Romans 2:12-16
If you sin without knowing what you’re doing, God takes that into account. But if you sin knowing full well what you’re doing, that’s a different story entirely. Merely hearing God’s law is a waste of your time if you don’t do what he commands. Doing, not hearing, is what makes the difference with God.
When outsiders who have never heard of God’s law follow it more or less by instinct, they confirm its truth by their obedience. They show that God’s law is not something alien, imposed on us from without, but woven into the very fabric of our creation. There is something deep within them that echoes God’s yes and no, right and wrong. Their response to God’s yes and no will become public knowledge on the day God makes his final decision about every man and woman. The Message from God that I proclaim through Jesus Christ takes into account all these differences.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
On ABC television show, “The Middle,” husband Mike Fleck (played by Neil Flynn) enters the kitchen and asks his wife, Frankie (played by Patricia Heaton) if she signed them up to drive a float in an upcoming Centennial parade. “Frankie” says no… then realizes that she might have actually agreed to this at a party earlier where she and “Mike” were a little drunk. “Frankie” says to “Mike”… “See, this is what happens when we drink.”
On multiple levels, the characters are excusing their “sins” by blaming their inebriation. They didn’t know what they were doing. And while you may never touch a drop of alcohol or take anything stronger than an aspirin, I’m betting that you have had some sort of handy excuse at one time or another for your “sins”. “I was just a little kid… I didn’t know that helping myself to the neighbors’ watermelon patch was stealing”… or “I am old and absentminded… I totally forgot that I wasn’t supposed to tell anyone about such-and-such!” And while there are children who don’t know better in some situations… and aging adults who suffer dementia and truly don’t remember or realize what they are doing… most of us fall into the category of knowing what we are doing – but blaming something or someone else for our transgressions and shortcomings. And this is disrespectful to God… and to others.
Everyone seems to at least “know of” someone who appears to be successful in his/her personal and professional life… is upstanding in the community and always seems to behave in a respectful and respectable manner... and yet this person will readily tell you that he/she does have a personal relationship with God. He/she may even say, “I really don’t believe in God” or “I’m not all that religious”… or one of my favorites – “I just like to find God in nature.” And maybe you have wondered how this person managed to fare so well. Or perhaps you have seen people who seem to skate through life and make all sorts of mistakes and sort of “fly by the seat of their pants”… and yet they appear to have an easier, less stress-filled life in many regards than you do. You might have even said, “If *I* lived that way – or did this or that – I would be in all sorts of trouble.”
Can I tell you something? These people are not fooling anyone… least of all, God. They are not “getting by” with anything, because He will hold them accountable at some point. And the “nice guy” who doesn’t seem to need God in his/her life probably has the influence of someone who does have a relationship with our Heavenly Father that resonates with them in some way. Do not underestimate God’s power and ability to permeate even the hardest heart… or the most uninformed mind… and plant seeds of His grace, mercy, love and authority there.
We need to be certain that we are respectful toward God… and others… because we have heard the GOOD NEWS of Jesus Christ. We are presented at every turn with opportunities to hear, study, and internalize His commands. And by any and all measures available, we are to share this message with others, so that they may also have a full understanding of God and all that He offers. We may never get drunk at a party and promise to participate in a parade, but we still need to keep a check on our words and actions - in every area of our lives. Our example may be the very echo of God into another’s heart!
How are you showing respect to God for His gift of wisdom, grace and mercy? You’ve heard His voice…how will are responding?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Showing posts with label respect God. Show all posts
Showing posts with label respect God. Show all posts
Daily Devotional for October 22, 2013
Romans 2:9-11
If you go against the grain, you get splinters, regardless of which neighborhood you’re from, what your parents taught you, what schools you attended. But if you embrace the way God does things, there are wonderful payoffs, again without regard to where you are from or how you were brought up. Being a Jew won’t give you an automatic stamp of approval. God pays no attention to what others say (or what you think) about you. He makes up his own mind.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
Like a lot of young children, Timothy has become interested lately in getting married. He wants to marry me, his grandmother, and his mom. He knows he can’t, and he told Greg and me (and his Sunday school teachers) that… “Someday, I’m going to marry a nice lady!” My niece told me that last week, Timothy “got married” at pre-K to one of his classmates. A few days later when Timothy’s mom dropped him off for school, the little girl who had won his heart was entering the building. My niece said to Timothy… “There’s your ‘wife’… don’t you want to give her a hug?” He replied, “No, she’s not my wife… we’re not married anymore.” My niece feigned surprise and asked, “Oh, really? What happened?” Timothy’s answer… “She’s not wearing a hair bow today!” What can I say? Four-year-olds apparently have high standards!
Don’t we do the same thing? We make assumptions about others based on their appearance…the opinions (and gossip) of others…or their lineage. A friend of my grandmother’s used to make a point to tell me that one of her grandchildren was a doctor… and she told me this nearly every time I saw her! That was more important to her than the fact that this person was a parent, a spouse, and an active volunteer in church activities! We assume people are wonderful… or awful… based on what we think we know about them – or their public accolades, accomplishments… or shame.
Conversely, we tend to “trade” on certain attributes ourselves. When was the last time you tried to “pull rank” somehow because of who you thought you were… or what you thought you knew? It could be anything from saying, “Let me talk to So-and-so… he/she will listen to me,” to “I don’t have to worry about getting a speeding ticket… I’m friends with the police officers,” to “I can say what I want… I’m a senior citizen and I’ve earned the right!”
If we are honest, we have to admit that a lot of times we base our respect for others – and we command respect for ourselves – while “going against the grain”. We act entitled… we bank on the “good name” of our parents or other family members or friends to gain us a “foot in the door”… or we try to “get away with murder” by claiming special privilege. Worse yet, we try this with God… “But LORD… look at what all I’ve done for you! Surely you can fix this for me” or “LORD, why are you doing this to me – or letting this happen to me? Everyone says I’m such a good, faithful Christian… why are you punishing ME?”
I have to tell you… it’s time we got over ourselves! We truly are not “all that and a bag of chips”… in anyone’s eyes – at least not in the way we think. The time has come for us to operate with humility and respect… to recognize that our true value and stature is not measured as we think… but rather by how we conduct ourselves in all things – and how genuinely we serve God and others. You might fool a few people some of the time, but you will never bamboozle God… and the very idea that you might even try disappoints Him greatly!
So the message for us today is to truly embrace God and His teachings. Honor and respect Him in everything we say and do… to every person we encounter. Make a concerted effort to keep your thoughts, words and actions above reproach at all times. Serve the LORD with gladness and a pure heart, and make His glory your primary focus. Bask in the payoffs He provides… not because that is your goal, but because it is your joy and reward for faithful obedience. Like Timothy, we must learn that choosing a suitable mate is important… but maintaining high standards for God is tantamount. But if your friend doesn’t wear a hair bow every day, it’s probably okay to let that one go!
©2013 Debbie Robus
If you go against the grain, you get splinters, regardless of which neighborhood you’re from, what your parents taught you, what schools you attended. But if you embrace the way God does things, there are wonderful payoffs, again without regard to where you are from or how you were brought up. Being a Jew won’t give you an automatic stamp of approval. God pays no attention to what others say (or what you think) about you. He makes up his own mind.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
Like a lot of young children, Timothy has become interested lately in getting married. He wants to marry me, his grandmother, and his mom. He knows he can’t, and he told Greg and me (and his Sunday school teachers) that… “Someday, I’m going to marry a nice lady!” My niece told me that last week, Timothy “got married” at pre-K to one of his classmates. A few days later when Timothy’s mom dropped him off for school, the little girl who had won his heart was entering the building. My niece said to Timothy… “There’s your ‘wife’… don’t you want to give her a hug?” He replied, “No, she’s not my wife… we’re not married anymore.” My niece feigned surprise and asked, “Oh, really? What happened?” Timothy’s answer… “She’s not wearing a hair bow today!” What can I say? Four-year-olds apparently have high standards!
Don’t we do the same thing? We make assumptions about others based on their appearance…the opinions (and gossip) of others…or their lineage. A friend of my grandmother’s used to make a point to tell me that one of her grandchildren was a doctor… and she told me this nearly every time I saw her! That was more important to her than the fact that this person was a parent, a spouse, and an active volunteer in church activities! We assume people are wonderful… or awful… based on what we think we know about them – or their public accolades, accomplishments… or shame.
Conversely, we tend to “trade” on certain attributes ourselves. When was the last time you tried to “pull rank” somehow because of who you thought you were… or what you thought you knew? It could be anything from saying, “Let me talk to So-and-so… he/she will listen to me,” to “I don’t have to worry about getting a speeding ticket… I’m friends with the police officers,” to “I can say what I want… I’m a senior citizen and I’ve earned the right!”
If we are honest, we have to admit that a lot of times we base our respect for others – and we command respect for ourselves – while “going against the grain”. We act entitled… we bank on the “good name” of our parents or other family members or friends to gain us a “foot in the door”… or we try to “get away with murder” by claiming special privilege. Worse yet, we try this with God… “But LORD… look at what all I’ve done for you! Surely you can fix this for me” or “LORD, why are you doing this to me – or letting this happen to me? Everyone says I’m such a good, faithful Christian… why are you punishing ME?”
I have to tell you… it’s time we got over ourselves! We truly are not “all that and a bag of chips”… in anyone’s eyes – at least not in the way we think. The time has come for us to operate with humility and respect… to recognize that our true value and stature is not measured as we think… but rather by how we conduct ourselves in all things – and how genuinely we serve God and others. You might fool a few people some of the time, but you will never bamboozle God… and the very idea that you might even try disappoints Him greatly!
So the message for us today is to truly embrace God and His teachings. Honor and respect Him in everything we say and do… to every person we encounter. Make a concerted effort to keep your thoughts, words and actions above reproach at all times. Serve the LORD with gladness and a pure heart, and make His glory your primary focus. Bask in the payoffs He provides… not because that is your goal, but because it is your joy and reward for faithful obedience. Like Timothy, we must learn that choosing a suitable mate is important… but maintaining high standards for God is tantamount. But if your friend doesn’t wear a hair bow every day, it’s probably okay to let that one go!
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for October 21, 2013
Romans 2:5-8
You’re not getting by with anything. Every refusal and avoidance of God adds fuel to the fire. The day is coming when it’s going to blaze hot and high, God’s fiery and righteous judgment. Make no mistake: In the end you get what’s coming to you—Real Life for those who work on God’s side, but to those who insist on getting their own way and take the path of least resistance, Fire!
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
The first house my husband and I bought was a “fixer-upper”. We painted walls, put in new flooring, and gave the lone bathroom a total re-do - with the help of family and friends. My dad had started a cultured marble manufacturing business, and he made an oversized shower stall that had a tall threshold…allowing us to create a small bath tub effect, if desired. As Daddy helped Greg install the marble walls and panels, he cracked one. It was on the inside of the threshold, so he quickly glued it together and said to Greg, “I hope she (meaning me!) doesn’t see that!”
I’ll admit… Daddy was between a rock and a hard place. He was 90 miles from home, trying to fix our only bathroom in one weekend, and he had just broken one of the components. Nobody ever saw that crack except us if we sat down to take a “bath”… and it was reparable. So we moved on with the project and laughed about it later. But how many times in life do we “break” things and hope that nobody will notice… even God?
How often do we put a patch over our mistakes and shortcomings… and forge ahead, thinking – or hoping – that we won’t be discovered? How many of us are mired in baggage from this type of behavior… yet pretending to others that nothing is the least bit amiss? How many of us are trying to hide from God?
Do you see that avoiding God and trying to cover up your blunders and lapses in judgment is disrespectful? Do you understand that you really aren’t fooling anyone… especially God? Sadly, some of us have gotten so good at running from God… masking the truth and covering up our messes… that this pattern has become a way of life. And the damage has accumulated in the process. At this point, some can no longer distinguish reality from the fantasy life they have created. But God knows the truth!
We won’t get away with this… and this shouldn’t even be part of our mindset. We may fool some of our friends and acquaintances – some of the time – but we aren’t fooling God for one minute! And all of this is incredibly disrespectful… especially to God. The scriptures tell us in Galatians 6:7-8… “Don’t be misled: No one makes a fool of God. What a person plants, he will harvest. The person who plants selfishness, ignoring the needs of others—ignoring God!—harvests a crop of weeds. All he’ll have to show for his life is weeds! But the one who plants in response to God, letting God’s Spirit do the growth work in him, harvests a crop of real life, eternal life.”
Is God’s Spirit growing in you? When you make a mistake or fall short in some area, do you readily acknowledge this and ask for forgiveness? Are you respectful in your living… toward others - and especially toward God… or are you piling up “fuel for the fire”?
I do not like to operate in threats and fearful suggestions… but I don’t believe that this message delivers either. Instead, I see an opportunity for us to respect God and His presence and influence in our lives… to “come clean” with Him and in our daily living… and to make every effort to be whoever He has called us to be. Rather than try to get by with something, why not make a careful and concerted effort to do things right on the front end?
Are you showing the proper reverence and respect to God… and to others? Isn’t it time you did?
©2013 Debbie Robus
You’re not getting by with anything. Every refusal and avoidance of God adds fuel to the fire. The day is coming when it’s going to blaze hot and high, God’s fiery and righteous judgment. Make no mistake: In the end you get what’s coming to you—Real Life for those who work on God’s side, but to those who insist on getting their own way and take the path of least resistance, Fire!
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
The first house my husband and I bought was a “fixer-upper”. We painted walls, put in new flooring, and gave the lone bathroom a total re-do - with the help of family and friends. My dad had started a cultured marble manufacturing business, and he made an oversized shower stall that had a tall threshold…allowing us to create a small bath tub effect, if desired. As Daddy helped Greg install the marble walls and panels, he cracked one. It was on the inside of the threshold, so he quickly glued it together and said to Greg, “I hope she (meaning me!) doesn’t see that!”
I’ll admit… Daddy was between a rock and a hard place. He was 90 miles from home, trying to fix our only bathroom in one weekend, and he had just broken one of the components. Nobody ever saw that crack except us if we sat down to take a “bath”… and it was reparable. So we moved on with the project and laughed about it later. But how many times in life do we “break” things and hope that nobody will notice… even God?
How often do we put a patch over our mistakes and shortcomings… and forge ahead, thinking – or hoping – that we won’t be discovered? How many of us are mired in baggage from this type of behavior… yet pretending to others that nothing is the least bit amiss? How many of us are trying to hide from God?
Do you see that avoiding God and trying to cover up your blunders and lapses in judgment is disrespectful? Do you understand that you really aren’t fooling anyone… especially God? Sadly, some of us have gotten so good at running from God… masking the truth and covering up our messes… that this pattern has become a way of life. And the damage has accumulated in the process. At this point, some can no longer distinguish reality from the fantasy life they have created. But God knows the truth!
We won’t get away with this… and this shouldn’t even be part of our mindset. We may fool some of our friends and acquaintances – some of the time – but we aren’t fooling God for one minute! And all of this is incredibly disrespectful… especially to God. The scriptures tell us in Galatians 6:7-8… “Don’t be misled: No one makes a fool of God. What a person plants, he will harvest. The person who plants selfishness, ignoring the needs of others—ignoring God!—harvests a crop of weeds. All he’ll have to show for his life is weeds! But the one who plants in response to God, letting God’s Spirit do the growth work in him, harvests a crop of real life, eternal life.”
Is God’s Spirit growing in you? When you make a mistake or fall short in some area, do you readily acknowledge this and ask for forgiveness? Are you respectful in your living… toward others - and especially toward God… or are you piling up “fuel for the fire”?
I do not like to operate in threats and fearful suggestions… but I don’t believe that this message delivers either. Instead, I see an opportunity for us to respect God and His presence and influence in our lives… to “come clean” with Him and in our daily living… and to make every effort to be whoever He has called us to be. Rather than try to get by with something, why not make a careful and concerted effort to do things right on the front end?
Are you showing the proper reverence and respect to God… and to others? Isn’t it time you did?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for October 20, 2013
Titus 2:7
And you yourself must be an example to them by doing good works of every kind. Let everything you do reflect the integrity and seriousness of your teaching.
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
A fellow church member phoned me this week and asked if I would help with a sewing project for one of our local ministries. I questioned her about the details to make sure this was something I could handle. It involved recovering some chair cushions. My friend asked, “Couldn’t we just wrap the new fabric around the cushions and staple them?” I told her we could do this… but 1) it would not look nice, and 2) it would not hold up to the wear and tear these cushions will receive. When she brought me the cushions and fabric, she stressed that… “This does not have to look good.” Her words said one thing, but I also knew that she and the others working on redecorating a room for this ministry were anxious for everything to have a pretty appearance.
I won’t say that I am particularly proud of the finished result… but I know I did my very best to make the cushions look nice. I am a “details person,” and yes, I can be picky. But I also know that anything worth doing is worth doing right… as “old-fashioned” and trite as that may sound. So I try to always be respectful of whatever task I have been given… even those that seem mundane or insignificant. By the same token, I always try to be respectful of others, regardless of who they are or how they have treated me in return.
Consider this…suppose that God did not show respect for you. Certainly He would be justified. We are not worthy of God’s respect. When it comes to caring for us when we are in need, He might just as well “throw a piece of fabric over us and staple us together”! We truly don’t deserve more meticulous attention! And as for how He treats us in general… by all rights, He should do everything possible to embarrass, demean and disgrace us. We are in no way/shape/form worthy of God’s respect. And yet, He offers us this with love, grace, mercy and forgiveness. He treats us like precious jewels… even when we act like a dirty pile of trash.
Today, I want you to think about how God treats you… and how you treat Him in return. More than this, I want you to think about how you treat others… and how you handle your words and actions – and your daily activities. Are you respectful toward others? Do you treat even the most mundane activities with care and give them the attention that you should? Do your words demonstrate respect – for God and for all He has created? Do you realize that others are watching – and noticing – how you treat your relationships with God and those around you? Do you fully get it that others notice whether you give a task 100% of your effort… or treat it with disregard and contempt? Does it compute with you that everything you say and do is a reflection of your true bond with God… and it could make the difference not only in how you are treated, but whether or not the other guy wants a relationship with God for himself?
So many things in life are “only a chair cushion”… but how we handle them is immeasurably significant. Are you respectful of God and the life with which He has blessed you? What sort of example are you setting for His Kingdom? Is there seriousness in your model of Christian discipleship? Are you “teaching” others anything that they would truly want to experience for themselves? Isn’t this a good day to start making any necessary adjustments?
©2013 Debbie Robus
And you yourself must be an example to them by doing good works of every kind. Let everything you do reflect the integrity and seriousness of your teaching.
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
A fellow church member phoned me this week and asked if I would help with a sewing project for one of our local ministries. I questioned her about the details to make sure this was something I could handle. It involved recovering some chair cushions. My friend asked, “Couldn’t we just wrap the new fabric around the cushions and staple them?” I told her we could do this… but 1) it would not look nice, and 2) it would not hold up to the wear and tear these cushions will receive. When she brought me the cushions and fabric, she stressed that… “This does not have to look good.” Her words said one thing, but I also knew that she and the others working on redecorating a room for this ministry were anxious for everything to have a pretty appearance.
I won’t say that I am particularly proud of the finished result… but I know I did my very best to make the cushions look nice. I am a “details person,” and yes, I can be picky. But I also know that anything worth doing is worth doing right… as “old-fashioned” and trite as that may sound. So I try to always be respectful of whatever task I have been given… even those that seem mundane or insignificant. By the same token, I always try to be respectful of others, regardless of who they are or how they have treated me in return.
Consider this…suppose that God did not show respect for you. Certainly He would be justified. We are not worthy of God’s respect. When it comes to caring for us when we are in need, He might just as well “throw a piece of fabric over us and staple us together”! We truly don’t deserve more meticulous attention! And as for how He treats us in general… by all rights, He should do everything possible to embarrass, demean and disgrace us. We are in no way/shape/form worthy of God’s respect. And yet, He offers us this with love, grace, mercy and forgiveness. He treats us like precious jewels… even when we act like a dirty pile of trash.
Today, I want you to think about how God treats you… and how you treat Him in return. More than this, I want you to think about how you treat others… and how you handle your words and actions – and your daily activities. Are you respectful toward others? Do you treat even the most mundane activities with care and give them the attention that you should? Do your words demonstrate respect – for God and for all He has created? Do you realize that others are watching – and noticing – how you treat your relationships with God and those around you? Do you fully get it that others notice whether you give a task 100% of your effort… or treat it with disregard and contempt? Does it compute with you that everything you say and do is a reflection of your true bond with God… and it could make the difference not only in how you are treated, but whether or not the other guy wants a relationship with God for himself?
So many things in life are “only a chair cushion”… but how we handle them is immeasurably significant. Are you respectful of God and the life with which He has blessed you? What sort of example are you setting for His Kingdom? Is there seriousness in your model of Christian discipleship? Are you “teaching” others anything that they would truly want to experience for themselves? Isn’t this a good day to start making any necessary adjustments?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for September 13, 2013
September 13 ~ Ecclesiastes 12:13-14
Everything you were taught can be put into a few words:
Respect and obey God! This is what life is all about. God will judge everything we do, even what is done in secret, whether good or bad.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
My late cousin Carla Lou came from Ohio for a visit one year near the end of November. As I decorated our house for Christmas, she sat on the couch and read recipes aloud to me from some of my cookbooks. We would discuss whether the dish sounded tasty or not and exactly how we would prepare it. She came to a recipe for peanut butter cookies… and it only had 3 ingredients – 1 egg, 1 cup of peanut butter, and 1 cup of sugar. “That can’t be right!” we agreed… but we both said we were going to try it and see what happened!
That peanut butter cookie recipe has become one of my staples…a family favorite that is quick and easy – and oh, so delicious! No one can believe that there isn’t more to the recipe. How can something so simple be so perfect? Doesn’t it need flour, salt, baking powder… SOMETHING else? The answer is a solid, “NO!”
Do you realize that this is how we often are in our relationship with God? We want to add unnecessary things to the mix… rituals, rules that He never established, ideas and expectations that don’t belong. In short, we want to take something that is sheer perfection and ruin it with added ingredients. What we need to do is to study this scripture passage and take it to heart… “Respect and obey God! This is what life is all about.”
In everything we do, we need ask only one question… “Does this respect and obey God?” Getting ready to judge someone else or say something hateful or unkind? Does this respect and obey God? Want to cheat… anyone or on anything? Will God be respected and obeyed? Feel like doing as you please, regardless of who gets hurt or what responsibilities are shirked? Do your actions represent respect and obedience to God’s will? Choose to take a little time off from serving God to serve yourself? How do you think God will judge this?
In every word and action of our lives… every choice… every breath… if we would only ask this question, the end result might be far more beautiful…more perfect… more pleasing, and even more peaceful. If only we would consider how God will judge what we are about to say or do, we might choose otherwise. Instead, we often choose to add our own interpretation to the mix… to “play with the recipe” – often with horrible results.
Today, let’s stop and ask this simple question… “Will this choice reflect respect and obedience to God?” Let’s let this question guide how we decide… what we choose. We know His “recipe” is perfect… so why do we insist on tinkering with it? If you are swayed to decide in favor of God’s judgment, I’m betting the outcome will be far better. It’s worth a shot… isn’t it?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Everything you were taught can be put into a few words:
Respect and obey God! This is what life is all about. God will judge everything we do, even what is done in secret, whether good or bad.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
My late cousin Carla Lou came from Ohio for a visit one year near the end of November. As I decorated our house for Christmas, she sat on the couch and read recipes aloud to me from some of my cookbooks. We would discuss whether the dish sounded tasty or not and exactly how we would prepare it. She came to a recipe for peanut butter cookies… and it only had 3 ingredients – 1 egg, 1 cup of peanut butter, and 1 cup of sugar. “That can’t be right!” we agreed… but we both said we were going to try it and see what happened!
That peanut butter cookie recipe has become one of my staples…a family favorite that is quick and easy – and oh, so delicious! No one can believe that there isn’t more to the recipe. How can something so simple be so perfect? Doesn’t it need flour, salt, baking powder… SOMETHING else? The answer is a solid, “NO!”
Do you realize that this is how we often are in our relationship with God? We want to add unnecessary things to the mix… rituals, rules that He never established, ideas and expectations that don’t belong. In short, we want to take something that is sheer perfection and ruin it with added ingredients. What we need to do is to study this scripture passage and take it to heart… “Respect and obey God! This is what life is all about.”
In everything we do, we need ask only one question… “Does this respect and obey God?” Getting ready to judge someone else or say something hateful or unkind? Does this respect and obey God? Want to cheat… anyone or on anything? Will God be respected and obeyed? Feel like doing as you please, regardless of who gets hurt or what responsibilities are shirked? Do your actions represent respect and obedience to God’s will? Choose to take a little time off from serving God to serve yourself? How do you think God will judge this?
In every word and action of our lives… every choice… every breath… if we would only ask this question, the end result might be far more beautiful…more perfect… more pleasing, and even more peaceful. If only we would consider how God will judge what we are about to say or do, we might choose otherwise. Instead, we often choose to add our own interpretation to the mix… to “play with the recipe” – often with horrible results.
Today, let’s stop and ask this simple question… “Will this choice reflect respect and obedience to God?” Let’s let this question guide how we decide… what we choose. We know His “recipe” is perfect… so why do we insist on tinkering with it? If you are swayed to decide in favor of God’s judgment, I’m betting the outcome will be far better. It’s worth a shot… isn’t it?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for October 30, 2012
Due to family illness, there were no Daily Devotionals for October 28/29. We should be back on track now. Thank you for your patience!
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Matthew 7:12
Treat others as you want them to treat you. This is what the Law and the Prophets are all about.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
There is an old adage that says… “People don’t care what you know until they know that you care.” And that is exactly what this scripture passage (sometimes called “The Golden Rule”) is saying. If you want people to be kind to you, make the first move and be kind to them. If you expect people to respond promptly, show up on time, answer phone calls and e-mail messages, and be responsible, give them an example to follow!
I can’t promise that others will respond in kind… but this is not the point. When you make a habit of treating others as you wish to be treated, you will know that you have honored God’s law and modeled Christian behavior for others. When you show others you care, don’t anticipate the same attention in return. Be content to know that you did YOUR part.
We have heard this scripture quoted all of our lives. And treating others as we wish to be treated should be the cardinal guideline for Christians. But I think sometimes we feel like this is something of a “magic bullet”… that if we are nice and respectful to others… if we care enough and do enough… others will follow suit. Sadly, this is just not the case. But it shouldn’t matter. Do not follow “The Golden Rule” for what you can receive from others. Live by this scripture because this aligns you with Christ. This is what Jesus does for us every day. None of us gives Him as much as we get in return… but He keeps on loving us and showering us with grace, mercy, compassion and forgiveness.
Treat others as you wish to be treated… not so they will reciprocate, but because it is the right thing to do, according to God’s law. I’m willing to bet you will see at least a few positive results. But either way, you will know that you have honored your commitment to Jesus Christ. When pleasing Him is all that matters, you will have turned a major corner in your life as a Christian. Are you ready to take that step?
©2012 Debbie Robus
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Matthew 7:12
Treat others as you want them to treat you. This is what the Law and the Prophets are all about.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
There is an old adage that says… “People don’t care what you know until they know that you care.” And that is exactly what this scripture passage (sometimes called “The Golden Rule”) is saying. If you want people to be kind to you, make the first move and be kind to them. If you expect people to respond promptly, show up on time, answer phone calls and e-mail messages, and be responsible, give them an example to follow!
I can’t promise that others will respond in kind… but this is not the point. When you make a habit of treating others as you wish to be treated, you will know that you have honored God’s law and modeled Christian behavior for others. When you show others you care, don’t anticipate the same attention in return. Be content to know that you did YOUR part.
We have heard this scripture quoted all of our lives. And treating others as we wish to be treated should be the cardinal guideline for Christians. But I think sometimes we feel like this is something of a “magic bullet”… that if we are nice and respectful to others… if we care enough and do enough… others will follow suit. Sadly, this is just not the case. But it shouldn’t matter. Do not follow “The Golden Rule” for what you can receive from others. Live by this scripture because this aligns you with Christ. This is what Jesus does for us every day. None of us gives Him as much as we get in return… but He keeps on loving us and showering us with grace, mercy, compassion and forgiveness.
Treat others as you wish to be treated… not so they will reciprocate, but because it is the right thing to do, according to God’s law. I’m willing to bet you will see at least a few positive results. But either way, you will know that you have honored your commitment to Jesus Christ. When pleasing Him is all that matters, you will have turned a major corner in your life as a Christian. Are you ready to take that step?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for September 13, 2012
James 4:11-12
My friends, don’t say cruel things about others! If you do, or if you condemn others, you are condemning God’s Law. And if you condemn the Law, you put yourself above the Law and refuse to obey either it or God who gave it. God is our judge, and he can save or destroy us. What right do you have to condemn anyone?
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
If ever there was a season where we need these two verses… this is it! Criticisms and condemnations are flying from people in every political camp. And I get it… the temptation is surely there to rail against my candidates’ opponents in many cases… to call some of them names like “liar, idiot, or loser.” But this would be wrong on many levels… beginning with others’ entitlement to their own opinion and the right to free speech. Additionally, none of us likes it when the other guy is critical or judgmental of us or our candidates. So I have tried very hard to keep my opinions to myself… and hopefully no one has been offended by anything I have said or done.
What I had not fully considered is that judging and saying cruel or condescending things about others condemns God’s Law… and essentially puts us above the Law – and God! So we must be very careful what we say about others… how we react to their words and actions… and any impression we might give that we are condemning one another.
“But wait!” you may say… “What about terrorists? What about tyrants and dictators? Shouldn’t we condemn them?” If I read what James is telling us correctly, we must be careful that what we condemn is the behavior… the comment - or action – not the person who delivered it. So to say that the activities of a terrorist are wrong is one thing… but to say cruel things about him/her is another. For instance, when Osama bin Laden was captured and killed, few would disagree that he committed heinous atrocities towards thousands of people. But for late night comedians to joke about his death was cruel and unGodly.
When we know that someone has done reprehensible things… or spoken hatefully of another, we must not call that person names or publicly condemn the individual. This makes us no better or different than that person. But to say, “I don’t agree with his/her comments or actions,” or “I am praying that he/she has a change of heart” seems to be more in line with God’s Law. We are leaving the actual judging and consequences in His hands, rather than inserting ourselves into this mix.
As I said, I think these are incredibly important scripture verses for all of us to study and incorporate… not just for the next few weeks, but forever. We need to make this a habit… to trust God to handle these things… and to demonstrate His love, grace, mercy and forgiveness by keeping OUR opinions to ourselves… and carefully monitoring our own words and actions. When you feel the urge to say something cruel or judgmental about another person… stop and ask myself… “Would Jesus do this? How would He (who has every right to criticize and condemn) treat this person if they stood face to face?”
Let’s remember… we are all God’s children. He loves that person you have labeled a “liar, idiot or loser” just as much as He loves you. Our responsibility as Christians is to behave in a way that honors God and shows Him due respect. He can – and will – handle the rest. Are you ready to let Him?
©2012 Debbie Robus
My friends, don’t say cruel things about others! If you do, or if you condemn others, you are condemning God’s Law. And if you condemn the Law, you put yourself above the Law and refuse to obey either it or God who gave it. God is our judge, and he can save or destroy us. What right do you have to condemn anyone?
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
If ever there was a season where we need these two verses… this is it! Criticisms and condemnations are flying from people in every political camp. And I get it… the temptation is surely there to rail against my candidates’ opponents in many cases… to call some of them names like “liar, idiot, or loser.” But this would be wrong on many levels… beginning with others’ entitlement to their own opinion and the right to free speech. Additionally, none of us likes it when the other guy is critical or judgmental of us or our candidates. So I have tried very hard to keep my opinions to myself… and hopefully no one has been offended by anything I have said or done.
What I had not fully considered is that judging and saying cruel or condescending things about others condemns God’s Law… and essentially puts us above the Law – and God! So we must be very careful what we say about others… how we react to their words and actions… and any impression we might give that we are condemning one another.
“But wait!” you may say… “What about terrorists? What about tyrants and dictators? Shouldn’t we condemn them?” If I read what James is telling us correctly, we must be careful that what we condemn is the behavior… the comment - or action – not the person who delivered it. So to say that the activities of a terrorist are wrong is one thing… but to say cruel things about him/her is another. For instance, when Osama bin Laden was captured and killed, few would disagree that he committed heinous atrocities towards thousands of people. But for late night comedians to joke about his death was cruel and unGodly.
When we know that someone has done reprehensible things… or spoken hatefully of another, we must not call that person names or publicly condemn the individual. This makes us no better or different than that person. But to say, “I don’t agree with his/her comments or actions,” or “I am praying that he/she has a change of heart” seems to be more in line with God’s Law. We are leaving the actual judging and consequences in His hands, rather than inserting ourselves into this mix.
As I said, I think these are incredibly important scripture verses for all of us to study and incorporate… not just for the next few weeks, but forever. We need to make this a habit… to trust God to handle these things… and to demonstrate His love, grace, mercy and forgiveness by keeping OUR opinions to ourselves… and carefully monitoring our own words and actions. When you feel the urge to say something cruel or judgmental about another person… stop and ask myself… “Would Jesus do this? How would He (who has every right to criticize and condemn) treat this person if they stood face to face?”
Let’s remember… we are all God’s children. He loves that person you have labeled a “liar, idiot or loser” just as much as He loves you. Our responsibility as Christians is to behave in a way that honors God and shows Him due respect. He can – and will – handle the rest. Are you ready to let Him?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for August 31, 2012
James 2:8-11
You do well when you complete the Royal Rule of the Scriptures: "Love others as you love yourself." But if you play up to these so-called important people, you go against the Rule and stand convicted by it. You can't pick and choose in these things, specializing in keeping one or two things in God's law and ignoring others. The same God who said, "Don't commit adultery," also said, "Don't murder." If you don't commit adultery but go ahead and murder, do you think your non-adultery will cancel out your murder? No, you're a murderer, period.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
An auctioneer will often bundle several items together in a box and offer them for bid as one item. There is a “cardinal rule” among seasoned auction-goers that you don’t mess with the items on the table! If you only care about one particular item in a box and don’t want the others, you had better be prepared to purchase everything. Taking out the item you want and putting it somewhere else is considered a huge “no-no!” Still, there will often be people who try to stealthily move their favored item to another box – or another spot on the table. I’ve seen more than one bidder “win” a box of items only to find that the very thing he/she was after had gone missing!
While this sort of action will not be the end of the world in the context of an auction purchase, such behavior matters tremendously in Spiritual terms. I am truly amazed that many “Christians” want to categorize actions according to their own preferences. They “grade” the deeds of some and deem their behaviors to be significant, while others’ exploits are just “discards in the box.” And then they rate each person according to their “sin meter.” Many of us also select the people with whom we want to associate - much like an auction bidder picks out the best item(s) in the box - and then we toss the others to the curb.
Christianity does not work this way. We cannot pick and choose… who we love and treat with respect and care…or which actions and behaviors are unacceptable (or sinful) and which of them will be tolerated or excused. We are called to love others as we love ourselves. We are expected to love God and obey His law… and to prayerfully study God’s directives, so that we are clear about what He is saying. In other words, we cannot interpret God’s commands in a manner that suits our desires and whims… or makes us popular with others in our social group.
I don’t know about you, but I am pretty weary of those who claim the name of Jesus and then mistreat others. I cannot imagine that a single person who feels this sort of judgment and/or disdain has a desire to become like these so-called “Christians”… or to follow the God they follow. Surely this must break God’s heart…and as Disciples of Christ, it should cut us to the very core.
My prayer for each of us today is that we would truly examine our hearts… that we would spend time in prayer and meditation, really listening for God’s voice. Hear what He is telling you and follow His lead. If you are judging others or picking and choosing which of God’s laws to follow – or interpreting them to suit your own agenda – change today. If you are discriminating against any of God’s children in any fashion… or if you are choosing to associate only with those you consider like-minded or “lovable,” get over yourself this minute! Ask God to genuinely - and completely - change your heart. To offer God anything less dishonors Him. I can’t imagine that any among us wants to do this… can you?
©2012 Debbie Robus
You do well when you complete the Royal Rule of the Scriptures: "Love others as you love yourself." But if you play up to these so-called important people, you go against the Rule and stand convicted by it. You can't pick and choose in these things, specializing in keeping one or two things in God's law and ignoring others. The same God who said, "Don't commit adultery," also said, "Don't murder." If you don't commit adultery but go ahead and murder, do you think your non-adultery will cancel out your murder? No, you're a murderer, period.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
An auctioneer will often bundle several items together in a box and offer them for bid as one item. There is a “cardinal rule” among seasoned auction-goers that you don’t mess with the items on the table! If you only care about one particular item in a box and don’t want the others, you had better be prepared to purchase everything. Taking out the item you want and putting it somewhere else is considered a huge “no-no!” Still, there will often be people who try to stealthily move their favored item to another box – or another spot on the table. I’ve seen more than one bidder “win” a box of items only to find that the very thing he/she was after had gone missing!
While this sort of action will not be the end of the world in the context of an auction purchase, such behavior matters tremendously in Spiritual terms. I am truly amazed that many “Christians” want to categorize actions according to their own preferences. They “grade” the deeds of some and deem their behaviors to be significant, while others’ exploits are just “discards in the box.” And then they rate each person according to their “sin meter.” Many of us also select the people with whom we want to associate - much like an auction bidder picks out the best item(s) in the box - and then we toss the others to the curb.
Christianity does not work this way. We cannot pick and choose… who we love and treat with respect and care…or which actions and behaviors are unacceptable (or sinful) and which of them will be tolerated or excused. We are called to love others as we love ourselves. We are expected to love God and obey His law… and to prayerfully study God’s directives, so that we are clear about what He is saying. In other words, we cannot interpret God’s commands in a manner that suits our desires and whims… or makes us popular with others in our social group.
I don’t know about you, but I am pretty weary of those who claim the name of Jesus and then mistreat others. I cannot imagine that a single person who feels this sort of judgment and/or disdain has a desire to become like these so-called “Christians”… or to follow the God they follow. Surely this must break God’s heart…and as Disciples of Christ, it should cut us to the very core.
My prayer for each of us today is that we would truly examine our hearts… that we would spend time in prayer and meditation, really listening for God’s voice. Hear what He is telling you and follow His lead. If you are judging others or picking and choosing which of God’s laws to follow – or interpreting them to suit your own agenda – change today. If you are discriminating against any of God’s children in any fashion… or if you are choosing to associate only with those you consider like-minded or “lovable,” get over yourself this minute! Ask God to genuinely - and completely - change your heart. To offer God anything less dishonors Him. I can’t imagine that any among us wants to do this… can you?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for August 29, 2012
James 2:1-4
My friends, if you have faith in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ, you won’t treat some people better than others. Suppose a rich person wearing fancy clothes and a gold ring comes to one of your meetings. And suppose a poor person dressed in worn-out clothes also comes. You must not give the best seat to the one in fancy clothes and tell the one who is poor to stand at the side or sit on the floor. That is the same as saying that some people are better than others, and you would be acting like a crooked judge.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Have you heard the urban legend (check http://www.snopes.com/travel/airline/obnoxious.asp) about the person who was on a flight and threw a fit because he/she was seated next to a person who was black/Muslim/insert-your-own-racial-or-ethnic-profile-here? The legend goes that the person complaining asked, “Do I have to sit next to this person?” The flight attendant replied, “You certainly do not,” then turned to the other passenger and said, “If you will kindly gather your things, we have a seat in First Class waiting for you.”
This probably never really happened… but it’s a great story… and a variation of something that most likely does happen a dozen times or more every day in any corner of the world. We humans are snobs… about wealth and money, race, religion, personal lifestyle choices, and more. We stare, we discriminate…we are rude and unkind. We listen to the devil when he tells us, “You are better than that person for XYZ reason(s).”
In truth, God loves ALL of us… equally! We don’t like to think about this, because then we have to admit that God loved madmen like Adolph Hitler, Saddam Hussein, and Osama bin Laden. We have to concede that God doesn’t love Republicans more than Democrats, blacks more than whites, or heterosexuals more than gay people. And we just do not want to go there… but we must!
The next time your inclination is to think better of yourself than the other guy – for any reason – stop and remind yourself of this scripture passage. Truly examine your faith and ask yourself how genuine your relationship with God really is. Because if you have faithfully committed yourself to Him and are “all in” a relationship with your Heavenly Father… if you honestly believe that Jesus died for your sins and those of anyone else who calls on Him to do so… if you really believe that we are all God’s creatures – His children who He loves equally… you cannot for one minute look down your nose at someone else.
Nobody ever said being a Christian was easy. Nobody ever fully prepared us for how strong the devil’s temptations would be… and a sense of arrogance and condescension are two of his favorite tools. He wants us to develop a viewpoint of superiority as Christians… because he knows this completely negates our witness and the very message of Jesus Christ. Don’t let him have that satisfaction!
Remember WHOSE you are... and that God loves all of us unconditionally. Approach others with Godly love in your heart… see them through His eyes… and operate in humility and obedience to His word. Lead by example. Let others see how well you treat all of God’s children. Let them be inspired to do the same because of your witness. You may occasionally miss the mark… but you’ll improve over time. Don’t you owe it to God to give this a try?
©2012 Debbie Robus
My friends, if you have faith in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ, you won’t treat some people better than others. Suppose a rich person wearing fancy clothes and a gold ring comes to one of your meetings. And suppose a poor person dressed in worn-out clothes also comes. You must not give the best seat to the one in fancy clothes and tell the one who is poor to stand at the side or sit on the floor. That is the same as saying that some people are better than others, and you would be acting like a crooked judge.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Have you heard the urban legend (check http://www.snopes.com/travel/airline/obnoxious.asp) about the person who was on a flight and threw a fit because he/she was seated next to a person who was black/Muslim/insert-your-own-racial-or-ethnic-profile-here? The legend goes that the person complaining asked, “Do I have to sit next to this person?” The flight attendant replied, “You certainly do not,” then turned to the other passenger and said, “If you will kindly gather your things, we have a seat in First Class waiting for you.”
This probably never really happened… but it’s a great story… and a variation of something that most likely does happen a dozen times or more every day in any corner of the world. We humans are snobs… about wealth and money, race, religion, personal lifestyle choices, and more. We stare, we discriminate…we are rude and unkind. We listen to the devil when he tells us, “You are better than that person for XYZ reason(s).”
In truth, God loves ALL of us… equally! We don’t like to think about this, because then we have to admit that God loved madmen like Adolph Hitler, Saddam Hussein, and Osama bin Laden. We have to concede that God doesn’t love Republicans more than Democrats, blacks more than whites, or heterosexuals more than gay people. And we just do not want to go there… but we must!
The next time your inclination is to think better of yourself than the other guy – for any reason – stop and remind yourself of this scripture passage. Truly examine your faith and ask yourself how genuine your relationship with God really is. Because if you have faithfully committed yourself to Him and are “all in” a relationship with your Heavenly Father… if you honestly believe that Jesus died for your sins and those of anyone else who calls on Him to do so… if you really believe that we are all God’s creatures – His children who He loves equally… you cannot for one minute look down your nose at someone else.
Nobody ever said being a Christian was easy. Nobody ever fully prepared us for how strong the devil’s temptations would be… and a sense of arrogance and condescension are two of his favorite tools. He wants us to develop a viewpoint of superiority as Christians… because he knows this completely negates our witness and the very message of Jesus Christ. Don’t let him have that satisfaction!
Remember WHOSE you are... and that God loves all of us unconditionally. Approach others with Godly love in your heart… see them through His eyes… and operate in humility and obedience to His word. Lead by example. Let others see how well you treat all of God’s children. Let them be inspired to do the same because of your witness. You may occasionally miss the mark… but you’ll improve over time. Don’t you owe it to God to give this a try?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for June 29, 2012
1 Peter 2:13-17
Make the Master proud of you by being good citizens. Respect the authorities, whatever their level; they are God's emissaries for keeping order. It is God's will that by doing good, you might cure the ignorance of the fools who think you're a danger to society. Exercise your freedom by serving God, not by breaking the rules. Treat everyone you meet with dignity. Love your spiritual family. Revere God. Respect the government.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
Oh, how we need these scripture verses nowadays! From every side, our government has become fair game for human target practice. Somehow, we tend to gloss over the Bible’s admonition to respect our leaders. We are not told to agree with them… but we are commanded to respect them. Yet all you have to do is scroll down the “Home” page on any social media outlet to see people disrespecting leaders on both sides of the political aisle. I’m not talking about statements of disagreement or disapproval… I’m talking about venomous, bigoted, spiteful comments that reek of disdain – if not outright hatred – for those who have been elected to office.
I will be the first to tell you that there are unscrupulous legislators, public officials, judges and government leaders at every level. But God calls us to treat them – and all people – with respect and decorum. To treat anyone with less than the utmost dignity belies the grace and mercy that was given to us through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Remember, Jesus died for those in public office, too! He died for your fellow church members and the other citizens in your city, state, country…and around the globe. If you think for one minute your salvation is exclusive in any way, you have totally missed Jesus’ message!
Today, I am thinking of several people in the public eye – and some “ordinary folk” as well – who claim to be Christians yet never miss an opportunity to say something unkind and distasteful about our government leaders. I have to wonder if they ever stop to consider what God thinks about this behavior. Do they ever read their Bible… and more importantly, do they truly hear what God is saying through passages like this one?
The time has come for us to wake up and realize that hiding behind God’s name and bashing others – for any reason – is disrespectful… and un-Christian! If you want to please God (and we all should want this!), you have to listen to what He is saying and do what He tells you – even if that means showing respect for elected officials and others you do not like. The only way to truly be free is to follow God’s rules and let Him have complete control. Are you fully exercising your freedoms today? Are you showing respect for God… and for others? Isn’t it time you did?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Make the Master proud of you by being good citizens. Respect the authorities, whatever their level; they are God's emissaries for keeping order. It is God's will that by doing good, you might cure the ignorance of the fools who think you're a danger to society. Exercise your freedom by serving God, not by breaking the rules. Treat everyone you meet with dignity. Love your spiritual family. Revere God. Respect the government.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
Oh, how we need these scripture verses nowadays! From every side, our government has become fair game for human target practice. Somehow, we tend to gloss over the Bible’s admonition to respect our leaders. We are not told to agree with them… but we are commanded to respect them. Yet all you have to do is scroll down the “Home” page on any social media outlet to see people disrespecting leaders on both sides of the political aisle. I’m not talking about statements of disagreement or disapproval… I’m talking about venomous, bigoted, spiteful comments that reek of disdain – if not outright hatred – for those who have been elected to office.
I will be the first to tell you that there are unscrupulous legislators, public officials, judges and government leaders at every level. But God calls us to treat them – and all people – with respect and decorum. To treat anyone with less than the utmost dignity belies the grace and mercy that was given to us through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Remember, Jesus died for those in public office, too! He died for your fellow church members and the other citizens in your city, state, country…and around the globe. If you think for one minute your salvation is exclusive in any way, you have totally missed Jesus’ message!
Today, I am thinking of several people in the public eye – and some “ordinary folk” as well – who claim to be Christians yet never miss an opportunity to say something unkind and distasteful about our government leaders. I have to wonder if they ever stop to consider what God thinks about this behavior. Do they ever read their Bible… and more importantly, do they truly hear what God is saying through passages like this one?
The time has come for us to wake up and realize that hiding behind God’s name and bashing others – for any reason – is disrespectful… and un-Christian! If you want to please God (and we all should want this!), you have to listen to what He is saying and do what He tells you – even if that means showing respect for elected officials and others you do not like. The only way to truly be free is to follow God’s rules and let Him have complete control. Are you fully exercising your freedoms today? Are you showing respect for God… and for others? Isn’t it time you did?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for June 10, 2012
Deuteronomy 8:2-6
Don’t forget how the Lord your God has led you through the desert for the past forty years. He wanted to find out if you were truly willing to obey him and depend on him, so he made you go hungry. Then he gave you manna, a kind of food that you and your ancestors had never even heard about. The Lord was teaching you that people need more than food to live - they need every word that the Lord has spoken.
Over the past forty years, your clothing hasn’t worn out, and your feet haven’t swollen. So keep in mind that the Lord has been correcting you, just as parents correct their children. Obey the commands the Lord your God has given you and worship him with fear and trembling.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I was talking with a friend last week, and she said, “You and I live in a more ‘grey’ world than some people. Others see everything in black and white.” I’m glad we have “black and white” people who see things so clearly. But let’s face it… some of us are more tender hearted, which often leaves us gullible and vulnerable. To put it more honestly, we are often big suckers for the person with a sob story or the stray puppy. Others can look at certain situations and say, “Nope! That’s not my problem… not my battle!” and move forward with no hindsight or remorse. But many of us take on the weight of the world and internalize not only the problems and needs of others… but much of what happens to us personally.
Somehow I think there must be more “grey” people in the world than the “black and white” variety! As a whole, we seem to quickly jump to a “woe-is-me” mentality when things don’t go our way. We are ready and willing to gripe and complain about everything from being bored to our low-paying job to a lack of respect. We are quick to air our dirty laundry and want the whole world to feel sorry for us! We’re tired, imposed upon, mistreated and under-appreciated… and if we only had XYZ, our lives would be so much better!
In my prayer notes, I’ve written the following… “Sometimes we live as if grace is cheap. We have to live with a sense of obligation to mercy and grace.” In other words, we have to learn to recognize that not everything in life is “black and white.” Some of our experiences are allowed by God in order to test our faith and see just how much we appreciate His grace and mercy!
Let me ask you something… has there ever been a time when you could honestly say that God failed you? Notice I didn’t ask if you have ever failed… I asked, “Has God ever failed you?” There is a difference! When we can learn to look at our daily experiences – and those of others – and see God’s grace and mercy at work, we realize that we can handle anything. We grow from the tests we are given according to how readily we recognize God at work in them.
As we mature in our Christian faith, we can learn to ask, “What is God showing me? How should I respond in order to show proper respect for His love and care?” The answer may truly be a “black and white” response, such as “No, I cannot take in a stray puppy!” But it may also be to stop and thank God for the little you do have instead of your lack of something bigger and better!
We know that God’s grace and mercy did not come cheaply! We know that He gave His only Son to buy it. So what could we possibly give in return that we think even comes close in comparison? We can never out-give God… but we can surely give Him our very best… and that starts with love and respect – even when He gives our faith a little workout! Are you asking God to reveal Himself in your life? Are you recognizing His presence when He does?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Don’t forget how the Lord your God has led you through the desert for the past forty years. He wanted to find out if you were truly willing to obey him and depend on him, so he made you go hungry. Then he gave you manna, a kind of food that you and your ancestors had never even heard about. The Lord was teaching you that people need more than food to live - they need every word that the Lord has spoken.
Over the past forty years, your clothing hasn’t worn out, and your feet haven’t swollen. So keep in mind that the Lord has been correcting you, just as parents correct their children. Obey the commands the Lord your God has given you and worship him with fear and trembling.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I was talking with a friend last week, and she said, “You and I live in a more ‘grey’ world than some people. Others see everything in black and white.” I’m glad we have “black and white” people who see things so clearly. But let’s face it… some of us are more tender hearted, which often leaves us gullible and vulnerable. To put it more honestly, we are often big suckers for the person with a sob story or the stray puppy. Others can look at certain situations and say, “Nope! That’s not my problem… not my battle!” and move forward with no hindsight or remorse. But many of us take on the weight of the world and internalize not only the problems and needs of others… but much of what happens to us personally.
Somehow I think there must be more “grey” people in the world than the “black and white” variety! As a whole, we seem to quickly jump to a “woe-is-me” mentality when things don’t go our way. We are ready and willing to gripe and complain about everything from being bored to our low-paying job to a lack of respect. We are quick to air our dirty laundry and want the whole world to feel sorry for us! We’re tired, imposed upon, mistreated and under-appreciated… and if we only had XYZ, our lives would be so much better!
In my prayer notes, I’ve written the following… “Sometimes we live as if grace is cheap. We have to live with a sense of obligation to mercy and grace.” In other words, we have to learn to recognize that not everything in life is “black and white.” Some of our experiences are allowed by God in order to test our faith and see just how much we appreciate His grace and mercy!
Let me ask you something… has there ever been a time when you could honestly say that God failed you? Notice I didn’t ask if you have ever failed… I asked, “Has God ever failed you?” There is a difference! When we can learn to look at our daily experiences – and those of others – and see God’s grace and mercy at work, we realize that we can handle anything. We grow from the tests we are given according to how readily we recognize God at work in them.
As we mature in our Christian faith, we can learn to ask, “What is God showing me? How should I respond in order to show proper respect for His love and care?” The answer may truly be a “black and white” response, such as “No, I cannot take in a stray puppy!” But it may also be to stop and thank God for the little you do have instead of your lack of something bigger and better!
We know that God’s grace and mercy did not come cheaply! We know that He gave His only Son to buy it. So what could we possibly give in return that we think even comes close in comparison? We can never out-give God… but we can surely give Him our very best… and that starts with love and respect – even when He gives our faith a little workout! Are you asking God to reveal Himself in your life? Are you recognizing His presence when He does?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for May 21, 2012
John 15:21-27
"They are going to do all these things to you because of the way they treated me, because they don't know the One who sent me. If I hadn't come and told them all this in plain language, it wouldn't be so bad. As it is, they have no excuse. Hate me, hate my Father—it's all the same. If I hadn't done what I have done among them, works no one has ever done, they wouldn't be to blame. But they saw the God-signs and hated anyway, both me and my Father. Interesting—they have verified the truth of their own Scriptures where it is written, 'They hated me for no good reason.'
"When the Friend I plan to send you from the Father comes—the Spirit of Truth issuing from the Father—he will confirm everything about me. You, too, from your side must give your confirming evidence, since you are in this with me from the start."
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
Everyone makes an occasional honest mistake. The facts are not clear, and misunderstandings occur… and all involved are able to recover and move forward. You think you recognize someone in the store, only to say “Hello” and realize this is not who you thought it was. Or you hear that someone is ill or injured… then learn that you were misinformed when you express concern or get-well wishes to that person. A temporary, slight embarrassment may occur, but no lasting harm is incurred.
On the other hand, when you run a red light, you know you shouldn’t. Before you get a driver’s license, you learn about traffic lights… you are told that “red means STOP!” So when you choose to move forward on a red light, you have no excuse for the violation… or any collision that may result.
Maya Angelou has a saying… “When you know better, you do better.” Unfortunately, we fail to do better quite often. We know that God has called us to love one another. We read in this passage that to hate or mistreat others is to hate or mistreat God. Yet we gossip, discriminate, inflict pain and abuse, and show disrespect… and we do it often.
The worst part is… we often do this and claim the name of Jesus in the process. Think political and social issues in which many claim to act out of their “Christian faith” – but in the most un-Christian manner. These include such behaviors as ugly protests and hurtful words, open disdain for people who do not meet their personal standards, public taunting – and yes, acts of hatred. We know better… but we certainly don’t do better!
From time to time, we all need to be reminded that what we do to others is a direct reflection of how we are treating God. The next time you start to lash out at someone or something… when you open your mouth to share a tidbit of “juicy” gossip…when you feel the urge to give in to temptation… think of your Heavenly Father. Picture yourself doing these things to Him. Envision Him standing alongside you and see if you can still bring yourself to participate. “Hate me, hate my Father—it's all the same.” Hate or hurt your brother…hate or hurt God - this is all the same, as well.
We have been given the gift of the Holy Spirit to help us with these challenges. All we have to do is call on Him to fill our heart and help us discern the truth. He will help us to not only know better… but do better. Ask Him to guide your thoughts and actions. Enlist His help in behaving in a manner that glorifies God and honors His presence in your life. Operate in God’s truth and love… and confirm His promises to all who cross your path.
©2012 Debbie Robus
"They are going to do all these things to you because of the way they treated me, because they don't know the One who sent me. If I hadn't come and told them all this in plain language, it wouldn't be so bad. As it is, they have no excuse. Hate me, hate my Father—it's all the same. If I hadn't done what I have done among them, works no one has ever done, they wouldn't be to blame. But they saw the God-signs and hated anyway, both me and my Father. Interesting—they have verified the truth of their own Scriptures where it is written, 'They hated me for no good reason.'
"When the Friend I plan to send you from the Father comes—the Spirit of Truth issuing from the Father—he will confirm everything about me. You, too, from your side must give your confirming evidence, since you are in this with me from the start."
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
Everyone makes an occasional honest mistake. The facts are not clear, and misunderstandings occur… and all involved are able to recover and move forward. You think you recognize someone in the store, only to say “Hello” and realize this is not who you thought it was. Or you hear that someone is ill or injured… then learn that you were misinformed when you express concern or get-well wishes to that person. A temporary, slight embarrassment may occur, but no lasting harm is incurred.
On the other hand, when you run a red light, you know you shouldn’t. Before you get a driver’s license, you learn about traffic lights… you are told that “red means STOP!” So when you choose to move forward on a red light, you have no excuse for the violation… or any collision that may result.
Maya Angelou has a saying… “When you know better, you do better.” Unfortunately, we fail to do better quite often. We know that God has called us to love one another. We read in this passage that to hate or mistreat others is to hate or mistreat God. Yet we gossip, discriminate, inflict pain and abuse, and show disrespect… and we do it often.
The worst part is… we often do this and claim the name of Jesus in the process. Think political and social issues in which many claim to act out of their “Christian faith” – but in the most un-Christian manner. These include such behaviors as ugly protests and hurtful words, open disdain for people who do not meet their personal standards, public taunting – and yes, acts of hatred. We know better… but we certainly don’t do better!
From time to time, we all need to be reminded that what we do to others is a direct reflection of how we are treating God. The next time you start to lash out at someone or something… when you open your mouth to share a tidbit of “juicy” gossip…when you feel the urge to give in to temptation… think of your Heavenly Father. Picture yourself doing these things to Him. Envision Him standing alongside you and see if you can still bring yourself to participate. “Hate me, hate my Father—it's all the same.” Hate or hurt your brother…hate or hurt God - this is all the same, as well.
We have been given the gift of the Holy Spirit to help us with these challenges. All we have to do is call on Him to fill our heart and help us discern the truth. He will help us to not only know better… but do better. Ask Him to guide your thoughts and actions. Enlist His help in behaving in a manner that glorifies God and honors His presence in your life. Operate in God’s truth and love… and confirm His promises to all who cross your path.
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for May 4, 2012
Job1:6-12
One day, when the angels had gathered around the Lord, and Satan was there with them, the Lord asked, “Satan, where have you been?” Satan replied, “I have been going all over the earth.” Then the Lord asked, “What do you think of my servant Job? No one on earth is like him—he is a truly good person, who respects me and refuses to do evil.”
“Why shouldn’t he respect you?” Satan remarked. “You are like a wall protecting not only him, but his entire family and all his property. You make him successful in whatever he does, and his flocks and herds are everywhere. Try taking away everything he owns, and he will curse you to your face.”
The Lord replied, “All right, Satan, do what you want with anything that belongs to him, but don’t harm Job.” Then Satan left.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
This has been a challenging week. But as many have pointed out, God is in control. All I have to do is rest in Him. And I really am trying to do that… hopefully pretty well! I know that God has a wall of protection around me, my grandmother, and my family. He has shown me this over and again. He can take away lots of material things. He can allow challenges and temporary setbacks. But ultimately, I believe He has said to Satan, “Do what you want with anything that belongs to her, but do not harm HER or her family!”
I believe that Satan knows who he can and cannot touch. And when God tells the devil to leave someone alone, I believe there is a covenant in place between them for this to happen. So I want to be extra certain that I operate within the wall of protection that God offers. I want to respect God and refuse to do evil. I want to serve Him – and serve well!
I’m not being arrogant when I say that I believe the devil can’t touch me! If you trust God, serve Him and respect Him - and seek His will - I think you can say the very same thing. I find this incredibly comforting… and I am at peace with so many decisions and outcomes that I have experienced – especially in the last few days. God has my back! Does He have yours?
©2012 Debbie Robus
One day, when the angels had gathered around the Lord, and Satan was there with them, the Lord asked, “Satan, where have you been?” Satan replied, “I have been going all over the earth.” Then the Lord asked, “What do you think of my servant Job? No one on earth is like him—he is a truly good person, who respects me and refuses to do evil.”
“Why shouldn’t he respect you?” Satan remarked. “You are like a wall protecting not only him, but his entire family and all his property. You make him successful in whatever he does, and his flocks and herds are everywhere. Try taking away everything he owns, and he will curse you to your face.”
The Lord replied, “All right, Satan, do what you want with anything that belongs to him, but don’t harm Job.” Then Satan left.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
This has been a challenging week. But as many have pointed out, God is in control. All I have to do is rest in Him. And I really am trying to do that… hopefully pretty well! I know that God has a wall of protection around me, my grandmother, and my family. He has shown me this over and again. He can take away lots of material things. He can allow challenges and temporary setbacks. But ultimately, I believe He has said to Satan, “Do what you want with anything that belongs to her, but do not harm HER or her family!”
I believe that Satan knows who he can and cannot touch. And when God tells the devil to leave someone alone, I believe there is a covenant in place between them for this to happen. So I want to be extra certain that I operate within the wall of protection that God offers. I want to respect God and refuse to do evil. I want to serve Him – and serve well!
I’m not being arrogant when I say that I believe the devil can’t touch me! If you trust God, serve Him and respect Him - and seek His will - I think you can say the very same thing. I find this incredibly comforting… and I am at peace with so many decisions and outcomes that I have experienced – especially in the last few days. God has my back! Does He have yours?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for April 27, 2012
Proverbs 3:5-12
Trust God from the bottom of your heart; don't try to figure out everything on your own. Listen for God's voice in everything you do, everywhere you go; he's the one who will keep you on track. Don't assume that you know it all. Run to God! Run from evil! Your body will glow with health… your very bones will vibrate with life! Honor God with everything you own; give him the first and the best. Your barns will burst, your wine vats will brim over. But don't, dear friend, resent God's discipline; don't sulk under his loving correction. It's the child he loves that God corrects; a father's delight is behind all this.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
This morning, I downloaded the pattern for making a crochet button necklace. I saw my friend wearing one, and I liked it enough to want to make some with my old buttons. I can already tell from reading the instructions that I will probably have to start over more than once before I get the hang of it, but I will keep trying, and the end result will be really cool.
As with many things that don’t work out on the first try, I will probably grow a little frustrated. And I will have to be careful not to race ahead, assuming that I already know how to do the next stitch. I looked my friend’s necklace over carefully, but I have enough sense to realize that I need instructions in order to make a decent replica on my own! So I will be happy for the free instructions I found online, and I will welcome the “corrections” that will come as I attempt to create my own fashion accessory.
We often trust our own instincts and try to figure things out on our own… frequently with less than stellar results. We resent instruction, and we ignore even some of the most glaring signs that we are headed in the wrong direction. Worse yet, we listen to people who are not helpful at best – and sometimes those who may be downright evil in one way or another. If we are going to “walk in the fear of the LORD,” we have to humble ourselves and detach from evil ways. We cannot hang out with evil people… or do things we did before we committed to Christ.
This is not a bad thing… or a “death sentence!” When we walk in the “fear” (respect and honor) of the LORD and seek His guidance in all things, He will elevate us to heights we have never known… and the end result will be beautiful, healthy, and glowing! I find that learning new things is beneficial in so many ways… even if it is how to make a crochet button necklace! Learning more about the LORD and His desires for me is even better - and draws me closer to walking in His purpose for my life.
In my prayer journal notes, I have written… “Whether or not the world is ever impressed with you doesn’t ever matter to God. You don’t ever have to “kiss up” to get ahead. Walking in the fear of the LORD will get you where you need to be – to your one true root purpose.” Are you seeking God’s direction and respectfully trusting Him from the bottom of your heart? Are you healthy and glowing… do your bones “vibrate with life” in Him? Are you still learning from God… or are you stubbornly clinging to your old life and its evil pull?
God wants to do beautiful things in and through you. He wants to reveal His purpose and help you to grow in its fullness. What is holding you back today? Isn’t it time to listen to God’s instruction for your life? Are you ready to start learning again?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Trust God from the bottom of your heart; don't try to figure out everything on your own. Listen for God's voice in everything you do, everywhere you go; he's the one who will keep you on track. Don't assume that you know it all. Run to God! Run from evil! Your body will glow with health… your very bones will vibrate with life! Honor God with everything you own; give him the first and the best. Your barns will burst, your wine vats will brim over. But don't, dear friend, resent God's discipline; don't sulk under his loving correction. It's the child he loves that God corrects; a father's delight is behind all this.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
This morning, I downloaded the pattern for making a crochet button necklace. I saw my friend wearing one, and I liked it enough to want to make some with my old buttons. I can already tell from reading the instructions that I will probably have to start over more than once before I get the hang of it, but I will keep trying, and the end result will be really cool.
As with many things that don’t work out on the first try, I will probably grow a little frustrated. And I will have to be careful not to race ahead, assuming that I already know how to do the next stitch. I looked my friend’s necklace over carefully, but I have enough sense to realize that I need instructions in order to make a decent replica on my own! So I will be happy for the free instructions I found online, and I will welcome the “corrections” that will come as I attempt to create my own fashion accessory.
We often trust our own instincts and try to figure things out on our own… frequently with less than stellar results. We resent instruction, and we ignore even some of the most glaring signs that we are headed in the wrong direction. Worse yet, we listen to people who are not helpful at best – and sometimes those who may be downright evil in one way or another. If we are going to “walk in the fear of the LORD,” we have to humble ourselves and detach from evil ways. We cannot hang out with evil people… or do things we did before we committed to Christ.
This is not a bad thing… or a “death sentence!” When we walk in the “fear” (respect and honor) of the LORD and seek His guidance in all things, He will elevate us to heights we have never known… and the end result will be beautiful, healthy, and glowing! I find that learning new things is beneficial in so many ways… even if it is how to make a crochet button necklace! Learning more about the LORD and His desires for me is even better - and draws me closer to walking in His purpose for my life.
In my prayer journal notes, I have written… “Whether or not the world is ever impressed with you doesn’t ever matter to God. You don’t ever have to “kiss up” to get ahead. Walking in the fear of the LORD will get you where you need to be – to your one true root purpose.” Are you seeking God’s direction and respectfully trusting Him from the bottom of your heart? Are you healthy and glowing… do your bones “vibrate with life” in Him? Are you still learning from God… or are you stubbornly clinging to your old life and its evil pull?
God wants to do beautiful things in and through you. He wants to reveal His purpose and help you to grow in its fullness. What is holding you back today? Isn’t it time to listen to God’s instruction for your life? Are you ready to start learning again?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for April 26, 2012
Psalm 111:5-10
He gives food to his worshipers and always keeps his agreement with them. He has shown his mighty power to his people and has given them the lands of other nations.
God is always honest and fair, and his laws can be trusted. They are true and right and will stand forever. God rescued his people, and he will never break his agreement with them. He is fearsome and holy.
Respect and obey the Lord! This is the first step to wisdom and good sense. God will always be respected.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When we take out a loan to buy a house or a car, we sign a contract that says we agree to make the payments. When a couple marries, they exchange vows and then sign a document that says they are legally bound to one another. Many people take an “oath of office” and “solemnly swear” to uphold certain principles. In our lifetime, most of us will sign dozens of contracts of one kind or another, make promises, and agree to all sorts of things. And more than a few of us will fail to keep at least some of these agreements. If everyone kept every agreement, we would have no divorces, defaulted loans, “scandals,” or disappointments. And the devil would be even more miserable!
The only covenant we can truly count on is our agreement with God. HE will never let us down. God will never break his agreement with us or back out on His promises. God sealed His covenant with the blood of Jesus. Satan wants us to fear that God’s word won’t work, but we know better! If God said it, He will do it. If he spoke it, He will bring it to pass.
When we read the Bible or pray, we must remember to keep God’s covenant in mind. Just to refresh your memory, God’s covenant says that He loved us enough to send His only Son to die on the cross, so that everyone who believes in Him will have Eternal Life with Him in Heaven. Beyond this, God has promised many things… that all things are possible with Him… that He is always with us and will never leave… that He is always ready to rescue and restore us… and so much more.
I don’t know about you, but I am so glad we serve a God who keeps His word. I can’t imagine His grace and mercy and how He puts up with all of us, but I’m surely glad He does! And I am truly grateful that to know that I can count on His promises… aren’t you? Isn’t this a great day to stop taking so much for granted and being more aware of just how blessed we are to serve such an honorable God? Isn’t this a good time to stop and thank Him for honoring His covenant? Won’t you take a moment with me now and do exactly that?
©2012 Debbie Robus
He gives food to his worshipers and always keeps his agreement with them. He has shown his mighty power to his people and has given them the lands of other nations.
God is always honest and fair, and his laws can be trusted. They are true and right and will stand forever. God rescued his people, and he will never break his agreement with them. He is fearsome and holy.
Respect and obey the Lord! This is the first step to wisdom and good sense. God will always be respected.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When we take out a loan to buy a house or a car, we sign a contract that says we agree to make the payments. When a couple marries, they exchange vows and then sign a document that says they are legally bound to one another. Many people take an “oath of office” and “solemnly swear” to uphold certain principles. In our lifetime, most of us will sign dozens of contracts of one kind or another, make promises, and agree to all sorts of things. And more than a few of us will fail to keep at least some of these agreements. If everyone kept every agreement, we would have no divorces, defaulted loans, “scandals,” or disappointments. And the devil would be even more miserable!
The only covenant we can truly count on is our agreement with God. HE will never let us down. God will never break his agreement with us or back out on His promises. God sealed His covenant with the blood of Jesus. Satan wants us to fear that God’s word won’t work, but we know better! If God said it, He will do it. If he spoke it, He will bring it to pass.
When we read the Bible or pray, we must remember to keep God’s covenant in mind. Just to refresh your memory, God’s covenant says that He loved us enough to send His only Son to die on the cross, so that everyone who believes in Him will have Eternal Life with Him in Heaven. Beyond this, God has promised many things… that all things are possible with Him… that He is always with us and will never leave… that He is always ready to rescue and restore us… and so much more.
I don’t know about you, but I am so glad we serve a God who keeps His word. I can’t imagine His grace and mercy and how He puts up with all of us, but I’m surely glad He does! And I am truly grateful that to know that I can count on His promises… aren’t you? Isn’t this a great day to stop taking so much for granted and being more aware of just how blessed we are to serve such an honorable God? Isn’t this a good time to stop and thank Him for honoring His covenant? Won’t you take a moment with me now and do exactly that?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for April 24, 2012
Deuteronomy 10:12
People of Israel, what does the Lord your God want from you? The Lord wants you to respect and follow him, to love and serve him with all your heart and soul…
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version ©1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Today is the birthday of my cousin Natalie. I remember when she was born… my husband and I had been married less than a year, and my parents would place this darling baby in my lap and say, “When you finish college, maybe you will have one of these.” When Natalie’s brother Franklin came along four years later, they would hand him to me and say, “Doesn’t this make you want a baby?” As much as I love Natalie and Franklin, babies were not in the plans for us… at least not at that stage in our lives! But oh, how I loved my cousins. They were adorable… and easy to love – and they still are today! I am so proud of who they have become as adults… and parents themselves!
While it is easy to love some people… others are what I would describe as “unlovable” – or at the very least, “unlovely.” Yet, as Disciples of Christ and people who “walk in the fear of the LORD” (meaning we love and respect God and His commandments), we are called to “love one another.” We must recognize that the “unlovely” and “unlovable” are just as important, precious, and adorable to God as we are!
I totally understand how hard this is for us. When the telemarketer calls and interrupts my dinner or an evening movie, I find it hard to be kind and loving. When someone mistreats me - or worse…when I learn of the abuse of a child or watch news reports about the horrors of war or the mistreatment of an animal, I find it hard to love the perpetrator. And while we are right to be outraged and/or insulted… the ultimate judgment and justice resides with God. Trusting Him to handle these things is tantamount to operating in Christian faith.
Today, think of someone that you consider “unlovable” or “unlovely.” I bet you won’t have to look very far – we’re a pretty judgmental lot! Now imagine God wrapping His arms around them and loving them as much as you love your most dear child, cousin, or friend. Consider that this person is just as important to God as we are… and He expects us to treat them fairly. This doesn’t mean we have to go out of our way to be nice to a criminal or bully – but we must love them in our hearts… and genuinely pray for their soul.
We can’t have it both ways. We can’t say we “walk in the fear of the LORD” and also claim we find it impossible to love – or even tolerate – some people. I don’t know about you, but I’ve got a lot of work to do in this area. But it could be some of the most important work of my life, and I’m more than ready to begin. To “walk in the fear of the LORD” – keeping God’s commandments – is the foundation of all happiness. This means I’m going to have to work harder at loving those who make it so difficult… and I’m willing to do this. Are you?
©2012 Debbie Robus
People of Israel, what does the Lord your God want from you? The Lord wants you to respect and follow him, to love and serve him with all your heart and soul…
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version ©1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Today is the birthday of my cousin Natalie. I remember when she was born… my husband and I had been married less than a year, and my parents would place this darling baby in my lap and say, “When you finish college, maybe you will have one of these.” When Natalie’s brother Franklin came along four years later, they would hand him to me and say, “Doesn’t this make you want a baby?” As much as I love Natalie and Franklin, babies were not in the plans for us… at least not at that stage in our lives! But oh, how I loved my cousins. They were adorable… and easy to love – and they still are today! I am so proud of who they have become as adults… and parents themselves!
While it is easy to love some people… others are what I would describe as “unlovable” – or at the very least, “unlovely.” Yet, as Disciples of Christ and people who “walk in the fear of the LORD” (meaning we love and respect God and His commandments), we are called to “love one another.” We must recognize that the “unlovely” and “unlovable” are just as important, precious, and adorable to God as we are!
I totally understand how hard this is for us. When the telemarketer calls and interrupts my dinner or an evening movie, I find it hard to be kind and loving. When someone mistreats me - or worse…when I learn of the abuse of a child or watch news reports about the horrors of war or the mistreatment of an animal, I find it hard to love the perpetrator. And while we are right to be outraged and/or insulted… the ultimate judgment and justice resides with God. Trusting Him to handle these things is tantamount to operating in Christian faith.
Today, think of someone that you consider “unlovable” or “unlovely.” I bet you won’t have to look very far – we’re a pretty judgmental lot! Now imagine God wrapping His arms around them and loving them as much as you love your most dear child, cousin, or friend. Consider that this person is just as important to God as we are… and He expects us to treat them fairly. This doesn’t mean we have to go out of our way to be nice to a criminal or bully – but we must love them in our hearts… and genuinely pray for their soul.
We can’t have it both ways. We can’t say we “walk in the fear of the LORD” and also claim we find it impossible to love – or even tolerate – some people. I don’t know about you, but I’ve got a lot of work to do in this area. But it could be some of the most important work of my life, and I’m more than ready to begin. To “walk in the fear of the LORD” – keeping God’s commandments – is the foundation of all happiness. This means I’m going to have to work harder at loving those who make it so difficult… and I’m willing to do this. Are you?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for April 23, 2012
Ecclesiastes 12:13-14
Everything you were taught can be put into a few words:
Respect and obey God! This is what life is all about. God will judge everything we do, even what is done in secret, whether good or bad.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
If someone asked you what your sole purpose in life is, what would you tell them? Why do you suppose you are here? What has God placed you on this earth to accomplish? There is a “short answer” to this question… and it is the same for all Christians – or should be. Our sole purpose in life is to walk in the fear of the LORD and keep His commandments.
Let this soak in for a minute. If our primary purpose in life is to respect and revere God and keep His commandments, won’t this affect every aspect of our lives? If God has called you to be a great physician, and you spend your life working to keep others healthy, you have fulfilled God’s desires for you… if you have kept His commandments at the same time. If God calls you to be a teacher, lawyer, builder, laborer, mother, father, pastor, policeman, coach, salesman, farmer… or whatever… and you do this to the best of your ability and keep His commandments, you have fulfilled your purpose in life.
When we try to do anything on our own… or when we ignore God’s commandments and do things the way we want, we are fulfilling our own purposes – not God’s. If we try to minister to others while we are not walking in the fear of the LORD and His commandments, we can really mess things up. I know that God wants me to share this message with you today, because He has revealed it to me twice in the last two hours. My daily devotional from the book God Calling spoke of learning to “be” for God rather than “speak” for Him. In other words, we are far more effective witnesses for God when we live in a manner that exhibits respect, reverence and obedience for His commandments than when we try to tell someone else how to live for God. Sometimes, we need to be quiet and let the actions of our life speak for us rather than try to “win someone to the LORD” with our words.
Show others what your sole purpose is by showing them your “soul purpose.” Live in such a way that it is evident to all who know you that your primary purpose is to serve God and obey His commands. Show God how much you love Him by following His commandments and operating within His will for your life. In doing so, you will say to everyone you meet that the fear of the LORD is the foundation of all happiness. Keeping God’s commandments will open the door for God to reveal His will for your life… and bless you and others in your path.
What is your “sole purpose” today… and what is your “soul purpose?” Are they the same thing? Shouldn’t they be?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Everything you were taught can be put into a few words:
Respect and obey God! This is what life is all about. God will judge everything we do, even what is done in secret, whether good or bad.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
If someone asked you what your sole purpose in life is, what would you tell them? Why do you suppose you are here? What has God placed you on this earth to accomplish? There is a “short answer” to this question… and it is the same for all Christians – or should be. Our sole purpose in life is to walk in the fear of the LORD and keep His commandments.
Let this soak in for a minute. If our primary purpose in life is to respect and revere God and keep His commandments, won’t this affect every aspect of our lives? If God has called you to be a great physician, and you spend your life working to keep others healthy, you have fulfilled God’s desires for you… if you have kept His commandments at the same time. If God calls you to be a teacher, lawyer, builder, laborer, mother, father, pastor, policeman, coach, salesman, farmer… or whatever… and you do this to the best of your ability and keep His commandments, you have fulfilled your purpose in life.
When we try to do anything on our own… or when we ignore God’s commandments and do things the way we want, we are fulfilling our own purposes – not God’s. If we try to minister to others while we are not walking in the fear of the LORD and His commandments, we can really mess things up. I know that God wants me to share this message with you today, because He has revealed it to me twice in the last two hours. My daily devotional from the book God Calling spoke of learning to “be” for God rather than “speak” for Him. In other words, we are far more effective witnesses for God when we live in a manner that exhibits respect, reverence and obedience for His commandments than when we try to tell someone else how to live for God. Sometimes, we need to be quiet and let the actions of our life speak for us rather than try to “win someone to the LORD” with our words.
Show others what your sole purpose is by showing them your “soul purpose.” Live in such a way that it is evident to all who know you that your primary purpose is to serve God and obey His commands. Show God how much you love Him by following His commandments and operating within His will for your life. In doing so, you will say to everyone you meet that the fear of the LORD is the foundation of all happiness. Keeping God’s commandments will open the door for God to reveal His will for your life… and bless you and others in your path.
What is your “sole purpose” today… and what is your “soul purpose?” Are they the same thing? Shouldn’t they be?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for November 16, 2011
Psalm 128:1-2
The LORD will bless you if you respect him and obey his laws. Your fields will produce, and you will be happy and all will go well.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I was discussing child discipline with a group of friends recently, and I explained that I do not believe in spanking. I tried it early in my teaching career with lousy results. Once I began using a method called “assertive discipline” and stopped spanking, I virtually quit having any discipline problems in the classroom. Assertive discipline works that well and will work in any setting – school, home, Sunday School, and more! What is the secret to its success? Respect!
Rules are clearly taught at the beginning of the school year… as are consequences for breaking them. Everything is cut and dried. You break this rule… this happens. You break another, that happens… and so on. The consequences begin with a warning and progress to a more serious level. For my kindergarten students, these ranged from “time out” to losing a recess or other privileges, to calling parents. I think maybe I called three parents over the course of several years. The children knew the “laws” we learned together, and they obeyed them. They respected my authority to decide when a rule was broken and to administer the consequence.
There is another part of this discipline plan… and it is vital to the success of the overall program - rewards. Good behavior is rewarded, and the students learn that there is merit in their efforts beyond operating in fear of consequences. The respect is mutual. The teacher is respected as the authority figure, and the students are respected and rewarded for their obedience and cooperation.
Do you see where I’m headed with this? Because of the blood of Jesus, we don’t have to operate in fear, guilt and shame. We can serve obediently because we respect God… and because He respects us and rewards our efforts. We don’t serve and obey to get something… any more than God blesses us simply for our compliance. It’s a two-way street… and that is so cool!
We know what God asks of us… we know His laws. We also know the consequences of disobeying Him. But we may not fully understand how He stands ready to bless us when we show Him respect and submission to His authority. I promise, finding out what He has in store for us is worth it… are you willing to discover this for yourself?
©2011 Debbie Robus
The LORD will bless you if you respect him and obey his laws. Your fields will produce, and you will be happy and all will go well.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I was discussing child discipline with a group of friends recently, and I explained that I do not believe in spanking. I tried it early in my teaching career with lousy results. Once I began using a method called “assertive discipline” and stopped spanking, I virtually quit having any discipline problems in the classroom. Assertive discipline works that well and will work in any setting – school, home, Sunday School, and more! What is the secret to its success? Respect!
Rules are clearly taught at the beginning of the school year… as are consequences for breaking them. Everything is cut and dried. You break this rule… this happens. You break another, that happens… and so on. The consequences begin with a warning and progress to a more serious level. For my kindergarten students, these ranged from “time out” to losing a recess or other privileges, to calling parents. I think maybe I called three parents over the course of several years. The children knew the “laws” we learned together, and they obeyed them. They respected my authority to decide when a rule was broken and to administer the consequence.
There is another part of this discipline plan… and it is vital to the success of the overall program - rewards. Good behavior is rewarded, and the students learn that there is merit in their efforts beyond operating in fear of consequences. The respect is mutual. The teacher is respected as the authority figure, and the students are respected and rewarded for their obedience and cooperation.
Do you see where I’m headed with this? Because of the blood of Jesus, we don’t have to operate in fear, guilt and shame. We can serve obediently because we respect God… and because He respects us and rewards our efforts. We don’t serve and obey to get something… any more than God blesses us simply for our compliance. It’s a two-way street… and that is so cool!
We know what God asks of us… we know His laws. We also know the consequences of disobeying Him. But we may not fully understand how He stands ready to bless us when we show Him respect and submission to His authority. I promise, finding out what He has in store for us is worth it… are you willing to discover this for yourself?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for October 19, 2011
Proverbs 22:4
Respect and serve the LORD! Your reward will be wealth, a long life, and honor.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
A friend of mine recently shared an amazing story with me. She said that on the morning of her aunt’s funeral, she awoke to a clear voice from the LORD saying, “Get up and make two pecan pies and TWO batches of chicken salad. Leave one salad at home… take the other to the church to be served for lunch.” She said the instructions were crystal clear. She told her sister about this and said, “I’ve made a grocery list, and we have to get busy.” Her sister trusted this word and helped make the pies and chicken salad.
When the family arrived at the church for the pre-funeral luncheon, my friend told one of the condolence committee volunteers, “I know you will think I’m crazy, but the LORD told me to bring this salad, so I did.” As it turned out, as many as twenty-five extra people showed up for lunch. Without the salad, there would not have been enough food. And as people returned to my friend’s house after the service, she served thin slices of the pecan pie and the second bowl of chicken salad to hungry guests. She told me, “I’m trying to pay attention when the LORD speaks… and I’m glad I did.”
My friend respects and serves the LORD. And while she may not be what some would consider wealthy or rich, all of her needs are met, and she lives in abundance. She is honorable… and on track to live a long, blessed life. I am taking a page from her book and listening to the LORD. I told her that I have really been trying to pay closer attention – and to do what God tells me to do. But her example has given me added inspiration to do this!
God is more than worthy of our respect and our obedience. So often we hear His voice and turn a deaf ear… or fail to pay close attention. And we miss out on so many blessings and opportunities to bless others in His name. It’s time to fine tune our listening skills. We need to open our hearts and minds to the voice of the LORD… to show Him our utmost respect… and to serve Him with everything we have. I’m in… are you?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Respect and serve the LORD! Your reward will be wealth, a long life, and honor.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
A friend of mine recently shared an amazing story with me. She said that on the morning of her aunt’s funeral, she awoke to a clear voice from the LORD saying, “Get up and make two pecan pies and TWO batches of chicken salad. Leave one salad at home… take the other to the church to be served for lunch.” She said the instructions were crystal clear. She told her sister about this and said, “I’ve made a grocery list, and we have to get busy.” Her sister trusted this word and helped make the pies and chicken salad.
When the family arrived at the church for the pre-funeral luncheon, my friend told one of the condolence committee volunteers, “I know you will think I’m crazy, but the LORD told me to bring this salad, so I did.” As it turned out, as many as twenty-five extra people showed up for lunch. Without the salad, there would not have been enough food. And as people returned to my friend’s house after the service, she served thin slices of the pecan pie and the second bowl of chicken salad to hungry guests. She told me, “I’m trying to pay attention when the LORD speaks… and I’m glad I did.”
My friend respects and serves the LORD. And while she may not be what some would consider wealthy or rich, all of her needs are met, and she lives in abundance. She is honorable… and on track to live a long, blessed life. I am taking a page from her book and listening to the LORD. I told her that I have really been trying to pay closer attention – and to do what God tells me to do. But her example has given me added inspiration to do this!
God is more than worthy of our respect and our obedience. So often we hear His voice and turn a deaf ear… or fail to pay close attention. And we miss out on so many blessings and opportunities to bless others in His name. It’s time to fine tune our listening skills. We need to open our hearts and minds to the voice of the LORD… to show Him our utmost respect… and to serve Him with everything we have. I’m in… are you?
©2011 Debbie Robus
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