1 Peter 3:10-12
“Do you really love life?
Do you want to be happy?
Then stop saying cruel things
and quit telling lies.
Give up your evil ways
and do right,
as you find and follow
the road that leads
The Lord watches over
everyone who obeys him,
and he listens
to their prayers.
But he opposes everyone
who does evil.”
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Greg
and Timothy were building a “village” out of wooden blocks. Timothy
made some characters out of Legos® that he dubbed “the evil gang.” The
village had several “buildings” created with stacked blocks, and Greg
asked Timothy, “Are you planning on those evil men knocking over these
houses?” Timothy assured him that this was NOT going to happen…that
“These men are just here for a visit.”
Then a building
accidentally fell, and as Greg reached to get it, Timothy said, “Oh,
that’s what ‘we’ were about to do!” Greg looked at Timothy with a
raised eyebrow, and Timothy said, “Oh, we LIED! Hehehe!” And he made
angry, evil voices for the characters. Then he started to laugh and
say, “Oh, my bad!” to indicate that he didn’t mean any harm. It was all
a fun game between a boy and his uncle.
But as I watched this
unfold and listened, I thought about how we act in “real life.” Many of
us “play nice” and pretend to be kind and friendly…but we would just as
soon “mow down” the other guy as look at him. There is emptiness in our
hearts and minds that we try to fill by building ourselves up – often
at the expense of others. We lie, cheat, steal, and tear people
down…and then we often pretend that this was not our intention at all!
Sometimes, we try to brush it all away with a “My bad!” justification.
Sadly, there are also times when we stand by our vicious words and
actions.
Most of us want people to think we are “a nice guy.” If
they only knew that sometimes, our “evil twin” has a way of appearing!
Some people may even come to think of us as a person who is always
negative, angry or disgruntled…or simply a “grump.” Others may think of
us as an out-and-out bully…and maybe some of us are indeed!
We
must understand that our words, actions, and demeanor matter. We have
to make every effort to obey God…to seek His will and operate within His
guidelines. We have to stop and think about what we say and do –
BEFORE it happens. Check your attitude in a “virtual mirror” and make
sure that you are representing God and His goodness. We all know
someone whose very name makes us groan…the thought of them conjures up a
negative attitude - or unloving (if not evil) behavior. Don’t be one
of these people!
Will this be the day that you check your own
heart and mind for an “evil gang” mentality and quit “knocking over”
others? Are you ready to say “NO!” to the devil and His methods - and
live abundantly in the will of God? When others look at you, WHO do
they see…and how will you be remembered?
Fill your heart with
God’s goodness. Work hard to be a positive, pleasant, Spirit-filled
disciple who represents the very best that God offers all of us. You
will be amazed at how this affects every aspect of your life…and the
lives of those around you. I’m betting that God will pour out His favor
on you in a new, more plentiful way, as well. It’s certainly worth a
shot…isn’t it? What are we waiting for?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Showing posts with label negativity. Show all posts
Showing posts with label negativity. Show all posts
Daily Devotional for May 6, 2016
Luke 21:8-9
He said, “Watch out for the doomsday deceivers. Many leaders are going to show up with forged identities claiming, ‘I’m the One,’ or, ‘The end is near.’ Don’t fall for any of that. When you hear of wars and uprisings, keep your head and don’t panic. This is routine history and no sign of the end.”
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 traveled with Timothy’s class to a goat farm today. Yes…a goat farm! We watched the farmer milk a goat and then make soap with the milk and other ingredients. We toured the milking room and saw babies, yearlings, and full-grown Nubian goats. We took a hayride and looked at beautiful cattle – including several newborn calves - grazing under a grove of trees. The children ran relays on stick horses and got to pet a beautiful horse named Mercedes.
We finished the morning with a picnic lunch. The fields were full of buttercups. Everything was crisp and green…the goats were adorable…the sky was deep blue, and there was lots of sunshine and a light breeze to keep things cool. It was what my mother used to call a “Chamber of Commerce Day!”
The dad of one of Timothy’s classmates rode over to the farm with me. He moved to our state from New Jersey, and he marveled at the foliage and the landscape as we traveled. He talked of living in a “concrete jungle” just a few miles from New York City, and how he was glad his children were growing up where nature was abundant. Everything about the farm was as new and exciting to him as it was to any of the 6-and-7-year-olds who visited.
After we returned from the trip, I purchased a couple dozen farm fresh eggs and several quarts of just-picked strawberries from local vendors. By the time I got home, I was tired from all of the fresh air, sunshine, and the day’s activities…but my heart was so full. God had shown me firsthand just how blessed I am.
I grew up around farm animals, riding my own horse, and eating freshly grown food from my grandparents’ garden. I have lived most of my 58+ years within 100 miles of my present location…and I have never lacked for greenery, changing seasons, or an abundance of wildlife. I looked around and realized just how blessed I am – and I was reminded how easy it is to become complacent – or negative…and to forget all of this!
My mother said over and over that there was nothing new about the wars and hatred of today. If you study history at all…or if you read your Bible…you will learn more about torture and strife than you could ever imagine. You will see that negativity, bullying, and abuses of all kinds are anything but new. You will also see that people have been saying that “the end is near” for centuries! We all know that Matthew 24:36 tells us…“But the exact day and hour? No one knows that, not even heaven’s angels, not even the Son. Only the Father knows.” Yet many still want to try to predict what God is planning – and when!
Here’s the lesson for us…stop worrying about when Jesus will return – and start focusing on what God has given you! Count your blessings…open your eyes and recognize the opportunities and possibilities in your midst. Ask God what He wants you to do with each and every day…and then prepare to DO IT! Trust that God has amazing plans for you. Live with faith that Jesus will return at the right time…and meanwhile, He will handle ALL THINGS in your life. I do not mean to belittle war and dissention – or to disrespect those who fight for our country or any of our leaders who are working to bring about resolution and peace.
But let’s be honest…the most important thing that you and I can do to eliminate strife in our own life – and our own circle of influence – is to operate in God’s will and honor His blessings in our lives. Recognize a “good day” – and come to expect more of them. Show others what it means to live fully in God’s abundance…fearless about the future and a victor rather than a victim of negativity and disagreement. Don’t buy into the false message of those who would have you believe that everything is quite literally “going to hell in a hand basket.” God is still on the throne! He is still the King of Kings…large and in charge…calling the shots and blessing His people. And you are among them!
Who are you listening to these days? Do you see the hand of God upon your life? Do you trust Him? Have you counted your blessings lately? Isn’t it time you did?
©2016 Debbie Robus
He said, “Watch out for the doomsday deceivers. Many leaders are going to show up with forged identities claiming, ‘I’m the One,’ or, ‘The end is near.’ Don’t fall for any of that. When you hear of wars and uprisings, keep your head and don’t panic. This is routine history and no sign of the end.”
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 traveled with Timothy’s class to a goat farm today. Yes…a goat farm! We watched the farmer milk a goat and then make soap with the milk and other ingredients. We toured the milking room and saw babies, yearlings, and full-grown Nubian goats. We took a hayride and looked at beautiful cattle – including several newborn calves - grazing under a grove of trees. The children ran relays on stick horses and got to pet a beautiful horse named Mercedes.
We finished the morning with a picnic lunch. The fields were full of buttercups. Everything was crisp and green…the goats were adorable…the sky was deep blue, and there was lots of sunshine and a light breeze to keep things cool. It was what my mother used to call a “Chamber of Commerce Day!”
The dad of one of Timothy’s classmates rode over to the farm with me. He moved to our state from New Jersey, and he marveled at the foliage and the landscape as we traveled. He talked of living in a “concrete jungle” just a few miles from New York City, and how he was glad his children were growing up where nature was abundant. Everything about the farm was as new and exciting to him as it was to any of the 6-and-7-year-olds who visited.
After we returned from the trip, I purchased a couple dozen farm fresh eggs and several quarts of just-picked strawberries from local vendors. By the time I got home, I was tired from all of the fresh air, sunshine, and the day’s activities…but my heart was so full. God had shown me firsthand just how blessed I am.
I grew up around farm animals, riding my own horse, and eating freshly grown food from my grandparents’ garden. I have lived most of my 58+ years within 100 miles of my present location…and I have never lacked for greenery, changing seasons, or an abundance of wildlife. I looked around and realized just how blessed I am – and I was reminded how easy it is to become complacent – or negative…and to forget all of this!
My mother said over and over that there was nothing new about the wars and hatred of today. If you study history at all…or if you read your Bible…you will learn more about torture and strife than you could ever imagine. You will see that negativity, bullying, and abuses of all kinds are anything but new. You will also see that people have been saying that “the end is near” for centuries! We all know that Matthew 24:36 tells us…“But the exact day and hour? No one knows that, not even heaven’s angels, not even the Son. Only the Father knows.” Yet many still want to try to predict what God is planning – and when!
Here’s the lesson for us…stop worrying about when Jesus will return – and start focusing on what God has given you! Count your blessings…open your eyes and recognize the opportunities and possibilities in your midst. Ask God what He wants you to do with each and every day…and then prepare to DO IT! Trust that God has amazing plans for you. Live with faith that Jesus will return at the right time…and meanwhile, He will handle ALL THINGS in your life. I do not mean to belittle war and dissention – or to disrespect those who fight for our country or any of our leaders who are working to bring about resolution and peace.
But let’s be honest…the most important thing that you and I can do to eliminate strife in our own life – and our own circle of influence – is to operate in God’s will and honor His blessings in our lives. Recognize a “good day” – and come to expect more of them. Show others what it means to live fully in God’s abundance…fearless about the future and a victor rather than a victim of negativity and disagreement. Don’t buy into the false message of those who would have you believe that everything is quite literally “going to hell in a hand basket.” God is still on the throne! He is still the King of Kings…large and in charge…calling the shots and blessing His people. And you are among them!
Who are you listening to these days? Do you see the hand of God upon your life? Do you trust Him? Have you counted your blessings lately? Isn’t it time you did?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for October 5, 2013
Philippians 4:8-9
Summing it all up, friends, I’d say you’ll do best by filling your minds and meditating on things true, noble, reputable, authentic, compelling, gracious—the best, not the worst; the beautiful, not the ugly; things to praise, not things to curse. Put into practice what you learned from me, what you heard and saw and realized. Do that, and God, who makes everything work together, will work you into his most excellent harmonies.
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.
When I was nine years old, my great-grandfather died. I remember sitting on my great-grandmother’s lap in their little farmhouse at Wilburn, Arkansas, and telling her how sorry I was. She replied that everything would be okay… that we would all be okay. I can still remember my mother saying, “Granny is a strong woman.” In recent years, I learned that there was at least a time when Granny was anything but strong. She “took to her bed”, as old-timers like to say - somewhere around 1920 - and stayed there for SEVENTEEN YEARS! From what we can glean, we believe that Granny suffered a nervous breakdown after a bout with the flu – and possibly a miscarriage. My paternal grandmother, who grew up with Granny’s children, always said that “Granny had some sort of ‘spell’ and just went to bed.”
One of Granny’s daughters told Mother that my great-grandfather tried everything to cheer her up… taking her on wagon rides on Sunday afternoons… even moving into town for a year so that Granny could drink local mineral waters that were said to have healing effects… doing virtually anything he thought might please her. It was all to no avail. Granny ran her family (my great-grandfather, my grandfather, his brother and a toddler sister) and her household from bed… and she even bore two more children during this time. And as my grandfather and his older siblings grew up and left home, Granny gradually began to get up out of bed and take on a few household chores… and even some cooking. She died in 1968, at the age of 79. I was grown and married before I ever knew anything of this 17-year episode.
There are a lot of us who have figuratively “taken to our beds” – if not literally. We mope around with an unpleasant look on our faces and an unhappy attitude. We gripe and complain… about everything. Many have even built a reputation for being a negative person… someone whom others don’t care to be around – at least for very long. I know a few people like this, don’t you? They are always mad or angry about something or someone…nothing is ever quite right…and every word from their mouth is tinged with a hint of displeasure and dissatisfaction. The crazy thing is that some of these people even claim to be Spirit-filled Christians!
I GOOGLED the phrase “positive people”… hoping to find some inspirational personal stories of people who have remained positive and pleasant against all odds. Instead, I found this list of 10 Essential Habits of Positive People at a website called Lifehack.org. (http://www.lifehack.org/articles/lifestyle/the-10-essential-habits-of-positive-people.html) Please visit this site and read the commentary that expounds on each of these ten points. It’s very good and highly enlightening. But here are the 10 basic points…
God doesn’t love us any less when we behave in this manner… but He surely would like to see us turn this around. We can… and He will help us! But here’s the deal… it’s our choice! We can choose to call on the LORD and summon every ounce of strength and resolve necessary to overcome negative forces in our life… to become positive people who fill our minds and meditate on “things true, noble, reputable, authentic, compelling, gracious—the best, not the worst; the beautiful, not the ugly; things to praise, not things to curse.” We can put into practice the teachings of Jesus… all that we have seen, heard and realized. Or we can allow the devil to have a field day – to consume us with negative thoughts and attitudes, depression, disillusionment, and a general dissatisfaction with our life and everyone in it.
I know some of you will argue that there are extenuating circumstances… medical complications and mental disorders that cause some to behave this way. And you are right. But most of us use this as a crutch because we don’t want to accept our own choices. Too many of us rather enjoy wallowing in self-pity and negativity… and we have chosen to stay there!
I don’t know about you, but this is an easy decision for me. I want the joys and symple rhythms of a life in Christ… one where He helps me over the bumps in the road and through the difficult times – and there will always be difficult times – and moves me along toward heaven. I want to operate in service that pleases Him… an attitude that says that my life in Christ can overcome any obstacles and hitches the devil tries to place in my path. Like my Granny told me when I was ten, everything will be okay. I believe that, because I believe that God will work everything together for His perfect harmonies in those who choose to love and serve Him.
What do you believe? And how will you choose to operate?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Summing it all up, friends, I’d say you’ll do best by filling your minds and meditating on things true, noble, reputable, authentic, compelling, gracious—the best, not the worst; the beautiful, not the ugly; things to praise, not things to curse. Put into practice what you learned from me, what you heard and saw and realized. Do that, and God, who makes everything work together, will work you into his most excellent harmonies.
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.
When I was nine years old, my great-grandfather died. I remember sitting on my great-grandmother’s lap in their little farmhouse at Wilburn, Arkansas, and telling her how sorry I was. She replied that everything would be okay… that we would all be okay. I can still remember my mother saying, “Granny is a strong woman.” In recent years, I learned that there was at least a time when Granny was anything but strong. She “took to her bed”, as old-timers like to say - somewhere around 1920 - and stayed there for SEVENTEEN YEARS! From what we can glean, we believe that Granny suffered a nervous breakdown after a bout with the flu – and possibly a miscarriage. My paternal grandmother, who grew up with Granny’s children, always said that “Granny had some sort of ‘spell’ and just went to bed.”
One of Granny’s daughters told Mother that my great-grandfather tried everything to cheer her up… taking her on wagon rides on Sunday afternoons… even moving into town for a year so that Granny could drink local mineral waters that were said to have healing effects… doing virtually anything he thought might please her. It was all to no avail. Granny ran her family (my great-grandfather, my grandfather, his brother and a toddler sister) and her household from bed… and she even bore two more children during this time. And as my grandfather and his older siblings grew up and left home, Granny gradually began to get up out of bed and take on a few household chores… and even some cooking. She died in 1968, at the age of 79. I was grown and married before I ever knew anything of this 17-year episode.
There are a lot of us who have figuratively “taken to our beds” – if not literally. We mope around with an unpleasant look on our faces and an unhappy attitude. We gripe and complain… about everything. Many have even built a reputation for being a negative person… someone whom others don’t care to be around – at least for very long. I know a few people like this, don’t you? They are always mad or angry about something or someone…nothing is ever quite right…and every word from their mouth is tinged with a hint of displeasure and dissatisfaction. The crazy thing is that some of these people even claim to be Spirit-filled Christians!
I GOOGLED the phrase “positive people”… hoping to find some inspirational personal stories of people who have remained positive and pleasant against all odds. Instead, I found this list of 10 Essential Habits of Positive People at a website called Lifehack.org. (http://www.lifehack.org/articles/lifestyle/the-10-essential-habits-of-positive-people.html) Please visit this site and read the commentary that expounds on each of these ten points. It’s very good and highly enlightening. But here are the 10 basic points…
- Positive people don’t confuse quitting with letting go.
- Positive people don’t just have a good day – they make a good day.
- For the positive person, the past stays in the past.
- Show me a positive person and I can show you a grateful person.
- Rather than being stuck in their limitations, positive people are energized by their possibilities.
- Positive people do not let their fears interfere with their lives!
- Positive people smile a lot!
- People who are positive are great communicators.
- Positive people realize that if you live long enough, there are times for great pain and sadness.
- Positive persons are empowered people – they refuse to blame others and are not victims in life.
God doesn’t love us any less when we behave in this manner… but He surely would like to see us turn this around. We can… and He will help us! But here’s the deal… it’s our choice! We can choose to call on the LORD and summon every ounce of strength and resolve necessary to overcome negative forces in our life… to become positive people who fill our minds and meditate on “things true, noble, reputable, authentic, compelling, gracious—the best, not the worst; the beautiful, not the ugly; things to praise, not things to curse.” We can put into practice the teachings of Jesus… all that we have seen, heard and realized. Or we can allow the devil to have a field day – to consume us with negative thoughts and attitudes, depression, disillusionment, and a general dissatisfaction with our life and everyone in it.
I know some of you will argue that there are extenuating circumstances… medical complications and mental disorders that cause some to behave this way. And you are right. But most of us use this as a crutch because we don’t want to accept our own choices. Too many of us rather enjoy wallowing in self-pity and negativity… and we have chosen to stay there!
I don’t know about you, but this is an easy decision for me. I want the joys and symple rhythms of a life in Christ… one where He helps me over the bumps in the road and through the difficult times – and there will always be difficult times – and moves me along toward heaven. I want to operate in service that pleases Him… an attitude that says that my life in Christ can overcome any obstacles and hitches the devil tries to place in my path. Like my Granny told me when I was ten, everything will be okay. I believe that, because I believe that God will work everything together for His perfect harmonies in those who choose to love and serve Him.
What do you believe? And how will you choose to operate?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 21, 2012
1 Peter 5:7-10
Keep a cool head. Stay alert. The Devil is poised to pounce, and would like nothing better than to catch you napping. Keep your guard up. You're not the only ones plunged into these hard times. It's the same with Christians all over the world. So keep a firm grip on the faith. The suffering won't last forever. It won't be long before this generous God who has great plans for us in Christ—eternal and glorious plans they are!—will have you put together and on your feet for good. He gets the last word; yes, he does.
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 keep a little calendar on my desk called “365 Days of Humor for Women.” There is a quote for each day of the year. Today’s quote was, “Some days you’re the pigeon, and some days you’re the statue.” That’s pretty funny stuff on the surface. The sad part is that some of us choose to be “the statue” pretty much every day of the year! And that’s how we get into trouble. See, the devil can move about easily in our suggestive realm. So when we speak negatively, we just as well open the door and say, “Come on in, buddy, and sit a spell!”
We give the devil room to work when we continually harbor negative thoughts. Part of keeping our guard up is making a concerted effort to see the good in all situations and people. I know it’s hard. I’ve been “the statue” more days than I care to acknowledge… and to a large degree it’s often been my own doing! Joel Osteen likes to say, “You can be a victim, or a victor!”
The choice is ours. We can take those “statue” days and turn them into opportunities to do better… for ourselves and by others. When someone mistreats you, make a vow to treat that person or someone else even better. When life throws you a curve ball, ask God to show you how to find your way to a bigger opportunity… or to give you His solution to your present dilemma.
Whatever images, suggestions, visions, dreams, impressions, feelings and thoughts that don’t contribute directly to our faith need to be blasted into the stratosphere. We need to fill our hearts and minds with those things that line up with God’s will for our lives… to continually seek to turn negative thoughts and events into positive ones (with God’s help), and to always ask Him “What would you have me learn from this?” Sure, there will still be “statue” events. But how we handle them will speak volumes about how big our faith in God is to set us upright, dust us off, and get us going in the right direction again.
Are you awake and alert these days… carefully guarding your thoughts and actions against the devil’s efforts to get a foothold? Or are you napping on the job? Have you set yourself up to experience the powerful “last word” of God… or would you rather be a “statue?”
©2012 Debbie Robus
Keep a cool head. Stay alert. The Devil is poised to pounce, and would like nothing better than to catch you napping. Keep your guard up. You're not the only ones plunged into these hard times. It's the same with Christians all over the world. So keep a firm grip on the faith. The suffering won't last forever. It won't be long before this generous God who has great plans for us in Christ—eternal and glorious plans they are!—will have you put together and on your feet for good. He gets the last word; yes, he does.
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 keep a little calendar on my desk called “365 Days of Humor for Women.” There is a quote for each day of the year. Today’s quote was, “Some days you’re the pigeon, and some days you’re the statue.” That’s pretty funny stuff on the surface. The sad part is that some of us choose to be “the statue” pretty much every day of the year! And that’s how we get into trouble. See, the devil can move about easily in our suggestive realm. So when we speak negatively, we just as well open the door and say, “Come on in, buddy, and sit a spell!”
We give the devil room to work when we continually harbor negative thoughts. Part of keeping our guard up is making a concerted effort to see the good in all situations and people. I know it’s hard. I’ve been “the statue” more days than I care to acknowledge… and to a large degree it’s often been my own doing! Joel Osteen likes to say, “You can be a victim, or a victor!”
The choice is ours. We can take those “statue” days and turn them into opportunities to do better… for ourselves and by others. When someone mistreats you, make a vow to treat that person or someone else even better. When life throws you a curve ball, ask God to show you how to find your way to a bigger opportunity… or to give you His solution to your present dilemma.
Whatever images, suggestions, visions, dreams, impressions, feelings and thoughts that don’t contribute directly to our faith need to be blasted into the stratosphere. We need to fill our hearts and minds with those things that line up with God’s will for our lives… to continually seek to turn negative thoughts and events into positive ones (with God’s help), and to always ask Him “What would you have me learn from this?” Sure, there will still be “statue” events. But how we handle them will speak volumes about how big our faith in God is to set us upright, dust us off, and get us going in the right direction again.
Are you awake and alert these days… carefully guarding your thoughts and actions against the devil’s efforts to get a foothold? Or are you napping on the job? Have you set yourself up to experience the powerful “last word” of God… or would you rather be a “statue?”
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 1, 2010
1 John 2:11
If we hate others, we are living and walking in the dark. We don't know where we are going, because we can't see in the dark.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Most of us are never truly in the dark these days. Something is blinking or shining somewhere – smoke alarms, radon detectors, digital clocks, LED screens on electronics of all sorts. I heard an older person say “I turn out the lights, and I’m still not in the dark!”
I can remember when I was a child and my grandparents lived “out in the country” on a dirt road with thickly wooded forest on one side of their house and open pasture on the others. When they turned out the lights at night, it was DARK! Once we got in bed for the night, we didn’t dare move, because there was no way to see where we were going!
I don’t know about you, but I’ve grown accustomed to the “darkness” of this century. I had to stop and think about what the older woman said, because it had not really occurred to me in quite some time just how dark the nights were when I was a child spending time on that farm. I really like getting up in the night and having the comforting illumination of a glow-in-the-dark nightlight and our digital alarm clocks with the bright LED numerals giving me the time.
This passage is not literally about “hating others.” It speaks to much more than that. Hating others… harboring bitterness and resentment… always walking around griping and grumbling about this, that, or the other thing… having a negative attitude… “seeing the glass half empty” rather than half full… all of these things add up to walking and living in the dark. These things create an atmosphere of confusion and bumbling around… a lack of direction… no purpose. And that should not in any way, shape or form describe the life of a true Christian.
What about you? Have you “grown with the times” in your faith walk? As you have learned more about God, studied His word, spent time communicating with Him in prayer and fellowship, have “the lights come on” in your world? Have you found a way to love those who are hard to love, to tolerate those who think differently, to find the positive in each situation… or a solution to problems?
Jesus IS the Light of the World. If He lives in and through us, there can be no darkness. How light is your world these days? Are you done with the dark? Shouldn’t you be?
©2010 Debbie Robus
If we hate others, we are living and walking in the dark. We don't know where we are going, because we can't see in the dark.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Most of us are never truly in the dark these days. Something is blinking or shining somewhere – smoke alarms, radon detectors, digital clocks, LED screens on electronics of all sorts. I heard an older person say “I turn out the lights, and I’m still not in the dark!”
I can remember when I was a child and my grandparents lived “out in the country” on a dirt road with thickly wooded forest on one side of their house and open pasture on the others. When they turned out the lights at night, it was DARK! Once we got in bed for the night, we didn’t dare move, because there was no way to see where we were going!
I don’t know about you, but I’ve grown accustomed to the “darkness” of this century. I had to stop and think about what the older woman said, because it had not really occurred to me in quite some time just how dark the nights were when I was a child spending time on that farm. I really like getting up in the night and having the comforting illumination of a glow-in-the-dark nightlight and our digital alarm clocks with the bright LED numerals giving me the time.
This passage is not literally about “hating others.” It speaks to much more than that. Hating others… harboring bitterness and resentment… always walking around griping and grumbling about this, that, or the other thing… having a negative attitude… “seeing the glass half empty” rather than half full… all of these things add up to walking and living in the dark. These things create an atmosphere of confusion and bumbling around… a lack of direction… no purpose. And that should not in any way, shape or form describe the life of a true Christian.
What about you? Have you “grown with the times” in your faith walk? As you have learned more about God, studied His word, spent time communicating with Him in prayer and fellowship, have “the lights come on” in your world? Have you found a way to love those who are hard to love, to tolerate those who think differently, to find the positive in each situation… or a solution to problems?
Jesus IS the Light of the World. If He lives in and through us, there can be no darkness. How light is your world these days? Are you done with the dark? Shouldn’t you be?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for September 5, 2010
1 Peter 3:15
Honor Christ and let him be the Lord of your life. Always be ready to give an answer when someone asks you about your hope.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I don’t know what is going on, but it seems I haven’t had to look very far lately to see plenty of negativity, despair, discouragement, and misery. People who claim to be Christians are bemoaning how our world is going down the tubes … complaining about everything from the economy to our political leaders to their next-door neighbor! You ask someone how they are doing, and they frown and say pitifully, “Oh, okay, I guess.”
C’mon, people! Is this really the way Christians are supposed to behave? Do we truly believe what we claim in the name of Jesus? Or are we just giving Him lip service?
No matter how bad things seem in our lives – and believe me, I know there are some really bad, hard things that happen to many of us – we basically have two choices:
How are you living today? Are people afraid to approach you for fear of the reaction they will get? Or are they eager to be around you … encouraged by your enthusiasm, hope and faith? Are they seeing your confidence in Christ Jesus and an attitude that honors Him? Who has your heart and your mind-set … the devil or the Holy Spirit? The choice is ours … whaddya say? Is your attitude a true reflection of your faith?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Honor Christ and let him be the Lord of your life. Always be ready to give an answer when someone asks you about your hope.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I don’t know what is going on, but it seems I haven’t had to look very far lately to see plenty of negativity, despair, discouragement, and misery. People who claim to be Christians are bemoaning how our world is going down the tubes … complaining about everything from the economy to our political leaders to their next-door neighbor! You ask someone how they are doing, and they frown and say pitifully, “Oh, okay, I guess.”
C’mon, people! Is this really the way Christians are supposed to behave? Do we truly believe what we claim in the name of Jesus? Or are we just giving Him lip service?
No matter how bad things seem in our lives – and believe me, I know there are some really bad, hard things that happen to many of us – we basically have two choices:
- We can wallow in self-pity, give the devil all the satisfaction, and drag those around us down, as well; or
- We can operate in the hope and confidence of the promises of Christ Jesus, believing that no matter how “bad” it seems, our worst day with Him is better than our best day without Him.
How are you living today? Are people afraid to approach you for fear of the reaction they will get? Or are they eager to be around you … encouraged by your enthusiasm, hope and faith? Are they seeing your confidence in Christ Jesus and an attitude that honors Him? Who has your heart and your mind-set … the devil or the Holy Spirit? The choice is ours … whaddya say? Is your attitude a true reflection of your faith?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for August 22, 2010
Colossians 3:15
Each one of you is part of the body of Christ, and you were chosen to live together in peace. So let the peace that comes from Christ control your thoughts. And be grateful.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
It seems like everywhere I go these days, people are grumbling. As I bought groceries early one morning, I was greeted with a loud conversation between two stockers who were complaining about our government leaders and how bad they feel things are going in this country. Not once did they acknowledge how blessed they are to have a job. The “peace” of my early morning shopping trip was blasted by their agitated tirade … and they didn’t appear to be living peacefully themselves.
I hear others complain about everything from poor health to their lousy jobs or how much they hate school to how “foreigners” are overtaking our country, and more. Sadly, I don’t notice nearly as many people who are eager to share how blessed they are … how much God has done for them … how fortunate they feel to be able to get out of bed every morning and breathe fresh air. I don’t notice many people who answer the question, “How is work?” or “How is school?” with a response that indicates that they are grateful for the opportunity to have a job or the chance to obtain an education.
Back to the stockers at the grocery store – they peppered their conversation with references to a televangelist and other church “leaders” who are warning us about how bad things are. Frankly, their reference to this particular evangelist – who I consider to be a grumbler who operates in spreading fear – spoke volumes to me. They never once mentioned prayer for our nation, trusting God to help us through our struggles, or anything that was remotely related to experiencing the peace of Christ. And I had to ask myself … what does this say to others who hear them? Do people recognize them as part of the body of Christ, allowing Him to control their thoughts and give them peace? Do others see any sign that these people are grateful or walking in faith?
Or does our grumbling, complaining and negative body language give others the impression that we are fearful and pessimistic? Does our apparent lack of peace and confidence actually turn off others … especially those who are riding the fence about whether or not to trust Jesus for themselves?
What is wrong with us? Why have we allowed the devil to have such victory in this area of our lives? Why have we let him steal our peace? Why aren’t we talking with God and asking Him to show us how to get through the challenges of our day, then moving forward in the peace and comfort of feeling confident that He will do exactly this? Why aren’t we more grateful for how blessed we are?
I believe the devil makes it too easy and too “fun” to grumble and gripe. For many of us it has become our favorite pastime and hobby. But we need to take a good hard look at our behavior and kick this negativity to the curb. It’s time to start operating in positives. I’m not talking about being phony. If we truly are trusting God to control our thoughts and give us peace, behaving as if we are peaceful and grateful is authentic … and reflects our commitment to being an honorable member of the body of Christ.
I pray that we will each set aside some time this next week to examine our lives … our thoughts, speech, and actions. Let’s see where we need to make some changes. Let’s see where we need to trust God more … and operate in blessings and gratitude. Let’s kick Satan - and his negativity and dissention - to the curb and represent the body of Christ as we were chosen to do. Are you with me on this?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Each one of you is part of the body of Christ, and you were chosen to live together in peace. So let the peace that comes from Christ control your thoughts. And be grateful.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
It seems like everywhere I go these days, people are grumbling. As I bought groceries early one morning, I was greeted with a loud conversation between two stockers who were complaining about our government leaders and how bad they feel things are going in this country. Not once did they acknowledge how blessed they are to have a job. The “peace” of my early morning shopping trip was blasted by their agitated tirade … and they didn’t appear to be living peacefully themselves.
I hear others complain about everything from poor health to their lousy jobs or how much they hate school to how “foreigners” are overtaking our country, and more. Sadly, I don’t notice nearly as many people who are eager to share how blessed they are … how much God has done for them … how fortunate they feel to be able to get out of bed every morning and breathe fresh air. I don’t notice many people who answer the question, “How is work?” or “How is school?” with a response that indicates that they are grateful for the opportunity to have a job or the chance to obtain an education.
Back to the stockers at the grocery store – they peppered their conversation with references to a televangelist and other church “leaders” who are warning us about how bad things are. Frankly, their reference to this particular evangelist – who I consider to be a grumbler who operates in spreading fear – spoke volumes to me. They never once mentioned prayer for our nation, trusting God to help us through our struggles, or anything that was remotely related to experiencing the peace of Christ. And I had to ask myself … what does this say to others who hear them? Do people recognize them as part of the body of Christ, allowing Him to control their thoughts and give them peace? Do others see any sign that these people are grateful or walking in faith?
Or does our grumbling, complaining and negative body language give others the impression that we are fearful and pessimistic? Does our apparent lack of peace and confidence actually turn off others … especially those who are riding the fence about whether or not to trust Jesus for themselves?
What is wrong with us? Why have we allowed the devil to have such victory in this area of our lives? Why have we let him steal our peace? Why aren’t we talking with God and asking Him to show us how to get through the challenges of our day, then moving forward in the peace and comfort of feeling confident that He will do exactly this? Why aren’t we more grateful for how blessed we are?
I believe the devil makes it too easy and too “fun” to grumble and gripe. For many of us it has become our favorite pastime and hobby. But we need to take a good hard look at our behavior and kick this negativity to the curb. It’s time to start operating in positives. I’m not talking about being phony. If we truly are trusting God to control our thoughts and give us peace, behaving as if we are peaceful and grateful is authentic … and reflects our commitment to being an honorable member of the body of Christ.
I pray that we will each set aside some time this next week to examine our lives … our thoughts, speech, and actions. Let’s see where we need to make some changes. Let’s see where we need to trust God more … and operate in blessings and gratitude. Let’s kick Satan - and his negativity and dissention - to the curb and represent the body of Christ as we were chosen to do. Are you with me on this?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for August 21, 2010
Colossians 3:12
God loves you and has chosen you as his own special people. So be gentle, kind, humble, meek, and patient.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When I think of living in a way that brings honor to the good news about Christ, I think of a certain woman who attends my church. I don’t know her very well, but she has got to be one of the kindest, most gentle and loving people I’ve ever met. She radiates with a love for Jesus and an abiding faith in Him. She is like a magnet … her spirit is contagious! Just thinking of her makes me smile … and she is almost always smiling!
On the other hand, when I hear the names of a few other people, I feel my skin bristle. It’s as if I know that any encounter with them will be unpleasant, based on past experience. At some point we will disagree, or something will not suit them, and they will let everyone know. I know that these are Christian people who have big hearts and the potential to love and serve God with a gentle, kind, patient spirit. I’ve seen them do it. But more often, I’ve seen them behave in the opposite manner.
You surely know people who are like the lady in my church – you may even know her! You know those who are always gentle, kind and loving … patient and ready to help … and humble. Sadly, you probably know people who are arrogant or spoiled, grumpy … who always have to have their own way, and are restless at best.
If someone lined up a group of people … a mix of both gentle, kind, humble, patient folks and those who behaved in the opposite manner … and then told you that all of these people were faith-filled Christians – disciples of Christ – would you believe them? If you were told to interview each one, and then choose a half dozen or so to get to know better, which ones would you choose? If you were told that you should pick one to be your spiritual friend or mentor … someone with whom to study the word of God and the teachings of Jesus … would you choose the grump? Would you believe what he/she had to say about a faith-filled life in Christ?
Attitude does matter. I’m not saying we should be phony and pretend to be happy and kind when we are not feeling it. But I know for a fact that God can help us overcome a lot of negativity in our lives. He can help us rise above it. He can give us joy and kindness, humility and meekness, gentleness and patience – even when our world seems to be crumbling around us. He can use us to show others how to walk in these traits even when their worlds are crumbling or less than perfect.
So today, I challenge all of us to ask God to help us be more gentle, kind, humble, meek and patient … in all circumstances! I pray that we will all become “magnets” for Jesus … drawing others to us so that we can share His love and the message of the cross. What’s your attitude these days? Are you behaving like the apple of God’s eye … or could you use a little “spit and polish?”
©2010 Debbie Robus
God loves you and has chosen you as his own special people. So be gentle, kind, humble, meek, and patient.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When I think of living in a way that brings honor to the good news about Christ, I think of a certain woman who attends my church. I don’t know her very well, but she has got to be one of the kindest, most gentle and loving people I’ve ever met. She radiates with a love for Jesus and an abiding faith in Him. She is like a magnet … her spirit is contagious! Just thinking of her makes me smile … and she is almost always smiling!
On the other hand, when I hear the names of a few other people, I feel my skin bristle. It’s as if I know that any encounter with them will be unpleasant, based on past experience. At some point we will disagree, or something will not suit them, and they will let everyone know. I know that these are Christian people who have big hearts and the potential to love and serve God with a gentle, kind, patient spirit. I’ve seen them do it. But more often, I’ve seen them behave in the opposite manner.
You surely know people who are like the lady in my church – you may even know her! You know those who are always gentle, kind and loving … patient and ready to help … and humble. Sadly, you probably know people who are arrogant or spoiled, grumpy … who always have to have their own way, and are restless at best.
If someone lined up a group of people … a mix of both gentle, kind, humble, patient folks and those who behaved in the opposite manner … and then told you that all of these people were faith-filled Christians – disciples of Christ – would you believe them? If you were told to interview each one, and then choose a half dozen or so to get to know better, which ones would you choose? If you were told that you should pick one to be your spiritual friend or mentor … someone with whom to study the word of God and the teachings of Jesus … would you choose the grump? Would you believe what he/she had to say about a faith-filled life in Christ?
Attitude does matter. I’m not saying we should be phony and pretend to be happy and kind when we are not feeling it. But I know for a fact that God can help us overcome a lot of negativity in our lives. He can help us rise above it. He can give us joy and kindness, humility and meekness, gentleness and patience – even when our world seems to be crumbling around us. He can use us to show others how to walk in these traits even when their worlds are crumbling or less than perfect.
So today, I challenge all of us to ask God to help us be more gentle, kind, humble, meek and patient … in all circumstances! I pray that we will all become “magnets” for Jesus … drawing others to us so that we can share His love and the message of the cross. What’s your attitude these days? Are you behaving like the apple of God’s eye … or could you use a little “spit and polish?”
©2010 Debbie Robus
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