I destroy the possibility of love. Love that is forced is no love at all.” We don’t know why God allowed this to happen. But we do know that God never stops loving us… even in the midst of evil.
I would never venture to suggest to any of you how you should feel about this trial or any other event. But I do suggest that you spend some time in prayer for all concerned… and thank God that He is still in control. God knows every detail surrounding this horrific tragedy, and He will mete out perfect justice to everyone involved. Little Caylee Anthony is safe and whole in His arms. Any lies, cover-ups, deceit, and evil that occurred before, during, and after her death will be dealt with as only God can.
Regardless of how you are feeling about this particular case, be joyful that in the end, evil will not win. God always has the last say… and He will prevail. He will mete out perfect justice to those who embrace evil… and He will bless and keep those who are innocent. Praise God for His fairness, grace and mercy… praise Him for loving each of us… and for always meeting our needs.
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for June 24, 2011
Luke 24:28-34
They came to the edge of the village where they were headed. He acted as if he were going on but they pressed him: "Stay and have supper with us. It's nearly evening; the day is done." So he went in with them. And here is what happened: He sat down at the table with them. Taking the bread, he blessed and broke and gave it to them. At that moment, open-eyed, wide-eyed, they recognized him. And then he disappeared.
Back and forth they talked. "Didn't we feel on fire as he conversed with us on the road, as he opened up the Scriptures for us?"
They didn't waste a minute. They were up and on their way back to Jerusalem. They found the Eleven and their friends gathered together, talking away: "It's really happened! The Master has been raised up—Simon saw him!"
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
“Light bulb moments”… “Aha! Moments”… whatever you call them, we’ve all had that time when “the lights went on,” and we truly understood something that had eluded us beforehand. For these two men on the road to Emmaus, their “light bulb” moment came when Jesus sat with them and broke bread, then blessed it. They had been so caught up in their sadness over the crucifixion, death and disappearance of Jesus that they couldn’t recognize Him walking right alongside them on the road.
Suddenly, all of the things Jesus had said and done as He walked with them to their home came together and made sense… and helped them to realize that THIS was the man everyone was talking about… the person who was crucified, buried, and then came up missing from the tomb. THIS was no mere mortal… He was JESUS CHRIST… the MESSIAH! These men realized in an instant just how much Jesus loved them… how true His teachings were… and just how incredibly real His power was.
An entire “community” has been built around this scripture passage. Information about the Walk to Emmaus at www.upperroom.org says “The Walk to Emmaus offers today's disciples a parallel opportunity to rediscover Christ's presence in their lives, to gain fresh understanding of God's transforming grace, and to form friendships that foster faith and support spiritual maturity.” While the Walk to Emmaus is associated with the United Methodist Church, anyone can attend. For teenagers, there is a comparable event known as Chrysalis. Other denominations have similar spiritual renewal programs, such as the Catholic Church’s Cursillo and a non-denominational “Faith Walk” program that is offered in several locations throughout the South.
Whether you ever attend one of these four-day events or not is irrelevant. I found my Walk to Emmaus experience to be life-changing, as I discovered more about the abundant grace of Jesus Christ… how much He loves us and wants us to trust Him – and to serve Him by sharing His love and grace with others. It is safe to say that I had a “light bulb moment” on my “walk.” But we can have this same experience in the quiet of our own home… out on a hike in the natural beauty of God’s creation… or in the midst of a noisy praise and worship service at a local church.
The key is to open our hearts and minds to the possibilities with Jesus… to really, really recognize that He is walking right beside us! We’re on the road of life, head hung low, slogging through our daily routine and worrying and fretting about all sorts of things – many of which are quite legitimate! – and we fail to recognize that Jesus is right there with us. He’s ready to take on our burdens, to extend His grace to us for our shortcomings, and to love us unconditionally. But a lot of us have simply never fully recognized His presence.
Let’s make today a “light bulb moment” day for all of us. Even if you have had such an experience in the past… we all need a refresher course from time to time. Let’s stop what we are doing for a few seconds, close our eyes, and say, “Come close, LORD… I know you are there… I really, truly feel you with me.” Then DO IT! Feel His presence… accept His grace, mercy, and love – and bask in them. And share this good news with others by serving like the Disciple you are. It’s time… this is the day… altogether now… say, “Aha!”
©2011 Debbie Robus
They came to the edge of the village where they were headed. He acted as if he were going on but they pressed him: "Stay and have supper with us. It's nearly evening; the day is done." So he went in with them. And here is what happened: He sat down at the table with them. Taking the bread, he blessed and broke and gave it to them. At that moment, open-eyed, wide-eyed, they recognized him. And then he disappeared.
Back and forth they talked. "Didn't we feel on fire as he conversed with us on the road, as he opened up the Scriptures for us?"
They didn't waste a minute. They were up and on their way back to Jerusalem. They found the Eleven and their friends gathered together, talking away: "It's really happened! The Master has been raised up—Simon saw him!"
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
“Light bulb moments”… “Aha! Moments”… whatever you call them, we’ve all had that time when “the lights went on,” and we truly understood something that had eluded us beforehand. For these two men on the road to Emmaus, their “light bulb” moment came when Jesus sat with them and broke bread, then blessed it. They had been so caught up in their sadness over the crucifixion, death and disappearance of Jesus that they couldn’t recognize Him walking right alongside them on the road.
Suddenly, all of the things Jesus had said and done as He walked with them to their home came together and made sense… and helped them to realize that THIS was the man everyone was talking about… the person who was crucified, buried, and then came up missing from the tomb. THIS was no mere mortal… He was JESUS CHRIST… the MESSIAH! These men realized in an instant just how much Jesus loved them… how true His teachings were… and just how incredibly real His power was.
An entire “community” has been built around this scripture passage. Information about the Walk to Emmaus at www.upperroom.org says “The Walk to Emmaus offers today's disciples a parallel opportunity to rediscover Christ's presence in their lives, to gain fresh understanding of God's transforming grace, and to form friendships that foster faith and support spiritual maturity.” While the Walk to Emmaus is associated with the United Methodist Church, anyone can attend. For teenagers, there is a comparable event known as Chrysalis. Other denominations have similar spiritual renewal programs, such as the Catholic Church’s Cursillo and a non-denominational “Faith Walk” program that is offered in several locations throughout the South.
Whether you ever attend one of these four-day events or not is irrelevant. I found my Walk to Emmaus experience to be life-changing, as I discovered more about the abundant grace of Jesus Christ… how much He loves us and wants us to trust Him – and to serve Him by sharing His love and grace with others. It is safe to say that I had a “light bulb moment” on my “walk.” But we can have this same experience in the quiet of our own home… out on a hike in the natural beauty of God’s creation… or in the midst of a noisy praise and worship service at a local church.
The key is to open our hearts and minds to the possibilities with Jesus… to really, really recognize that He is walking right beside us! We’re on the road of life, head hung low, slogging through our daily routine and worrying and fretting about all sorts of things – many of which are quite legitimate! – and we fail to recognize that Jesus is right there with us. He’s ready to take on our burdens, to extend His grace to us for our shortcomings, and to love us unconditionally. But a lot of us have simply never fully recognized His presence.
Let’s make today a “light bulb moment” day for all of us. Even if you have had such an experience in the past… we all need a refresher course from time to time. Let’s stop what we are doing for a few seconds, close our eyes, and say, “Come close, LORD… I know you are there… I really, truly feel you with me.” Then DO IT! Feel His presence… accept His grace, mercy, and love – and bask in them. And share this good news with others by serving like the Disciple you are. It’s time… this is the day… altogether now… say, “Aha!”
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 19, 2011
1 Peter 2:11-12
Dear friends, you are foreigners and strangers on this earth. So I beg you not to surrender to those desires that fight against you. Always let others see you behaving properly, even though they may still accuse you of doing wrong. Then on the day of judgment, they will honor God by telling the good things they saw you do.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
My mother told us recently about visiting a “ghost-town-turned-tourist-trap” in Arizona, where they observed an interesting exchange between a man and a horse. It seems the man was trying to lead the horse across a roadway – and away from other horses – toward what appeared to be a large trough of water. (Interject “you can lead a horse to water…” joke here!)
The horse apparently did NOT want to go, and he reared up at the man and retreated to the point of origin and took his place with the other horses. The man tried again (remember our definition of insanity?!) and got the same results. Clearly the horse did not want to surrender to the man. This animal could not understand that the man’s intention (purpose) was a good one. His plans were to provide the horse with necessary nurture and care, i.e. water!
Aren’t we just like the horse? God is trying to give us so much, but for whatever reason… fear, selfishness, ego, stubbornness, sin, and more… we rear up, stomp and pitch a fit, dig in our heels and refuse to budge. We retreat to what we know… what is comfortable… even if it’s all wrong for us. We think we know better than God what is right for us… what we need… what will make the most sense in our lives.
In The Purpose Driven Life, Rick Warren says “Surrender doesn’t weaken you, it strengthens you.” The Bible gives us tremendous examples of people who surrendered to God when it didn’t make a lick of sense… Noah, Moses, Queen Esther… even Jesus Christ. Surrender to God does not equal an admission of defeat… it reflects maturity in our faith and a true desire to live fully in the grace and mercy of our Heavenly Father.
We are like the stubborn horse who foregoes life-sustaining water in favor of a comfortable stance on the sidelines. When we fail to surrender to God, we fail to enjoy a complete relationship with Him – and all that He wants to give us. Where are you standing today? Will you “cross the road” and surrender completely to God and start living in His grace, mercy, love… and abundance? Or are you kicking up your feet and taking a stand… stuck in the same old rut? Are you ready to let God take the reins and lead you to “the good stuff”? Are you ready to surrender completely?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Dear friends, you are foreigners and strangers on this earth. So I beg you not to surrender to those desires that fight against you. Always let others see you behaving properly, even though they may still accuse you of doing wrong. Then on the day of judgment, they will honor God by telling the good things they saw you do.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
My mother told us recently about visiting a “ghost-town-turned-tourist-trap” in Arizona, where they observed an interesting exchange between a man and a horse. It seems the man was trying to lead the horse across a roadway – and away from other horses – toward what appeared to be a large trough of water. (Interject “you can lead a horse to water…” joke here!)
The horse apparently did NOT want to go, and he reared up at the man and retreated to the point of origin and took his place with the other horses. The man tried again (remember our definition of insanity?!) and got the same results. Clearly the horse did not want to surrender to the man. This animal could not understand that the man’s intention (purpose) was a good one. His plans were to provide the horse with necessary nurture and care, i.e. water!
Aren’t we just like the horse? God is trying to give us so much, but for whatever reason… fear, selfishness, ego, stubbornness, sin, and more… we rear up, stomp and pitch a fit, dig in our heels and refuse to budge. We retreat to what we know… what is comfortable… even if it’s all wrong for us. We think we know better than God what is right for us… what we need… what will make the most sense in our lives.
In The Purpose Driven Life, Rick Warren says “Surrender doesn’t weaken you, it strengthens you.” The Bible gives us tremendous examples of people who surrendered to God when it didn’t make a lick of sense… Noah, Moses, Queen Esther… even Jesus Christ. Surrender to God does not equal an admission of defeat… it reflects maturity in our faith and a true desire to live fully in the grace and mercy of our Heavenly Father.
We are like the stubborn horse who foregoes life-sustaining water in favor of a comfortable stance on the sidelines. When we fail to surrender to God, we fail to enjoy a complete relationship with Him – and all that He wants to give us. Where are you standing today? Will you “cross the road” and surrender completely to God and start living in His grace, mercy, love… and abundance? Or are you kicking up your feet and taking a stand… stuck in the same old rut? Are you ready to let God take the reins and lead you to “the good stuff”? Are you ready to surrender completely?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 11, 2011
Numbers 14:17-19
Show us your great power, LORD. You promised that you love to show mercy and kindness. And you said that you are very patient, but that you will punish everyone guilty of doing wrong--not only them but their children and grandchildren as well.
You are merciful, and you treat people better than they deserve. So please forgive these people, just as you have forgiven them ever since they left Egypt.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Albert Einstein’s definition of insanity… “doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results”… should be tattooed on the foreheads of many of us. How many times have you been guilty of knowing what you are doing won’t work… but you do it anyway?!
The Israelites were certainly like this, and Moses had quite a time trying to keep them in line. They were demanding whiners and complainers who were, for the most part, completely ungrateful for the blessings and care God showed them. And because of their lousy attitudes – and their “insanity” – they wandered around in the desert for forty years! They made God so mad that He cursed their children and grandchildren… and just flat-out killed many of them.
Believe me, God showed plenty of patience and mercy… but eventually, He had enough of this disobedience and disrespect. And remember, this happened before Jesus died on the cross for us. God’s way of dealing with sinful people was different in Moses’ day… although He still can get disgusted and let us wallow in our sin and the consequences to the point we feel pretty uncomfortable!
But the point is that we are all modern-day Israelites. We know what the Bible tells us about Christian behavior and the commandments to love God and love one another… and to follow the commandments given to Moses and his people by God centuries earlier. We know that a lot of what we do qualifies as “insanity” – the results are the same, but we keep trying for different ones anyway! So we think that we can sneak some illicit behavior in under the wire just this one time. We think we can turn our back on worship and Bible study and prayer… and God will cover us with His grace and mercy and let us take a little break for a few days/weeks/months/years.
We fail to recognize that the very things that troubled our parents and grandparents often trouble us. We repeat the same mistakes, character patterns and flaws in judgment and thinking… when we could be asking God to break the curse (of alcoholism, racism and bigotry, obesity, abuse, negativity, and more) and make us the start of generations who live differently. We have an opportunity, through the grace and mercy of our Heavenly Father – and with the blood of Jesus washing us clean – to do better. We can stop the extended fallout of the “sins of our forefathers” and live in the shadow of the love and protection of God Almighty.
I am guilty of Einstein’s “insanity” on a regular basis – in ways great and small. But I want to do better. I want to learn from my mistakes – and those of past generations. I want to recognize the guidance and wisdom of my Heavenly Father – and pay attention! I want to feel the extravagance of His loyal love and stop wandering in the “wilderness”. Will you ask God to help you break your own “insanity” – and come along with me?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Show us your great power, LORD. You promised that you love to show mercy and kindness. And you said that you are very patient, but that you will punish everyone guilty of doing wrong--not only them but their children and grandchildren as well.
You are merciful, and you treat people better than they deserve. So please forgive these people, just as you have forgiven them ever since they left Egypt.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Albert Einstein’s definition of insanity… “doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results”… should be tattooed on the foreheads of many of us. How many times have you been guilty of knowing what you are doing won’t work… but you do it anyway?!
The Israelites were certainly like this, and Moses had quite a time trying to keep them in line. They were demanding whiners and complainers who were, for the most part, completely ungrateful for the blessings and care God showed them. And because of their lousy attitudes – and their “insanity” – they wandered around in the desert for forty years! They made God so mad that He cursed their children and grandchildren… and just flat-out killed many of them.
Believe me, God showed plenty of patience and mercy… but eventually, He had enough of this disobedience and disrespect. And remember, this happened before Jesus died on the cross for us. God’s way of dealing with sinful people was different in Moses’ day… although He still can get disgusted and let us wallow in our sin and the consequences to the point we feel pretty uncomfortable!
But the point is that we are all modern-day Israelites. We know what the Bible tells us about Christian behavior and the commandments to love God and love one another… and to follow the commandments given to Moses and his people by God centuries earlier. We know that a lot of what we do qualifies as “insanity” – the results are the same, but we keep trying for different ones anyway! So we think that we can sneak some illicit behavior in under the wire just this one time. We think we can turn our back on worship and Bible study and prayer… and God will cover us with His grace and mercy and let us take a little break for a few days/weeks/months/years.
We fail to recognize that the very things that troubled our parents and grandparents often trouble us. We repeat the same mistakes, character patterns and flaws in judgment and thinking… when we could be asking God to break the curse (of alcoholism, racism and bigotry, obesity, abuse, negativity, and more) and make us the start of generations who live differently. We have an opportunity, through the grace and mercy of our Heavenly Father – and with the blood of Jesus washing us clean – to do better. We can stop the extended fallout of the “sins of our forefathers” and live in the shadow of the love and protection of God Almighty.
I am guilty of Einstein’s “insanity” on a regular basis – in ways great and small. But I want to do better. I want to learn from my mistakes – and those of past generations. I want to recognize the guidance and wisdom of my Heavenly Father – and pay attention! I want to feel the extravagance of His loyal love and stop wandering in the “wilderness”. Will you ask God to help you break your own “insanity” – and come along with me?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for February 24, 2011
Psalm 31:12
I am completely forgotten like someone dead. I am merely a broken dish. I hear the crowds whisper, "Everyone is afraid!" They are plotting and scheming to murder me. But I trust you, LORD, and I claim you as my God. My life is in your hands. Save me from enemies who hunt me down. Smile on me, your servant. Have pity and rescue me.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I was folding laundry, and I piled a stack of underwear on top of a stack of t-shirts, and the underwear fell over onto the floor. All of it had to be refolded. Now, at one point in my life, I would probably have groaned and grumbled and uttered some things I can’t repeat here. But this time, I picked up the clothing, laughed, and refolded it.
You’re probably wondering what folding underwear has to do with God, so I’ll tell you! As I refolded these pieces of clothing, I thought about how we are a lot like them. God washes us clean in the blood of Jesus. He folds us neatly and prepares us for another day. Then we fall… we lose our balance… we get distracted or overloaded and top heavy… and we tumble. And God, being God, picks us up, dusts us off and refolds us. He has pity on us and rescues us… even in our “brokenness”… and He restores us.
I would like to think that God looks at us and laughs…at least sometimes. More often, I think he is saddened by our falls and shortcomings. But He still loves us, just the same. I don’t know about you, but I am so grateful to serve a God who loves me like this. The devil would be glad to leave us on the floor in a heap to be trampled by anything and everyone. I am so glad to know that if – and when – I fall, God will rescue me and fold me back in place so that I am ready for another day in His service.
Isn’t it wonderful to know that we serve a God who can smile on us even in our broken state? Have you put your life in His hands and trusted Him to save you? When was the last time you thanked God for taking such good care of you? Isn’t it time you did?
©2011 Debbie Robus
I am completely forgotten like someone dead. I am merely a broken dish. I hear the crowds whisper, "Everyone is afraid!" They are plotting and scheming to murder me. But I trust you, LORD, and I claim you as my God. My life is in your hands. Save me from enemies who hunt me down. Smile on me, your servant. Have pity and rescue me.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I was folding laundry, and I piled a stack of underwear on top of a stack of t-shirts, and the underwear fell over onto the floor. All of it had to be refolded. Now, at one point in my life, I would probably have groaned and grumbled and uttered some things I can’t repeat here. But this time, I picked up the clothing, laughed, and refolded it.
You’re probably wondering what folding underwear has to do with God, so I’ll tell you! As I refolded these pieces of clothing, I thought about how we are a lot like them. God washes us clean in the blood of Jesus. He folds us neatly and prepares us for another day. Then we fall… we lose our balance… we get distracted or overloaded and top heavy… and we tumble. And God, being God, picks us up, dusts us off and refolds us. He has pity on us and rescues us… even in our “brokenness”… and He restores us.
I would like to think that God looks at us and laughs…at least sometimes. More often, I think he is saddened by our falls and shortcomings. But He still loves us, just the same. I don’t know about you, but I am so grateful to serve a God who loves me like this. The devil would be glad to leave us on the floor in a heap to be trampled by anything and everyone. I am so glad to know that if – and when – I fall, God will rescue me and fold me back in place so that I am ready for another day in His service.
Isn’t it wonderful to know that we serve a God who can smile on us even in our broken state? Have you put your life in His hands and trusted Him to save you? When was the last time you thanked God for taking such good care of you? Isn’t it time you did?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for February 21, 2011
Psalm 34:12-27
Do you want to live and enjoy a long life? Then don't say cruel things and don't tell lies. Do good instead of evil and try to live at peace. If you obey the LORD, he will watch over you and answer your prayers. But God despises evil people, and he will wipe them all from the earth, till they are forgotten. When his people pray for help, he listens and rescues them from their troubles.
The LORD is there to rescue all who are discouraged and have given up hope. The LORD's people may suffer a lot, but he will always bring them safely through. Not one of their bones will ever be broken. Wicked people are killed by their own evil deeds, and if you hate God's people you will be punished. The LORD saves the lives of his servants. Run to him for protection, and you won't be punished.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
You don’t have to look very far to find someone who is hurting these days. I read a post last week on Facebook from a mom whose teenage daughter was crushed because she felt she had been wrongly accused of something. I know how that feels… do you? We see reports on the news of people who have spent years in prison for a crime they didn’t commit, only to be proved innocent by DNA tests or other newly introduced evidence. And miraculously, in some instances, those victims are sometimes able to forgive their accusers.
We’ve seen reports of those who were able to forgive a drunk driver who killed their loved one. Just last week, I saw a television interview with Janet Jackson in which she acknowledged that her father beat her when she was a child… but she said, “I know he loves me in his own way.”
Forgiveness is a powerful, powerful thing. Grace and mercy are incredibly cleansing and healing. We can be mad and bitter toward others for a lot of things, from lousy childhoods to being wrongly accused or false assumptions to being mad at God because a loved one suffered and/or died. And all of these things may cause us to say cruel things… to lie and lash out at others… or at the very least, to live a life that is robbed of happiness and peace.
We do have an option. We can “cast all our cares” upon the Lord. We can run to God and ask Him for protection. We can ask Him to heal us and give us hope… to fight our battles for us… to fill in the gaps with grace and mercy where we feel we have none – for ourselves or toward others. Read this verse again: “Wicked people are killed by their own evil deeds, and if you hate God's people you will be punished.”
I don’t believe most of us set out to intentionally be wicked, but let’s face it… in some way, we all are at one time or another. Let’s ask God to forgive us… give Him our struggles and our hurts and let HIM handle them for us. Let’s make today the day we start to live in the hope of God and trust Him to rescue us and set us on course for a long and happy life in Him. I’m in… are you?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Do you want to live and enjoy a long life? Then don't say cruel things and don't tell lies. Do good instead of evil and try to live at peace. If you obey the LORD, he will watch over you and answer your prayers. But God despises evil people, and he will wipe them all from the earth, till they are forgotten. When his people pray for help, he listens and rescues them from their troubles.
The LORD is there to rescue all who are discouraged and have given up hope. The LORD's people may suffer a lot, but he will always bring them safely through. Not one of their bones will ever be broken. Wicked people are killed by their own evil deeds, and if you hate God's people you will be punished. The LORD saves the lives of his servants. Run to him for protection, and you won't be punished.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
You don’t have to look very far to find someone who is hurting these days. I read a post last week on Facebook from a mom whose teenage daughter was crushed because she felt she had been wrongly accused of something. I know how that feels… do you? We see reports on the news of people who have spent years in prison for a crime they didn’t commit, only to be proved innocent by DNA tests or other newly introduced evidence. And miraculously, in some instances, those victims are sometimes able to forgive their accusers.
We’ve seen reports of those who were able to forgive a drunk driver who killed their loved one. Just last week, I saw a television interview with Janet Jackson in which she acknowledged that her father beat her when she was a child… but she said, “I know he loves me in his own way.”
Forgiveness is a powerful, powerful thing. Grace and mercy are incredibly cleansing and healing. We can be mad and bitter toward others for a lot of things, from lousy childhoods to being wrongly accused or false assumptions to being mad at God because a loved one suffered and/or died. And all of these things may cause us to say cruel things… to lie and lash out at others… or at the very least, to live a life that is robbed of happiness and peace.
We do have an option. We can “cast all our cares” upon the Lord. We can run to God and ask Him for protection. We can ask Him to heal us and give us hope… to fight our battles for us… to fill in the gaps with grace and mercy where we feel we have none – for ourselves or toward others. Read this verse again: “Wicked people are killed by their own evil deeds, and if you hate God's people you will be punished.”
I don’t believe most of us set out to intentionally be wicked, but let’s face it… in some way, we all are at one time or another. Let’s ask God to forgive us… give Him our struggles and our hurts and let HIM handle them for us. Let’s make today the day we start to live in the hope of God and trust Him to rescue us and set us on course for a long and happy life in Him. I’m in… are you?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for February 18, 2011
Psalm 31:1-2
Our God, you bless everyone whose sins you forgive and wipe away. You bless them by saying, "You told me your sins, without trying to hide them, and now I forgive you."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Someone told me recently about baking a pie, and some of the egg yolk got in the egg whites for the meringue, and they would not beat stiffly. The baker said, “I’ll just cover the pie with frozen whipped topping, and nobody will care.” I was reminded of a time when my grandmother covered dinner rolls she had made for a family dinner with a dish towel atop her gas stove. You guessed it… the towel caught fire when she turned on a burner, and bits of ashy residue baked into the tops of the rolls. She said to me, “Maybe nobody will notice.”
I know that covering meringue on a pie with whipped topping is not a “sin” – nor is scraping ashes off of a pan of hot rolls and hoping nobody will suspect any foul play. But the fact is, we play fast and loose with the truth in situations that really do matter… and often! We pretend our sins are not really sins, and we try to smooth things over with others… and with God… when all the while, the truth would serve us far better.
Look at this passage again… God says, “You told me your sins, without trying to hide them, and now I forgive you.” Let’s face it… God knows what we do and say already. Trying to hide anything from God is impossible and only serves to make us look more foolish. When will we get how much God loves us? When will we understand that He is not waiting with a whip and a chain, ready to beat us into submission? God wants us to be real with Him… to be honest… to do our best, and confess our shortcomings… and there will be plenty!
What are you trying to hide these days? What have you “scraped off” or “covered in whipped topping?” Isn’t it time you came clean with God and basked in His mercy and forgiveness? Get everything out in the open with God… confess your sins to Him… tell Him what He already knows (but wants to hear from you)… and begin to enjoy a new level of His blessings, joy and peace.
©2011 Debbie Robus
Our God, you bless everyone whose sins you forgive and wipe away. You bless them by saying, "You told me your sins, without trying to hide them, and now I forgive you."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Someone told me recently about baking a pie, and some of the egg yolk got in the egg whites for the meringue, and they would not beat stiffly. The baker said, “I’ll just cover the pie with frozen whipped topping, and nobody will care.” I was reminded of a time when my grandmother covered dinner rolls she had made for a family dinner with a dish towel atop her gas stove. You guessed it… the towel caught fire when she turned on a burner, and bits of ashy residue baked into the tops of the rolls. She said to me, “Maybe nobody will notice.”
I know that covering meringue on a pie with whipped topping is not a “sin” – nor is scraping ashes off of a pan of hot rolls and hoping nobody will suspect any foul play. But the fact is, we play fast and loose with the truth in situations that really do matter… and often! We pretend our sins are not really sins, and we try to smooth things over with others… and with God… when all the while, the truth would serve us far better.
Look at this passage again… God says, “You told me your sins, without trying to hide them, and now I forgive you.” Let’s face it… God knows what we do and say already. Trying to hide anything from God is impossible and only serves to make us look more foolish. When will we get how much God loves us? When will we understand that He is not waiting with a whip and a chain, ready to beat us into submission? God wants us to be real with Him… to be honest… to do our best, and confess our shortcomings… and there will be plenty!
What are you trying to hide these days? What have you “scraped off” or “covered in whipped topping?” Isn’t it time you came clean with God and basked in His mercy and forgiveness? Get everything out in the open with God… confess your sins to Him… tell Him what He already knows (but wants to hear from you)… and begin to enjoy a new level of His blessings, joy and peace.
©2011 Debbie Robus
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