Isaiah 1:16-20
Oh, wash yourselves! Be clean! Let
me no longer see you doing all these wicked things; quit your evil ways.
Learn to do good, to be fair, and to help the poor, the fatherless, and
widows.
Come, let’s talk this over, says the Lord; no matter how
deep the stain of your sins, I can take it out and make you as clean as
freshly fallen snow. Even if you are stained as red as crimson, I can
make you white as wool! If you will only let me help you, if you will
only obey, then I will make you rich! But if you keep on turning your
backs and refusing to listen to me, you will be killed by your enemies;
I, the Lord, have spoken.
The
Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by
permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois
60188. All rights reserved.
When we spill something on
our clothing…the carpet…or the couch, our first instinct is to grab a
cloth or sponge and start rubbing! Often, the result is that we push
the stain further into the fibers and make permanent removal more
difficult – if not a near impossibility. Today, there are all sorts of
cleaners and sprays that can be applied to essentially “fizz” the stain
out and dissolve it. You have to be careful…some of the “oxi” treatments
can actually bleach the material(s). But much of the time, these
“treatments” work beautifully and can save a lot of trouble and
disappointment.
The kids are always saying, “Aww…I spilled XYZ on
my shirt.” I find that I am often telling them, “That’s okay…I can get
that out…” or “I’ll wash it, and everything will be fine.” (And
sometimes, I find myself scrubbing and “fizzing” a stain that proved
more difficult to remove than I imagined!)
Do you see where I am
headed? We are the “children” – God is the parent. We stain our
lives…He removes the blemishes. Sometimes, the “stains” have been
rubbed in…we’ve worked them over pretty well! Other times, the sin is
just so big that it takes more “elbow grease” to get it out, once and
for all. But God is able to do all of this…if only we will humbly admit
our errors and ask Him to forgive us and wash us clean!
OUR JOB
is to do all that we can to “get clean” - and stay that way…to be
careful with our words and actions. We must care for others and serve
God according to His directions…and never, ever “rub the stain of sin”
further into our lives. Some of us are so stubborn. We want to have
things our way…to turn our backs on the word and wisdom of God and do as
we please. This is our choice…but we must understand that we are also
choosing to risk the consequences of God’s displeasure.
Just
because we give our hearts to Jesus doesn’t mean that we can “stain our
shirts” and assume that He will clean up the mess. With redemption
comes responsibility…and we should be so grateful to Jesus for His
salvation that we would be willing to do anything and everything to
honor Him.
So I ask you today…what’s on your shirt? Have you
rubbed in the stain or tried to cover it up? Or have you made every
effort to allow God to clean you, once and for all…and worked hard to
keep things neat and tidy as you move forward? Will this be the day that
He washes you “whiter than snow”…and you make every effort to stay that
way? Don’t you think it should be?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Showing posts with label paying it forward. Show all posts
Showing posts with label paying it forward. Show all posts
Daily Devotional for August 11, 2016
Galatians 5:13-15
My friends, you were chosen to be free. So don’t use your freedom as an excuse to do anything you want. Use it as an opportunity to serve each other with love. All that the Law says can be summed up in the command to love others as much as you love yourself. But if you keep attacking each other like wild animals, you had better watch out or you will destroy yourselves.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
There is a sweet elderly man named Rayburn who works at our local Walmart. The other day I heard him tell a young family, “I’m 92 years old!” I strongly suspect that Rayburn doesn’t have to work any longer. Judging from his friendly demeanor toward shoppers, I’d say that Rayburn loves his job – and works because it makes him happy!
A lot of retirees continue to work at something. Don’t misunderstand…these folks have plenty of options. They could literally do anything they want with their time, but many choose to give at least some of it back to others. They volunteer at thrift stores, animal shelters, schools, libraries, historical museums, and more. They deliver Meals on Wheels, work with youth groups, and care for grandchildren and other loved ones. They serve in every capacity under the sun for their church and its missions and ministries. And they do it all because they love others and want to pay forward the blessings they receive in life.
Each of us has a choice about how we spend our time. Some of it is mandated…work, school, family obligations. But we have plenty of minutes in the day that are left to our own discretion. Some of us choose to spend them acting in love and kindness…demonstrating the teachings of Jesus to others. Some of us spend them attacking others, criticizing, finding ways to tear down rather than build up, complaining, sharing unkind or untrue information with others…and in general, stirring up a mess of trouble!
Author and activist Eldridge Cleaver is attributed with the quote, “You either have to be part of the solution, or you're going to be part of the problem.” This is a fairly good interpretation of what is stated in Galatians 5:15. We have a choice. We can spend our time loving others and building them up, or we can act selfishly and unlovingly toward each other…foster attacks on one another with our critical and judgmental words and actions…and ultimately cultivate an environment where hatred – and at least the potential for eventual destruction – are the end results.
Sadly, some of us are headed toward the latter scenario with lightning speed! But we can turn it around. I’m not saying that at 92, we still have to be pushing a janitorial cart at Walmart and greeting the public – or volunteering for anything else! But we can look for opportunities every day to share the love and Good News of Jesus Christ with others. I know some wonderful seniors who are unable to get out of a chair, but they are some of the best and most fervent prayer warriors you will ever meet!
We can strive to be positive…to see the good in others and to promote it - even at the expense of our own recognition and/or appreciation. It is past time for us to recognize that life as a Christian is bigger than any single one of us! We are called to put Jesus – and others – ahead of ourselves…to love big…and to serve even bigger! It may not always be fun – or easy – but there truly IS a great freedom in serving in this manner.
This is not something we can afford to ignore. Are you ready to “hitch up your britches” and serve Jesus by serving others with love? Will this be the day that you get started?
©2016 Debbie Robus
My friends, you were chosen to be free. So don’t use your freedom as an excuse to do anything you want. Use it as an opportunity to serve each other with love. All that the Law says can be summed up in the command to love others as much as you love yourself. But if you keep attacking each other like wild animals, you had better watch out or you will destroy yourselves.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
There is a sweet elderly man named Rayburn who works at our local Walmart. The other day I heard him tell a young family, “I’m 92 years old!” I strongly suspect that Rayburn doesn’t have to work any longer. Judging from his friendly demeanor toward shoppers, I’d say that Rayburn loves his job – and works because it makes him happy!
A lot of retirees continue to work at something. Don’t misunderstand…these folks have plenty of options. They could literally do anything they want with their time, but many choose to give at least some of it back to others. They volunteer at thrift stores, animal shelters, schools, libraries, historical museums, and more. They deliver Meals on Wheels, work with youth groups, and care for grandchildren and other loved ones. They serve in every capacity under the sun for their church and its missions and ministries. And they do it all because they love others and want to pay forward the blessings they receive in life.
Each of us has a choice about how we spend our time. Some of it is mandated…work, school, family obligations. But we have plenty of minutes in the day that are left to our own discretion. Some of us choose to spend them acting in love and kindness…demonstrating the teachings of Jesus to others. Some of us spend them attacking others, criticizing, finding ways to tear down rather than build up, complaining, sharing unkind or untrue information with others…and in general, stirring up a mess of trouble!
Author and activist Eldridge Cleaver is attributed with the quote, “You either have to be part of the solution, or you're going to be part of the problem.” This is a fairly good interpretation of what is stated in Galatians 5:15. We have a choice. We can spend our time loving others and building them up, or we can act selfishly and unlovingly toward each other…foster attacks on one another with our critical and judgmental words and actions…and ultimately cultivate an environment where hatred – and at least the potential for eventual destruction – are the end results.
Sadly, some of us are headed toward the latter scenario with lightning speed! But we can turn it around. I’m not saying that at 92, we still have to be pushing a janitorial cart at Walmart and greeting the public – or volunteering for anything else! But we can look for opportunities every day to share the love and Good News of Jesus Christ with others. I know some wonderful seniors who are unable to get out of a chair, but they are some of the best and most fervent prayer warriors you will ever meet!
We can strive to be positive…to see the good in others and to promote it - even at the expense of our own recognition and/or appreciation. It is past time for us to recognize that life as a Christian is bigger than any single one of us! We are called to put Jesus – and others – ahead of ourselves…to love big…and to serve even bigger! It may not always be fun – or easy – but there truly IS a great freedom in serving in this manner.
This is not something we can afford to ignore. Are you ready to “hitch up your britches” and serve Jesus by serving others with love? Will this be the day that you get started?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for September 3, 2014
Psalm 145:9
He is good to everyone, and his compassion is intertwined with everything he does.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
A sweet church friend of mine gathered all of her “paraphernalia” on Labor Day to enjoy a relaxing afternoon poolside...only to discover that her little 12-year-old dog had somehow wandered into the pool and died. My heart broke for her as she described on Facebook how she ran into the house - screaming and crying - and called her husband to come help her. I could not imagine her shock and grief at making such a terrible discovery. She said she was not sure that she could ever enjoy her pool again.
As people began to comment, several mentioned that my friend’s little dog had been sick and was in pain. Some suggested that my friend was spared the heartache of having to “put down” her beloved pet. But all I could think about was how heartbroken she is...and how God understands her pain and sorrow. I wondered how many ways He will offer her His compassion in the coming days – and how this tragedy can be used by others to share compassion, grace and mercy in their daily living.
For my own part, I took a good hard look at our two cats...Lucy and Mabel - both fifteen years old now. I realize that our days with them are most likely numbered. I thought of all of the hours and days of joy these two little fur balls have brought to our lives, and I looked at them with a renewed love and understanding. I vowed not to be so exasperated by early morning taps on the nose and incessant yowling for attention...but rather, to embrace the opportunity to snuggle with them and share a scratch behind the ears or a gentle kiss on the head.
Every morning, Lucy waits for me to finish my breakfast and move into my office. She follows (if she isn’t already there waiting for me) and dances around at my feet until I pick her up and put her in my lap. This is our “lap time” together...and sometimes it happens more than once during the day. Occasionally, she sits still and snuggles...other times, she cannot get settled, and she claws my legs with her hind feet and gently nudges my hands with her teeth. But I know altogether too soon, I will long for even one of these “lap times”...so I do my best to accommodate her. I hope and pray that we never find our cats in a tragic circumstance like my friend and her dog. But I also know that someday our pets will leave us in some manner...and we will grieve every bit as much as she is.
How can we apply this to our daily living? What can we learn from this about God’s compassion, grace and mercy? Every day, we are presented with opportunities to either get exasperated with something or someone...or to look beyond the frustration and aggravation and see what lies underneath. We can be impatient with children, a spouse, our friends, a co-worker or boss, an elderly loved one, someone in line at the grocery store or driving down the highway – or even a beloved pet. OR...we can stop and take a look at them through God’s “lens”. We can look at them as I look at Lucy when she is sweetly sleeping in a chair or snuggled against me in my lap, purring softly. We can recognize that there is a “life”, and a purpose, behind the façade of whatever irritates or challenges us in the moment. We can stop and ask, “LORD, what are you trying to show me today?”
Rest assured that we frustrate God on a minute-by-minute basis...yet He loves us all the while and often looks past our shortcomings. We can’t always see His “good” in our lives – especially when we are smack in the middle of something rough – but it is there, just the same. God NEVER leaves us. He never stops loving us or caring about us, and He never wastes an opportunity to help us grow in our walk with Him.
I am so very sorry for my friend’s loss...and the way in which it happened. But I know that God will comfort her and guide her through the coming days. He will also use this story to remind us of His love and care for us, even in the tough times...and how we can pay this forward in our own lives.
What is God showing you today? Where is He demonstrating great compassion and care? Where can you share grace and mercy with others in His name? Are you taking full advantage of the opportunities that He gives you to do this? Isn’t it time you did?
©2014 Debbie Robus
He is good to everyone, and his compassion is intertwined with everything he does.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
A sweet church friend of mine gathered all of her “paraphernalia” on Labor Day to enjoy a relaxing afternoon poolside...only to discover that her little 12-year-old dog had somehow wandered into the pool and died. My heart broke for her as she described on Facebook how she ran into the house - screaming and crying - and called her husband to come help her. I could not imagine her shock and grief at making such a terrible discovery. She said she was not sure that she could ever enjoy her pool again.
As people began to comment, several mentioned that my friend’s little dog had been sick and was in pain. Some suggested that my friend was spared the heartache of having to “put down” her beloved pet. But all I could think about was how heartbroken she is...and how God understands her pain and sorrow. I wondered how many ways He will offer her His compassion in the coming days – and how this tragedy can be used by others to share compassion, grace and mercy in their daily living.
For my own part, I took a good hard look at our two cats...Lucy and Mabel - both fifteen years old now. I realize that our days with them are most likely numbered. I thought of all of the hours and days of joy these two little fur balls have brought to our lives, and I looked at them with a renewed love and understanding. I vowed not to be so exasperated by early morning taps on the nose and incessant yowling for attention...but rather, to embrace the opportunity to snuggle with them and share a scratch behind the ears or a gentle kiss on the head.
Every morning, Lucy waits for me to finish my breakfast and move into my office. She follows (if she isn’t already there waiting for me) and dances around at my feet until I pick her up and put her in my lap. This is our “lap time” together...and sometimes it happens more than once during the day. Occasionally, she sits still and snuggles...other times, she cannot get settled, and she claws my legs with her hind feet and gently nudges my hands with her teeth. But I know altogether too soon, I will long for even one of these “lap times”...so I do my best to accommodate her. I hope and pray that we never find our cats in a tragic circumstance like my friend and her dog. But I also know that someday our pets will leave us in some manner...and we will grieve every bit as much as she is.
How can we apply this to our daily living? What can we learn from this about God’s compassion, grace and mercy? Every day, we are presented with opportunities to either get exasperated with something or someone...or to look beyond the frustration and aggravation and see what lies underneath. We can be impatient with children, a spouse, our friends, a co-worker or boss, an elderly loved one, someone in line at the grocery store or driving down the highway – or even a beloved pet. OR...we can stop and take a look at them through God’s “lens”. We can look at them as I look at Lucy when she is sweetly sleeping in a chair or snuggled against me in my lap, purring softly. We can recognize that there is a “life”, and a purpose, behind the façade of whatever irritates or challenges us in the moment. We can stop and ask, “LORD, what are you trying to show me today?”
Rest assured that we frustrate God on a minute-by-minute basis...yet He loves us all the while and often looks past our shortcomings. We can’t always see His “good” in our lives – especially when we are smack in the middle of something rough – but it is there, just the same. God NEVER leaves us. He never stops loving us or caring about us, and He never wastes an opportunity to help us grow in our walk with Him.
I am so very sorry for my friend’s loss...and the way in which it happened. But I know that God will comfort her and guide her through the coming days. He will also use this story to remind us of His love and care for us, even in the tough times...and how we can pay this forward in our own lives.
What is God showing you today? Where is He demonstrating great compassion and care? Where can you share grace and mercy with others in His name? Are you taking full advantage of the opportunities that He gives you to do this? Isn’t it time you did?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for May 8, 2014
John 17:17-18
Your word is the truth. So let this truth make them completely yours. I am sending them into the world, just as you sent me.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Last year, my cousin Natalie introduced me to the writings of Jen Hatmaker, a wife and mother of three children who is also an author and Bible teacher. I will admit that I have not read any of Hatmaker’s books or Bible study guides…yet! But her blog posts are compelling AND entertaining, and she speaks the truth about real life and how we Christians can navigate the “troubled waters” it often brings. So when Natalie posted a link on Facebook to Hatmaker’s blog about teachers*, I was naturally “all in”!
I encourage you to take a few minutes and read this blog post. It’s not just for teachers – or former teachers. EVERYONE needs to read it! And here’s how I believe it applies to this scripture passage...
Hatmaker points out that we often fail to recognize all of the “truths” that are imparted to us and our children via teachers. She writes of teachers…”If only you were evaluated on what you do best and what actually matters: teaching kids to love learning, to love books and authors and words, to love numbers, to embrace science, to discover history, to create art, to think critically and practice good citizenship and leadership and resourcefulness and determination.”
Teachers are the vehicle for sharing truths and knowledge with students. Hopefully, they motivate and encourage their students to go out into the world and use this knowledge…to share their wisdom, skills and abilities with others and to be productive, citizens who “pay it forward”. Teachers are supposed to make the lessons “leap from the page”, so to speak…to clarify difficult math exercises and give “life” to historical events…to unlock the scientific mysteries and to help their students to develop the “whole person”. My piano teacher, Mrs. Little, taught me so much more than how to play the notes that were printed on a page…she unlocked the secret of making the music “sing”. I learned how to fully understand what the composer intended…and how to convey that message to the best of my ability.
Jesus came to earth to unlock some of the mysteries of God’s word…to explain many of God’s teachings with personal demonstrations of love, grace, mercy, forgiveness and compassion. He clarified God’s laws and encouraged us in our missions and our ministries. Jesus showed us how to “pay it forward” in our witness to others…and He unlocked the secret of carrying the Holy Spirit with us and living for God each and every minute of the day. Jesus was the ultimate Teacher…in Him, we truly find God.
Hatmaker makes a number of important points in her blog post…in particular how teachers’ efforts are often under-appreciated. She writes, “Because we have no idea how to appropriately thank them for their incredible labor, we say, ‘Here is this mug and also a gift card to Chili’s. Be blessed.’” I believe this is how we often treat Jesus and the incredible lessons and messages He has given us about God’s word. We give Him “lip service”…we talk the talk, but we fail to walk the walk. The time has come for us to recognize the lessons of Jesus…to hear His truths concerning God’s word…and to put them into action.
If only we evaluated Jesus on what actually matters: teaching us to love learning about God’s word...to love the Bible...to embrace the beauty and sanctity of God’s creations. If only we discovered how the history of the scriptures knits together to create the perfect picture of God’s orchestration of people and events to bring about His plans. If only we looked to the models Jesus gave us for creativity, critical thinking, and the practice of good citizenship and leadership - resourcefulness and determination. These are the truths and lessons from God that He brings to us. OUR JOB is to recognize and appreciate them…and to carry them forward.
Will this be the day that you begin to fully appreciate the teachings of Jesus? Will this be the day that you listen to His truths and really begin to find God? Don’t you think it should be?
©2014 Debbie Robus
* http://jenhatmaker.com/blog/2014/05/06/my-wish-list-for-teachers
Your word is the truth. So let this truth make them completely yours. I am sending them into the world, just as you sent me.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Last year, my cousin Natalie introduced me to the writings of Jen Hatmaker, a wife and mother of three children who is also an author and Bible teacher. I will admit that I have not read any of Hatmaker’s books or Bible study guides…yet! But her blog posts are compelling AND entertaining, and she speaks the truth about real life and how we Christians can navigate the “troubled waters” it often brings. So when Natalie posted a link on Facebook to Hatmaker’s blog about teachers*, I was naturally “all in”!
I encourage you to take a few minutes and read this blog post. It’s not just for teachers – or former teachers. EVERYONE needs to read it! And here’s how I believe it applies to this scripture passage...
Hatmaker points out that we often fail to recognize all of the “truths” that are imparted to us and our children via teachers. She writes of teachers…”If only you were evaluated on what you do best and what actually matters: teaching kids to love learning, to love books and authors and words, to love numbers, to embrace science, to discover history, to create art, to think critically and practice good citizenship and leadership and resourcefulness and determination.”
Teachers are the vehicle for sharing truths and knowledge with students. Hopefully, they motivate and encourage their students to go out into the world and use this knowledge…to share their wisdom, skills and abilities with others and to be productive, citizens who “pay it forward”. Teachers are supposed to make the lessons “leap from the page”, so to speak…to clarify difficult math exercises and give “life” to historical events…to unlock the scientific mysteries and to help their students to develop the “whole person”. My piano teacher, Mrs. Little, taught me so much more than how to play the notes that were printed on a page…she unlocked the secret of making the music “sing”. I learned how to fully understand what the composer intended…and how to convey that message to the best of my ability.
Jesus came to earth to unlock some of the mysteries of God’s word…to explain many of God’s teachings with personal demonstrations of love, grace, mercy, forgiveness and compassion. He clarified God’s laws and encouraged us in our missions and our ministries. Jesus showed us how to “pay it forward” in our witness to others…and He unlocked the secret of carrying the Holy Spirit with us and living for God each and every minute of the day. Jesus was the ultimate Teacher…in Him, we truly find God.
Hatmaker makes a number of important points in her blog post…in particular how teachers’ efforts are often under-appreciated. She writes, “Because we have no idea how to appropriately thank them for their incredible labor, we say, ‘Here is this mug and also a gift card to Chili’s. Be blessed.’” I believe this is how we often treat Jesus and the incredible lessons and messages He has given us about God’s word. We give Him “lip service”…we talk the talk, but we fail to walk the walk. The time has come for us to recognize the lessons of Jesus…to hear His truths concerning God’s word…and to put them into action.
If only we evaluated Jesus on what actually matters: teaching us to love learning about God’s word...to love the Bible...to embrace the beauty and sanctity of God’s creations. If only we discovered how the history of the scriptures knits together to create the perfect picture of God’s orchestration of people and events to bring about His plans. If only we looked to the models Jesus gave us for creativity, critical thinking, and the practice of good citizenship and leadership - resourcefulness and determination. These are the truths and lessons from God that He brings to us. OUR JOB is to recognize and appreciate them…and to carry them forward.
Will this be the day that you begin to fully appreciate the teachings of Jesus? Will this be the day that you listen to His truths and really begin to find God? Don’t you think it should be?
©2014 Debbie Robus
* http://jenhatmaker.com/blog/2014/05/06/my-wish-list-for-teachers
Daily Devotional for January 20, 2014
Daniel 9:9
But the Lord our God is merciful and forgiving, even though we have rebelled against him.
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.
I still remember when my Mam-ma Polly told me that she had shoveled the ice off her driveway…”so that people could pull in safely.” She did this despite our most earnest pleas to stay inside…and stay OFF the ice! I cannot honestly say that she never fell doing this (because she probably would not have told us!), but thankfully, she never suffered any significant injuries as a result. And while we did not like her “rebellious” actions and behaviors at times, we always loved her and forgave her.
Parents have been doing this with children for generations. My cousins were telling recently of their now-adult daughter sticking something into the electrical outlet as a child – TWICE - despite their admonitions…”Don’t do that!” Of course, they loved her and cared for her afterward…but they still did not want her to put anything in the electrical outlets!
Every single day, we do things that displease God. We may be fully conscious of our rebellion…or it may be something that we do so automatically that we don’t realize what we have done. We may also rebel against God by charging ahead without asking for His guidance and seeking His wisdom. We have to do better at responding to God and obeying His commands. Thankfully, God is merciful, forgiving…and relatively patient with us in the meantime. Hopefully we can make daily progress as we grow closer to Him through prayer, Bible study, and the fellowship and sharing of encouragement with other believers.
As part of our Christian discipleship, we are called to show mercy, forgiveness and compassion to others. Let’s be honest…people are going to rebel against us…betray us…insult us…ignore us…or show us disrespect and/or mistreatment in some manner more than once in our lifetimes. Maybe you feel like this is a daily occurrence in your life! Truly, this is not what God desires for us. But then, He doesn’t desire that we treat Him in this manner, either. And in God, we see the perfect example of how to treat others. We don’t have to like their actions and behaviors…we don’t have to be their personal doormat…but we do have to offer them mercy and forgiveness, just as God offers each of us.
How do you maintain boundaries, stand up for yourself and what is right…yet let someone know that you do not condone rebellious actions and behaviors? We have been perfect examples of this all throughout scripture. There are consequences for bad behavior. God does not dole out blessings and “free passes” to those who disobey or disrespect Him. But He never stops loving them. God is always available to hear from His children…He makes sure basic needs are met, and He offers opportunities for restoration and reconciliation.
A cousin of mine once said of a mutual acquaintance…”When you get on his list – there is no eraser.” We may have to take a “time out” from someone…or step away from certain situations. We may have to practice “tough love” for a season. But we never stop sharing God’s love. We never stop praying – or caring. And when the person sincerely asks for our forgiveness…we must offer it. Imagine how you would feel if you were cut off from God…if you felt you had messed up so badly that He could never love you again. Thankfully, this will never happen! But we must still imagine how a person would feel if he/she thought this were the case…or how it would be for them to feel as if we had permanently and completely rejected them.
God wants us to love others as He loves us…so we must stand ready to offer mercy and forgiveness. To do otherwise is also an act of rebellion! This is a big challenge…but we serve a MIGHTY God…and He will give us the strength and wisdom to accomplish this! Are you ready to pay His mercy and forgiveness forward? Isn’t this a good day to begin?
©2014 Debbie Robus
But the Lord our God is merciful and forgiving, even though we have rebelled against him.
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.
I still remember when my Mam-ma Polly told me that she had shoveled the ice off her driveway…”so that people could pull in safely.” She did this despite our most earnest pleas to stay inside…and stay OFF the ice! I cannot honestly say that she never fell doing this (because she probably would not have told us!), but thankfully, she never suffered any significant injuries as a result. And while we did not like her “rebellious” actions and behaviors at times, we always loved her and forgave her.
Parents have been doing this with children for generations. My cousins were telling recently of their now-adult daughter sticking something into the electrical outlet as a child – TWICE - despite their admonitions…”Don’t do that!” Of course, they loved her and cared for her afterward…but they still did not want her to put anything in the electrical outlets!
Every single day, we do things that displease God. We may be fully conscious of our rebellion…or it may be something that we do so automatically that we don’t realize what we have done. We may also rebel against God by charging ahead without asking for His guidance and seeking His wisdom. We have to do better at responding to God and obeying His commands. Thankfully, God is merciful, forgiving…and relatively patient with us in the meantime. Hopefully we can make daily progress as we grow closer to Him through prayer, Bible study, and the fellowship and sharing of encouragement with other believers.
As part of our Christian discipleship, we are called to show mercy, forgiveness and compassion to others. Let’s be honest…people are going to rebel against us…betray us…insult us…ignore us…or show us disrespect and/or mistreatment in some manner more than once in our lifetimes. Maybe you feel like this is a daily occurrence in your life! Truly, this is not what God desires for us. But then, He doesn’t desire that we treat Him in this manner, either. And in God, we see the perfect example of how to treat others. We don’t have to like their actions and behaviors…we don’t have to be their personal doormat…but we do have to offer them mercy and forgiveness, just as God offers each of us.
How do you maintain boundaries, stand up for yourself and what is right…yet let someone know that you do not condone rebellious actions and behaviors? We have been perfect examples of this all throughout scripture. There are consequences for bad behavior. God does not dole out blessings and “free passes” to those who disobey or disrespect Him. But He never stops loving them. God is always available to hear from His children…He makes sure basic needs are met, and He offers opportunities for restoration and reconciliation.
A cousin of mine once said of a mutual acquaintance…”When you get on his list – there is no eraser.” We may have to take a “time out” from someone…or step away from certain situations. We may have to practice “tough love” for a season. But we never stop sharing God’s love. We never stop praying – or caring. And when the person sincerely asks for our forgiveness…we must offer it. Imagine how you would feel if you were cut off from God…if you felt you had messed up so badly that He could never love you again. Thankfully, this will never happen! But we must still imagine how a person would feel if he/she thought this were the case…or how it would be for them to feel as if we had permanently and completely rejected them.
God wants us to love others as He loves us…so we must stand ready to offer mercy and forgiveness. To do otherwise is also an act of rebellion! This is a big challenge…but we serve a MIGHTY God…and He will give us the strength and wisdom to accomplish this! Are you ready to pay His mercy and forgiveness forward? Isn’t this a good day to begin?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for January 7, 2014
Deuteronomy 16:17
The bigger the harvest the Lord gives you, the bigger your gift should be.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
As a child, I thought my paternal grandparents were rich. What I did not realize until adulthood was that they were anything BUT rich in terms of money… they simply managed well. My grandparents lived from paycheck to paycheck, grew their own food and lived very frugally, in comparison to others. Mam-ma Polly made virtually everything she wore… and much of what my sister and I wore, as well. She worked at least two jobs on top of her household duties. In my lifetime, my Pap-pa worked long hours as part of the county road crew…and shouldered that job with time spent each morning and evening tending to black angus cattle and row crops that helped put food on our tables – both literally and via the cash he earned from selling his cows and yields from the earth.
I never realized how hard my grandparents were working to provide things for us – in part because they were so generous to my family and everyone else. For decades, I heard my grandmother recant stories of this person or that who helped her family when she was a child. One man gave her and my Aunt Babe a job picking up potatoes and limbs/twigs for firewood… and allowed them to take home the excess. An older aunt and her husband took in my grandmother, aunt and great-grandmother when they needed a place to live. As Greg and I drove Mam-ma to a nearby town for medical appointments in later years, she would point to one field or homestead after another and comment about who had lived there… how that person helped her family with one thing and the next…and how “good” life was because of these blessings.
When we moved Mam-ma to the Assisted Living Facility, I found a journal she had kept, in which she chronicled how hard life was for her, my grandfather and my dad - especially in the early years of their marriage. She documented all of this with joy rather than malice or self-pity. Her entries were peppered with “Oh, but we had fun!” Even gathering with other ladies in the area to create feather mattresses or to can the excess bounty of their gardens for off-season consumption was a cause for celebration. And always, my grandmother was generous… with her possessions, her time and her talents. When I think of my Mam-ma Polly, one of the first words that come to mind is “time”… she always had room for others in her day.
As we look at this verse from Deuteronomy, a lot of people let their thoughts go straight to money. This passage has been used to illustrate that those who have been blessed with “plenty” should give more. But if we stop there, we miss the bigger message. Regardless of our income level… our “station” in life… the circumstances of our daily existence… we have all been blessed in some way. And God is calling us to reach out to others above and beyond what has been given to us. In other words, if someone has given you an hour of their time to listen to your problems… give two hours to someone else.
If a person shares a meal with you, offers you a coat or sweater that no longer fits them, or spends their last dollar to buy you a cup of coffee, pay it forward. Look for ways to bless that person… but also seek ways to bless others because of what was given to you. If someone sends you a birthday greeting or a get-well card, find a way to send good wishes or encouragement to at least two other people! Be grateful…say “Thank you”… and more importantly, express your gratitude in the form of blessings that you extend to others. Your “gifts” do not have to be lavish or expensive. All you have to do is recognize opportunities to show kindness, grace, mercy and compassion… and then do this to the fullest of your ability.
I am just now beginning to fully realize how much my grandparents sacrificed for others…how they honed making room for one more at their table (literally and figuratively) to a fine art. And I am hoping that I can be half as successful at this as they were. God has blessed me in tremendous ways…and my “gifts” to Him for the harvest must be grand as a result. I know that He has blessed you, also. I encourage you to give some thought and consideration to how and where you have received a “harvest” in your life. Ask God to reveal His desires for you to give to others out of your “abundance”… and make sure these “gifts” are the biggest and best you can assemble.
“The bigger the harvest the Lord gives you, the bigger your gift should be.” What are you giving to God – and to others – these days?
©2014 Debbie Robus
The bigger the harvest the Lord gives you, the bigger your gift should be.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
As a child, I thought my paternal grandparents were rich. What I did not realize until adulthood was that they were anything BUT rich in terms of money… they simply managed well. My grandparents lived from paycheck to paycheck, grew their own food and lived very frugally, in comparison to others. Mam-ma Polly made virtually everything she wore… and much of what my sister and I wore, as well. She worked at least two jobs on top of her household duties. In my lifetime, my Pap-pa worked long hours as part of the county road crew…and shouldered that job with time spent each morning and evening tending to black angus cattle and row crops that helped put food on our tables – both literally and via the cash he earned from selling his cows and yields from the earth.
I never realized how hard my grandparents were working to provide things for us – in part because they were so generous to my family and everyone else. For decades, I heard my grandmother recant stories of this person or that who helped her family when she was a child. One man gave her and my Aunt Babe a job picking up potatoes and limbs/twigs for firewood… and allowed them to take home the excess. An older aunt and her husband took in my grandmother, aunt and great-grandmother when they needed a place to live. As Greg and I drove Mam-ma to a nearby town for medical appointments in later years, she would point to one field or homestead after another and comment about who had lived there… how that person helped her family with one thing and the next…and how “good” life was because of these blessings.
When we moved Mam-ma to the Assisted Living Facility, I found a journal she had kept, in which she chronicled how hard life was for her, my grandfather and my dad - especially in the early years of their marriage. She documented all of this with joy rather than malice or self-pity. Her entries were peppered with “Oh, but we had fun!” Even gathering with other ladies in the area to create feather mattresses or to can the excess bounty of their gardens for off-season consumption was a cause for celebration. And always, my grandmother was generous… with her possessions, her time and her talents. When I think of my Mam-ma Polly, one of the first words that come to mind is “time”… she always had room for others in her day.
As we look at this verse from Deuteronomy, a lot of people let their thoughts go straight to money. This passage has been used to illustrate that those who have been blessed with “plenty” should give more. But if we stop there, we miss the bigger message. Regardless of our income level… our “station” in life… the circumstances of our daily existence… we have all been blessed in some way. And God is calling us to reach out to others above and beyond what has been given to us. In other words, if someone has given you an hour of their time to listen to your problems… give two hours to someone else.
If a person shares a meal with you, offers you a coat or sweater that no longer fits them, or spends their last dollar to buy you a cup of coffee, pay it forward. Look for ways to bless that person… but also seek ways to bless others because of what was given to you. If someone sends you a birthday greeting or a get-well card, find a way to send good wishes or encouragement to at least two other people! Be grateful…say “Thank you”… and more importantly, express your gratitude in the form of blessings that you extend to others. Your “gifts” do not have to be lavish or expensive. All you have to do is recognize opportunities to show kindness, grace, mercy and compassion… and then do this to the fullest of your ability.
I am just now beginning to fully realize how much my grandparents sacrificed for others…how they honed making room for one more at their table (literally and figuratively) to a fine art. And I am hoping that I can be half as successful at this as they were. God has blessed me in tremendous ways…and my “gifts” to Him for the harvest must be grand as a result. I know that He has blessed you, also. I encourage you to give some thought and consideration to how and where you have received a “harvest” in your life. Ask God to reveal His desires for you to give to others out of your “abundance”… and make sure these “gifts” are the biggest and best you can assemble.
“The bigger the harvest the Lord gives you, the bigger your gift should be.” What are you giving to God – and to others – these days?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for January 3, 2014
Proverbs 19:17
Mercy to the needy is a loan to God,
and God pays back those loans in full.
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.
Johanna is a member of my church whose friend Peri is at the terminal stage of her fight with ovarian cancer. Peri has five children between the ages of 6 and 21. Her end-of-life goal is to leave a pictorial legacy for her children in the form of scrapbooks with narratives. So Johanna organized scrapbook parties at our church’s Fellowship Hall and asked those who could spare a little time to come and crop/glue photos into scrapbooks. Peri will then journal the stories behind these pictures for her children. There has already been one day of scrapbooking… and tomorrow, a group will gather for the second.
Most of the women who are helping with this have never met Peri. I would venture to say that they all know Johanna… but there may be a few who don’t really know her very well. And I am quite certain that many of the women who will gather have plenty of other things they could do with their Saturday. Most have children and families of their own. But they see a need…to lend some of their time to a sister in Christ and her dear friend. I have no doubt that their efforts and sacrifices will be repaid - with dividends.
Has someone ever given up something for you? I don’t necessarily mean a material possession… or money itself. Perhaps someone has dropped everything to help you with a project…or maybe they cancelled plans because you had a crisis and needed them. Has it ever occurred to you that any time a person gives of their time, energy, possessions or money… they could easily have spent this on someone or something else?
Think about it. The friend or relative who loaned you money to buy a new car could have spent those dollars on something for themselves… the person who knocks on your door when you are sick and says, “I brought you chicken soup” could easily use that time doing something for himself or another person. The friend who shows up at your loved one’s funeral or comes to visit you and support you while you grieve could be doing a myriad of other things with his/her time. Those who offer to keep your kids while you have a break… for an hour or two – or even a few days… could surely have used this time doing something else, if even sitting and watching a movie or reading a book! But YOU were chosen...your needs were important enough for someone to drop what they were doing… or reach into their pantry or pocket...and say, “Let me help you.”
This sounds like a simple thing, which is why we take so many kindnesses for granted. We fail to recognize the sacrifices others make on our behalf. We also may be unwilling to recognize the needs of others and meet them ourselves. In other words, we are often pretty selfish and ungrateful.
My challenge to you today is to ask God to show you what needs He wants you to meet…then do it! I’m not saying you have to loan someone money or make chicken soup, attend a funeral - or even help create scrapbooks for a dying mother to leave for her children. But I am quite certain that today – and every day – there is at least one way you can “help the needy”.
By the same token, I am asking you to take a long hard look at your daily living and note where – and how – others are meeting YOUR needs in Jesus’ name. Who is extending kindnesses, grace and mercy to you? Who is coming to your rescue when you experience difficulties? Who listens when you need a friendly ear? Who is taking time to let you know that you are important? Are you grateful? Are you “paying it forward” by sharing empathy and kindness with someone else? Do you at least say “Thank you!”?
Not every act of compassion will involve something as tangible as creating scrapbooks or making a sacrifice of some sort. But all are important and represent a “loan” to God… which He always repays. And honestly, it’s not about the restitution…it’s about the gratitude. Are you grateful enough for everything that God has given you to be a good steward of His gifts…both as a “lender” and a recipient? Isn’t it time you were?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Mercy to the needy is a loan to God,
and God pays back those loans in full.
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.
Johanna is a member of my church whose friend Peri is at the terminal stage of her fight with ovarian cancer. Peri has five children between the ages of 6 and 21. Her end-of-life goal is to leave a pictorial legacy for her children in the form of scrapbooks with narratives. So Johanna organized scrapbook parties at our church’s Fellowship Hall and asked those who could spare a little time to come and crop/glue photos into scrapbooks. Peri will then journal the stories behind these pictures for her children. There has already been one day of scrapbooking… and tomorrow, a group will gather for the second.
Most of the women who are helping with this have never met Peri. I would venture to say that they all know Johanna… but there may be a few who don’t really know her very well. And I am quite certain that many of the women who will gather have plenty of other things they could do with their Saturday. Most have children and families of their own. But they see a need…to lend some of their time to a sister in Christ and her dear friend. I have no doubt that their efforts and sacrifices will be repaid - with dividends.
Has someone ever given up something for you? I don’t necessarily mean a material possession… or money itself. Perhaps someone has dropped everything to help you with a project…or maybe they cancelled plans because you had a crisis and needed them. Has it ever occurred to you that any time a person gives of their time, energy, possessions or money… they could easily have spent this on someone or something else?
Think about it. The friend or relative who loaned you money to buy a new car could have spent those dollars on something for themselves… the person who knocks on your door when you are sick and says, “I brought you chicken soup” could easily use that time doing something for himself or another person. The friend who shows up at your loved one’s funeral or comes to visit you and support you while you grieve could be doing a myriad of other things with his/her time. Those who offer to keep your kids while you have a break… for an hour or two – or even a few days… could surely have used this time doing something else, if even sitting and watching a movie or reading a book! But YOU were chosen...your needs were important enough for someone to drop what they were doing… or reach into their pantry or pocket...and say, “Let me help you.”
This sounds like a simple thing, which is why we take so many kindnesses for granted. We fail to recognize the sacrifices others make on our behalf. We also may be unwilling to recognize the needs of others and meet them ourselves. In other words, we are often pretty selfish and ungrateful.
My challenge to you today is to ask God to show you what needs He wants you to meet…then do it! I’m not saying you have to loan someone money or make chicken soup, attend a funeral - or even help create scrapbooks for a dying mother to leave for her children. But I am quite certain that today – and every day – there is at least one way you can “help the needy”.
By the same token, I am asking you to take a long hard look at your daily living and note where – and how – others are meeting YOUR needs in Jesus’ name. Who is extending kindnesses, grace and mercy to you? Who is coming to your rescue when you experience difficulties? Who listens when you need a friendly ear? Who is taking time to let you know that you are important? Are you grateful? Are you “paying it forward” by sharing empathy and kindness with someone else? Do you at least say “Thank you!”?
Not every act of compassion will involve something as tangible as creating scrapbooks or making a sacrifice of some sort. But all are important and represent a “loan” to God… which He always repays. And honestly, it’s not about the restitution…it’s about the gratitude. Are you grateful enough for everything that God has given you to be a good steward of His gifts…both as a “lender” and a recipient? Isn’t it time you were?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for October 29, 2013
Philippians 4:16-19
Even when I was in Thessalonica you sent help more than once. I don’t say this because I want a gift from you. Rather, I want you to receive a reward for your kindness.
At the moment I have all I need—and more! I am generously supplied with the gifts you sent me with Epaphroditus. They are a sweet-smelling sacrifice that is acceptable and pleasing to God. And this same God who takes care of me will supply all your needs from his glorious riches, which have been given to us in Christ Jesus.
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.
You’ve no doubt heard something about the “pay it forward” trend that has taken hold in several areas of our country in recent months. One person will pull up at a restaurant drive-thru or get in line at the coffee shop and pay for his/her bill… and the person who is next in line. Or someone will get their bill at a restaurant, and the server says, “The couple who just left has paid your bill already.” I even heard of a drive-thru dry cleaning business where someone paid for the customer behind them in line… and set off a chain reaction of these payments! And maybe you have wondered, “Why did they do this? Are they rich? Do they have ‘money to burn’? Or are they on some sort of ego trip?” The answer to all three questions is most likely, “No, no, and NO!” I believe these people have figured out what Paul is telling the people of Philippi… that the kindness and generosity we show to others pleases God – and in turn, He meets all of our needs and blesses us in ways we cannot even imagine.
Greg and I have friends who do this sort of thing quite often. She will pay the bill for someone who is getting a manicure alongside her. They will pay the restaurant bill for a family with small children that they do not even recognize. They are the first on the scene when a plea for help goes out… and they are always ready to do whatever is necessary for someone else. This couple is not wealthy… at least not in the way we conventionally think! They are “ordinary” hard-working people who enjoy helping others and serving God. They do this out of respect for all that God has given to them. And let me tell you, they are blessed beyond measure in return!
“But I can barely pay my own bills… I can’t afford to pay someone else’s!” you may say. And that’s okay. Look around you… what CAN you give? Do you have a few minutes you could spare to help a friend… or listen to his/her problems? Did you have an extra serving from dinner that you could share with an elderly neighbor? Do you have some clothing or household items you no longer use that could be donated to charity? Could you send a note or e-mail message of encouragement to someone who is having a rough time? Could you stop someone in the aisle at the store – or the hallway at school – and ask, “How are you doing?”… then stick around to hear their answer? If you have been helped or blessed in some way, have you repaid that kindness – at least with respect toward the giver, if he/she was not anonymous? Have you “paid it forward” in some way… ever?
Gratitude comes in many forms… and they all involve respect for what we have been given. If someone has treated you kindly, encouraged you, or helped you in some way… whether monetarily or otherwise …God is calling on you to extend gratitude and appreciation to them for being so generous. If you know the person who has blessed you, offer this kindness directly. If the offerings were anonymous, do something nice for someone else as a way of “paying it forward”. There are plenty of opportunities to help others and serve God in the process… if only we will look for them.
The bottom line is that God is pleased when we love and serve others… and He is equally pleased when we humbly show gratitude and respect for all that we have been given. The questions for today are… “Who do you need to bless and serve in God’s name?” and “In addition to God, who do you need to thank for extending generous blessings in your direction?” If you will do these things, God will meet all of your needs… and more. He is continually “paying it forward”… are you?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Even when I was in Thessalonica you sent help more than once. I don’t say this because I want a gift from you. Rather, I want you to receive a reward for your kindness.
At the moment I have all I need—and more! I am generously supplied with the gifts you sent me with Epaphroditus. They are a sweet-smelling sacrifice that is acceptable and pleasing to God. And this same God who takes care of me will supply all your needs from his glorious riches, which have been given to us in Christ Jesus.
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.
You’ve no doubt heard something about the “pay it forward” trend that has taken hold in several areas of our country in recent months. One person will pull up at a restaurant drive-thru or get in line at the coffee shop and pay for his/her bill… and the person who is next in line. Or someone will get their bill at a restaurant, and the server says, “The couple who just left has paid your bill already.” I even heard of a drive-thru dry cleaning business where someone paid for the customer behind them in line… and set off a chain reaction of these payments! And maybe you have wondered, “Why did they do this? Are they rich? Do they have ‘money to burn’? Or are they on some sort of ego trip?” The answer to all three questions is most likely, “No, no, and NO!” I believe these people have figured out what Paul is telling the people of Philippi… that the kindness and generosity we show to others pleases God – and in turn, He meets all of our needs and blesses us in ways we cannot even imagine.
Greg and I have friends who do this sort of thing quite often. She will pay the bill for someone who is getting a manicure alongside her. They will pay the restaurant bill for a family with small children that they do not even recognize. They are the first on the scene when a plea for help goes out… and they are always ready to do whatever is necessary for someone else. This couple is not wealthy… at least not in the way we conventionally think! They are “ordinary” hard-working people who enjoy helping others and serving God. They do this out of respect for all that God has given to them. And let me tell you, they are blessed beyond measure in return!
“But I can barely pay my own bills… I can’t afford to pay someone else’s!” you may say. And that’s okay. Look around you… what CAN you give? Do you have a few minutes you could spare to help a friend… or listen to his/her problems? Did you have an extra serving from dinner that you could share with an elderly neighbor? Do you have some clothing or household items you no longer use that could be donated to charity? Could you send a note or e-mail message of encouragement to someone who is having a rough time? Could you stop someone in the aisle at the store – or the hallway at school – and ask, “How are you doing?”… then stick around to hear their answer? If you have been helped or blessed in some way, have you repaid that kindness – at least with respect toward the giver, if he/she was not anonymous? Have you “paid it forward” in some way… ever?
Gratitude comes in many forms… and they all involve respect for what we have been given. If someone has treated you kindly, encouraged you, or helped you in some way… whether monetarily or otherwise …God is calling on you to extend gratitude and appreciation to them for being so generous. If you know the person who has blessed you, offer this kindness directly. If the offerings were anonymous, do something nice for someone else as a way of “paying it forward”. There are plenty of opportunities to help others and serve God in the process… if only we will look for them.
The bottom line is that God is pleased when we love and serve others… and He is equally pleased when we humbly show gratitude and respect for all that we have been given. The questions for today are… “Who do you need to bless and serve in God’s name?” and “In addition to God, who do you need to thank for extending generous blessings in your direction?” If you will do these things, God will meet all of your needs… and more. He is continually “paying it forward”… are you?
©2013 Debbie Robus
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