Psalm 90:14
When morning comes, let your love satisfy all our needs. Then we can celebrate and be glad for what time we have left.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
If you are like me – and most people – you probably are in the habit of using three products to do a task, when one would have been sufficient. I used to have a whole basket of cleaning products – scrub for the shower tile, disinfectant for surfaces, window cleaner for the windows and mirrors, furniture polish for the wood, and many more products that commercials and advertisements told me we simply could not stay clean unless we purchased them!
But then I stumbled onto a recipe at my grandmother’s for a cleaning solution she called “Glass Plus.” I’m not talking about the commercial brand by the same name… this was a concoction of 2 tablespoons ammonia, 1 teaspoon of dish detergent, and 2 cups of rubbing alcohol. You put all of this in a clean plastic gallon milk jug, and fill it with water. Not only does this solution clean mirrors and windows beautifully… it also disinfects surfaces at the same time.
When I fill a spray bottle with this solution, I don’t need a bottle of disinfectant AND a bottle of window cleaner. I can use this solution on all sorts of spills… in virtually every room of the house, and even on outside surfaces… and it’s far cheaper than those store brands! One spray bottle of this concoction satisfies virtually all of my household cleaning needs!
Do you see the correlation with our Spiritual life? We run around trying to get all of these “aids” that we think we need to make us more Spiritual, when God has already given us all that we need. We have Jesus… we have the Bible… we can go to God in prayer any time of the night or day. The Holy Spirit is always with us, ready to give us wisdom, courage, and comfort. God has given us an “all-in-One” product!
Most of us will still try other products from time to time. We’ll be lured in by the commercials and ads, and we will wonder… is this “glass plus” cleaner really enough to get the job done? And honestly, a lot of us will get caught up in external things Spiritually, too. We’ll become fascinated with a particular set of Bible study aids or a certain speaker. We’ll listen non-stop to the music of a favorite Christian musical artist or group… or we’ll decide that hymns are old school, and we need Contemporary Christian music to really “feel the Holy Spirit” in our lives. We’ll become so absorbed in this or that ministry in our church or community and fail to recognize that God is at work all around us – in people and ministries of all sizes, shapes and colors.
The bottom line is that we need to remind ourselves that God truly is an “All-in-One” solution Who satisfies every single one of our needs. If we wake each morning and give our day – and our needs to Him, think of how much extra time and energy we will have… and how much better things will go. Are you still trying extra products and gadgets? Or have you settled in for the long haul with God and let Him handle things for you? Isn’t it time you simplified your life and put Him in charge? Are you ready to let go… and let God?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Showing posts with label relying on God. Show all posts
Showing posts with label relying on God. Show all posts
Daily Devotional for February 5, 2011
Psalm 25:17-18, 21
My awful worries keep growing. Rescue me from sadness. See my troubles and misery and forgive my sins.
I obey you with all my heart, and I trust you, knowing that you will save me.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
If fear is one of the devil’s biggest tools, worry is the vehicle in which he delivers it. We worry about everything – what we will wear, who likes us or doesn’t, how we will make a living and put food on the table, what will happen to us when we grow old, and so much more. And I’m sorry to say that I am right there with everyone else much of the time.
I think what makes me the maddest is understanding how much this thrills Satan. I don’t want to give him even a split second of joy. So why can’t I stop worrying? Why can’t you?
Here’s the deal… as long as we let worry have a place in our lives, we have not “let go and let God” have control. Believe me, I know it’s hard. But I am committed to making a change… to surrendering to God’s control and letting him have my worries and any resulting troubles, misery and sadness. As the Apostle Paul pointed out, this will be a “daily surrender,” but I am ready to do whatever it takes… aren’t you?
Let’s make this the year we trust God to save us and put aside our worries. Let’s obey Him with all our heart and feel the joy and peace that can come from resting in His rescue and forgiveness. I’m more than ready for this journey… are you coming with me?
©2011 Debbie Robus
My awful worries keep growing. Rescue me from sadness. See my troubles and misery and forgive my sins.
I obey you with all my heart, and I trust you, knowing that you will save me.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
If fear is one of the devil’s biggest tools, worry is the vehicle in which he delivers it. We worry about everything – what we will wear, who likes us or doesn’t, how we will make a living and put food on the table, what will happen to us when we grow old, and so much more. And I’m sorry to say that I am right there with everyone else much of the time.
I think what makes me the maddest is understanding how much this thrills Satan. I don’t want to give him even a split second of joy. So why can’t I stop worrying? Why can’t you?
Here’s the deal… as long as we let worry have a place in our lives, we have not “let go and let God” have control. Believe me, I know it’s hard. But I am committed to making a change… to surrendering to God’s control and letting him have my worries and any resulting troubles, misery and sadness. As the Apostle Paul pointed out, this will be a “daily surrender,” but I am ready to do whatever it takes… aren’t you?
Let’s make this the year we trust God to save us and put aside our worries. Let’s obey Him with all our heart and feel the joy and peace that can come from resting in His rescue and forgiveness. I’m more than ready for this journey… are you coming with me?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for February 2, 2011
Psalm16:5-9
You, LORD, are all I want! You are my choice, and you keep me safe. You make my life pleasant, and my future is bright. I praise you, LORD, for being my guide. Even in the darkest night, your teachings fill my mind. I will always look to you, as you stand beside me and protect me from fear. With all my heart, I will celebrate, and I can safely rest.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I’m always amazed by people who can simply “let life happen.” I would not necessarily categorize myself as a “control freak,” but I like to have a plan. Like most people, my plans do not always go as I had hoped, and I have to adjust. Some days I handle this better than others, but in recent months, I have learned to rely more on God and less on myself. And while my plans may still not go as I hope all the time, I am coping with the outcome better… much of the time. Hey, I’m still a work in progress!
Do you ever wake up in the night thinking about something… maybe what you have to do the next day, or an upcoming test or other class project, or something at work or a family issue? Does your mind start to race as you plan your strategy or review the test material? Do you toss and turn and repeatedly review the steps or thoughts like a tape loop? Do you ever ask God to help you with this?
Our fears… darkest nights… “tape loops” running through our heads… worries, frustrations and over-analyzing situations… all of these are tools of the devil. And all of these are easily handled by God. When we give over our plans to Him, things may not go exactly as we hoped, but all will be well. When we trust God to protect us and give Him our fears, our life is pleasant and bright, and our heart is filled with joy and rest. We can sleep like babies, knowing that God is “on the clock” and taking care of things for us.
This is hard to do sometimes… I get that. But the more we practice, the easier it becomes. In 1 Peter 5:7, we are told to cast all of our cares upon the Lord, because He cares for us… and nothing could be more accurate or more comforting. God does His most powerful work in us when we surrender and walk in faith… when we truly cast our cares upon Him.
Who is carrying your burdens today? Are you trying to shoulder your cares alone – or worse yet, with the constant “encouragement” of the devil? Isn’t it time we celebrated God’s great love for us, gave Him our cares… and rested?
©2011 Debbie Robus
You, LORD, are all I want! You are my choice, and you keep me safe. You make my life pleasant, and my future is bright. I praise you, LORD, for being my guide. Even in the darkest night, your teachings fill my mind. I will always look to you, as you stand beside me and protect me from fear. With all my heart, I will celebrate, and I can safely rest.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I’m always amazed by people who can simply “let life happen.” I would not necessarily categorize myself as a “control freak,” but I like to have a plan. Like most people, my plans do not always go as I had hoped, and I have to adjust. Some days I handle this better than others, but in recent months, I have learned to rely more on God and less on myself. And while my plans may still not go as I hope all the time, I am coping with the outcome better… much of the time. Hey, I’m still a work in progress!
Do you ever wake up in the night thinking about something… maybe what you have to do the next day, or an upcoming test or other class project, or something at work or a family issue? Does your mind start to race as you plan your strategy or review the test material? Do you toss and turn and repeatedly review the steps or thoughts like a tape loop? Do you ever ask God to help you with this?
Our fears… darkest nights… “tape loops” running through our heads… worries, frustrations and over-analyzing situations… all of these are tools of the devil. And all of these are easily handled by God. When we give over our plans to Him, things may not go exactly as we hoped, but all will be well. When we trust God to protect us and give Him our fears, our life is pleasant and bright, and our heart is filled with joy and rest. We can sleep like babies, knowing that God is “on the clock” and taking care of things for us.
This is hard to do sometimes… I get that. But the more we practice, the easier it becomes. In 1 Peter 5:7, we are told to cast all of our cares upon the Lord, because He cares for us… and nothing could be more accurate or more comforting. God does His most powerful work in us when we surrender and walk in faith… when we truly cast our cares upon Him.
Who is carrying your burdens today? Are you trying to shoulder your cares alone – or worse yet, with the constant “encouragement” of the devil? Isn’t it time we celebrated God’s great love for us, gave Him our cares… and rested?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for October 29, 2010
Jeremiah 2:19
Your own sins will punish you, because it was a bitter mistake for you to reject me without fear of punishment. I, the LORD All-Powerful, have spoken.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
On TV’s “The Biggest Loser,” contestants sometimes make crazy choices. This is a game, so a contestant may weigh the pros and cons of choosing to participate in a “challenge” where the participants have to eat a lot of calorie-laden sweets to have a chance at “immunity.” Or… a contestant may deliberately attempt to keep from losing weight in an effort to “throw” the results of the weigh-in at the end of each show. In all cases, the trainers inevitably come back to these contestants with one question… “Was it worth it?”
Very seldom do these choices work out well. One contestant had a “extra weight” card that he could use any week he chose. This card would allow him to add pounds to his weight-loss total for the week, and it increased exponentially with each passing week. He opted not to use the card at a weigh-in, and his weight loss was not all that great. He could have used another 3-pound loss to stay in the game. As it was, he lost… and his fellow contestants voted him off and sent him home.
I know that “The Biggest Loser” is just a game… and these people are hoping to win up to $250,000 at the end of the season. But they are also risking their lives, in a sense, because these are morbidly obese people with serious health issues. Losing this weight could also mean the difference between life and death for them.
“But I’m not overweight,” you may be saying… “and I’m certainly not morbidly obese… what does this have to do with me?” We are no different from the contestants on “The Biggest Loser” when it comes to life decisions. We gamble every day with all sorts of choices that affect our relationship with God… choices that could have Eternal consequences.
Just like thinking we will eat cupcakes today and worry about the weight tomorrow, we decide we will “live for today,” and worry about our salvation later. We choose to “sow wild oats” and, in our mind, enjoy our life on our own terms, with little to no regard for the long-term effect on our lives, the lives of those around us… and our Eternal life.
The question of “The Biggest Loser” trainers applies to this situation, as well… “Was it worth it?” What are we thinking to turn our back on God for even one second? None of us are promised tomorrow… a second chance. Like the contestant on the show who gambled with his “bonus card” and lost, we risk losing something far more important… our relationship with our Heavenly Father.
Let’s take a look at our lives today and see where we are “living outside the box” and excluding God in the process. Let’s ask God to show us where we need to make changes and better choices - and re-align ourselves with His plan. Let’s make sure we are “winners” where it really matters – not for $250,000 or the title of “The Biggest Loser” – but in the race to the cross, where we find the ultimate Prize… life everlasting with our Heavenly Father.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Your own sins will punish you, because it was a bitter mistake for you to reject me without fear of punishment. I, the LORD All-Powerful, have spoken.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
On TV’s “The Biggest Loser,” contestants sometimes make crazy choices. This is a game, so a contestant may weigh the pros and cons of choosing to participate in a “challenge” where the participants have to eat a lot of calorie-laden sweets to have a chance at “immunity.” Or… a contestant may deliberately attempt to keep from losing weight in an effort to “throw” the results of the weigh-in at the end of each show. In all cases, the trainers inevitably come back to these contestants with one question… “Was it worth it?”
Very seldom do these choices work out well. One contestant had a “extra weight” card that he could use any week he chose. This card would allow him to add pounds to his weight-loss total for the week, and it increased exponentially with each passing week. He opted not to use the card at a weigh-in, and his weight loss was not all that great. He could have used another 3-pound loss to stay in the game. As it was, he lost… and his fellow contestants voted him off and sent him home.
I know that “The Biggest Loser” is just a game… and these people are hoping to win up to $250,000 at the end of the season. But they are also risking their lives, in a sense, because these are morbidly obese people with serious health issues. Losing this weight could also mean the difference between life and death for them.
“But I’m not overweight,” you may be saying… “and I’m certainly not morbidly obese… what does this have to do with me?” We are no different from the contestants on “The Biggest Loser” when it comes to life decisions. We gamble every day with all sorts of choices that affect our relationship with God… choices that could have Eternal consequences.
Just like thinking we will eat cupcakes today and worry about the weight tomorrow, we decide we will “live for today,” and worry about our salvation later. We choose to “sow wild oats” and, in our mind, enjoy our life on our own terms, with little to no regard for the long-term effect on our lives, the lives of those around us… and our Eternal life.
The question of “The Biggest Loser” trainers applies to this situation, as well… “Was it worth it?” What are we thinking to turn our back on God for even one second? None of us are promised tomorrow… a second chance. Like the contestant on the show who gambled with his “bonus card” and lost, we risk losing something far more important… our relationship with our Heavenly Father.
Let’s take a look at our lives today and see where we are “living outside the box” and excluding God in the process. Let’s ask God to show us where we need to make changes and better choices - and re-align ourselves with His plan. Let’s make sure we are “winners” where it really matters – not for $250,000 or the title of “The Biggest Loser” – but in the race to the cross, where we find the ultimate Prize… life everlasting with our Heavenly Father.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for October 22, 2010
Proverbs 3:21-24
My child, use common sense and sound judgment! Always keep them in mind. They will help you to live a long and beautiful life. You will walk safely and never stumble; you will rest without a worry and sleep soundly.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Insomnia has become a huge problem in recent years for many people. Or maybe we are just more aware of how widespread this problem is for a number of people. In any case, there are now a lot of medications that are reputed to help with insomnia… from Ambien to Lunesta to over-the-counter solutions like Tylenol P.M. and more. Who knew that perhaps one of the best “cures” for insomnia could be found in Proverbs 3 … and why are we surprised?!
“But you don’t have any idea how many worries and stresses I have,” you may be saying. “When my head hits the pillow at night, my mind just races.” I do know… I’ve been there myself.
Proverbs 3:21-24 and scripture passages such as Psalm 127:2, which says in the King James Version…”It is vain for you to rise up early, to sit up late, to eat the bread of sorrows: for so he giveth his beloved sleep,” tell us clearly that God wants us to clear our mind, to give our worries and cares to HIM, and to sleep and rest soundly. I know this is hard… and I’m not saying some of us don’t need a little something to help us over the hump with this from time to time.
I do believe that we often fail to give our worries and burdens, stresses and “busyness” completely to God. We give Him our troubles to hold for a few minutes – and then we pick them back up again. As for common sense and sound judgment, I know firsthand that I make the mistake of failing to consult God often enough… in all situations. How hard would it be to stop and take five seconds to say, “Lord, help me to say the right things,” or to ask, “Lord, what should I do?” Even if you have to put down the phone, or raise your hand and say to someone, “Excuse me for a second,” then close your eyes and silently pray for guidance… imagine how this could affect the outcome!
If we spent more time involving God in our lives and consulting Him about even the smallest choices and decisions, our sleep might be more restful and sound… and come more easily. Our life would most certainly be more beautiful and peaceful, and we would stumble far less often.
My prayer for all of us is that we would commit to involving God more completely in our day-to-day living, and that we would experience more rest and peace in our sleep… and more safety, comfort, and blessings in our very lives. Do you have a few seconds to spare to communicate with God? Are you willing to see what a difference it can make?
©2010 Debbie Robus
My child, use common sense and sound judgment! Always keep them in mind. They will help you to live a long and beautiful life. You will walk safely and never stumble; you will rest without a worry and sleep soundly.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Insomnia has become a huge problem in recent years for many people. Or maybe we are just more aware of how widespread this problem is for a number of people. In any case, there are now a lot of medications that are reputed to help with insomnia… from Ambien to Lunesta to over-the-counter solutions like Tylenol P.M. and more. Who knew that perhaps one of the best “cures” for insomnia could be found in Proverbs 3 … and why are we surprised?!
“But you don’t have any idea how many worries and stresses I have,” you may be saying. “When my head hits the pillow at night, my mind just races.” I do know… I’ve been there myself.
Proverbs 3:21-24 and scripture passages such as Psalm 127:2, which says in the King James Version…”It is vain for you to rise up early, to sit up late, to eat the bread of sorrows: for so he giveth his beloved sleep,” tell us clearly that God wants us to clear our mind, to give our worries and cares to HIM, and to sleep and rest soundly. I know this is hard… and I’m not saying some of us don’t need a little something to help us over the hump with this from time to time.
I do believe that we often fail to give our worries and burdens, stresses and “busyness” completely to God. We give Him our troubles to hold for a few minutes – and then we pick them back up again. As for common sense and sound judgment, I know firsthand that I make the mistake of failing to consult God often enough… in all situations. How hard would it be to stop and take five seconds to say, “Lord, help me to say the right things,” or to ask, “Lord, what should I do?” Even if you have to put down the phone, or raise your hand and say to someone, “Excuse me for a second,” then close your eyes and silently pray for guidance… imagine how this could affect the outcome!
If we spent more time involving God in our lives and consulting Him about even the smallest choices and decisions, our sleep might be more restful and sound… and come more easily. Our life would most certainly be more beautiful and peaceful, and we would stumble far less often.
My prayer for all of us is that we would commit to involving God more completely in our day-to-day living, and that we would experience more rest and peace in our sleep… and more safety, comfort, and blessings in our very lives. Do you have a few seconds to spare to communicate with God? Are you willing to see what a difference it can make?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for July 8, 2010
2 Kings 6:16
"Don't be afraid," Elisha answered. "There are more troops on our side than on theirs."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
We’ve all been there… we’ve all had a time when we felt like “the deck was stacked against us.” The obstacles seemed too large… we couldn’t see how we could overcome such huge odds. But we learn in this passage that “there are more troops on our side than theirs.”
Still not convinced? Consider this… with God on our side, we don’t need large armies. We don’t need huge odds in our favor… we’ve already got the overwhelming “Majority Vote!” Once again, we underestimate our God! We fail to recognize that He can defeat any and all enemies… and He can do it single-handedly.
It’s time we recognized God’s power in our life. It’s time we started to humbly seek His will, then act courageously as He leads us. We’ve been meek, timid and fearful long enough. Now it’s time to act like God’s children… and to begin to really live for Him! Don’t be afraid… with God on our side, we have all the “troops” we need!
©2010 Debbie Robus
"Don't be afraid," Elisha answered. "There are more troops on our side than on theirs."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
We’ve all been there… we’ve all had a time when we felt like “the deck was stacked against us.” The obstacles seemed too large… we couldn’t see how we could overcome such huge odds. But we learn in this passage that “there are more troops on our side than theirs.”
Still not convinced? Consider this… with God on our side, we don’t need large armies. We don’t need huge odds in our favor… we’ve already got the overwhelming “Majority Vote!” Once again, we underestimate our God! We fail to recognize that He can defeat any and all enemies… and He can do it single-handedly.
It’s time we recognized God’s power in our life. It’s time we started to humbly seek His will, then act courageously as He leads us. We’ve been meek, timid and fearful long enough. Now it’s time to act like God’s children… and to begin to really live for Him! Don’t be afraid… with God on our side, we have all the “troops” we need!
©2010 Debbie Robus
June 30 ~ Luke 15:31-32
His father replied, "My son, you are always with me, and everything I have is yours. But we should be glad and celebrate! Your brother was dead, but he is now alive. He was lost and has now been found."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
This is the ending verses of one of Jesus’ parables, known to us as the story of “The Prodigal Son.” If you start reading in Luke 15 at Verse 11, you will see that a man had two sons, and he divided his wealth between them. One worked hard and honored his father, while the other ran off and partied and spent everything he had inherited on food, wine, and women. When he was penniless and working as a slave for others, he realized that his father’s pigs ate better than he did, so he decided to return to his father on his hands and knees and ask for a job – feeding the livestock or serving in some other way.
The father was so glad to have his son back that he welcomed him and planned a party to celebrate his return. This made the hard-working son mad and jealous… as it would a lot of us. But here’s the deal… think about how hard it was for that “prodigal son” to come home. He must have been scared to death of his father and what he might say and do. And aren’t we the same way? Aren’t we afraid, sometimes, to go to someone with whom we have disagreed or wronged in some way and say to them, “I’m sorry. I was wrong. I’m asking you to forgive me.”
More than this, aren’t we often afraid to go to our Heavenly Father and admit that we have sinned against Him? Aren’t we embarrassed by our behavior and lack of respect and honor for God? Does this fear and embarrassment keep us from humbling ourselves before God and asking for His forgiveness? It shouldn’t. Take a good hard look at this passage… and at the father’s answer to the angry, jealous brother. In essence, he said, “You should be glad your brother is back. I have enough love and wealth for both of you. You’ll never lack for anything just because I took your brother back. You still have my love… but your brother needs it, too.”
I’m willing to bet that most of the people you are afraid to approach and apologize to…or mend a relationship with…would be glad to hear from you – if you came with a humble, sincere attitude. And I know that God would be glad to have you back. It’s time to stop being so afraid. It’s time to trust God to protect us and guide our steps… and to take a leap of faith and repair a relationship, mend a fence, apologize to someone we have wronged… and admit our sins and shortcomings to our Heavenly Father. We have operated in fear long enough… and given Satan far too much pleasure and satisfaction in the bargain. Be glad for those who have taken this step – those who were once lost and are now found. And if you need to be next in line… now is the time to start.
©2010 Debbie Robus
His father replied, "My son, you are always with me, and everything I have is yours. But we should be glad and celebrate! Your brother was dead, but he is now alive. He was lost and has now been found."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
This is the ending verses of one of Jesus’ parables, known to us as the story of “The Prodigal Son.” If you start reading in Luke 15 at Verse 11, you will see that a man had two sons, and he divided his wealth between them. One worked hard and honored his father, while the other ran off and partied and spent everything he had inherited on food, wine, and women. When he was penniless and working as a slave for others, he realized that his father’s pigs ate better than he did, so he decided to return to his father on his hands and knees and ask for a job – feeding the livestock or serving in some other way.
The father was so glad to have his son back that he welcomed him and planned a party to celebrate his return. This made the hard-working son mad and jealous… as it would a lot of us. But here’s the deal… think about how hard it was for that “prodigal son” to come home. He must have been scared to death of his father and what he might say and do. And aren’t we the same way? Aren’t we afraid, sometimes, to go to someone with whom we have disagreed or wronged in some way and say to them, “I’m sorry. I was wrong. I’m asking you to forgive me.”
More than this, aren’t we often afraid to go to our Heavenly Father and admit that we have sinned against Him? Aren’t we embarrassed by our behavior and lack of respect and honor for God? Does this fear and embarrassment keep us from humbling ourselves before God and asking for His forgiveness? It shouldn’t. Take a good hard look at this passage… and at the father’s answer to the angry, jealous brother. In essence, he said, “You should be glad your brother is back. I have enough love and wealth for both of you. You’ll never lack for anything just because I took your brother back. You still have my love… but your brother needs it, too.”
I’m willing to bet that most of the people you are afraid to approach and apologize to…or mend a relationship with…would be glad to hear from you – if you came with a humble, sincere attitude. And I know that God would be glad to have you back. It’s time to stop being so afraid. It’s time to trust God to protect us and guide our steps… and to take a leap of faith and repair a relationship, mend a fence, apologize to someone we have wronged… and admit our sins and shortcomings to our Heavenly Father. We have operated in fear long enough… and given Satan far too much pleasure and satisfaction in the bargain. Be glad for those who have taken this step – those who were once lost and are now found. And if you need to be next in line… now is the time to start.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for June 17, 2010
June 17 ~ Isaiah 54:14
You will be built on fairness with no fears of injustice; every one of your worries will be taken far from you.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
A young cousin of mine recently received a nasty telephone message on the family’s answering machine. It turned out to be a jealous little girl who posed as my cousin’s friend and said some really ugly things to her. But it had all of the makings of a potential bullying situation. In talking with my cousin’s mother, we both shared how a bully had hurt us as young girls and teenagers, and the mother said, “It all came back to me in a flood.”
Clearly, from what I know of this woman, she has risen above any torment and torture that her childhood bully tried to inflict. If the bully meant to tear her apart for life, she failed miserably. And the girl who bullied me didn’t ruin my life, either. I wish I could say the same for some young teens whose stories have been in the news lately. For them, the only rescue they felt viable was suicide.
Especially when we are young, we are so vulnerable. Satan has an easy task of making life hard for us… and bullies are really difficult to ignore. We pray for God to take the burden away, but sometimes, in certain circumstances, we can’t escape our worries and injustice. Maybe those children didn’t have an attentive mother like my cousin’s, who jumped right on this situation and got to the bottom of it. Maybe these young people felt they should be able to handle this on their own and didn’t tell anyone – especially an adult. Or maybe they didn’t live in a home where everyone practiced faith in God to deliver them from all forms of weaponry, even the attacks of a bully.
My point is that Satan starts early. He has been trying to tear each of us away from God since the day we were born, and he will stop at nothing to achieve this. But we serve a God who is far more powerful… far more faithful… loving and kind, yet strong and mighty. And if we will stay focused on Him… hang on and hang in there – He will help us overcome all obstacles. He will send attentive mothers and fathers and empathetic teachers and counselors. He will give us wisdom and courage to fight the enemies of Satan, and every one of our worries will be taken far from us!
I’ll be the first to tell you that I come from a long line of worry warts. I learned from some of the best… and I got pretty good at it. And I’ll admit, I still worry about things that I cannot control from time to time. But I am learning to “let go and let God” – and I see evidence every day of how much better He handles these worries than I ever could. I see proof that He has had a protective hand on me for all of my years… and I know He is not letting go. Who has you in his hands – Satan, the biggest bully of all time - or the Great Protector, God Almighty? Who is doing your worrying these days?
©2010 Debbie Robus
You will be built on fairness with no fears of injustice; every one of your worries will be taken far from you.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
A young cousin of mine recently received a nasty telephone message on the family’s answering machine. It turned out to be a jealous little girl who posed as my cousin’s friend and said some really ugly things to her. But it had all of the makings of a potential bullying situation. In talking with my cousin’s mother, we both shared how a bully had hurt us as young girls and teenagers, and the mother said, “It all came back to me in a flood.”
Clearly, from what I know of this woman, she has risen above any torment and torture that her childhood bully tried to inflict. If the bully meant to tear her apart for life, she failed miserably. And the girl who bullied me didn’t ruin my life, either. I wish I could say the same for some young teens whose stories have been in the news lately. For them, the only rescue they felt viable was suicide.
Especially when we are young, we are so vulnerable. Satan has an easy task of making life hard for us… and bullies are really difficult to ignore. We pray for God to take the burden away, but sometimes, in certain circumstances, we can’t escape our worries and injustice. Maybe those children didn’t have an attentive mother like my cousin’s, who jumped right on this situation and got to the bottom of it. Maybe these young people felt they should be able to handle this on their own and didn’t tell anyone – especially an adult. Or maybe they didn’t live in a home where everyone practiced faith in God to deliver them from all forms of weaponry, even the attacks of a bully.
My point is that Satan starts early. He has been trying to tear each of us away from God since the day we were born, and he will stop at nothing to achieve this. But we serve a God who is far more powerful… far more faithful… loving and kind, yet strong and mighty. And if we will stay focused on Him… hang on and hang in there – He will help us overcome all obstacles. He will send attentive mothers and fathers and empathetic teachers and counselors. He will give us wisdom and courage to fight the enemies of Satan, and every one of our worries will be taken far from us!
I’ll be the first to tell you that I come from a long line of worry warts. I learned from some of the best… and I got pretty good at it. And I’ll admit, I still worry about things that I cannot control from time to time. But I am learning to “let go and let God” – and I see evidence every day of how much better He handles these worries than I ever could. I see proof that He has had a protective hand on me for all of my years… and I know He is not letting go. Who has you in his hands – Satan, the biggest bully of all time - or the Great Protector, God Almighty? Who is doing your worrying these days?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for June 10, 2010
June 10 ~ Psalm 56:4
I praise your promises! I trust you and am not afraid. No one can harm me.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
My mother has a dear friend who is suffering from serious heart problems. She told my mom that recently she was so worried about her situation, and… “The Lord seemed to say to me, ‘You cannot add one second to your life.’” After that, she said she experienced great peace.
At some point in our lives, we will all probably be in a situation where we are driving a motorized vehicle, and someone says to us, “Move over and let me drive.” I know I sound like a broken record when I say this, but we are all so busy trying to “drive the car” that is our life. You know those bumper stickers that say, “God is my co-pilot?” The truth is, God should be our pilot! HE should be “driving the car!” He wants us to “move over and let Him drive,” and the sooner we do this, the sooner we can ditch our fears.
My mom’s friend is right, “We cannot add one second to our lives… we cannot fight the enemies that Satan hurls at us. But GOD can… and He will, if we will simply get out of the way.” Move over and let God drive. Operate in courage and faith and toss fear out the window. Believe in the power of Almighty God to conquer all of your demons and enemies… and praise Him for doing so.
©2010 Debbie Robus
I praise your promises! I trust you and am not afraid. No one can harm me.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
My mother has a dear friend who is suffering from serious heart problems. She told my mom that recently she was so worried about her situation, and… “The Lord seemed to say to me, ‘You cannot add one second to your life.’” After that, she said she experienced great peace.
At some point in our lives, we will all probably be in a situation where we are driving a motorized vehicle, and someone says to us, “Move over and let me drive.” I know I sound like a broken record when I say this, but we are all so busy trying to “drive the car” that is our life. You know those bumper stickers that say, “God is my co-pilot?” The truth is, God should be our pilot! HE should be “driving the car!” He wants us to “move over and let Him drive,” and the sooner we do this, the sooner we can ditch our fears.
My mom’s friend is right, “We cannot add one second to our lives… we cannot fight the enemies that Satan hurls at us. But GOD can… and He will, if we will simply get out of the way.” Move over and let God drive. Operate in courage and faith and toss fear out the window. Believe in the power of Almighty God to conquer all of your demons and enemies… and praise Him for doing so.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for June 5, 2010
June 5 ~ 1 Chronicles 28:20
But you must see that everything is done according to these plans. Be confident, and never be afraid of anything or get discouraged. The LORD my God will help you do everything needed to finish the temple, so it can be used for worshiping him.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Last winter, the store where I sold antiques and “treasures” went out of business. I had to box up everything that I had left there to sell and bring it home. I had taken a lot of stuff to that store! My husband is so much more organized than I am, and he helped me by bringing everything home and unboxing it in long rows in one stall of our garage. He said, “You can sort through it there and decide what you want to do.” Let me tell you, it was a daunting task, and when I first looked at it, I was so discouraged.
I set aside two days to sort and box the items, and I asked God to give me strength, and little by little, the items got sorted and organized and “whittled down” to a manageable set. I soon had everything boxed, a car loaded for the new store, and the rest put in a closet for later. When I got to my empty space at the new store, we brought in the boxes, and I started to unpack. At first, it looked like a war zone…things stacked on shelves, tissue paper and bubble wrap everywhere, and I think the store manager was a little afraid it was not going to come together. But I kept working, and soon the booth was finished… and we were all pleased with how nice it looked.
From time to time, our lives resemble a “war zone” of disarray, confusion, and stuff. But we must not be discouraged. Consider that in all of this, God is building something within us. He is still there, helping clear out the clutter… mentally, physically, and spiritually. He is helping you do what you need to do to build His temple within your heart, so that you can worship Him better every single day. So keep plugging along. Keep unpacking, stacking, sorting…and purging the junk! Keep GOD totally in charge – and you will be amazed at how well He orchestrates the journey – and the outcome. We must remind ourselves not to be fearful or discouraged, because we have the Master Designer working in our heart. With Him in charge, there is no way we can fail.
©2010 Debbie Robus
But you must see that everything is done according to these plans. Be confident, and never be afraid of anything or get discouraged. The LORD my God will help you do everything needed to finish the temple, so it can be used for worshiping him.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Last winter, the store where I sold antiques and “treasures” went out of business. I had to box up everything that I had left there to sell and bring it home. I had taken a lot of stuff to that store! My husband is so much more organized than I am, and he helped me by bringing everything home and unboxing it in long rows in one stall of our garage. He said, “You can sort through it there and decide what you want to do.” Let me tell you, it was a daunting task, and when I first looked at it, I was so discouraged.
I set aside two days to sort and box the items, and I asked God to give me strength, and little by little, the items got sorted and organized and “whittled down” to a manageable set. I soon had everything boxed, a car loaded for the new store, and the rest put in a closet for later. When I got to my empty space at the new store, we brought in the boxes, and I started to unpack. At first, it looked like a war zone…things stacked on shelves, tissue paper and bubble wrap everywhere, and I think the store manager was a little afraid it was not going to come together. But I kept working, and soon the booth was finished… and we were all pleased with how nice it looked.
From time to time, our lives resemble a “war zone” of disarray, confusion, and stuff. But we must not be discouraged. Consider that in all of this, God is building something within us. He is still there, helping clear out the clutter… mentally, physically, and spiritually. He is helping you do what you need to do to build His temple within your heart, so that you can worship Him better every single day. So keep plugging along. Keep unpacking, stacking, sorting…and purging the junk! Keep GOD totally in charge – and you will be amazed at how well He orchestrates the journey – and the outcome. We must remind ourselves not to be fearful or discouraged, because we have the Master Designer working in our heart. With Him in charge, there is no way we can fail.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for June 2, 2010
June 2 ~ Judges 6:10
I am your God, and I told you not to worship Amorite gods, even though you are living in the land of the Amorites. But you refused to listen.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
We’ve all heard the phrase… “If you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em.” And sadly, we do just that much of the time. We are pretty weak creatures, it seems, and when the going gets tough, quite often we just fold up and quit. It’s easier to give in and have a drink and appear to go with the flow at a party than to leave or tell your underage friends that drinking is not cool. When someone posts something offensive on Facebook, it’s easier to ignore it than to send them a private message saying you don’t approve – much less post an actual comment to that effect for everyone to see. Do you realize that by ignoring the offensive comments of your Facebook “friends,” you are in essence condoning them?
This passage is for adults, too. Many of us have found it easier to turn and look the other way in the workplace than to confront things that are happening that shouldn’t be. We’ve perfected the art of the “white lie” to friends, co-workers and spouses about everything from who we are talking with on the telephone to what we purchased at the store to what was said about them behind their back at the last supper club. And gossip has become an art form for many. See, we all have our “Amorite gods” at times!
Just because you’ve always done something – or done things a certain way – doesn’t mean you have to continue. This can be the day when we decide that we are going to live for God, even though we reside “in the land of the Amorites.” We cannot always change our environment – where we live, the people with whom we work, and even our friends and acquaintances – but we can change ourselves… our attitudes, our behaviors, and our reactions. We can live for God wherever we are planted. Who is your God today?
©2010 Debbie Robus
I am your God, and I told you not to worship Amorite gods, even though you are living in the land of the Amorites. But you refused to listen.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
We’ve all heard the phrase… “If you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em.” And sadly, we do just that much of the time. We are pretty weak creatures, it seems, and when the going gets tough, quite often we just fold up and quit. It’s easier to give in and have a drink and appear to go with the flow at a party than to leave or tell your underage friends that drinking is not cool. When someone posts something offensive on Facebook, it’s easier to ignore it than to send them a private message saying you don’t approve – much less post an actual comment to that effect for everyone to see. Do you realize that by ignoring the offensive comments of your Facebook “friends,” you are in essence condoning them?
This passage is for adults, too. Many of us have found it easier to turn and look the other way in the workplace than to confront things that are happening that shouldn’t be. We’ve perfected the art of the “white lie” to friends, co-workers and spouses about everything from who we are talking with on the telephone to what we purchased at the store to what was said about them behind their back at the last supper club. And gossip has become an art form for many. See, we all have our “Amorite gods” at times!
Just because you’ve always done something – or done things a certain way – doesn’t mean you have to continue. This can be the day when we decide that we are going to live for God, even though we reside “in the land of the Amorites.” We cannot always change our environment – where we live, the people with whom we work, and even our friends and acquaintances – but we can change ourselves… our attitudes, our behaviors, and our reactions. We can live for God wherever we are planted. Who is your God today?
©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 18, 2010
May 18 ~ Ephesians 3:12
Christ now gives us courage and confidence, so that we can come to God by faith.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When my brother was in the first grade, we lived in Oklahoma for a while, and we would travel to a little town called Wagoner, where we took swimming lessons at a junior college. The indoor pool had two diving boards – a low board and one that was very high. My little brother wanted so badly to dive from that high board. His friends were all jumping from that height, and his instructor encouraged him to try it, too.
So Tim climbed the ladder and walked out to the edge of the board… and froze. The instructor below was encouraging him… “C’mon… just jump. I’m right here.” Over and over, Tim would shake his head “No!” The kids in line behind him grew restless, but he was still trying to muster his courage to jump. The instructor continued to tread water and encourage, but this was going nowhere. Finally, my little brother left the board and climbed back down the ladder, dejected and a little defeated… but still uncertain that it would have been okay if he had jumped.
How often are we like this with God? We walk to the edge of the high board, and then we end up climbing back down the ladder. We lack the faith that God won’t ask us to do anything He can’t help us handle. We don’t trust that He will really be there to catch us and keep us from drowning. In my brother’s defense, I didn’t jump off the high board, either, and I was in the fifth grade! It was a daunting height for a six-year-old. But when it comes to leaps of faith with God, I’ve taken my share… and He has never failed me. I can promise that what He does for me, He will also do for you. Be confident and full of courage in Christ Jesus, and boldly step out in faith to do whatever God requires.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Christ now gives us courage and confidence, so that we can come to God by faith.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When my brother was in the first grade, we lived in Oklahoma for a while, and we would travel to a little town called Wagoner, where we took swimming lessons at a junior college. The indoor pool had two diving boards – a low board and one that was very high. My little brother wanted so badly to dive from that high board. His friends were all jumping from that height, and his instructor encouraged him to try it, too.
So Tim climbed the ladder and walked out to the edge of the board… and froze. The instructor below was encouraging him… “C’mon… just jump. I’m right here.” Over and over, Tim would shake his head “No!” The kids in line behind him grew restless, but he was still trying to muster his courage to jump. The instructor continued to tread water and encourage, but this was going nowhere. Finally, my little brother left the board and climbed back down the ladder, dejected and a little defeated… but still uncertain that it would have been okay if he had jumped.
How often are we like this with God? We walk to the edge of the high board, and then we end up climbing back down the ladder. We lack the faith that God won’t ask us to do anything He can’t help us handle. We don’t trust that He will really be there to catch us and keep us from drowning. In my brother’s defense, I didn’t jump off the high board, either, and I was in the fifth grade! It was a daunting height for a six-year-old. But when it comes to leaps of faith with God, I’ve taken my share… and He has never failed me. I can promise that what He does for me, He will also do for you. Be confident and full of courage in Christ Jesus, and boldly step out in faith to do whatever God requires.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for May 16, 2010
May 16 ~ Isaiah 41:13
I am the LORD your God. I am holding your hand, so don't be afraid. I am here to help you.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
My sister and I are only eleven months apart in age. When we were toddlers, my grandmother had cribs in her bedroom for each of us, and she positioned my sister’s next to her bed. The only way Grandmother could get my sister to sleep at night was to hold her hand until she fell asleep. For some reason, there is something very comforting about someone holding our hand, particularly when we are in a stressful or uncomfortable situation. I have found myself standing over Timothy’s crib and holding his hand to encourage him to fall asleep… and it often is all that is needed.
Now we see a scriptural reference to hand holding. If it makes you feel better to have your grandma, your great-aunt, a significant other, or just a good friend hold your hand, imagine how great it will feel to hold GOD’s hand! He is already on the job, doing just that… all we have to do is recognize Him. So the next time you need a hand to hold, remember GOD is there to help you, and He is holding your hand all the way. Don’t you feel better already?!
©2010 Debbie Robus
I am the LORD your God. I am holding your hand, so don't be afraid. I am here to help you.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
My sister and I are only eleven months apart in age. When we were toddlers, my grandmother had cribs in her bedroom for each of us, and she positioned my sister’s next to her bed. The only way Grandmother could get my sister to sleep at night was to hold her hand until she fell asleep. For some reason, there is something very comforting about someone holding our hand, particularly when we are in a stressful or uncomfortable situation. I have found myself standing over Timothy’s crib and holding his hand to encourage him to fall asleep… and it often is all that is needed.
Now we see a scriptural reference to hand holding. If it makes you feel better to have your grandma, your great-aunt, a significant other, or just a good friend hold your hand, imagine how great it will feel to hold GOD’s hand! He is already on the job, doing just that… all we have to do is recognize Him. So the next time you need a hand to hold, remember GOD is there to help you, and He is holding your hand all the way. Don’t you feel better already?!
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for May 15, 2010
May 15 ~ Isaiah 41:10
Don't be afraid. I am with you. Don't tremble with fear. I am your God. I will make you strong, as I protect you with my arm and give you victories.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
My mom has a 53-lb. boxer mix named Spot who is terrified of thunder and storms. My sister has a yellow lab, Wrinkles, who is the size of a small pony. But let a thunderstorm approach, and he tries to crawl in her lap. Both dogs tremble and drool. My sister says she thinks Wrinkles would get under her skin if he could! We don’t know what makes these big dogs so terrified of thunder, but we have learned that this is a common problem with dogs of all sizes and breeds. Sometimes, my sister medicates her dog to calm him when storms come. Sometimes, she just wraps her arms around him and hangs on until it’s over.
Whether we realize it or not, when the “storms of life” threaten, we all are prone to tremble. We may not show fear outwardly, but we are nervous, apprehensive, and worried about what will happen. And some of us shake, tremble, wring our hands, and “freak out” over what is happening. When the chips are down, we often fail to recognize God’s presence. We fail to feel His arms wrapping around us and giving us protection and comfort. We do not hear His voice saying, “Don’t be afraid. I am with you.” And so we “shake, rattle and roll.”
It’s time we started giving our fears to God and allowing Him to handle them for us. It’s time we started acknowledging not only His power to do this, but His desire to protect us. We’ve trembled long enough. We’ve let Satan defeat us too long. It’s time to call on God to make us strong and give us victory. Are you in?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Don't be afraid. I am with you. Don't tremble with fear. I am your God. I will make you strong, as I protect you with my arm and give you victories.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
My mom has a 53-lb. boxer mix named Spot who is terrified of thunder and storms. My sister has a yellow lab, Wrinkles, who is the size of a small pony. But let a thunderstorm approach, and he tries to crawl in her lap. Both dogs tremble and drool. My sister says she thinks Wrinkles would get under her skin if he could! We don’t know what makes these big dogs so terrified of thunder, but we have learned that this is a common problem with dogs of all sizes and breeds. Sometimes, my sister medicates her dog to calm him when storms come. Sometimes, she just wraps her arms around him and hangs on until it’s over.
Whether we realize it or not, when the “storms of life” threaten, we all are prone to tremble. We may not show fear outwardly, but we are nervous, apprehensive, and worried about what will happen. And some of us shake, tremble, wring our hands, and “freak out” over what is happening. When the chips are down, we often fail to recognize God’s presence. We fail to feel His arms wrapping around us and giving us protection and comfort. We do not hear His voice saying, “Don’t be afraid. I am with you.” And so we “shake, rattle and roll.”
It’s time we started giving our fears to God and allowing Him to handle them for us. It’s time we started acknowledging not only His power to do this, but His desire to protect us. We’ve trembled long enough. We’ve let Satan defeat us too long. It’s time to call on God to make us strong and give us victory. Are you in?
©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 April 30, 2010
April 30 ~ Proverbs 30:7-9
There are two things, Lord, I want you to do for me before I die: Make me absolutely honest and don't let me be too poor or too rich. Give me just what I need. If I have too much to eat, I might forget about you; if I don't have enough, I might steal and disgrace your name.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Life is like a carpenter’s level. Some days the bubble is “plumb,” and we are standing upright Other days it veers a little one way or the other. When do you think about God the most? When life is rocking along really well, we tend to get caught up in the moment and forget about Him, don’t we? We seem to operate more in the “Lord, help me!” mode than the “Thank you for my blessings,” moments. On the other hand, when life starts to unravel a bit at the seams, and we decide that God has forgotten about us, we try to handle things on our own – and often end up in a royal mess.
We need to learn to operate in the middle… somewhere between too much and not enough. This passage is not about either having a lot of money and physical wealth or being dirt poor. These verses speak more to our level of contentment – and where God fits into our lives. This is a reminder to avoid distractions – both “good” and “bad” – and stay centered in Christ. Remember to always be grateful and thankful – filled with praise. Remember that we are always in need of God – His wisdom, guidance, love, grace and mercy. Remember that God is always with us – even when the “chips are down.”
Examine your situation today. See where your “level” is “off plumb” and needs an adjustment. Strive to stay centered – both in your daily living AND in your relationship with God. Let this be your prayer – that you would neither be too rich or too poor by His standards – but perfectly centered in Christ Jesus. If you make this your goal, everything else in life will fall into place. Circumstances in your life may occasionally veer “off plumb,” but with God’s help, you will be able to handle them.
©2010 Debbie Robus
There are two things, Lord, I want you to do for me before I die: Make me absolutely honest and don't let me be too poor or too rich. Give me just what I need. If I have too much to eat, I might forget about you; if I don't have enough, I might steal and disgrace your name.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Life is like a carpenter’s level. Some days the bubble is “plumb,” and we are standing upright Other days it veers a little one way or the other. When do you think about God the most? When life is rocking along really well, we tend to get caught up in the moment and forget about Him, don’t we? We seem to operate more in the “Lord, help me!” mode than the “Thank you for my blessings,” moments. On the other hand, when life starts to unravel a bit at the seams, and we decide that God has forgotten about us, we try to handle things on our own – and often end up in a royal mess.
We need to learn to operate in the middle… somewhere between too much and not enough. This passage is not about either having a lot of money and physical wealth or being dirt poor. These verses speak more to our level of contentment – and where God fits into our lives. This is a reminder to avoid distractions – both “good” and “bad” – and stay centered in Christ. Remember to always be grateful and thankful – filled with praise. Remember that we are always in need of God – His wisdom, guidance, love, grace and mercy. Remember that God is always with us – even when the “chips are down.”
Examine your situation today. See where your “level” is “off plumb” and needs an adjustment. Strive to stay centered – both in your daily living AND in your relationship with God. Let this be your prayer – that you would neither be too rich or too poor by His standards – but perfectly centered in Christ Jesus. If you make this your goal, everything else in life will fall into place. Circumstances in your life may occasionally veer “off plumb,” but with God’s help, you will be able to handle them.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for April 26, 2010
April 26 ~ Proverbs 15:30-33
A friendly smile makes you happy, and good news makes you feel strong. Healthy correction is good, and if you accept it, you will be wise. You hurt only yourself by rejecting instruction, but it makes good sense to accept it. Showing respect to the LORD will make you wise, and being humble will bring honor to you.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Some of you have heard my story about the time my sister, my cousin and I went to my Mam-ma’s house before Christmas to get a lesson in making peanut brittle. For the record, my Mam-ma Polly is the undisputed Queen of Peanut Brittle Making. Hers is thick and filled with peanuts, but it’s as light and crisp as any of that thin stuff people sell in the buckets… and much tastier. She can still wield a heavy cooking pot of the molten candy, although at 97+ and getting a little shaky, we’d rather she didn’t!
Anyway, several years ago we went for “the lesson,” and she carefully instructed us to stir the sugar and water mixture over heat until it made what she called a “hair” (a very thin ribbon of candy syrup that resembles a curly hair) when you dipped a spoon in it and held it up to let the liquid flow back into the pot. We watched carefully and tried to do it just right. The candy made thin stream of syrup that did indeed look like a little curly “hair,” and we added the peanuts and let them cook. Then we added baking soda and let the mixture foam. We were supposed to stir vigorously at this point, and we took turns doing the various steps. When it came time to pour the hot candy onto a buttered cookie sheet, I was holding the pan, and I took my spoon and started to “help” the candy out of the pan and onto the sheet. BIG MISTAKE! My grandmother went nothing short of ballistic and started screaming, “NO! DON’T EVER SCRAPE IT OUT OF THE PAN! YOU’LL RUIN IT!”
To this day, I have never made a decent batch of peanut brittle. I guess my idea of a good “hair” and my grandmother’s are not the same, because my candy is always chewy, and she says it’s because I don’t cook it long enough. Mine certainly never pours smoothly from the pan, although I have never used a spoon to help it along again! I have decided that I will not be the one carrying on the family legacy of peanut brittle making to future generations. Thankfully my grandmother was more successful at teaching me to make yeast rolls and sweet potato pie. I’ll carry the torch on those and leave the candy to someone else!
We’ve had dozens of good laughs over that day and my “mistake” of pulling the candy from the pot… and my grandmother’s reaction. And it IS good to laugh and smile. But sometimes, we receive instruction from others that we fail to accept, and the results are not funny at all. We sometimes fail to recognize when someone is lovingly offering advice or help, and we interpret their efforts as a judgment on us that we are not doing a good enough job. Or we resent the fact that someone thought we needed help or advice in the first place. OR… we feel our way is better, and we are insulted by the offer.
Sadly, we often reject the instruction of our Heavenly Father… and this is serious business. How many times have you clearly heard or felt God telling you to do something – or to proceed in a certain way – and you did something else? Tell me… how did that work for you? If ever someone was trying to offer help and advice – or instruction – that we truly need, it was God! And He will continue to guide our path. The question is… will we listen? Unlike carrying on a legacy of making delicious peanut brittle, we don’t have the luxury of saying, “I think I’ll pass on God’s guidance.” Oh… many will try… but the results will be far more disastrous than a ruined pan filled with cooked-on candy. Humbly consider this scripture passage today… see where you need to accept good counsel from God – and from mere humans. Grow in wisdom by learning from others – and have the good sense to take a little advice along the way.
©2010 Debbie Robus
A friendly smile makes you happy, and good news makes you feel strong. Healthy correction is good, and if you accept it, you will be wise. You hurt only yourself by rejecting instruction, but it makes good sense to accept it. Showing respect to the LORD will make you wise, and being humble will bring honor to you.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Some of you have heard my story about the time my sister, my cousin and I went to my Mam-ma’s house before Christmas to get a lesson in making peanut brittle. For the record, my Mam-ma Polly is the undisputed Queen of Peanut Brittle Making. Hers is thick and filled with peanuts, but it’s as light and crisp as any of that thin stuff people sell in the buckets… and much tastier. She can still wield a heavy cooking pot of the molten candy, although at 97+ and getting a little shaky, we’d rather she didn’t!
Anyway, several years ago we went for “the lesson,” and she carefully instructed us to stir the sugar and water mixture over heat until it made what she called a “hair” (a very thin ribbon of candy syrup that resembles a curly hair) when you dipped a spoon in it and held it up to let the liquid flow back into the pot. We watched carefully and tried to do it just right. The candy made thin stream of syrup that did indeed look like a little curly “hair,” and we added the peanuts and let them cook. Then we added baking soda and let the mixture foam. We were supposed to stir vigorously at this point, and we took turns doing the various steps. When it came time to pour the hot candy onto a buttered cookie sheet, I was holding the pan, and I took my spoon and started to “help” the candy out of the pan and onto the sheet. BIG MISTAKE! My grandmother went nothing short of ballistic and started screaming, “NO! DON’T EVER SCRAPE IT OUT OF THE PAN! YOU’LL RUIN IT!”
To this day, I have never made a decent batch of peanut brittle. I guess my idea of a good “hair” and my grandmother’s are not the same, because my candy is always chewy, and she says it’s because I don’t cook it long enough. Mine certainly never pours smoothly from the pan, although I have never used a spoon to help it along again! I have decided that I will not be the one carrying on the family legacy of peanut brittle making to future generations. Thankfully my grandmother was more successful at teaching me to make yeast rolls and sweet potato pie. I’ll carry the torch on those and leave the candy to someone else!
We’ve had dozens of good laughs over that day and my “mistake” of pulling the candy from the pot… and my grandmother’s reaction. And it IS good to laugh and smile. But sometimes, we receive instruction from others that we fail to accept, and the results are not funny at all. We sometimes fail to recognize when someone is lovingly offering advice or help, and we interpret their efforts as a judgment on us that we are not doing a good enough job. Or we resent the fact that someone thought we needed help or advice in the first place. OR… we feel our way is better, and we are insulted by the offer.
Sadly, we often reject the instruction of our Heavenly Father… and this is serious business. How many times have you clearly heard or felt God telling you to do something – or to proceed in a certain way – and you did something else? Tell me… how did that work for you? If ever someone was trying to offer help and advice – or instruction – that we truly need, it was God! And He will continue to guide our path. The question is… will we listen? Unlike carrying on a legacy of making delicious peanut brittle, we don’t have the luxury of saying, “I think I’ll pass on God’s guidance.” Oh… many will try… but the results will be far more disastrous than a ruined pan filled with cooked-on candy. Humbly consider this scripture passage today… see where you need to accept good counsel from God – and from mere humans. Grow in wisdom by learning from others – and have the good sense to take a little advice along the way.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for April 23, 2010
April 23 ~ Philippians 4:11-13
I am not complaining about having too little. I have learned to be satisfied with whatever I have. I know what it is to be poor or to have plenty, and I have lived under all kinds of conditions. I know what it means to be full or to be hungry, to have too much or too little. Christ gives me the strength to face anything.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
December 20, 1980, my grandparents’ house burned to the ground. My grandmother was preparing breakfast, and my grandfather was checking on his cows. They were headed to church later. In what seemed like the blink of an eye, their house was gone, and they were left with a few drawers of clothing they had rescued, their vehicles, a chair, the family mantel clock and Bible, and one photo album. Gone were all of the “things” of my childhood memories… this was the only home I had known for my grandparents in 23 years. I still remember when I arrived and hugged my dad, and he said, “It’s okay… they (meaning my grandparents) are both okay, and that’s all that matters.”
It could have been so much worse. The heat from the fire was so strong that it melted cast-iron skillets and my grandparents’ cast-iron claw-footed bath tub. Literally nothing was left except a few foundation stones. The beautiful quilts my grandmother hand-pieced and quilted were gone, along with some amazing antique furniture and the china my grandmother saved her pennies to buy at the local “Five and Dime.” My grandparents worked very hard for everything they had acquired. But they were not defined by their belongings. People knew that my grandmother made beautiful quilts, but she was – and still is – known more for her large personality and her generous spirit. People associated my grandparents with their service to their church and others… and how they loved their family… not with their possessions.
I go to a lot of estate auctions and sales, and I can tell you with absolute certainty, your belongings are all just “stuff.” When you see “prized possessions” laid out on a flatbed trailer and auctioned for a few dollars, you realize that these things belonged to a real person with real thoughts, feelings and problems. Hopefully, these “things” did not define that person… and hopefully you are not defined by what you own, what you drive, where you live, or even your pedigree!
Hopefully, you would be just fine if – Heaven forbid – you were stripped clean of all of your belongings.
My grandparents rebuilt, thanks to the kindness and generosity of a lot of people who loved and cared for them. Others have done the same. But GOD rebuilt their spirit… and we were all reminded that HE is what matters, not “stuff!” What is important to you? Where do you place your value? How content are you in all circumstances? Are you counting on Christ to give you strength? Shouldn’t you be?
©2010 Debbie Robus
I am not complaining about having too little. I have learned to be satisfied with whatever I have. I know what it is to be poor or to have plenty, and I have lived under all kinds of conditions. I know what it means to be full or to be hungry, to have too much or too little. Christ gives me the strength to face anything.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
December 20, 1980, my grandparents’ house burned to the ground. My grandmother was preparing breakfast, and my grandfather was checking on his cows. They were headed to church later. In what seemed like the blink of an eye, their house was gone, and they were left with a few drawers of clothing they had rescued, their vehicles, a chair, the family mantel clock and Bible, and one photo album. Gone were all of the “things” of my childhood memories… this was the only home I had known for my grandparents in 23 years. I still remember when I arrived and hugged my dad, and he said, “It’s okay… they (meaning my grandparents) are both okay, and that’s all that matters.”
It could have been so much worse. The heat from the fire was so strong that it melted cast-iron skillets and my grandparents’ cast-iron claw-footed bath tub. Literally nothing was left except a few foundation stones. The beautiful quilts my grandmother hand-pieced and quilted were gone, along with some amazing antique furniture and the china my grandmother saved her pennies to buy at the local “Five and Dime.” My grandparents worked very hard for everything they had acquired. But they were not defined by their belongings. People knew that my grandmother made beautiful quilts, but she was – and still is – known more for her large personality and her generous spirit. People associated my grandparents with their service to their church and others… and how they loved their family… not with their possessions.
I go to a lot of estate auctions and sales, and I can tell you with absolute certainty, your belongings are all just “stuff.” When you see “prized possessions” laid out on a flatbed trailer and auctioned for a few dollars, you realize that these things belonged to a real person with real thoughts, feelings and problems. Hopefully, these “things” did not define that person… and hopefully you are not defined by what you own, what you drive, where you live, or even your pedigree!
Hopefully, you would be just fine if – Heaven forbid – you were stripped clean of all of your belongings.
My grandparents rebuilt, thanks to the kindness and generosity of a lot of people who loved and cared for them. Others have done the same. But GOD rebuilt their spirit… and we were all reminded that HE is what matters, not “stuff!” What is important to you? Where do you place your value? How content are you in all circumstances? Are you counting on Christ to give you strength? Shouldn’t you be?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for April 6, 2010
April 6 ~ 1 Corinthians 7:21-24
Are you a slave? Don't let that bother you. But if you can win your freedom, you should. When the Lord chooses slaves, they become his free people. And when he chooses free people, they become slaves of Christ. God paid a great price for you. So don't become slaves of anyone else. Stay what you were when God chose you.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
My friend Becky dropped out of college to marry and begin a family. She and her husband reared two wonderful boys who both graduated from college and are doing well. Becky was a wonderful, loving mother. More importantly, she was an amazingly faith-filled Christian. And when she was stricken with breast cancer that eventually took her life, she led by example. Many people testified at her funeral to her positive outlook… and every time we talked during her illness, she would say, “I’m going to be okay.”
See, Becky didn’t become a slave to cancer. She belonged to Jesus, and because of that, she despised pity and sadness and the emotions that often consume those who are terminally ill. They betrayed her faith and trust, and she would have none of it! Her own pastor said that when he would try to have a serious conversation with her about how she was really doing, she would touch his arm and say, “I’m doing just fine.” She let the light of Christ shine through her… she was a slave of Christ.
Often we become a slave of something other than Jesus. Some Christians even become “slaves” to the church, thinking that this pleases God. If you are more concerned with what you are doing for the church than how you are serving God, you have become a slave. When you get caught up in trappings such as dressing a certain way or making a big deal about how often you attend church services and activities, Bible studies and more and lose focus on Christ… when you are more interested in hanging crosses from your rear view mirror and sporting bumper stickers that espouse your favorite scripture than ministering to others… when you are more concerned about protesting certain practices in the name of Jesus than sharing the love of Jesus and letting His light shine through each day… you are a slave.
What enslaves you? Have you gotten bogged down and trapped by worry, fear, financial stress, poor health, relationship struggles, loneliness, insecurities, self-pity, “trappings of the church,” and more? Don’t you want to become a “slave of Christ,” and in doing so, gain your freedom? Look at the last verses of this passage again… “God paid a great price for you. So don’t become slaves of anyone else. Stay what you were when God chose you.” Be a slave of Christ. Live for Him… and be faithfully – and joyfully free.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Are you a slave? Don't let that bother you. But if you can win your freedom, you should. When the Lord chooses slaves, they become his free people. And when he chooses free people, they become slaves of Christ. God paid a great price for you. So don't become slaves of anyone else. Stay what you were when God chose you.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
My friend Becky dropped out of college to marry and begin a family. She and her husband reared two wonderful boys who both graduated from college and are doing well. Becky was a wonderful, loving mother. More importantly, she was an amazingly faith-filled Christian. And when she was stricken with breast cancer that eventually took her life, she led by example. Many people testified at her funeral to her positive outlook… and every time we talked during her illness, she would say, “I’m going to be okay.”
See, Becky didn’t become a slave to cancer. She belonged to Jesus, and because of that, she despised pity and sadness and the emotions that often consume those who are terminally ill. They betrayed her faith and trust, and she would have none of it! Her own pastor said that when he would try to have a serious conversation with her about how she was really doing, she would touch his arm and say, “I’m doing just fine.” She let the light of Christ shine through her… she was a slave of Christ.
Often we become a slave of something other than Jesus. Some Christians even become “slaves” to the church, thinking that this pleases God. If you are more concerned with what you are doing for the church than how you are serving God, you have become a slave. When you get caught up in trappings such as dressing a certain way or making a big deal about how often you attend church services and activities, Bible studies and more and lose focus on Christ… when you are more interested in hanging crosses from your rear view mirror and sporting bumper stickers that espouse your favorite scripture than ministering to others… when you are more concerned about protesting certain practices in the name of Jesus than sharing the love of Jesus and letting His light shine through each day… you are a slave.
What enslaves you? Have you gotten bogged down and trapped by worry, fear, financial stress, poor health, relationship struggles, loneliness, insecurities, self-pity, “trappings of the church,” and more? Don’t you want to become a “slave of Christ,” and in doing so, gain your freedom? Look at the last verses of this passage again… “God paid a great price for you. So don’t become slaves of anyone else. Stay what you were when God chose you.” Be a slave of Christ. Live for Him… and be faithfully – and joyfully free.
©2010 Debbie Robus
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