Psalm 106:1-5
We will celebrate and praise you, LORD! You are good to us, and your love never fails. No one can praise you enough for all of the mighty things you have done. You bless those people who are honest and fair in everything they do.
Remember me, LORD, when you show kindness by saving your people. Let me prosper with the rest of your chosen ones, as they celebrate with pride because they belong to you.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Unless you have been under a rock for the last few weeks, you know that we are in full “back-to-school” mode. Everywhere you turn, there are new beginnings… first days at kindergarten, middle school, junior high, high school – and college. Some are starting new teaching careers… some are spending their first “first day” of school in decades as a newly retired teacher. There is a lot to celebrate… a whole lot of history in the making… and many things for which to thank God.
At the same time, school is not anywhere near the radar of some who are facing their own “firsts”. Some are starting their life without a loved one who has begun a “new life” in Heaven. A friend of mine just kissed her mom “Goodbye” for the last time, while another is lovingly waiting with her dad as he enters his last days on this earth. A former member of our community died in a motorcycle accident… and other friends and relatives lie in hospital beds across the country, struggling to get well again and experience a “first day” of good health.
Yet in all of these things, we give thanks and celebrate. We celebrate because those who are beginning new school years have so much ahead of them. Those who are dying or have just passed into Glory belong to God and have received the ultimate blessing… a place in His physical presence. Those who are sick are under God’s care… covered by the prayers of countless faithful believers who have a personal relationship with our Heavenly Father and believe He will do mighty things.
What I want you to take away from this scripture today is this… even in our darkest hours, we can celebrate God. He is with us for our greatest joys and our deepest sorrows. We can choose to walk with Him… or we can choose to go through life alone. I guarantee you, the “highs” won’t be as high, and the “lows” will be almost unbearable unless you make a place for God in your life.
I don’t know what you are experiencing today – where you are on the spectrum of “highs” and “lows” – but I do know that God is ready and able to do mighty things… to bless you in ways you cannot even begin to imagine! And that is worth celebrating. Have you asked God to walk with you today – and always? Have you given Him praise for His never-ending care? How will you celebrate God today?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Showing posts with label presence of God. Show all posts
Showing posts with label presence of God. Show all posts
Daily Devotional for November 26, 2010
Acts 1:7-8
He told them, "You don't get to know the time. Timing is the Father's business. What you'll get is the Holy Spirit. And when the Holy Spirit comes on you, you will be able to be my witnesses in Jerusalem, all over Judea and Samaria, even to the ends of the world."
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.
Black Friday… a day when the opening of the stores comes earlier each year. Some opened at midnight – others at 3 a.m. Apparently, for many Christmas shoppers, timing is everything… and the earlier the starting hour, the better. Imagine if the stores didn’t give the opening time. Imagine if they just said, “We’ll open sometime early morning.” People would probably camp out in record numbers so that they could be sure and be there when things started to happen. Everyone wants to boast about the great bargains they got… and even how early they were in line to get them!
It’s funny how we will camp out for hours to wait for a store to open for a big sale, or tickets to go on sale for a concert that is incredibly popular… but we’re far less concerned with the timing of Jesus. We don’t seem to eagerly be about preparing for His return or what He needs done… and doing the things we should to be ready. We don’t seem to recognize that God is with us in the form of His Holy Spirit, equipping us to accomplish great things in His name… and we are commissioned to do so! We’re soldiers in God’s army, and the assignment is to be His witnesses!
So while we are busy with getting ready for Christmas… buying gifts, trimming the tree and decorating our houses and yards to the hilt... sending cards and throwing parties and eating and drinking way too much of all of the holiday goodies… let’s try to remind ourselves frequently of the real reason for this season. Do not forget our mission! Remember that we don’t know the hour of Christ’s return… but we do know what we’re supposed to do in the meantime. Are you properly prepared? On Whose time do you operate?
©2010 Debbie Robus
He told them, "You don't get to know the time. Timing is the Father's business. What you'll get is the Holy Spirit. And when the Holy Spirit comes on you, you will be able to be my witnesses in Jerusalem, all over Judea and Samaria, even to the ends of the world."
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.
Black Friday… a day when the opening of the stores comes earlier each year. Some opened at midnight – others at 3 a.m. Apparently, for many Christmas shoppers, timing is everything… and the earlier the starting hour, the better. Imagine if the stores didn’t give the opening time. Imagine if they just said, “We’ll open sometime early morning.” People would probably camp out in record numbers so that they could be sure and be there when things started to happen. Everyone wants to boast about the great bargains they got… and even how early they were in line to get them!
It’s funny how we will camp out for hours to wait for a store to open for a big sale, or tickets to go on sale for a concert that is incredibly popular… but we’re far less concerned with the timing of Jesus. We don’t seem to eagerly be about preparing for His return or what He needs done… and doing the things we should to be ready. We don’t seem to recognize that God is with us in the form of His Holy Spirit, equipping us to accomplish great things in His name… and we are commissioned to do so! We’re soldiers in God’s army, and the assignment is to be His witnesses!
So while we are busy with getting ready for Christmas… buying gifts, trimming the tree and decorating our houses and yards to the hilt... sending cards and throwing parties and eating and drinking way too much of all of the holiday goodies… let’s try to remind ourselves frequently of the real reason for this season. Do not forget our mission! Remember that we don’t know the hour of Christ’s return… but we do know what we’re supposed to do in the meantime. Are you properly prepared? On Whose time do you operate?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for July 17, 2010
2 Peter 1:9-10
But you are God's chosen and special people. You are a group of royal priests and a holy nation. God has brought you out of darkness into his marvelous light. Now you must tell all the wonderful things that he has done.
The Scriptures say, "Once you were nobody. Now you are God's people. At one time no one had pity on you. Now God has treated you with kindness.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Have you ever felt like a nobody? It’s not a good feeling… and none of us wants to feel as if we don’t belong to someone or something. But from an early age, we are programmed to become a “somebody” – to aspire to greatness. For many of this, we interpret this to mean becoming famous – a great athlete, singer, actor, or even politician! At the very least, we equate being a “somebody” with success in life… usually some career goal to which we aspire.
Stop and take a good look at those who have attained “star” status. Are most of them truly happy? Just recently I read about a homegrown athlete who made it to the pros and enjoyed many years of success and recognition. Now he is struggling with debt because he mismanaged his millions. The daily news and gossip shows are full of stories about entertainers and pro athletes who rose to stardom and fell like a rock. Grueling tour schedules, living out of a suitcase, and having to be surrounded by bodyguards and an entourage everywhere you go is not my idea of greatness!
It took me a while to figure out that the “greatness” I sought in life was waiting for me all along…in the light of Jesus. There is no bigger “star status” than to be a royal priest of the holy nation of Almighty God. There is no bigger honor than to serve as a priest or priestess to the Prince of Peace. God is ready to lavish all sorts of blessings and kindness, grace and mercy on us… and to guide each and every step of our days and nights. He is ready to put us in the spotlight… to shine His marvelous light on each of us as if we were on a red carpet!
Sound hokey to you? Let me assure you… it’s not! This “fame” LASTS! The rest is so momentary. Being chosen by God has more “star power” than you can imagine…the kind that brings you joy and doesn’t wear you down…the kind that fills you up and never drains. Realize that with God, you can never be a “nobody.” With God, you are always in the spotlight of His love and blessings.
Hold your head up high and walk proudly wherever God leads you, knowing He chose you and gave you holy status… filled with responsibility and honor. Accept this status and never feel like a “nobody” again. With God, you are always a very important “somebody.”
©2010 Debbie Robus
But you are God's chosen and special people. You are a group of royal priests and a holy nation. God has brought you out of darkness into his marvelous light. Now you must tell all the wonderful things that he has done.
The Scriptures say, "Once you were nobody. Now you are God's people. At one time no one had pity on you. Now God has treated you with kindness.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Have you ever felt like a nobody? It’s not a good feeling… and none of us wants to feel as if we don’t belong to someone or something. But from an early age, we are programmed to become a “somebody” – to aspire to greatness. For many of this, we interpret this to mean becoming famous – a great athlete, singer, actor, or even politician! At the very least, we equate being a “somebody” with success in life… usually some career goal to which we aspire.
Stop and take a good look at those who have attained “star” status. Are most of them truly happy? Just recently I read about a homegrown athlete who made it to the pros and enjoyed many years of success and recognition. Now he is struggling with debt because he mismanaged his millions. The daily news and gossip shows are full of stories about entertainers and pro athletes who rose to stardom and fell like a rock. Grueling tour schedules, living out of a suitcase, and having to be surrounded by bodyguards and an entourage everywhere you go is not my idea of greatness!
It took me a while to figure out that the “greatness” I sought in life was waiting for me all along…in the light of Jesus. There is no bigger “star status” than to be a royal priest of the holy nation of Almighty God. There is no bigger honor than to serve as a priest or priestess to the Prince of Peace. God is ready to lavish all sorts of blessings and kindness, grace and mercy on us… and to guide each and every step of our days and nights. He is ready to put us in the spotlight… to shine His marvelous light on each of us as if we were on a red carpet!
Sound hokey to you? Let me assure you… it’s not! This “fame” LASTS! The rest is so momentary. Being chosen by God has more “star power” than you can imagine…the kind that brings you joy and doesn’t wear you down…the kind that fills you up and never drains. Realize that with God, you can never be a “nobody.” With God, you are always in the spotlight of His love and blessings.
Hold your head up high and walk proudly wherever God leads you, knowing He chose you and gave you holy status… filled with responsibility and honor. Accept this status and never feel like a “nobody” again. With God, you are always a very important “somebody.”
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for June 6, 2010
June 6 ~ 2 Chronicles 20:17
You won't even have to fight. Just take your positions and watch the LORD rescue you from your enemy. Don't be afraid. Just do as you're told. And as you march out tomorrow, the LORD will be there with you.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
In 1994, a classmate of mine died of breast cancer. Following her death, more than one person said to me, “I didn’t know what to say or do, so I just didn’t do anything.” I told them that they really didn’t have to say or do anything… they just needed to give the family members a hug or a handshake and let them know they cared. I vowed that someday, I was going to write a book called, What to Say and Do… When You Don’t Know What to Say and Do. When I experienced firsthand the warmth and love of so many friends and family members – and the distance of a small handful - following the deaths of my brother and my dad, God guided the thoughts and chapters, and I wrote this very book!
I realized that the reason so many people back away from this type of situation – or many others – is fear. They fear they will say the wrong thing – or act inappropriately – or they fear that no words will come to them whatsoever. The truth is that all we have to do is ask God to guide us, and whatever we say will be right. Really, all we have to do is stand back, so to speak, and let God do the walking and talking for us! He will bless our efforts and give those who receive our compassion a kind ear toward how we present the message. All we have to do is march out and do as God says.
So the next time you hesitate to greet someone at church – or to invite someone to worship with you – or you see a friend in the store who you know is in need of a friendly smile or a hug – or someone you know loses a loved one – step up and out in faith. God will do everything else. All you have to do is show up and be ready. When was the last time you marched out and let God use you for His purposes? Isn’t it time you did just that?
©2010 Debbie Robus
You won't even have to fight. Just take your positions and watch the LORD rescue you from your enemy. Don't be afraid. Just do as you're told. And as you march out tomorrow, the LORD will be there with you.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
In 1994, a classmate of mine died of breast cancer. Following her death, more than one person said to me, “I didn’t know what to say or do, so I just didn’t do anything.” I told them that they really didn’t have to say or do anything… they just needed to give the family members a hug or a handshake and let them know they cared. I vowed that someday, I was going to write a book called, What to Say and Do… When You Don’t Know What to Say and Do. When I experienced firsthand the warmth and love of so many friends and family members – and the distance of a small handful - following the deaths of my brother and my dad, God guided the thoughts and chapters, and I wrote this very book!
I realized that the reason so many people back away from this type of situation – or many others – is fear. They fear they will say the wrong thing – or act inappropriately – or they fear that no words will come to them whatsoever. The truth is that all we have to do is ask God to guide us, and whatever we say will be right. Really, all we have to do is stand back, so to speak, and let God do the walking and talking for us! He will bless our efforts and give those who receive our compassion a kind ear toward how we present the message. All we have to do is march out and do as God says.
So the next time you hesitate to greet someone at church – or to invite someone to worship with you – or you see a friend in the store who you know is in need of a friendly smile or a hug – or someone you know loses a loved one – step up and out in faith. God will do everything else. All you have to do is show up and be ready. When was the last time you marched out and let God use you for His purposes? Isn’t it time you did just that?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for May 21, 2010
May 21 ~ Exodus 20:20
"Don't be afraid!" Moses replied. "God has come only to test you, so that by obeying him you won't sin."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When I was little, I spent a lot of time in the storm cellar. My maternal grandmother had witnessed the aftermath of some killer tornadoes in Heber Springs when she was a child, and she was greatly afraid of storms. We didn’t have “Five Live Dopplar Radar” and “Storm-trackers” when I was a child, so when the clouds darkened, we headed for cover! And to this day, I have a healthy respect – and a somewhat unhealthy fear – of storms and potential tornadoes. But one summer night, while visiting relatives at a farm down the road from my paternal grandparents’, my great-aunt “Babe” stood with me at the creaky screen door that led to the front porch. In the distance, we could see brilliant lightning that illuminated fluffy white clouds with hues of yellow, white and pink. We called it “heat lightning” because it usually was the result of a build-up of daytime heat that brought evening thundershowers.
Nonetheless, my Aunt Babe knelt and wrapped her arms around me and said, “Oh, look… isn’t it pretty?!” She assured me that the lightning would not hurt me… that it was far, far away. We respected the power of lightning… but we were in awe of the beauty of these colorful flashes. This is how I like to think of my relationship with God. I do not fear that he will strike me dead for my sins, like a bolt of lightning – although He surely could. Rather, I am in awe of His power… grace… mercy… love. He didn’t give us laws and rules to punish us… but rather to guide us in our Christian lives. We don’t have to be afraid of God because of our sin… He sent Jesus to free us from that burden and remove our fear. Like my relationship with storms and potential tornadoes… respect for God is healthy… genuine fear is not.
If you are fearful of God today, I suspect you don’t know Him as well as you should. But that’s okay – you can start working this very minute to make a change! Acknowledge that God knows you… warts, sins and all… and He still loves you. Start a dialogue with Him and get to know Him. Explore His majesty – and the depths of His love for you. Humble yourself before Him and show some respect for His power and sovereignty. And love Him - love Him for loving you so well. Don’t be afraid. God’s light is beautiful! “Step up to the screen door” and enjoy it fully!
©2010 Debbie Robus
"Don't be afraid!" Moses replied. "God has come only to test you, so that by obeying him you won't sin."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When I was little, I spent a lot of time in the storm cellar. My maternal grandmother had witnessed the aftermath of some killer tornadoes in Heber Springs when she was a child, and she was greatly afraid of storms. We didn’t have “Five Live Dopplar Radar” and “Storm-trackers” when I was a child, so when the clouds darkened, we headed for cover! And to this day, I have a healthy respect – and a somewhat unhealthy fear – of storms and potential tornadoes. But one summer night, while visiting relatives at a farm down the road from my paternal grandparents’, my great-aunt “Babe” stood with me at the creaky screen door that led to the front porch. In the distance, we could see brilliant lightning that illuminated fluffy white clouds with hues of yellow, white and pink. We called it “heat lightning” because it usually was the result of a build-up of daytime heat that brought evening thundershowers.
Nonetheless, my Aunt Babe knelt and wrapped her arms around me and said, “Oh, look… isn’t it pretty?!” She assured me that the lightning would not hurt me… that it was far, far away. We respected the power of lightning… but we were in awe of the beauty of these colorful flashes. This is how I like to think of my relationship with God. I do not fear that he will strike me dead for my sins, like a bolt of lightning – although He surely could. Rather, I am in awe of His power… grace… mercy… love. He didn’t give us laws and rules to punish us… but rather to guide us in our Christian lives. We don’t have to be afraid of God because of our sin… He sent Jesus to free us from that burden and remove our fear. Like my relationship with storms and potential tornadoes… respect for God is healthy… genuine fear is not.
If you are fearful of God today, I suspect you don’t know Him as well as you should. But that’s okay – you can start working this very minute to make a change! Acknowledge that God knows you… warts, sins and all… and He still loves you. Start a dialogue with Him and get to know Him. Explore His majesty – and the depths of His love for you. Humble yourself before Him and show some respect for His power and sovereignty. And love Him - love Him for loving you so well. Don’t be afraid. God’s light is beautiful! “Step up to the screen door” and enjoy it fully!
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for May 14, 2010
May 14 ~ Isaiah 35:4
"Cheer up! Don't be afraid. Your God is coming to punish your enemies. God will take revenge on them and rescue you."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I can’t believe I am admitting this, but I am watching a lot of NickJr television these days, and Timothy’s all-time favorite show is “The Wonder Pets.” On this show, a guinea pig, turtle and duckling (a.k.a. “Linny, Tuck, and Ming-Ming, too!”) who live in a nursery school, come to the rescue of baby animals in danger. Part of their song is “We’re not too big and we’re not too tough, but when we work together, we’ve got the right stuff!”
For the Wonder Pets, teamwork is the key. They have to work together and solve problems as a trio, unlike the “hero” of my childhood, Mighty Mouse, whose motto was “Here I come to save the day!” And thankfully, we don’t rely on any of these “heroes” in our real life… because we have the Ultimate Superhero on our side… GOD! He can solve any problem. He can defeat any enemy. He can take on all giants and “super-powers” and rescue us from all harm. But… like the baby animals in the episodes of “Wonder Pets,” we have to do our part by calling on God for help. See, each story starts with the “ring-ring” of the pencil can, signifying “There’s an animal in trouble somewhere,” and “This is serious!”
I know this is a silly analogy, but in truth, God can answer our calls any hour of the night or day, and He will stand in front of us against any and all enemies. Are you doing your part? Are you calling on God and trusting Him? Are you operating in confidence… or do you let fear get the best of you much of the time? Cheer up! Don’t be afraid. God has come to save the day… HE will rescue us from all that Satan can throw our way.
©2010 Debbie Robus
"Cheer up! Don't be afraid. Your God is coming to punish your enemies. God will take revenge on them and rescue you."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I can’t believe I am admitting this, but I am watching a lot of NickJr television these days, and Timothy’s all-time favorite show is “The Wonder Pets.” On this show, a guinea pig, turtle and duckling (a.k.a. “Linny, Tuck, and Ming-Ming, too!”) who live in a nursery school, come to the rescue of baby animals in danger. Part of their song is “We’re not too big and we’re not too tough, but when we work together, we’ve got the right stuff!”
For the Wonder Pets, teamwork is the key. They have to work together and solve problems as a trio, unlike the “hero” of my childhood, Mighty Mouse, whose motto was “Here I come to save the day!” And thankfully, we don’t rely on any of these “heroes” in our real life… because we have the Ultimate Superhero on our side… GOD! He can solve any problem. He can defeat any enemy. He can take on all giants and “super-powers” and rescue us from all harm. But… like the baby animals in the episodes of “Wonder Pets,” we have to do our part by calling on God for help. See, each story starts with the “ring-ring” of the pencil can, signifying “There’s an animal in trouble somewhere,” and “This is serious!”
I know this is a silly analogy, but in truth, God can answer our calls any hour of the night or day, and He will stand in front of us against any and all enemies. Are you doing your part? Are you calling on God and trusting Him? Are you operating in confidence… or do you let fear get the best of you much of the time? Cheer up! Don’t be afraid. God has come to save the day… HE will rescue us from all that Satan can throw our way.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for May 9, 2010
May 9 ~ Psalm 91:14-16
The Lord says, "If you love me and truly know who I am, I will rescue you and keep you safe. When you are in trouble, call out to me. I will answer and be there to protect and honor you. You will live a long life and see my saving power."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When our nephew John was about four, he came to visit us for a few days. One night while bathing him, I turned on the water in the tub, and some hot water came out first, and he yelped! “I’m going to tell my momma!” he cried. I felt horrible. It was hot water… but he was not hurt – just startled, mostly. But immediately – and instinctively – he was ready to call on “the Big Guns” to get me! At four years of age, he figured his mom would make me pay for my transgression against him!
As children, we probably all called out to our mommas – a lot! I know that there are children who cannot call on their parents for help or protection. I saw several in my classroom. I know there are people in this world who feel like they have no protector… no one to stick up for them and say, “I will keep you safe. When you are in trouble, call me. I’ll answer.” But GOD is saying exactly this. No matter who else is or isn’t there – GOD is ready, willing and able to meet our needs.
I pray that you know God in this way. I pray that you feel safe and protected in His presence… and that you are just as quick to call on Him for help as our nephew John was to invoke the protection of his mother. And speaking of mothers, let’s thank God today for His divine inspiration in creating the family as He did. He didn’t have to give us mothers and fathers – He could have just spoken us into existence. But God gave us mothers to nurture us in a unique way. I pray that you have been blessed, as I have, to experience the care and nurturing of a wonderful mother, mother-in-law, grandmothers, and other Godly women who have “mothered” me along the way. To God be the glory for creating our mothers… and for His constant nurture and care for those of us who call on Him.
©2010 Debbie Robus
The Lord says, "If you love me and truly know who I am, I will rescue you and keep you safe. When you are in trouble, call out to me. I will answer and be there to protect and honor you. You will live a long life and see my saving power."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When our nephew John was about four, he came to visit us for a few days. One night while bathing him, I turned on the water in the tub, and some hot water came out first, and he yelped! “I’m going to tell my momma!” he cried. I felt horrible. It was hot water… but he was not hurt – just startled, mostly. But immediately – and instinctively – he was ready to call on “the Big Guns” to get me! At four years of age, he figured his mom would make me pay for my transgression against him!
As children, we probably all called out to our mommas – a lot! I know that there are children who cannot call on their parents for help or protection. I saw several in my classroom. I know there are people in this world who feel like they have no protector… no one to stick up for them and say, “I will keep you safe. When you are in trouble, call me. I’ll answer.” But GOD is saying exactly this. No matter who else is or isn’t there – GOD is ready, willing and able to meet our needs.
I pray that you know God in this way. I pray that you feel safe and protected in His presence… and that you are just as quick to call on Him for help as our nephew John was to invoke the protection of his mother. And speaking of mothers, let’s thank God today for His divine inspiration in creating the family as He did. He didn’t have to give us mothers and fathers – He could have just spoken us into existence. But God gave us mothers to nurture us in a unique way. I pray that you have been blessed, as I have, to experience the care and nurturing of a wonderful mother, mother-in-law, grandmothers, and other Godly women who have “mothered” me along the way. To God be the glory for creating our mothers… and for His constant nurture and care for those of us who call on Him.
©2010 Debbie Robus
May 8 ~ Psalm 91:9-13
The LORD Most High is your fortress. Run to him for safety, and no terrible disasters will strike you or your home. God will command his angels to protect you wherever you go. They will carry you in their arms, and you won't hurt your feet on the stones. You will overpower the strongest lions and the most deadly snakes.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
GPS is an amazing tool. Friends of ours were involved in a head-on collision a few weeks ago. Thankfully, their injuries were not life-threatening and they are both recovering well. But surely, God’s angels were with them… and the OnStar system in their car alerted authorities that emergency services were needed. A few months ago, I heard a news report about some people who veered off course and became stranded in a snowstorm. Family members used GPS to track them and provide rescue.
As amazing as GPS is, it doesn’t hold a candle to the power of God to keep His eye on us and provide rescue and protection when needed. God always knows where we are – and what we need. He has legions of angels that surround each one of us and attend to our every concern. So the question I have for you is… “Why are we so slow to turn to God for help?” I mean really turn to Him… because every single one of us has cried out for His help when things fell apart.
I’m talking about turning to God and trusting Him before disaster strikes! If we would only do this… if we would make Him the “front line of defense” in our lives and trust His power to shield us from whatever Satan has ready to volley in our direction, we would be able to face any and every crisis with calm and confidence. We would be as cool as cucumbers, and nothing would rattle us. Notice I did not say that troubles wouldn’t come… because they will… but if we were resting in God, we wouldn’t let these troubles faze us – much less defeat us. With God, all things are possible, because of his protection and power. Without Him, we are just flapping in the breeze like the branches of a tree on a stormy day… totally vulnerable and prone to destruction. Don’t let this describe your life. Run to God for safety. Rest in the confidence that His angels are protecting you… and don’t let the devil get you down with his antics.
©2010 Debbie Robus
The LORD Most High is your fortress. Run to him for safety, and no terrible disasters will strike you or your home. God will command his angels to protect you wherever you go. They will carry you in their arms, and you won't hurt your feet on the stones. You will overpower the strongest lions and the most deadly snakes.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
GPS is an amazing tool. Friends of ours were involved in a head-on collision a few weeks ago. Thankfully, their injuries were not life-threatening and they are both recovering well. But surely, God’s angels were with them… and the OnStar system in their car alerted authorities that emergency services were needed. A few months ago, I heard a news report about some people who veered off course and became stranded in a snowstorm. Family members used GPS to track them and provide rescue.
As amazing as GPS is, it doesn’t hold a candle to the power of God to keep His eye on us and provide rescue and protection when needed. God always knows where we are – and what we need. He has legions of angels that surround each one of us and attend to our every concern. So the question I have for you is… “Why are we so slow to turn to God for help?” I mean really turn to Him… because every single one of us has cried out for His help when things fell apart.
I’m talking about turning to God and trusting Him before disaster strikes! If we would only do this… if we would make Him the “front line of defense” in our lives and trust His power to shield us from whatever Satan has ready to volley in our direction, we would be able to face any and every crisis with calm and confidence. We would be as cool as cucumbers, and nothing would rattle us. Notice I did not say that troubles wouldn’t come… because they will… but if we were resting in God, we wouldn’t let these troubles faze us – much less defeat us. With God, all things are possible, because of his protection and power. Without Him, we are just flapping in the breeze like the branches of a tree on a stormy day… totally vulnerable and prone to destruction. Don’t let this describe your life. Run to God for safety. Rest in the confidence that His angels are protecting you… and don’t let the devil get you down with his antics.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for May 7, 2010
May 7 ~ Psalm 91:3-8
The Lord will keep you safe from secret traps and deadly diseases. He will spread his wings over you and keep you secure. His faithfulness is like a shield or a city wall. You won't need to worry about dangers at night or arrows during the day. And you won't fear diseases that strike in the dark or sudden disaster at noon. You will not be harmed, though thousands fall all around you. And with your own eyes you will see the punishment of the wicked.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
In 2004, while teaching a junior High Sunday School class at our church, I searched for a way to get the kids to read their Bible. I asked them to write down twelve issues that they struggled with or had questions about… and they listed school, family, peer pressure, love, friends, possessions, and more. I searched the Bible for scriptures to fit each topic and developed an outline… “devos” for each month. I printed them out each week as a hand-out for the students on Sundays, and several began using them to study their Bible.
In 2005, Susan Miles, the wife of our pastor at that time, came to me and said, “We need something for our “in-betweeners” – those who have graduated from high school but are not quite adults. It needs to be something we could e-mail them – like a daily devotional. Would you help me do this?” I shared with her the year-long set of daily devos that I had written, and Susan used a list of e-mail addresses – mostly youth in our church who had graduated, along with those I worked with in Jr/Sr High Sunday School classes and S.P.A.M. small groups – to send the “devos” each day, beginning in August when school resumed. When we had used all of the devotionals for that year, I started writing more… and I’ve written them ever since.
If you ever wonder why sometimes the devo seems slanted toward younger people, this is the reason. As years have passed, people have shared the devos with friends and family who said, “I want to be on the list,” and now I send the daily devotional to over 120 e-mail addresses for people whose ages range from early teens to late 80’s. I have no idea how many people actually see each devo, because I know some of you share them with family and friends… and that’s wonderful. I also post them on my blog… http://auntdebsattic.blogspot.com. Since I started writing the devos, I have truly come to appreciate God’s protection. I have used personal experiences and current events to show you how God’s word is real for our lives every day – and at every age… and how He is always working on our behalf. I’ve shared with you the struggles and joys of the journey of a little boy named Job, who received a lung transplant in 2007 - and just celebrated his 12th birthday, by the way! (www.caringbridge.org/ar/job) I’ve tried to always write what God wants me to say and not what I want to share. And I’ll tell you, the days when I feel that my words are not that great are often when I hear from more of you – things like “That was just what I needed today!” See…God spoke, not me… and what He wanted said was sent to you that day. What is really cool is a day when several of you write and say, “That was just for me!” How amazing it is to realize that God uses the same message for so many individuals. My prayer is to send out what God wants said each and every day!
So today, know that God is protecting you and caring for you – each step of every day. He knows your joys, your sorrows, your fears, your thrills, your illnesses, and your good health. He cares about everything that has to do with you… and He stands ready to shield you from all of Satan’s slings and arrows. I do hope you believe this… and that you are trusting God to keep you safe. I pray that you will find encouragement and answers in these daily devotionals. As long as God keeps giving me words to share, I will keep writing. If you know someone who would be interested in receiving the devos each day, they can send their e-mail address to me, and I will add them to the list. I’m so happy to be able to share with you my insights on how God’s word works for us today. I pray you feel Him at work in your life this day – and always.
©2010 Debbie Robus
The Lord will keep you safe from secret traps and deadly diseases. He will spread his wings over you and keep you secure. His faithfulness is like a shield or a city wall. You won't need to worry about dangers at night or arrows during the day. And you won't fear diseases that strike in the dark or sudden disaster at noon. You will not be harmed, though thousands fall all around you. And with your own eyes you will see the punishment of the wicked.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
In 2004, while teaching a junior High Sunday School class at our church, I searched for a way to get the kids to read their Bible. I asked them to write down twelve issues that they struggled with or had questions about… and they listed school, family, peer pressure, love, friends, possessions, and more. I searched the Bible for scriptures to fit each topic and developed an outline… “devos” for each month. I printed them out each week as a hand-out for the students on Sundays, and several began using them to study their Bible.
In 2005, Susan Miles, the wife of our pastor at that time, came to me and said, “We need something for our “in-betweeners” – those who have graduated from high school but are not quite adults. It needs to be something we could e-mail them – like a daily devotional. Would you help me do this?” I shared with her the year-long set of daily devos that I had written, and Susan used a list of e-mail addresses – mostly youth in our church who had graduated, along with those I worked with in Jr/Sr High Sunday School classes and S.P.A.M. small groups – to send the “devos” each day, beginning in August when school resumed. When we had used all of the devotionals for that year, I started writing more… and I’ve written them ever since.
If you ever wonder why sometimes the devo seems slanted toward younger people, this is the reason. As years have passed, people have shared the devos with friends and family who said, “I want to be on the list,” and now I send the daily devotional to over 120 e-mail addresses for people whose ages range from early teens to late 80’s. I have no idea how many people actually see each devo, because I know some of you share them with family and friends… and that’s wonderful. I also post them on my blog… http://auntdebsattic.blogspot.com. Since I started writing the devos, I have truly come to appreciate God’s protection. I have used personal experiences and current events to show you how God’s word is real for our lives every day – and at every age… and how He is always working on our behalf. I’ve shared with you the struggles and joys of the journey of a little boy named Job, who received a lung transplant in 2007 - and just celebrated his 12th birthday, by the way! (www.caringbridge.org/ar/job) I’ve tried to always write what God wants me to say and not what I want to share. And I’ll tell you, the days when I feel that my words are not that great are often when I hear from more of you – things like “That was just what I needed today!” See…God spoke, not me… and what He wanted said was sent to you that day. What is really cool is a day when several of you write and say, “That was just for me!” How amazing it is to realize that God uses the same message for so many individuals. My prayer is to send out what God wants said each and every day!
So today, know that God is protecting you and caring for you – each step of every day. He knows your joys, your sorrows, your fears, your thrills, your illnesses, and your good health. He cares about everything that has to do with you… and He stands ready to shield you from all of Satan’s slings and arrows. I do hope you believe this… and that you are trusting God to keep you safe. I pray that you will find encouragement and answers in these daily devotionals. As long as God keeps giving me words to share, I will keep writing. If you know someone who would be interested in receiving the devos each day, they can send their e-mail address to me, and I will add them to the list. I’m so happy to be able to share with you my insights on how God’s word works for us today. I pray you feel Him at work in your life this day – and always.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for May 3, 2010
May 3 ~ Psalm 23:1-6
You, LORD, are my shepherd. I will never be in need. You let me rest in fields of green grass. You lead me to streams of peaceful water, and you refresh my life. You are true to your name, and you lead me along the right paths. I may walk through valleys as dark as death, but I won't be afraid. You are with me, and your shepherd's rod makes me feel safe.
You treat me to a feast, while my enemies watch. You honor me as your guest, and you fill my cup until it overflows. Your kindness and love will always be with me each day of my life, and I will live forever in your house, LORD.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When things start to fall apart in your life… when you are frightened or worried or frustrated… where do you turn? Do you throw up your hands or kick and scream? Do you wallow in self-pity? Do you call on God and demand that He help you? None of these things are really harmful… and certainly calling on God is a good thing. But look at the first verse of this passage… “You, LORD, are my shepherd. I will never be in need.” Imagine yourself saying these words when a troubling or upsetting situation arises.
Imagine really acknowledging God’s presence and power in your life – and resting in this. “You, LORD, are my shepherd. I will never be in need.” Of course, the rest of this Psalm explains all the many ways that God cares for us and nurtures us. But some of the most important words are those in the first verse. When you find yourself in a situation that you cannot handle on your own – when life becomes a burden or a challenge, think on these words. Say them out loud – and internalize their meaning for your life. Take consolation in knowing that the LORD truly IS our shepherd, and we will never be in need. Let this promise rest in your heart and give you peace and comfort.
©2010 Debbie Robus
You, LORD, are my shepherd. I will never be in need. You let me rest in fields of green grass. You lead me to streams of peaceful water, and you refresh my life. You are true to your name, and you lead me along the right paths. I may walk through valleys as dark as death, but I won't be afraid. You are with me, and your shepherd's rod makes me feel safe.
You treat me to a feast, while my enemies watch. You honor me as your guest, and you fill my cup until it overflows. Your kindness and love will always be with me each day of my life, and I will live forever in your house, LORD.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When things start to fall apart in your life… when you are frightened or worried or frustrated… where do you turn? Do you throw up your hands or kick and scream? Do you wallow in self-pity? Do you call on God and demand that He help you? None of these things are really harmful… and certainly calling on God is a good thing. But look at the first verse of this passage… “You, LORD, are my shepherd. I will never be in need.” Imagine yourself saying these words when a troubling or upsetting situation arises.
Imagine really acknowledging God’s presence and power in your life – and resting in this. “You, LORD, are my shepherd. I will never be in need.” Of course, the rest of this Psalm explains all the many ways that God cares for us and nurtures us. But some of the most important words are those in the first verse. When you find yourself in a situation that you cannot handle on your own – when life becomes a burden or a challenge, think on these words. Say them out loud – and internalize their meaning for your life. Take consolation in knowing that the LORD truly IS our shepherd, and we will never be in need. Let this promise rest in your heart and give you peace and comfort.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for May 1, 2010
May 1 ~ Psalm 139:13-14
You are the one who put me together inside my mother's body, and I praise you because of the wonderful way you created me. Everything you do is marvelous! Of this I have no doubt.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
In the last few weeks, we have celebrated several birthdays in our family – my mother’s, my husband’s - and soon we will celebrate the 6th birthday of our great-nephew Chase and the first birthday of our great-nephew Timothy. Birthdays are a wonderful time to stop and truly think about the honoree – and to truly celebrate their life and birth. Often we wonder aloud… “Where has the time gone? Has it really been a year already? Can Chase really be six?” And for those of us who are several decades along, we find ourselves musing that “Geez, I’m getting old,” or “I may be this age, but I feel twenty years younger – or older!”
As wonderful as birthdays can be… the concept that God planned us before we were ever conceived is even more astounding – and quite literally, marvelous! God knew every hair on our head before we were even an embryo! Let that really soak in for a minute. God knew about you before you were formed… and He planned every detail of your life… every eyelash and freckle… how tall you would grow and what color your eyes would be. He cares so much about us that He meticulously crafted every wrinkle and fold on our body, and He wove family characteristics and resemblances into us with perfection.
Pretty much every one of us has stood before the mirror on any given day and wondered, “Why do I have such and such?” We’ve griped and complained about our freckles or the way our nose curves. We’ve lamented that “I’m short and squatty like the rest of my family,” or we’ve joked that a sibling with brown hair and eyes in a family of blonds “must be adopted!” In actuality, we should be looking at our image and saying, “WOW, God! Thank you! Thank you for the subtle, intimate thread of familiarity that runs through all the members of my family. Thank you for giving me talents, skills and abilities. Thank you for my fingers and toes, arms and legs. Thank you for such amazing, incredible plans that included ME!”
We serve an awesome, amazing God… a God who cares enough to carefully plan each creature. We stand in awe of a God who formed us in His mind before our parents even met… and then literally brought His concept to life! If that doesn’t make us feel special, nothing will. If that doesn’t make us appreciate God, it’s never gonna happen. Thank God today for the birthdays and celebrations of people in your life – and for giving YOU such an incredible, unique, and blessed life. Thank Him for choosing to love each of us so abundantly – and so well – and celebrate the wonderful way you were created.
©2010 Debbie Robus
You are the one who put me together inside my mother's body, and I praise you because of the wonderful way you created me. Everything you do is marvelous! Of this I have no doubt.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
In the last few weeks, we have celebrated several birthdays in our family – my mother’s, my husband’s - and soon we will celebrate the 6th birthday of our great-nephew Chase and the first birthday of our great-nephew Timothy. Birthdays are a wonderful time to stop and truly think about the honoree – and to truly celebrate their life and birth. Often we wonder aloud… “Where has the time gone? Has it really been a year already? Can Chase really be six?” And for those of us who are several decades along, we find ourselves musing that “Geez, I’m getting old,” or “I may be this age, but I feel twenty years younger – or older!”
As wonderful as birthdays can be… the concept that God planned us before we were ever conceived is even more astounding – and quite literally, marvelous! God knew every hair on our head before we were even an embryo! Let that really soak in for a minute. God knew about you before you were formed… and He planned every detail of your life… every eyelash and freckle… how tall you would grow and what color your eyes would be. He cares so much about us that He meticulously crafted every wrinkle and fold on our body, and He wove family characteristics and resemblances into us with perfection.
Pretty much every one of us has stood before the mirror on any given day and wondered, “Why do I have such and such?” We’ve griped and complained about our freckles or the way our nose curves. We’ve lamented that “I’m short and squatty like the rest of my family,” or we’ve joked that a sibling with brown hair and eyes in a family of blonds “must be adopted!” In actuality, we should be looking at our image and saying, “WOW, God! Thank you! Thank you for the subtle, intimate thread of familiarity that runs through all the members of my family. Thank you for giving me talents, skills and abilities. Thank you for my fingers and toes, arms and legs. Thank you for such amazing, incredible plans that included ME!”
We serve an awesome, amazing God… a God who cares enough to carefully plan each creature. We stand in awe of a God who formed us in His mind before our parents even met… and then literally brought His concept to life! If that doesn’t make us feel special, nothing will. If that doesn’t make us appreciate God, it’s never gonna happen. Thank God today for the birthdays and celebrations of people in your life – and for giving YOU such an incredible, unique, and blessed life. Thank Him for choosing to love each of us so abundantly – and so well – and celebrate the wonderful way you were created.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 10, 2010
March 10 ~ Psalm 62:8
Trust God, my friends, and always tell him each one of your concerns. God is our place of safety.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Everyone needs a “place of safety.” Everyone needs a place to go and sit and be alone and feel sheltered from the “storms of life.” This may be your bedroom, a den, or even your car. Some parents report that their only “haven” is the bathroom with the door locked! When I was a child, my places of safety were the mossy creek bank across from my grandparents’ farm house, a ride on my horse through the pasture, or the storm cellar (where we spent MANY hours!). That probably explains why to this day, I insist on a “safe room” in our house where we can go during threats of tornadoes!
We also need a Spiritual “place of safety.” This doesn’t have to be a physical location, although for many, it is helpful to have a set “spot” where they can go to talk to God and meditate upon His word. For me, this place is currently my sun porch. At another home, it was a rocking chair or the swing on my front porch. Even on cold winter nights, I would bundle up and go there to talk to God… to pour out my concerns. I felt His presence deeply there… and every twinkling star was like His wink of reassurance.
You don’t have to have a designated “place of safety” to communicate with God and trust Him with your concerns. You might do this in the car on your commute to work… or you might develop a time of meditation with Him while sitting on a bench and waiting on your mom to pick you up from school. Your “place of safety” with God might just be a calming effect you evoke by sitting quietly, praying and meditating. The point is to feel God’s presence and to envision His arms engulfing and protecting you. The point is to trust God to always welcome you - wherever you are, whatever is happening in your life - and to know that He will be there for you. He will – He IS! Are you trusting Him enough these days? Do you have a “place of safety” with God?
©2009 Debbie Robus
Trust God, my friends, and always tell him each one of your concerns. God is our place of safety.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Everyone needs a “place of safety.” Everyone needs a place to go and sit and be alone and feel sheltered from the “storms of life.” This may be your bedroom, a den, or even your car. Some parents report that their only “haven” is the bathroom with the door locked! When I was a child, my places of safety were the mossy creek bank across from my grandparents’ farm house, a ride on my horse through the pasture, or the storm cellar (where we spent MANY hours!). That probably explains why to this day, I insist on a “safe room” in our house where we can go during threats of tornadoes!
We also need a Spiritual “place of safety.” This doesn’t have to be a physical location, although for many, it is helpful to have a set “spot” where they can go to talk to God and meditate upon His word. For me, this place is currently my sun porch. At another home, it was a rocking chair or the swing on my front porch. Even on cold winter nights, I would bundle up and go there to talk to God… to pour out my concerns. I felt His presence deeply there… and every twinkling star was like His wink of reassurance.
You don’t have to have a designated “place of safety” to communicate with God and trust Him with your concerns. You might do this in the car on your commute to work… or you might develop a time of meditation with Him while sitting on a bench and waiting on your mom to pick you up from school. Your “place of safety” with God might just be a calming effect you evoke by sitting quietly, praying and meditating. The point is to feel God’s presence and to envision His arms engulfing and protecting you. The point is to trust God to always welcome you - wherever you are, whatever is happening in your life - and to know that He will be there for you. He will – He IS! Are you trusting Him enough these days? Do you have a “place of safety” with God?
©2009 Debbie Robus
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