1 Peter 3:7
The same goes for you husbands: Be good
husbands to your wives. Honor them, delight in them. As women they lack
some of your advantages. But in the new life of God’s grace, you’re
equals. Treat your wives, then, as equals so your prayers don’t run
aground.
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.
Please
don’t skip this devotional. This verse is about so much more than just
how husbands treat their wives. For all of the strides we have made in
recognizing the abilities and rights of women AND other “minorities”…we
still have a long way to go.
God blessed me with a husband who
has never treated me as less than equal. Yes, Greg is physically
stronger than I am. But I can’t think of anything that he has ever
discouraged me from doing because he felt I was not capable
intellectually, creatively…or for any other reason. In our nearly 42
years of marriage, Greg has included me in all decisions, made me his
equal, and supported me in any and all endeavors. And I thank God for
such a blessing!
I’ve seen my share of marriages and
associations where this was not the case - and that’s where you fit into
this message. See, we tend to treat a lot of people as “less than” -
in all sorts of relationships…our jobs…friendships…the community…and
even in “church work” and Christian service! We do not honor and
delight in the strengths and abilities of our brothers and sisters in
Christ. We are often so busy making a name for ourselves that we will
do anything and everything to get ahead – even at the expense of someone
else.
As this verse illustrates, when we fail to honor – if not
elevate - those around us, we diminish our Christian witness. When we
do not acknowledge their importance, God is greatly disappointed. God
takes this into account as He considers our prayers and petitions. How
we treat others matters greatly!
People are watching. They
notice how we treat those with whom we interact…family, friends,
co-workers – and even strangers. When we disparage others…criticize and
cut them down…treat them with disrespect as we try to elevate ourselves
to a position of superiority, we dishonor God and discount our pledge
to be Disciples of Christ.
God doesn’t make any
distinction…those in the world spotlight have no more obligation in this
regard than “regular folk” like you and I do. We must stop name
calling, criticisms and cutting remarks, crude and ugly references, and
any form of disrespect or denigration. If we are going to truly honor
God and represent Him, we have to start treating our wives – and all
others – as equals. There is much work to be done in this area…are you
ready to roll up your sleeves and get busy?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Showing posts with label respect for others. Show all posts
Showing posts with label respect for others. Show all posts
Daily Devotional for February 1, 2016
Psalm 5:7
But as for me, I will come into your Temple protected by your mercy and your love; I will worship you with deepest awe.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
My childhood neighborhood was filled with residents who were old enough to be my grandparents. My sister, brother and I were welcomed into their homes like we truly were their grandchildren. We pretty much had free run of the neighborhood and felt welcome, protected, and loved in each and every home. It was like that for the other handful of kids who lived near us, also.
So as I told a friend about our four-year-old niece Zola - and how she had practically bathed in cologne Sunday morning before church – she remembered a time that she went to visit one of her neighbors. She said, “I got into her sachet one evening at a visit - then denied it to the death!” Those were the days…when we felt comfortable and safe enough to go to a neighbor’s and pilfer - even if it was a bad thing to do!
We have tried to teach the little ones that it is impolite to help yourself in others’ homes…but all three feel pretty comfortable and cozy with checking the fridge and pantry when they visit us…or getting in the closet to grab a superhero costume or a toy they know is kept there. And I want them to feel at home when they visit. I want them to experience grace and mercy in our presence…and to always feel loved. But I want them to also learn respect for us, our home, and our belongings.
More importantly, I want to teach the children to feel God’s love and protection…His grace and mercy. I want them to always be comfortable in His presence…and to worship Him with deepest awe and respect. I want them to respect God - and what belongs to Him - as they learn to truly worship and serve. This should be our goal, also…regardless of our age.
Just as children should learn not to pilfer and get into things – in their own home or that of others – we should learn to respect and revere God and His belongings. We should not overindulge – in anything – or assume that we have “carte blanche” with God. But at the same time, we need to understand how much He loves us – how He continually extends grace and mercy to us…covers us and protects us…and overlooks more of our transgressions and childish behaviors than any of us deserves.
We are so often like the impetulant child who got into a grown-up’s sachet or cologne and denies doing so. We don’t deserve to have our misdeeds overlooked or forgiven…and yet this is often exactly what God does, out of His incredible love and mercy. Will this be the day that you begin to show more gratitude…to demonstrate your reverence and deepest awe – and do your best to love God more and serve Him better? Don’t you think it should be?
©2016 Debbie Robus
But as for me, I will come into your Temple protected by your mercy and your love; I will worship you with deepest awe.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
My childhood neighborhood was filled with residents who were old enough to be my grandparents. My sister, brother and I were welcomed into their homes like we truly were their grandchildren. We pretty much had free run of the neighborhood and felt welcome, protected, and loved in each and every home. It was like that for the other handful of kids who lived near us, also.
So as I told a friend about our four-year-old niece Zola - and how she had practically bathed in cologne Sunday morning before church – she remembered a time that she went to visit one of her neighbors. She said, “I got into her sachet one evening at a visit - then denied it to the death!” Those were the days…when we felt comfortable and safe enough to go to a neighbor’s and pilfer - even if it was a bad thing to do!
We have tried to teach the little ones that it is impolite to help yourself in others’ homes…but all three feel pretty comfortable and cozy with checking the fridge and pantry when they visit us…or getting in the closet to grab a superhero costume or a toy they know is kept there. And I want them to feel at home when they visit. I want them to experience grace and mercy in our presence…and to always feel loved. But I want them to also learn respect for us, our home, and our belongings.
More importantly, I want to teach the children to feel God’s love and protection…His grace and mercy. I want them to always be comfortable in His presence…and to worship Him with deepest awe and respect. I want them to respect God - and what belongs to Him - as they learn to truly worship and serve. This should be our goal, also…regardless of our age.
Just as children should learn not to pilfer and get into things – in their own home or that of others – we should learn to respect and revere God and His belongings. We should not overindulge – in anything – or assume that we have “carte blanche” with God. But at the same time, we need to understand how much He loves us – how He continually extends grace and mercy to us…covers us and protects us…and overlooks more of our transgressions and childish behaviors than any of us deserves.
We are so often like the impetulant child who got into a grown-up’s sachet or cologne and denies doing so. We don’t deserve to have our misdeeds overlooked or forgiven…and yet this is often exactly what God does, out of His incredible love and mercy. Will this be the day that you begin to show more gratitude…to demonstrate your reverence and deepest awe – and do your best to love God more and serve Him better? Don’t you think it should be?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 14, 2015
John 5:22-24, 30
And the Father leaves all judgment of sin to his Son, so that everyone will honor the Son, just as they honor the Father. But if you refuse to honor God’s Son, whom he sent to you, then you are certainly not honoring the Father.
“I say emphatically that anyone who listens to my message and believes in God who sent me has eternal life, and will never be damned for his sins, but has already passed out of death into life.
“But I pass no judgment without consulting the Father. I judge as I am told. And my judgment is absolutely fair and just, for it is according to the will of God who sent me and is not merely my own.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
When my Mam-ma Polly got older, I was given her Durable Power of Attorney. This meant that I could make major decisions for her in matters of pertaining to her personal business and her health. I could sign papers on her behalf, make decisions such as engaging Hospice care, and choose her primary care physician. My grandmother had entrusted me with the authority to make these decisions. But as long as she was able to communicate with me, I still consulted her before giving my final answer. So even a couple of weeks before she died, I asked her if she wanted to go to the ER after she fell in her room and hit her head. She adamantly told me, “NO!” And after I carefully assessed the situation and consulted Hospice nurses and other family members, we did not go.
Before she lost her ability to speak, Mam-ma would often wave off a major decision (literally with a wave of the hand) and say, “Whatever y’all decide is okay with me.” Now, I will admit that sometimes she said this with all of the pitiful sarcasm her voice could muster…but in her heart of hearts, she knew that I would never disrespect her – or make a decision that I felt would be harmful in any way. My Mam-ma Polly knew that I had her back!
God gave Jesus authority over each of us and decisions with regard to our care – and our eternal destiny. As the One who suffered, bled and died for our sins, it seems only right that Jesus would have the say over whether our petition to belong to Him is granted or not. But notice that even Jesus still consults the Heavenly Father…that there is a deference and respect for Almighty God – even at this “level”.
What does this mean for us? This passage reminds us of God’s authority and power…and also of His love, grace, mercy and compassion. Even Jesus Christ, who died for our sins and has the complete and final say over whether we are forgiven of them for all eternity, still listens for His Father’s voice. He still respects God’s “place” as the ultimate and final word on all matters. And we must value this, also. We must trust that in the end, it’s all up to God…and He has our back!
We must also remind ourselves to respect the earthly “chain of command”. We must honor the “position” of those in power and authority, even when we might not agree with their decisions. We must always offer them respect and behave toward them as would honor and please God. This may often mean biting our tongue and keeping our opinions – and ugly thoughts – to ourselves.
Sometimes in our earthly judgments, we have to make hard decisions that go against the preference of an elder or someone in authority. I am not telling you to lie for your boss…or to allow your ailing or aging parent or loved one to make a choice that will be harmful to them or someone else. This is where we must turn to God and ask, “What do I do now?” And He will answer!
I am so glad to know that Jesus chose me…that He deemed me worth saving. And I am grateful to know that He has my back…each and every minute of the day. I am doing all I can to honor this gift...to ensure that MY decisions mirror His will in each and every situation. I am constantly listening for His voice and seeking His opinion…what about you?
©2015 Debbie Robus
And the Father leaves all judgment of sin to his Son, so that everyone will honor the Son, just as they honor the Father. But if you refuse to honor God’s Son, whom he sent to you, then you are certainly not honoring the Father.
“I say emphatically that anyone who listens to my message and believes in God who sent me has eternal life, and will never be damned for his sins, but has already passed out of death into life.
“But I pass no judgment without consulting the Father. I judge as I am told. And my judgment is absolutely fair and just, for it is according to the will of God who sent me and is not merely my own.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
When my Mam-ma Polly got older, I was given her Durable Power of Attorney. This meant that I could make major decisions for her in matters of pertaining to her personal business and her health. I could sign papers on her behalf, make decisions such as engaging Hospice care, and choose her primary care physician. My grandmother had entrusted me with the authority to make these decisions. But as long as she was able to communicate with me, I still consulted her before giving my final answer. So even a couple of weeks before she died, I asked her if she wanted to go to the ER after she fell in her room and hit her head. She adamantly told me, “NO!” And after I carefully assessed the situation and consulted Hospice nurses and other family members, we did not go.
Before she lost her ability to speak, Mam-ma would often wave off a major decision (literally with a wave of the hand) and say, “Whatever y’all decide is okay with me.” Now, I will admit that sometimes she said this with all of the pitiful sarcasm her voice could muster…but in her heart of hearts, she knew that I would never disrespect her – or make a decision that I felt would be harmful in any way. My Mam-ma Polly knew that I had her back!
God gave Jesus authority over each of us and decisions with regard to our care – and our eternal destiny. As the One who suffered, bled and died for our sins, it seems only right that Jesus would have the say over whether our petition to belong to Him is granted or not. But notice that even Jesus still consults the Heavenly Father…that there is a deference and respect for Almighty God – even at this “level”.
What does this mean for us? This passage reminds us of God’s authority and power…and also of His love, grace, mercy and compassion. Even Jesus Christ, who died for our sins and has the complete and final say over whether we are forgiven of them for all eternity, still listens for His Father’s voice. He still respects God’s “place” as the ultimate and final word on all matters. And we must value this, also. We must trust that in the end, it’s all up to God…and He has our back!
We must also remind ourselves to respect the earthly “chain of command”. We must honor the “position” of those in power and authority, even when we might not agree with their decisions. We must always offer them respect and behave toward them as would honor and please God. This may often mean biting our tongue and keeping our opinions – and ugly thoughts – to ourselves.
Sometimes in our earthly judgments, we have to make hard decisions that go against the preference of an elder or someone in authority. I am not telling you to lie for your boss…or to allow your ailing or aging parent or loved one to make a choice that will be harmful to them or someone else. This is where we must turn to God and ask, “What do I do now?” And He will answer!
I am so glad to know that Jesus chose me…that He deemed me worth saving. And I am grateful to know that He has my back…each and every minute of the day. I am doing all I can to honor this gift...to ensure that MY decisions mirror His will in each and every situation. I am constantly listening for His voice and seeking His opinion…what about you?
©2015 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for November 20, 2013
1 Peter 2:17
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.
This scripture passage contains four simple sentences… four basic concepts that seem so logical and easy to accomplish. If only we would take these four commands to heart and genuinely - and diligently - put them into action…any number of things could be accomplished. Life would surely be more peaceful and pleasant!
So why are we so disrespectful? Why can’t we get along? What keeps us from being obedient, reverent, and loving our neighbor? I don’t have all of the answers, but I suspect that one of our biggest problems is lack of focus. We have failed to remain diligent in pursuing a relationship with God… and when we do interact with Him, we tend to do all of the talking! It seems to me that more than a few of us don’t listen to God in the first place…and if we do hear Him, we choose to ignore what He tells us.
“Oh, surely God didn’t mean for me to treat So-and-So with dignity! Not after what he/she said or did to me!” you may say. Or maybe you have decided that people of a certain socio-economic status, lifestyle, race or political leaning are “beneath you.” Surely God didn’t mean for you to treat THEM with dignity?
Perhaps you have decided that certain “Christians” can’t possibly be sincere, because they don’t agree with you on social, political, or moral issues. “Surely they are not reading the Bible!” you’ve declared – if only to yourself. As for reverence to God, we all know that none of us does our best in this department!
And rather than respect our government and its leaders, many have decided that these folks are not Godly and do not deserve to be regarded with anything less than disdain. We don’t pray, “LORD, please help the best candidates get elected… and give them wisdom to decide what is best for us as a people.” We tell Him, “Please let MY candidate win!” And then we gripe and complain about everything from taxes to legislation to the leaders themselves.
Four simple rules could make everything run more smoothly – in our individual lives and in the world at large. Won’t you join me today in reviewing these guidelines? Won’t you pray over them and ask God to show you how and where you have failed to give your very best? Will this be the week that things begin to change in your relationships… in your perspective… and in your discipleship? Shouldn’t it?
My prayer for today is this… “Father, we have failed to show respect… for You and for each other. We have acted selfishly and judged unfairly. We have been critical and undignified, and we know that our actions and attitudes grieve You. Forgive us, LORD… help us to be more attentive to Your word and Your will. Show us how to treat others as You would… to offer love, grace, mercy, forgiveness, compassion, and respect. Help us to figure out how to get along… heal our hearts and set us on the right path. We ask this in the precious name of Jesus. Amen.”
©2013 Debbie Robus
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.
This scripture passage contains four simple sentences… four basic concepts that seem so logical and easy to accomplish. If only we would take these four commands to heart and genuinely - and diligently - put them into action…any number of things could be accomplished. Life would surely be more peaceful and pleasant!
So why are we so disrespectful? Why can’t we get along? What keeps us from being obedient, reverent, and loving our neighbor? I don’t have all of the answers, but I suspect that one of our biggest problems is lack of focus. We have failed to remain diligent in pursuing a relationship with God… and when we do interact with Him, we tend to do all of the talking! It seems to me that more than a few of us don’t listen to God in the first place…and if we do hear Him, we choose to ignore what He tells us.
“Oh, surely God didn’t mean for me to treat So-and-So with dignity! Not after what he/she said or did to me!” you may say. Or maybe you have decided that people of a certain socio-economic status, lifestyle, race or political leaning are “beneath you.” Surely God didn’t mean for you to treat THEM with dignity?
Perhaps you have decided that certain “Christians” can’t possibly be sincere, because they don’t agree with you on social, political, or moral issues. “Surely they are not reading the Bible!” you’ve declared – if only to yourself. As for reverence to God, we all know that none of us does our best in this department!
And rather than respect our government and its leaders, many have decided that these folks are not Godly and do not deserve to be regarded with anything less than disdain. We don’t pray, “LORD, please help the best candidates get elected… and give them wisdom to decide what is best for us as a people.” We tell Him, “Please let MY candidate win!” And then we gripe and complain about everything from taxes to legislation to the leaders themselves.
Four simple rules could make everything run more smoothly – in our individual lives and in the world at large. Won’t you join me today in reviewing these guidelines? Won’t you pray over them and ask God to show you how and where you have failed to give your very best? Will this be the week that things begin to change in your relationships… in your perspective… and in your discipleship? Shouldn’t it?
My prayer for today is this… “Father, we have failed to show respect… for You and for each other. We have acted selfishly and judged unfairly. We have been critical and undignified, and we know that our actions and attitudes grieve You. Forgive us, LORD… help us to be more attentive to Your word and Your will. Show us how to treat others as You would… to offer love, grace, mercy, forgiveness, compassion, and respect. Help us to figure out how to get along… heal our hearts and set us on the right path. We ask this in the precious name of Jesus. Amen.”
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for November 16, 2013
1 Thessalonians 5:13-15
Get along among yourselves, each of you doing your part. Our counsel is that you warn the freeloaders to get a move on. Gently encourage the stragglers, and reach out for the exhausted, pulling them to their feet. Be patient with each person, attentive to individual needs. And be careful that when you get on each other’s nerves you don’t snap at each other. Look for the best in each other, and always do your best to bring it out.
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.
Rex was the boy who sat beside me at my table in first grade. One day, he threw up his morning milk. Since I was not a fan of morning milk time in the first place, I scooted my chair away from the ugly puddle, for fear of becoming nauseous myself. There were no intercoms or cell phones in this dank concrete block building with its cold cement floor, but I’m sure that somehow the janitor was summoned. Meanwhile, my teacher, Mrs. Troy, walked over to the table and snapped, “Debra, if that is getting your goat, then MOVE!” I never said a word. I had the deepest respect for Mrs. Troy… call it a mixture of admiration and a healthy dose of fear. I’d seen that little wooden ping pong paddle she kept perched atop the chalk rail at the reading circle! I sat stock still and waited for the janitor to come sprinkle that dusty clay mixture over the puddle and wait for it to absorb so he could sweep it away.
I didn’t dare move, as Mrs. Troy had suggested. But don’t you find it amazing that some 50 years later, I still vividly remember that incident and her words? I remember going home and telling my mother what she said… crushed in spirit at what I perceived as an insult and a total lack of empathy for my feelings. A woman I had deeply revered and respected had totally betrayed me… and even as a six-year-old first grader, it somewhat broke my spirit. To be honest, for all of the things I lovingly remember about Mrs. Troy… that lone incident is the first thing that comes to mind when I think of her even today.
You can insert your jokes and jabs here… “So you were scarred for life by a first-grade puking incident?!” You can declare me incredibly sensitive… overly so, to allow something so minor to affect me for half a century. But here’s the point. We truly do not know what others are thinking and feeling. We have no clue what effect our words and actions toward them can have. As a former teacher, I can assure you that I get it… the last thing you want in your classroom in the middle of a busy morning is for some kid to upchuck his/her milk! I still remember the morning I was collecting lunch money and a child approached me and threw up all over my open-toed shoe… and it was not pretty! And I remember distinctly that I did NOT snap at this child… perhaps because of my own childhood experience.
Still, you have to look at it from the other person’s perspective. My teacher apparently didn’t consider how close I was to joining Rex in this disgusting “upheaval”. She probably didn’t mean to snap at me… but once words are spoken, they are very hard to retract. And apologies (if/when offered) have fairly little relevance for young children. They say “Sorry!” all the time without meaning it!
What has all of this got to do with us today? Plenty! We need to work harder at respecting each other. We need to choose our words and actions more carefully… to be kinder… to look for the best in others and point this out rather than their faults. We need to take deep breaths and count to ten before responding, and we need to look for those who could use a little encouragement – and give it to them! And we need to ask God to help us with every bit of this and more… to equip us with wisdom, compassion, and common sense!
An acquaintance of mine recently lost her husband in an airplane crash. She wrote a blog post about how people are constantly asking her, “How are you doing?” She said she knows the desired response is, “I’m fine.” But the truth is… she isn’t “fine”… she is deeply hurt, scared, lonely, and feeling her way through the days in a world that she feels is spinning around her while she stands still. Several people commented to her and told her that they never fully understood these emotions until they lost someone dear to them… and now they get it. If nothing else, the experiences of grief and loss – and personal disrespect - have a way of making us more tender and sensitive to the needs and feelings of others around us… or they should.
We shouldn’t have to be thrust into a situation such as the death of a loved one before we become more attuned to the feelings of others. We should be looking for ways to show our respect for others… to offer them kindness, grace, mercy, encouragement, and support. We should recognize that every person has value – and needs… and our job as Christian disciples is to meet them right where they are. No one wants or deserves to be disrespected… not even a six-year-old. Look around. Who needs your respect today? What will you do to find the best in others and bring it to the forefront? Is there someone you have disrespected who needs to hear from you today? Will you make an effort to bring out the best in others and meet their needs, in Jesus’ name? Shouldn’t you?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for November 14, 2013
Acts 10:34-36
Peter fairly exploded with his good news: “It’s God’s own truth, nothing could be plainer: God plays no favorites! It makes no difference who you are or where you’re from—if you want God and are ready to do as he says, the door is open. The Message he sent to the children of Israel—that through Jesus Christ everything is being put together again—well, he’s doing it everywhere, among everyone.
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 a cold, snowy February night just over 20 years ago, I stood with my friend Kathy under the portico to the Pierre Hotel in New York City and watched as stars and entertainers arrived and departed from limousines. We were in town on a business trip… the entertainers and celebrities were attending a party inside the Pierre that was being held by the executives at Arista Records to celebrate the Grammy Awards ceremony the following night. Kathy and I are both about as “southern” as they come… and when we opened our mouths, it was evident that we were NOT native New Yorkers. However, we kept quiet and tried to blend in with the crowd as I snapped photos with my camera.
A couple standing next to us began to heckle the stars and the doorman. They were being incredibly vulgar and rude, and the hotel security official shot them more than one ugly glance. He even walked over to where we were standing and asked them to pipe down, which only made the couple laugh harder and become more offensive. Finally, he insisted that this young man and woman leave the hotel property. They immediately began to question this, and the doorman told them, “You do not belong here… you are not guests of the hotel… you need to leave – NOW!” The couple protested and pointed to Kathy and me and said, “But why don’t THEY have to leave? They don’t belong here!” The doorman told them, “They are guests of the hotel.”
To be clear, we were not staying at the hotel. We had merely wandered through the lobby to take in its ornate décor, and we happened to notice Cindi Lauper and a couple of other “famous” people as we stepped back outside. So we quietly parked ourselves along a velvet rope and tried to look inconspicuous. AND… the key word most likely was “quietly”. We were not heckling anyone. We were not shouting obscenities and looking the other way, as if someone else had uttered them and we didn’t know where the offensive words originated. We were not arguing with anyone or being a bother. So we got to stay… and the doorman treated us quite kindly. And in the end, the hecklers moved along down the sidewalk (and probably crashed another party at a neighboring hotel).
I have every confidence that this entire spectacle could have been avoided. Had the couple shown a little respect and honored the doorman’s authority and position, they could have been “wannabe paparazzi” like Kathy and me. We were no better than they were. And if you want to “go there”… the celebrities we were ogling were truly no “better” either! We give far too much credence to “celebrity” in this world – at least in my book! But the point I want to make is that these people forfeited the “privilege” of standing on that hotel portico and taking in the sights by failing to respect the authority of those in charge. They did not recognize… or accept… the parameters. They were unwilling to do as they were asked. And so “the door was closed.”
Where in your life have you “closed the door” in effect… on your relationships with people…on opportunities for improvement and/or advancement… and most significantly, on God? How have you disrespected the authority and guidelines? Where have you refused to “play by the rules” and essentially cost yourself a place at the table? How have you treated the people and situations in your life… and what has been the outcome?
We make a lot of our own messes, it seems. We make life and relationship choices that alter our course… and often close a lot of doors. We can correct this… especially with God. We can recognize and respect His authority in our lives… and His will. In turn, as we begin to give God the proper reverence and regard, He will open doors for us to repair and restore relationships and the conditions of other circumstances in our lives. God can put together what we have broken… if only we will bow before Him and ask for His forgiveness… and His help.
I don’t know about you, but the one door I never want closed is the door to heaven. I never want to behave in a manner that causes me to hear God say, “You need to leave.” I hope you feel the same way… and that you will do whatever it takes today to reconnect with Him… and to repair other relationships and situations where you have been disrespectful. You can regain your place at God’s table… you can stand once again alongside the “velvet rope” and enjoy the party. The choice is totally yours. How will you decide?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Peter fairly exploded with his good news: “It’s God’s own truth, nothing could be plainer: God plays no favorites! It makes no difference who you are or where you’re from—if you want God and are ready to do as he says, the door is open. The Message he sent to the children of Israel—that through Jesus Christ everything is being put together again—well, he’s doing it everywhere, among everyone.
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 a cold, snowy February night just over 20 years ago, I stood with my friend Kathy under the portico to the Pierre Hotel in New York City and watched as stars and entertainers arrived and departed from limousines. We were in town on a business trip… the entertainers and celebrities were attending a party inside the Pierre that was being held by the executives at Arista Records to celebrate the Grammy Awards ceremony the following night. Kathy and I are both about as “southern” as they come… and when we opened our mouths, it was evident that we were NOT native New Yorkers. However, we kept quiet and tried to blend in with the crowd as I snapped photos with my camera.
A couple standing next to us began to heckle the stars and the doorman. They were being incredibly vulgar and rude, and the hotel security official shot them more than one ugly glance. He even walked over to where we were standing and asked them to pipe down, which only made the couple laugh harder and become more offensive. Finally, he insisted that this young man and woman leave the hotel property. They immediately began to question this, and the doorman told them, “You do not belong here… you are not guests of the hotel… you need to leave – NOW!” The couple protested and pointed to Kathy and me and said, “But why don’t THEY have to leave? They don’t belong here!” The doorman told them, “They are guests of the hotel.”
To be clear, we were not staying at the hotel. We had merely wandered through the lobby to take in its ornate décor, and we happened to notice Cindi Lauper and a couple of other “famous” people as we stepped back outside. So we quietly parked ourselves along a velvet rope and tried to look inconspicuous. AND… the key word most likely was “quietly”. We were not heckling anyone. We were not shouting obscenities and looking the other way, as if someone else had uttered them and we didn’t know where the offensive words originated. We were not arguing with anyone or being a bother. So we got to stay… and the doorman treated us quite kindly. And in the end, the hecklers moved along down the sidewalk (and probably crashed another party at a neighboring hotel).
I have every confidence that this entire spectacle could have been avoided. Had the couple shown a little respect and honored the doorman’s authority and position, they could have been “wannabe paparazzi” like Kathy and me. We were no better than they were. And if you want to “go there”… the celebrities we were ogling were truly no “better” either! We give far too much credence to “celebrity” in this world – at least in my book! But the point I want to make is that these people forfeited the “privilege” of standing on that hotel portico and taking in the sights by failing to respect the authority of those in charge. They did not recognize… or accept… the parameters. They were unwilling to do as they were asked. And so “the door was closed.”
Where in your life have you “closed the door” in effect… on your relationships with people…on opportunities for improvement and/or advancement… and most significantly, on God? How have you disrespected the authority and guidelines? Where have you refused to “play by the rules” and essentially cost yourself a place at the table? How have you treated the people and situations in your life… and what has been the outcome?
We make a lot of our own messes, it seems. We make life and relationship choices that alter our course… and often close a lot of doors. We can correct this… especially with God. We can recognize and respect His authority in our lives… and His will. In turn, as we begin to give God the proper reverence and regard, He will open doors for us to repair and restore relationships and the conditions of other circumstances in our lives. God can put together what we have broken… if only we will bow before Him and ask for His forgiveness… and His help.
I don’t know about you, but the one door I never want closed is the door to heaven. I never want to behave in a manner that causes me to hear God say, “You need to leave.” I hope you feel the same way… and that you will do whatever it takes today to reconnect with Him… and to repair other relationships and situations where you have been disrespectful. You can regain your place at God’s table… you can stand once again alongside the “velvet rope” and enjoy the party. The choice is totally yours. How will you decide?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for November 12, 2013
Daniel 1:8-16
But Daniel was determined not to defile himself by eating the food and wine given to them by the king. He asked the chief of staff for permission not to eat these unacceptable foods. Now God had given the chief of staff both respect and affection for Daniel. But he responded, “I am afraid of my lord the king, who has ordered that you eat this food and wine. If you become pale and thin compared to the other youths your age, I am afraid the king will have me beheaded.”
Daniel spoke with the attendant who had been appointed by the chief of staff to look after Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah. “Please test us for ten days on a diet of vegetables and water,” Daniel said. “At the end of the ten days, see how we look compared to the other young men who are eating the king’s food. Then make your decision in light of what you see.” The attendant agreed to Daniel’s suggestion and tested them for ten days.
At the end of the ten days, Daniel and his three friends looked healthier and better nourished than the young men who had been eating the food assigned by the king. So after that, the attendant fed them only vegetables instead of the food and wine provided for the others.
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 few years ago, a young friend of our family determined that he wanted to apply for a prestigious private college. This brilliant then-high-school-student had virtually nothing going for him except his intelligence and determination. He worked throughout his high school years to earn spending money and to buy his books, necessities for school – and more. He received kindness and assistance from many who believed in him – including a place to live, food, clothing, moral support, and much more. He dreamed of attending a nearby private university, where the school’s website estimates the cost for the 2013-2014 year (including room and board) at $48,436. His school counselors tried to encourage him to apply to state-funded colleges, where they assured him that he could receive a full scholarship. Frankly, we all suggested this. But he would not listen. One counselor went so far as to tell him that he would never be admitted to this private university… that he was wasting his time and missing out on other opportunities in the meantime. In other words, it was just totally out of his league.
Finally, many of us realized that this kid was not going to give up on his dream. So we respected his wishes and supported him as he made the effort to raise the necessary funds to attend “his” college. And do you know what? He did it! Not only did he graduate from this college, where he studied psychology, philosophy and religious studies… he spent a semester abroad as a foreign exchange student to the University of Hyderabad in the state of Andhra Pradesh, India! Today, he works for Arkansas Hunger Relief Alliance, where he is making a difference in the lives of hungry people… and paying forward what was given to him.
I will admit that I was one of those who begged this young man to apply to state-funded colleges and take the guaranteed scholarship. Greg and I both graduated from a state-supported college, and Arkansas has many excellent schools of higher learning. But this young man believed in his dream to attend a university that US News and World Report has consecutively ranked among the top 12 liberal arts colleges in the nation. I can only conclude that God changed my heart at some point and gave me respect for this dream. And I am grateful that I listened!
Here’s the thing…we all know people who have “crazy notions”… ideas that we think will never fly – and often we are right! But we must be very careful to ask God for wisdom – and to listen to His answers. There will be times when we need to lovingly and respectfully encourage someone to “pick another path”… and times when we need to back off and say, “I respect your decision.” Only God can give us the wisdom to know which is which!
Will you be attentive to God’s word? Will you prayerfully seek His direction and operate with utmost respect at all times? When God tells you to believe in someone or something that seems ridiculous, impossible – or even dangerous - are you willing to be like the king’s attendant and take a leap of faith? When will we learn to trust God in all things? When will we understand the importance of respect… for others… and more importantly, for Him – for His word and His will? Isn’t it about time we “let go and let God”? Will this be the day that you begin?
©2013 Debbie Robus
But Daniel was determined not to defile himself by eating the food and wine given to them by the king. He asked the chief of staff for permission not to eat these unacceptable foods. Now God had given the chief of staff both respect and affection for Daniel. But he responded, “I am afraid of my lord the king, who has ordered that you eat this food and wine. If you become pale and thin compared to the other youths your age, I am afraid the king will have me beheaded.”
Daniel spoke with the attendant who had been appointed by the chief of staff to look after Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah. “Please test us for ten days on a diet of vegetables and water,” Daniel said. “At the end of the ten days, see how we look compared to the other young men who are eating the king’s food. Then make your decision in light of what you see.” The attendant agreed to Daniel’s suggestion and tested them for ten days.
At the end of the ten days, Daniel and his three friends looked healthier and better nourished than the young men who had been eating the food assigned by the king. So after that, the attendant fed them only vegetables instead of the food and wine provided for the others.
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 few years ago, a young friend of our family determined that he wanted to apply for a prestigious private college. This brilliant then-high-school-student had virtually nothing going for him except his intelligence and determination. He worked throughout his high school years to earn spending money and to buy his books, necessities for school – and more. He received kindness and assistance from many who believed in him – including a place to live, food, clothing, moral support, and much more. He dreamed of attending a nearby private university, where the school’s website estimates the cost for the 2013-2014 year (including room and board) at $48,436. His school counselors tried to encourage him to apply to state-funded colleges, where they assured him that he could receive a full scholarship. Frankly, we all suggested this. But he would not listen. One counselor went so far as to tell him that he would never be admitted to this private university… that he was wasting his time and missing out on other opportunities in the meantime. In other words, it was just totally out of his league.
Finally, many of us realized that this kid was not going to give up on his dream. So we respected his wishes and supported him as he made the effort to raise the necessary funds to attend “his” college. And do you know what? He did it! Not only did he graduate from this college, where he studied psychology, philosophy and religious studies… he spent a semester abroad as a foreign exchange student to the University of Hyderabad in the state of Andhra Pradesh, India! Today, he works for Arkansas Hunger Relief Alliance, where he is making a difference in the lives of hungry people… and paying forward what was given to him.
I will admit that I was one of those who begged this young man to apply to state-funded colleges and take the guaranteed scholarship. Greg and I both graduated from a state-supported college, and Arkansas has many excellent schools of higher learning. But this young man believed in his dream to attend a university that US News and World Report has consecutively ranked among the top 12 liberal arts colleges in the nation. I can only conclude that God changed my heart at some point and gave me respect for this dream. And I am grateful that I listened!
Here’s the thing…we all know people who have “crazy notions”… ideas that we think will never fly – and often we are right! But we must be very careful to ask God for wisdom – and to listen to His answers. There will be times when we need to lovingly and respectfully encourage someone to “pick another path”… and times when we need to back off and say, “I respect your decision.” Only God can give us the wisdom to know which is which!
Will you be attentive to God’s word? Will you prayerfully seek His direction and operate with utmost respect at all times? When God tells you to believe in someone or something that seems ridiculous, impossible – or even dangerous - are you willing to be like the king’s attendant and take a leap of faith? When will we learn to trust God in all things? When will we understand the importance of respect… for others… and more importantly, for Him – for His word and His will? Isn’t it about time we “let go and let God”? Will this be the day that you begin?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for November 9, 2013
Hebrews 13:7-8
Appreciate your pastoral leaders who gave you the Word of God. Take a good look at the way they live, and let their faithfulness instruct you, as well as their truthfulness. There should be a consistency that runs through us all. For Jesus doesn’t change—yesterday, today, tomorrow, he’s always totally himself.
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.
For several years, I taught a junior high Sunday school class at our church and worked with youth programs. One of my former students is getting married in a few weeks, and I recently attended a shower for him and his fiancée. He sent me a note of thanks afterward. And in it, he said, “I was incredibly blessed to have a Sunday school teacher who cared so much about me and my classmates."
I was deeply touched by this sweet comment. Most Sundays, I came home and spent the first hour telling Greg about the kids and how I felt they didn’t listen and were, at times, wildly disrespectful to each other – and to me. He would ask, “If you feel you aren’t accomplishing anything, why are you going back?” I am not sure I even knew why I continued, except that others kept telling me, “You can’t see it now – and you might never see it – but you are planting seeds. God is using you to make a difference in the lives of young people.” And while comments or notes like the one I received recently are rare, I do sense a lasting bond with many of these students who are now young adults.
It’s anyone’s guess why some of these kids kept coming each Sunday. Many did not have parents who attended church, so they were not made to attend. I don’t think it was just the candy… or even the camaraderie of their friends. I have to believe that in some way, they were hungry to learn how God could help them navigate the choppy waters of teenage life… how His word held answers for many of their questions. I tried to make the scripture lessons relevant and relatable… and to let the kids know that I truly did care about them. Now, when one of them notices – even in retrospect - I am incredibly blessed.
I am betting that you have – or had – at least one spiritual leader who has greatly blessed you… someone who guided you and shared the word of God with you… a person who has prayed with you and for you - and encouraged you with a message of hope in the LORD. Have you acknowledged them? Have you treated them with respect and gratitude for their care? I can tell you that they didn’t do these things in order to receive a pat on the back or a note of thanks. They shared God’s love and wisdom with you because they felt Him calling them to do this. But this scripture passage says that we should acknowledge the efforts of pastoral care… appreciate their care… and emulate their example.
There have been many such “teachers” in my life… and I have tried to thank them individually along the way. I know I will miss some here, but I must certainly mention a few of my Sunday school teachers - Mrs. Gloria, Mrs. Ila Mae, and Mrs. Caid; my mother and my Mam-ma Polly; my former pastor, Bro. John; my dear friend in Christ – Glenda; my “birthday buddy” and mentor, MawMac; my “brothers” and lifelong friends, Stuart, J.R. and John... and of course, my partner in life, Greg. These people have nurtured me and prayed with me… encouraged me in God’s word… and lived by example. I have a deep and abiding love and respect for each of them.
I could add countless other examples of Godly wisdom and service who have influenced me throughout the years – and still do today! Surely you have your own list. Who has God used to guide you? Who do you look to as an example of Christ’s love in action? Who do you respect as a Christian disciple? Have you shown them? Have you thanked them for caring for you… both directly and indirectly, by how you are living your own life as a Christian? This is the month when people are more clearly focused on gratitude and thanks for all kinds of blessings in their lives. Wouldn’t it be the perfect time to start showing your gratitude and respect to your pastoral leaders? Where do you need to begin?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Appreciate your pastoral leaders who gave you the Word of God. Take a good look at the way they live, and let their faithfulness instruct you, as well as their truthfulness. There should be a consistency that runs through us all. For Jesus doesn’t change—yesterday, today, tomorrow, he’s always totally himself.
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.
For several years, I taught a junior high Sunday school class at our church and worked with youth programs. One of my former students is getting married in a few weeks, and I recently attended a shower for him and his fiancée. He sent me a note of thanks afterward. And in it, he said, “I was incredibly blessed to have a Sunday school teacher who cared so much about me and my classmates."
I was deeply touched by this sweet comment. Most Sundays, I came home and spent the first hour telling Greg about the kids and how I felt they didn’t listen and were, at times, wildly disrespectful to each other – and to me. He would ask, “If you feel you aren’t accomplishing anything, why are you going back?” I am not sure I even knew why I continued, except that others kept telling me, “You can’t see it now – and you might never see it – but you are planting seeds. God is using you to make a difference in the lives of young people.” And while comments or notes like the one I received recently are rare, I do sense a lasting bond with many of these students who are now young adults.
It’s anyone’s guess why some of these kids kept coming each Sunday. Many did not have parents who attended church, so they were not made to attend. I don’t think it was just the candy… or even the camaraderie of their friends. I have to believe that in some way, they were hungry to learn how God could help them navigate the choppy waters of teenage life… how His word held answers for many of their questions. I tried to make the scripture lessons relevant and relatable… and to let the kids know that I truly did care about them. Now, when one of them notices – even in retrospect - I am incredibly blessed.
I am betting that you have – or had – at least one spiritual leader who has greatly blessed you… someone who guided you and shared the word of God with you… a person who has prayed with you and for you - and encouraged you with a message of hope in the LORD. Have you acknowledged them? Have you treated them with respect and gratitude for their care? I can tell you that they didn’t do these things in order to receive a pat on the back or a note of thanks. They shared God’s love and wisdom with you because they felt Him calling them to do this. But this scripture passage says that we should acknowledge the efforts of pastoral care… appreciate their care… and emulate their example.
There have been many such “teachers” in my life… and I have tried to thank them individually along the way. I know I will miss some here, but I must certainly mention a few of my Sunday school teachers - Mrs. Gloria, Mrs. Ila Mae, and Mrs. Caid; my mother and my Mam-ma Polly; my former pastor, Bro. John; my dear friend in Christ – Glenda; my “birthday buddy” and mentor, MawMac; my “brothers” and lifelong friends, Stuart, J.R. and John... and of course, my partner in life, Greg. These people have nurtured me and prayed with me… encouraged me in God’s word… and lived by example. I have a deep and abiding love and respect for each of them.
I could add countless other examples of Godly wisdom and service who have influenced me throughout the years – and still do today! Surely you have your own list. Who has God used to guide you? Who do you look to as an example of Christ’s love in action? Who do you respect as a Christian disciple? Have you shown them? Have you thanked them for caring for you… both directly and indirectly, by how you are living your own life as a Christian? This is the month when people are more clearly focused on gratitude and thanks for all kinds of blessings in their lives. Wouldn’t it be the perfect time to start showing your gratitude and respect to your pastoral leaders? Where do you need to begin?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for November 8, 2013
Matthew 25:40
“And the King will say, ‘I tell you the truth, when you did it to one of the least of these my brothers and sisters, you were doing it to me!"
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.
There is a lot of talk in the news about the Miami Dolphins linebacker Richie Incognito and his hazing of rookie lineman Jonathan Martin. There are people who are backing up Martin’s claims that Incognito took things too far… and others who are defending Incognito and saying this was blown out of proportion… that Martin “broke the rookie code” and should have handled this internally rather than going public with it. Either way, people have been disrespected… perhaps even bullied...and emotions are running high on both sides of the dilemma.
More than once, I have repeated the words of my pastor… “There is a heartache on every pew.” Several experiences in my life have left me with a mixed bag of emotions… confusion, frustration, anger, deep sadness, disappointment, betrayal, heartbreak - and an incredible weariness. And maybe you have felt the same way. In some cases, I’ve wanted to raise my hands and say, “That’s it!’ I’m DONE!” Sometimes it seems as though it would be so much easier to just walk away and let things happen… to turn our backs, move ahead with our lives, and let the chips fall where they may.
What keeps me from throwing in the towel? Every time I get even remotely close, I think of Jesus. Each and every time, He reminds me that I do this same thing to Him all the time. And He’s.Still.Here.
I am humbled and ashamed when I think that I have disrespected Jesus after all He has so generously and mercifully done for me. When I think that for one instant I frustrated Him, made Him angry, or caused Him a deep and penetrating sadness or heartache, I am incredibly grieved. To even imagine that I spoke unkindly – and my comments stung Jesus and broke His heart - is almost more than I can bear. To think that I could accept all that Jesus offers me and then treat Him in a manner that leaves him confused and asking, “Where did THAT come from? What in the world is she thinking?” makes me incredibly remorseful, embarrassed and ashamed. And still, He is here…doing what He does best – loving… forgiving… restoring…blessing. So how could I do any less in the situations that I encounter?
Don’t misunderstand… it hurts to be disrespected… and bullying at any age is simply not cool. None of us like to be mistreated, betrayed, or taken for fools. Everyone has feelings… even big ole pro football linebackers! Just because a person is at a certain stage in life or a “rookie” at something does not give others license to ridicule and torment. Just because someone is educated, has money and/or a respectable position - or seems to have everything in life going his/her way doesn’t mean that this person is numb to disrespect. Just because a person operates in faith and appears to be able to handle life’s challenges rather easily doesn’t mean that he/she will not be affected by mistreatment or disrespect.
We all need to take a long hard look at our daily living and our relationships with others. Where have we disrespected one another… and in doing so, disrespected Jesus? Where have we mistreated someone with our words and/or actions… and done the same thing to Jesus in the bargain? How have we been angered, frustrated, betrayed, and disappointed? How have we done these things to others… and to Jesus?
How have we responded to the disrespect of others? Does it fall in line with how Jesus treats us? Do we offer compassion, forgiveness, grace and mercy – even when it isn’t requested, much less deserved? Are we willing to love unconditionally, just as He does? Or do we tuck tail and run at the first sign that things are getting rough? When do we say, “Enough is enough?” and walk away… and when do we say, “Maybe God can show me how to repair and restore this situation or relationship.”?
I don’t know what is right in every situation… and I certainly don’t know what is the right answer to the apparent problem with hazing in the NFL! But I do know that we serve a God of second chances to the Nth degree…a God who continues to love us even when we disrespect Him. And this keeps me going.
We must make every effort to be respectful of others in all situations. At the same time, we must continue to work at showing our respect for Jesus… and that includes working through the frustrating situations that each of us encounters. It’s a tall order… and often, it’s not a whole lot of fun! We were not promised “free and easy” as Christians… but the blessings that we enjoy each and every day far outweigh any burdens. Don’t you agree?
I pray that you will join me in asking God to instill in your heart a newfound desire to seek ways to operate with respect… toward others AND toward Him. It may not change how everyone treats us in return, but at least we will know that we are honoring Jesus and His amazing love for us in our own daily living. If we are certain that we are pleasing Him, surely He will give us the courage and strength to handle the rest. Isn’t it worth a shot?
©2013 Debbie Robus
“And the King will say, ‘I tell you the truth, when you did it to one of the least of these my brothers and sisters, you were doing it to me!"
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.
There is a lot of talk in the news about the Miami Dolphins linebacker Richie Incognito and his hazing of rookie lineman Jonathan Martin. There are people who are backing up Martin’s claims that Incognito took things too far… and others who are defending Incognito and saying this was blown out of proportion… that Martin “broke the rookie code” and should have handled this internally rather than going public with it. Either way, people have been disrespected… perhaps even bullied...and emotions are running high on both sides of the dilemma.
More than once, I have repeated the words of my pastor… “There is a heartache on every pew.” Several experiences in my life have left me with a mixed bag of emotions… confusion, frustration, anger, deep sadness, disappointment, betrayal, heartbreak - and an incredible weariness. And maybe you have felt the same way. In some cases, I’ve wanted to raise my hands and say, “That’s it!’ I’m DONE!” Sometimes it seems as though it would be so much easier to just walk away and let things happen… to turn our backs, move ahead with our lives, and let the chips fall where they may.
What keeps me from throwing in the towel? Every time I get even remotely close, I think of Jesus. Each and every time, He reminds me that I do this same thing to Him all the time. And He’s.Still.Here.
I am humbled and ashamed when I think that I have disrespected Jesus after all He has so generously and mercifully done for me. When I think that for one instant I frustrated Him, made Him angry, or caused Him a deep and penetrating sadness or heartache, I am incredibly grieved. To even imagine that I spoke unkindly – and my comments stung Jesus and broke His heart - is almost more than I can bear. To think that I could accept all that Jesus offers me and then treat Him in a manner that leaves him confused and asking, “Where did THAT come from? What in the world is she thinking?” makes me incredibly remorseful, embarrassed and ashamed. And still, He is here…doing what He does best – loving… forgiving… restoring…blessing. So how could I do any less in the situations that I encounter?
Don’t misunderstand… it hurts to be disrespected… and bullying at any age is simply not cool. None of us like to be mistreated, betrayed, or taken for fools. Everyone has feelings… even big ole pro football linebackers! Just because a person is at a certain stage in life or a “rookie” at something does not give others license to ridicule and torment. Just because someone is educated, has money and/or a respectable position - or seems to have everything in life going his/her way doesn’t mean that this person is numb to disrespect. Just because a person operates in faith and appears to be able to handle life’s challenges rather easily doesn’t mean that he/she will not be affected by mistreatment or disrespect.
We all need to take a long hard look at our daily living and our relationships with others. Where have we disrespected one another… and in doing so, disrespected Jesus? Where have we mistreated someone with our words and/or actions… and done the same thing to Jesus in the bargain? How have we been angered, frustrated, betrayed, and disappointed? How have we done these things to others… and to Jesus?
How have we responded to the disrespect of others? Does it fall in line with how Jesus treats us? Do we offer compassion, forgiveness, grace and mercy – even when it isn’t requested, much less deserved? Are we willing to love unconditionally, just as He does? Or do we tuck tail and run at the first sign that things are getting rough? When do we say, “Enough is enough?” and walk away… and when do we say, “Maybe God can show me how to repair and restore this situation or relationship.”?
I don’t know what is right in every situation… and I certainly don’t know what is the right answer to the apparent problem with hazing in the NFL! But I do know that we serve a God of second chances to the Nth degree…a God who continues to love us even when we disrespect Him. And this keeps me going.
We must make every effort to be respectful of others in all situations. At the same time, we must continue to work at showing our respect for Jesus… and that includes working through the frustrating situations that each of us encounters. It’s a tall order… and often, it’s not a whole lot of fun! We were not promised “free and easy” as Christians… but the blessings that we enjoy each and every day far outweigh any burdens. Don’t you agree?
I pray that you will join me in asking God to instill in your heart a newfound desire to seek ways to operate with respect… toward others AND toward Him. It may not change how everyone treats us in return, but at least we will know that we are honoring Jesus and His amazing love for us in our own daily living. If we are certain that we are pleasing Him, surely He will give us the courage and strength to handle the rest. Isn’t it worth a shot?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for November 2, 2013
Psalm 55:12-14
This isn’t the neighborhood bully
mocking me—I could take that.
This isn’t a foreign devil spitting
invective—I could tune that out.
It’s you! We grew up together!
You! My best friend!
Those long hours of leisure as we walked
arm in arm, God a third party to our conversation.
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.
Several decades ago, Greg and I sold a house we owned to the brother of an acquaintance. Because we felt we knew this family fairly well, we provided owner financing. Pretty quickly, the monthly payments started showing up late… and then they stopped altogether. There was always an excuse… “the check was in the mail” and more. But in the end, we learned that the buyer had no intention of paying his bills and had pretty much moved on and left the house – and his family - behind. He had lied to his wife, and she apparently had no clue that the house payments were not being made on time each month – much less that they were not paid at all! As betrayed as we felt, I’m sure she felt even worse. The man she had married… the father of her children… had deceived her and put the livelihood of the entire family in jeopardy.
I am sure you can think of a time when a close friend or family member has betrayed your trust… and hurt you deeply. My hope would be that it was over something petty, like a bit of news you asked them to keep quiet… and they shared with the first person they met. But often, the hurts and betrayals are far worse. These are all prime examples of incredible disrespect. And when it comes at the hands of a close friend or family member, the pain and disappointment are greatly magnified.
Until I read a passage in Anne Graham Lotz’ book Just Give Me Jesus that referenced these scripture verses from Psalms 55, I had never realized that they foretell Jesus’ betrayal by Judas. Lotz maintains that Judas was one of Jesus’ best friends… a favored disciple who helped Him feed the masses with the fish and five loaves…a trusted companion who traveled with Him and ministered to countless people along the way… someone who prayed with Jesus, ate with Him, and no doubt shared incredibly intimate conversations about God and His plans for all of us. And yet, scripture tells us that Judas took his own life because of his mistake… and he ended up in hell for all of his transgressions.
Lotz explains that Judas asked forgiveness… of the priests and rulers. He threw the thirty silver coins at their feet after Jesus was arrested… and he begged their forgiveness. The problem was that Judas did not ask JESUS to forgive Him. We must confess our sins to Jesus and ask for His forgiveness in order to be absolved. This doesn’t mean we shouldn’t go to the person we have hurt or betrayed and ask for their mercy and understanding. And it certainly doesn’t mean we can live as we please, hurt whoever happens to be in the way, and apologize later!
We must think about our relationships… both earthly and heavenly. We must get our priorities straight and make every effort to honor these associations… to give them our utmost respect at all times. No lie or deception is acceptable…no words spoken disrespectfully or “out of turn” can be tolerated. We are called to a higher standard… we are expected to treat others as we would wish to be treated – at all times and in all places. This means we speak kindly, honor our commitments, and guard and value the integrity of our relationships! And it means that we answer to God first and foremost… which will often result in taking care of the rest of our associations!
I encourage you to think about your own relationships… not so much in terms of who has disrespected you, but more in the context of who YOU have disrespected. Do you need to spend some time at the feet of Jesus, baring your soul and confessing your indiscretions toward others – and toward Him? Do you have relationships you need to mend… people you owe an apology… circumstances where you should make a concerted effort to do better and try harder?
This is a month when we think a lot about gratitude and thanks. Isn’t this the perfect time to express yours by making amends where necessary? Are you certain you are truly forgiven… by others, and more importantly – by God? Isn’t it time you made sure of it?
©2013 Debbie Robus
This isn’t the neighborhood bully
mocking me—I could take that.
This isn’t a foreign devil spitting
invective—I could tune that out.
It’s you! We grew up together!
You! My best friend!
Those long hours of leisure as we walked
arm in arm, God a third party to our conversation.
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.
Several decades ago, Greg and I sold a house we owned to the brother of an acquaintance. Because we felt we knew this family fairly well, we provided owner financing. Pretty quickly, the monthly payments started showing up late… and then they stopped altogether. There was always an excuse… “the check was in the mail” and more. But in the end, we learned that the buyer had no intention of paying his bills and had pretty much moved on and left the house – and his family - behind. He had lied to his wife, and she apparently had no clue that the house payments were not being made on time each month – much less that they were not paid at all! As betrayed as we felt, I’m sure she felt even worse. The man she had married… the father of her children… had deceived her and put the livelihood of the entire family in jeopardy.
I am sure you can think of a time when a close friend or family member has betrayed your trust… and hurt you deeply. My hope would be that it was over something petty, like a bit of news you asked them to keep quiet… and they shared with the first person they met. But often, the hurts and betrayals are far worse. These are all prime examples of incredible disrespect. And when it comes at the hands of a close friend or family member, the pain and disappointment are greatly magnified.
Until I read a passage in Anne Graham Lotz’ book Just Give Me Jesus that referenced these scripture verses from Psalms 55, I had never realized that they foretell Jesus’ betrayal by Judas. Lotz maintains that Judas was one of Jesus’ best friends… a favored disciple who helped Him feed the masses with the fish and five loaves…a trusted companion who traveled with Him and ministered to countless people along the way… someone who prayed with Jesus, ate with Him, and no doubt shared incredibly intimate conversations about God and His plans for all of us. And yet, scripture tells us that Judas took his own life because of his mistake… and he ended up in hell for all of his transgressions.
Lotz explains that Judas asked forgiveness… of the priests and rulers. He threw the thirty silver coins at their feet after Jesus was arrested… and he begged their forgiveness. The problem was that Judas did not ask JESUS to forgive Him. We must confess our sins to Jesus and ask for His forgiveness in order to be absolved. This doesn’t mean we shouldn’t go to the person we have hurt or betrayed and ask for their mercy and understanding. And it certainly doesn’t mean we can live as we please, hurt whoever happens to be in the way, and apologize later!
We must think about our relationships… both earthly and heavenly. We must get our priorities straight and make every effort to honor these associations… to give them our utmost respect at all times. No lie or deception is acceptable…no words spoken disrespectfully or “out of turn” can be tolerated. We are called to a higher standard… we are expected to treat others as we would wish to be treated – at all times and in all places. This means we speak kindly, honor our commitments, and guard and value the integrity of our relationships! And it means that we answer to God first and foremost… which will often result in taking care of the rest of our associations!
I encourage you to think about your own relationships… not so much in terms of who has disrespected you, but more in the context of who YOU have disrespected. Do you need to spend some time at the feet of Jesus, baring your soul and confessing your indiscretions toward others – and toward Him? Do you have relationships you need to mend… people you owe an apology… circumstances where you should make a concerted effort to do better and try harder?
This is a month when we think a lot about gratitude and thanks. Isn’t this the perfect time to express yours by making amends where necessary? Are you certain you are truly forgiven… by others, and more importantly – by God? Isn’t it time you made sure of it?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for November 1, 2013
Luke 14:10-11
“When you’re invited to dinner, go and sit at the last place. Then when the host comes he may very well say, ‘Friend, come up to the front.’ That will give the dinner guests something to talk about! What I’m saying is, If you walk around with your nose in the air, you’re going to end up flat on your face. But if you’re content to be simply yourself, you will become more than yourself.”
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.
My lifelong friend, Adam Little, is a video editor in Nashville… a very good video editor whose work has won numerous awards. He posted on Facebook today that two of his videos are up for CMA awards... Miranda Lambert’s "Mama's Broken Heart" and Blake Shelton's "Boys Round Here". He noted that “both were directed by the talented Trey Fanjoy.” Now here’s the deal… most of you have heard of Miranda Lambert and Blake Shelton. But I bet a lot of you had no clue who Adam Little and Trey Fanjoy were a few minutes ago! Yet, without a good director… and a very good video editor, the work of these famous performers might go fairly unrecognized. I can assure you that the advent of video and the Internet opened up a whole new world for entertainers in all genres… particularly music. Now, artists can put their work on YouTube and send it out through other mass media venues. They can now reach an audience of millions in minutes. This used to take months and years as the singers drove from radio station to station and peddled their latest recording.
Still, Lambert and Shelton will take home the glory at the CMAs while Adam and Trey simply smile and “do what they do”, so to speak. And I am not here to imply that Miranda Lambert and Blake Shelton walk around with their noses in the air. I don’t know either of them… they very well may be humble, truly nice people. But I know that they will take the accolades and the credit – and thank a few people if they win (hopefully including Adam and Trey!)… and they will continue to be the people everyone talks about. It is my hope that in some format, the artists will give Adam and Trey and others who worked on their projects due recognition. I trust that they will find a way to essentially say to them, “Friend, come up to the front!” But I know Adam… he will be fine either way, because he is content to simply be himself. And that makes him more famous in my book than a thousand Blake Sheltons or Miranda Lamberts!
What about you? Do you seek the limelight? Do you crave recognition for your accomplishments and good deeds? Have you ever asked someone, “Do you have any idea who you are dealing with… do you know who I am?” Even if you didn’t say these words out loud… have you ever given someone else this impression? Do you aspire to hang out with “the rich and famous”? Is it your goal to become one of them?
I know people who think they are “all that and a bag of chips”… and people who truly are all that – and could care less who knew it! And I will tell you that those in the latter category truly have it going on… with other people – and with God! You’re not fooling anyone when you put on airs. It may seem as if people flock to you and want to be around you – or to be you! But in truth, an attitude of arrogance and/or superiority only appears to take one places. True humility and respect for others, regardless of their station or accomplishments – or yours, is what counts.
God will bless those who are simply themselves… the ones who quietly go about their work and move behind the scenes… the “video editors and directors” of life. Are you one of them? Don’t you think you should be?
©2013 Debbie Robus
“When you’re invited to dinner, go and sit at the last place. Then when the host comes he may very well say, ‘Friend, come up to the front.’ That will give the dinner guests something to talk about! What I’m saying is, If you walk around with your nose in the air, you’re going to end up flat on your face. But if you’re content to be simply yourself, you will become more than yourself.”
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.
My lifelong friend, Adam Little, is a video editor in Nashville… a very good video editor whose work has won numerous awards. He posted on Facebook today that two of his videos are up for CMA awards... Miranda Lambert’s "Mama's Broken Heart" and Blake Shelton's "Boys Round Here". He noted that “both were directed by the talented Trey Fanjoy.” Now here’s the deal… most of you have heard of Miranda Lambert and Blake Shelton. But I bet a lot of you had no clue who Adam Little and Trey Fanjoy were a few minutes ago! Yet, without a good director… and a very good video editor, the work of these famous performers might go fairly unrecognized. I can assure you that the advent of video and the Internet opened up a whole new world for entertainers in all genres… particularly music. Now, artists can put their work on YouTube and send it out through other mass media venues. They can now reach an audience of millions in minutes. This used to take months and years as the singers drove from radio station to station and peddled their latest recording.
Still, Lambert and Shelton will take home the glory at the CMAs while Adam and Trey simply smile and “do what they do”, so to speak. And I am not here to imply that Miranda Lambert and Blake Shelton walk around with their noses in the air. I don’t know either of them… they very well may be humble, truly nice people. But I know that they will take the accolades and the credit – and thank a few people if they win (hopefully including Adam and Trey!)… and they will continue to be the people everyone talks about. It is my hope that in some format, the artists will give Adam and Trey and others who worked on their projects due recognition. I trust that they will find a way to essentially say to them, “Friend, come up to the front!” But I know Adam… he will be fine either way, because he is content to simply be himself. And that makes him more famous in my book than a thousand Blake Sheltons or Miranda Lamberts!
What about you? Do you seek the limelight? Do you crave recognition for your accomplishments and good deeds? Have you ever asked someone, “Do you have any idea who you are dealing with… do you know who I am?” Even if you didn’t say these words out loud… have you ever given someone else this impression? Do you aspire to hang out with “the rich and famous”? Is it your goal to become one of them?
I know people who think they are “all that and a bag of chips”… and people who truly are all that – and could care less who knew it! And I will tell you that those in the latter category truly have it going on… with other people – and with God! You’re not fooling anyone when you put on airs. It may seem as if people flock to you and want to be around you – or to be you! But in truth, an attitude of arrogance and/or superiority only appears to take one places. True humility and respect for others, regardless of their station or accomplishments – or yours, is what counts.
God will bless those who are simply themselves… the ones who quietly go about their work and move behind the scenes… the “video editors and directors” of life. Are you one of them? Don’t you think you should be?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for October 31, 2013
Matthew 7:7-12
“Don’t bargain with God. Be direct. Ask for what you need. This isn’t a cat-and-mouse, hide-and-seek game we’re in. If your child asks for bread, do you trick him with sawdust? If he asks for fish, do you scare him with a live snake on his plate? As bad as you are, you wouldn’t think of such a thing. You’re at least decent to your own children. So don’t you think the God who conceived you in love will be even better?
“Here is a simple, rule-of-thumb guide for behavior: Ask yourself what you want people to do for you, then grab the initiative and do it for them. Add up God’s Law and Prophets and this is what you get.
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 is the day that children across America look forward to all year…for several reasons. Chief among them? Candy! The kids (and some grown-ups!) dress up in cute and/or scary costumes, knock on doors and say, “Trick-or-treat!”… and expect to receive candy to put in their sack, bag, plastic pumpkin – or even a pillowcase! According to news reports, a woman in West Fargo, North Dakota, has decided to substitute “fat letters” for candy as her “treat” to those children she decides are “obese”. The letter will tell their parents that this child should not be consuming sugar… and encourage them to ration the child’s candy consumption.
While I am all for combatting childhood obesity… can you imagine the heartbreak of a child who rings the doorbell on Halloween - expecting a sweet treat - when he/she receives this letter? Who would do such a thing to a child? There is a time and place for everything… and this is neither the time – nor the place! This woman is playing a game - and using unsuspecting children as the pawns. This is exactly the point that Jesus is making in the book of Matthew… that most parents would never do this - and God most certainly would not!
Yes, God is our Heavenly Father. Yes, He has standards… and expectations… for each of us. But God would never play games with us. He would never disrespect us or make promises He can’t – or won’t – keep. God doesn’t lie, cheat or steal. He doesn’t ignore us because He isn’t in the mood to talk to us (as we often do with friends and family members). He would never try to con us or manipulate us. God would never disrespect our relationship… He would never talk about us to others behind our backs, call us names, or speak hatefully or unkindly toward us. God would never slam a door in our face… or lead us to expect one thing – and give us something else.
God offers us the perfect model for how to treat others in His Son, Jesus Christ. Jesus was never unkind or disrespectful toward anyone… not even His enemies. And none of us wants to be mistreated or disrespected. So why would we think it was okay to act this way toward anyone else? This passage reminds us to think about how we want others to treat us… and beat them to the punch!
We are called to treat others in the same way that we wish to be treated – or better! When trick-or-treaters ring your doorbell tonight, give them your best candy and treats. And make a vow to give others your best each and every day. Let the love, grace, and mercy of Jesus be your daily “costume” as you strive to emulate Him in your interactions with others. Savor the goodness of living in a way that pleases Him… as a child savors the best piece of chocolate in his/her bag. Operate in the confidence that you have “represented” well.
Whether it’s Halloween or any other day of the year, operate in the “treats” of God… and leave the tricks and disrespect to the devil.
©2013 Debbie Robus
“Don’t bargain with God. Be direct. Ask for what you need. This isn’t a cat-and-mouse, hide-and-seek game we’re in. If your child asks for bread, do you trick him with sawdust? If he asks for fish, do you scare him with a live snake on his plate? As bad as you are, you wouldn’t think of such a thing. You’re at least decent to your own children. So don’t you think the God who conceived you in love will be even better?
“Here is a simple, rule-of-thumb guide for behavior: Ask yourself what you want people to do for you, then grab the initiative and do it for them. Add up God’s Law and Prophets and this is what you get.
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 is the day that children across America look forward to all year…for several reasons. Chief among them? Candy! The kids (and some grown-ups!) dress up in cute and/or scary costumes, knock on doors and say, “Trick-or-treat!”… and expect to receive candy to put in their sack, bag, plastic pumpkin – or even a pillowcase! According to news reports, a woman in West Fargo, North Dakota, has decided to substitute “fat letters” for candy as her “treat” to those children she decides are “obese”. The letter will tell their parents that this child should not be consuming sugar… and encourage them to ration the child’s candy consumption.
While I am all for combatting childhood obesity… can you imagine the heartbreak of a child who rings the doorbell on Halloween - expecting a sweet treat - when he/she receives this letter? Who would do such a thing to a child? There is a time and place for everything… and this is neither the time – nor the place! This woman is playing a game - and using unsuspecting children as the pawns. This is exactly the point that Jesus is making in the book of Matthew… that most parents would never do this - and God most certainly would not!
Yes, God is our Heavenly Father. Yes, He has standards… and expectations… for each of us. But God would never play games with us. He would never disrespect us or make promises He can’t – or won’t – keep. God doesn’t lie, cheat or steal. He doesn’t ignore us because He isn’t in the mood to talk to us (as we often do with friends and family members). He would never try to con us or manipulate us. God would never disrespect our relationship… He would never talk about us to others behind our backs, call us names, or speak hatefully or unkindly toward us. God would never slam a door in our face… or lead us to expect one thing – and give us something else.
God offers us the perfect model for how to treat others in His Son, Jesus Christ. Jesus was never unkind or disrespectful toward anyone… not even His enemies. And none of us wants to be mistreated or disrespected. So why would we think it was okay to act this way toward anyone else? This passage reminds us to think about how we want others to treat us… and beat them to the punch!
We are called to treat others in the same way that we wish to be treated – or better! When trick-or-treaters ring your doorbell tonight, give them your best candy and treats. And make a vow to give others your best each and every day. Let the love, grace, and mercy of Jesus be your daily “costume” as you strive to emulate Him in your interactions with others. Savor the goodness of living in a way that pleases Him… as a child savors the best piece of chocolate in his/her bag. Operate in the confidence that you have “represented” well.
Whether it’s Halloween or any other day of the year, operate in the “treats” of God… and leave the tricks and disrespect to the devil.
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for October 30, 2013
Philippians 2:1-4
If you’ve gotten anything at all out of following Christ, if his love has made any difference in your life, if being in a community of the Spirit means anything to you, if you have a heart, if you care— then do me a favor: Agree with each other, love each other, be deep-spirited friends. Don’t push your way to the front; don’t sweet-talk your way to the top. Put yourself aside, and help others get ahead. Don’t be obsessed with getting your own advantage. Forget yourselves long enough to lend a helping hand.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
When Greg and I returned to our hometown in 1987 to start our own then-home-based-business, we purchased some very expensive (to us) equipment. In order to stay on budget, I took on extra work in graphic design… creating letterhead, business cards, menus for local restaurants, and more. Remember…this was before everyone became an “expert” at creating such documents for themselves. Personal computers were just coming on the scene in a big way… and the printer that cost us $4000 in 1987 would probably sell for less than $400 today!
As I branched out and sought more avenues for generating income, I began to offer a public relations service… creating newsletters for several area businesses and groups, including a manufacturing plant, a bank, and a country club. I attended social events and took photographs, wrote articles about the happenings, and put it all together into a publication to distribute to employees or mail to members and guests. I even became the publicity director for a locally-owned company that produced decorative room fragrance products to sell around the world. In that capacity, I photographed events and produced newsletters for the company employees and the gift shop customers who sold these products in their stores. I also “called on” magazine and newspaper editors and reporters across the country in an effort to get them to mention or feature the company’s products in their publications.
Let’s just say that in the course of about five years, I “rubbed elbows” with some very interesting people… from line crew chiefs at a manufacturing facility to world-famous interior designers… and even former-President Bill Clinton and his wife, Hillary. I traveled from coast to coast and stayed in four-star hotels, dressed up in fancy clothes and attended high-dollar dinners, and photographed a lot of “beautiful people”. I also worked very hard behind the scenes, handled menial details for my employer (like ironing the dresses for models before a big “launch” party), and stood on the sidelines at dozens of events. And here’s what I learned from all of this… 1) I have no desire to live a “jet-setting” lifestyle; and 2) people are people… regardless of their station in life, and each deserves respect and kindness.
See, the “garden-club ladies” in Los Angeles to treated me to lunch one day had families and life challenges. They needed Jesus just as much as the cook at the country club who had worked so hard all of her life…standing on her feet in a hot kitchen creating dishes that suited her employer while worrying about her children and how she juggle all of the trials and tasks that made up her life. I discovered that the interior designer whose creations were in demand around the world was eager to talk about his latest ailments and his daily life in a way that told me just how lonely and sad he truly was. The people who seemed to “have it all” were not immune from cancer, heart disease, divorce, family scandals, and so much more. They were no different than the people in my own hometown who appeared to live simple lives… and they needed Jesus just as much as the next person.
In realizing this, I came to understand that the words of Ecclesiastes 5:15 are quite profound…”They came into this world naked, and when they die, they will be just as naked. They can’t take anything with them, and they won’t have anything to show for all their work.” (CEV) We can’t take our money, our position, or even our earthly reputation or “good name” with us when God calls us home. All we will have when we stand before Him is our record of service and obedience in His name. All God will care about is whether we treated others with the same kindness, respect, love, grace and mercy that He offers to each of us.
God will want to know if we were kind to the homeless and the needy… and equally respectful toward those who were dripping in diamonds. Did we care as much about those who seemed to flaunt their affluence as much as the humble orphan? Did we try to be something – or someone – we weren’t… in order to fit in? Did we “dumb down” to some people and “put on airs” to others? Did we treat those with more than us as if they owed us a handout… and did we look down our noses as we gave to the needy? Were we eager to truly get to know others… not because of who they were or what they had, but because every person brings something of value to the table?
We need to all “come clean” with God and with ourselves about how we treat others. We need to recognize that we truly do all come into this world naked and equal – at least in God’s eyes. We must make a concerted effort to love each person we encounter and treat him/her with respect. It’s time to put our own personal agendas aside and focus on God’s commands. Has God’s love made a difference in your life? Are you truly ready to show it?
©2013 Debbie Robus
If you’ve gotten anything at all out of following Christ, if his love has made any difference in your life, if being in a community of the Spirit means anything to you, if you have a heart, if you care— then do me a favor: Agree with each other, love each other, be deep-spirited friends. Don’t push your way to the front; don’t sweet-talk your way to the top. Put yourself aside, and help others get ahead. Don’t be obsessed with getting your own advantage. Forget yourselves long enough to lend a helping hand.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
When Greg and I returned to our hometown in 1987 to start our own then-home-based-business, we purchased some very expensive (to us) equipment. In order to stay on budget, I took on extra work in graphic design… creating letterhead, business cards, menus for local restaurants, and more. Remember…this was before everyone became an “expert” at creating such documents for themselves. Personal computers were just coming on the scene in a big way… and the printer that cost us $4000 in 1987 would probably sell for less than $400 today!
As I branched out and sought more avenues for generating income, I began to offer a public relations service… creating newsletters for several area businesses and groups, including a manufacturing plant, a bank, and a country club. I attended social events and took photographs, wrote articles about the happenings, and put it all together into a publication to distribute to employees or mail to members and guests. I even became the publicity director for a locally-owned company that produced decorative room fragrance products to sell around the world. In that capacity, I photographed events and produced newsletters for the company employees and the gift shop customers who sold these products in their stores. I also “called on” magazine and newspaper editors and reporters across the country in an effort to get them to mention or feature the company’s products in their publications.
Let’s just say that in the course of about five years, I “rubbed elbows” with some very interesting people… from line crew chiefs at a manufacturing facility to world-famous interior designers… and even former-President Bill Clinton and his wife, Hillary. I traveled from coast to coast and stayed in four-star hotels, dressed up in fancy clothes and attended high-dollar dinners, and photographed a lot of “beautiful people”. I also worked very hard behind the scenes, handled menial details for my employer (like ironing the dresses for models before a big “launch” party), and stood on the sidelines at dozens of events. And here’s what I learned from all of this… 1) I have no desire to live a “jet-setting” lifestyle; and 2) people are people… regardless of their station in life, and each deserves respect and kindness.
See, the “garden-club ladies” in Los Angeles to treated me to lunch one day had families and life challenges. They needed Jesus just as much as the cook at the country club who had worked so hard all of her life…standing on her feet in a hot kitchen creating dishes that suited her employer while worrying about her children and how she juggle all of the trials and tasks that made up her life. I discovered that the interior designer whose creations were in demand around the world was eager to talk about his latest ailments and his daily life in a way that told me just how lonely and sad he truly was. The people who seemed to “have it all” were not immune from cancer, heart disease, divorce, family scandals, and so much more. They were no different than the people in my own hometown who appeared to live simple lives… and they needed Jesus just as much as the next person.
In realizing this, I came to understand that the words of Ecclesiastes 5:15 are quite profound…”They came into this world naked, and when they die, they will be just as naked. They can’t take anything with them, and they won’t have anything to show for all their work.” (CEV) We can’t take our money, our position, or even our earthly reputation or “good name” with us when God calls us home. All we will have when we stand before Him is our record of service and obedience in His name. All God will care about is whether we treated others with the same kindness, respect, love, grace and mercy that He offers to each of us.
God will want to know if we were kind to the homeless and the needy… and equally respectful toward those who were dripping in diamonds. Did we care as much about those who seemed to flaunt their affluence as much as the humble orphan? Did we try to be something – or someone – we weren’t… in order to fit in? Did we “dumb down” to some people and “put on airs” to others? Did we treat those with more than us as if they owed us a handout… and did we look down our noses as we gave to the needy? Were we eager to truly get to know others… not because of who they were or what they had, but because every person brings something of value to the table?
We need to all “come clean” with God and with ourselves about how we treat others. We need to recognize that we truly do all come into this world naked and equal – at least in God’s eyes. We must make a concerted effort to love each person we encounter and treat him/her with respect. It’s time to put our own personal agendas aside and focus on God’s commands. Has God’s love made a difference in your life? Are you truly ready to show it?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for October 29, 2013
Philippians 4:16-19
Even when I was in Thessalonica you sent help more than once. I don’t say this because I want a gift from you. Rather, I want you to receive a reward for your kindness.
At the moment I have all I need—and more! I am generously supplied with the gifts you sent me with Epaphroditus. They are a sweet-smelling sacrifice that is acceptable and pleasing to God. And this same God who takes care of me will supply all your needs from his glorious riches, which have been given to us in Christ Jesus.
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
You’ve no doubt heard something about the “pay it forward” trend that has taken hold in several areas of our country in recent months. One person will pull up at a restaurant drive-thru or get in line at the coffee shop and pay for his/her bill… and the person who is next in line. Or someone will get their bill at a restaurant, and the server says, “The couple who just left has paid your bill already.” I even heard of a drive-thru dry cleaning business where someone paid for the customer behind them in line… and set off a chain reaction of these payments! And maybe you have wondered, “Why did they do this? Are they rich? Do they have ‘money to burn’? Or are they on some sort of ego trip?” The answer to all three questions is most likely, “No, no, and NO!” I believe these people have figured out what Paul is telling the people of Philippi… that the kindness and generosity we show to others pleases God – and in turn, He meets all of our needs and blesses us in ways we cannot even imagine.
Greg and I have friends who do this sort of thing quite often. She will pay the bill for someone who is getting a manicure alongside her. They will pay the restaurant bill for a family with small children that they do not even recognize. They are the first on the scene when a plea for help goes out… and they are always ready to do whatever is necessary for someone else. This couple is not wealthy… at least not in the way we conventionally think! They are “ordinary” hard-working people who enjoy helping others and serving God. They do this out of respect for all that God has given to them. And let me tell you, they are blessed beyond measure in return!
“But I can barely pay my own bills… I can’t afford to pay someone else’s!” you may say. And that’s okay. Look around you… what CAN you give? Do you have a few minutes you could spare to help a friend… or listen to his/her problems? Did you have an extra serving from dinner that you could share with an elderly neighbor? Do you have some clothing or household items you no longer use that could be donated to charity? Could you send a note or e-mail message of encouragement to someone who is having a rough time? Could you stop someone in the aisle at the store – or the hallway at school – and ask, “How are you doing?”… then stick around to hear their answer? If you have been helped or blessed in some way, have you repaid that kindness – at least with respect toward the giver, if he/she was not anonymous? Have you “paid it forward” in some way… ever?
Gratitude comes in many forms… and they all involve respect for what we have been given. If someone has treated you kindly, encouraged you, or helped you in some way… whether monetarily or otherwise …God is calling on you to extend gratitude and appreciation to them for being so generous. If you know the person who has blessed you, offer this kindness directly. If the offerings were anonymous, do something nice for someone else as a way of “paying it forward”. There are plenty of opportunities to help others and serve God in the process… if only we will look for them.
The bottom line is that God is pleased when we love and serve others… and He is equally pleased when we humbly show gratitude and respect for all that we have been given. The questions for today are… “Who do you need to bless and serve in God’s name?” and “In addition to God, who do you need to thank for extending generous blessings in your direction?” If you will do these things, God will meet all of your needs… and more. He is continually “paying it forward”… are you?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Even when I was in Thessalonica you sent help more than once. I don’t say this because I want a gift from you. Rather, I want you to receive a reward for your kindness.
At the moment I have all I need—and more! I am generously supplied with the gifts you sent me with Epaphroditus. They are a sweet-smelling sacrifice that is acceptable and pleasing to God. And this same God who takes care of me will supply all your needs from his glorious riches, which have been given to us in Christ Jesus.
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
You’ve no doubt heard something about the “pay it forward” trend that has taken hold in several areas of our country in recent months. One person will pull up at a restaurant drive-thru or get in line at the coffee shop and pay for his/her bill… and the person who is next in line. Or someone will get their bill at a restaurant, and the server says, “The couple who just left has paid your bill already.” I even heard of a drive-thru dry cleaning business where someone paid for the customer behind them in line… and set off a chain reaction of these payments! And maybe you have wondered, “Why did they do this? Are they rich? Do they have ‘money to burn’? Or are they on some sort of ego trip?” The answer to all three questions is most likely, “No, no, and NO!” I believe these people have figured out what Paul is telling the people of Philippi… that the kindness and generosity we show to others pleases God – and in turn, He meets all of our needs and blesses us in ways we cannot even imagine.
Greg and I have friends who do this sort of thing quite often. She will pay the bill for someone who is getting a manicure alongside her. They will pay the restaurant bill for a family with small children that they do not even recognize. They are the first on the scene when a plea for help goes out… and they are always ready to do whatever is necessary for someone else. This couple is not wealthy… at least not in the way we conventionally think! They are “ordinary” hard-working people who enjoy helping others and serving God. They do this out of respect for all that God has given to them. And let me tell you, they are blessed beyond measure in return!
“But I can barely pay my own bills… I can’t afford to pay someone else’s!” you may say. And that’s okay. Look around you… what CAN you give? Do you have a few minutes you could spare to help a friend… or listen to his/her problems? Did you have an extra serving from dinner that you could share with an elderly neighbor? Do you have some clothing or household items you no longer use that could be donated to charity? Could you send a note or e-mail message of encouragement to someone who is having a rough time? Could you stop someone in the aisle at the store – or the hallway at school – and ask, “How are you doing?”… then stick around to hear their answer? If you have been helped or blessed in some way, have you repaid that kindness – at least with respect toward the giver, if he/she was not anonymous? Have you “paid it forward” in some way… ever?
Gratitude comes in many forms… and they all involve respect for what we have been given. If someone has treated you kindly, encouraged you, or helped you in some way… whether monetarily or otherwise …God is calling on you to extend gratitude and appreciation to them for being so generous. If you know the person who has blessed you, offer this kindness directly. If the offerings were anonymous, do something nice for someone else as a way of “paying it forward”. There are plenty of opportunities to help others and serve God in the process… if only we will look for them.
The bottom line is that God is pleased when we love and serve others… and He is equally pleased when we humbly show gratitude and respect for all that we have been given. The questions for today are… “Who do you need to bless and serve in God’s name?” and “In addition to God, who do you need to thank for extending generous blessings in your direction?” If you will do these things, God will meet all of your needs… and more. He is continually “paying it forward”… are you?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for October 28, 2013
Proverbs 25:6
Don’t demand an audience with the king or push for a place among the great.
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.
Greg and I took my mother-in-law, a.k.a. “Grandma E”, to a nearby city for a routine eye exam. While the two of them went into an exam, I sat in the waiting area and read a book… or rather, I tried to read. A little man came in - huffing and puffing - and practically collapsed in a chair near mine… as if he could not go a step farther. He was short, with hunched shoulders and rather long, wildly flowing “salt-and-pepper” hair - and a full beard. His khaki pants looked like they would fit a man six times his size, and he had them cinched with a belt that was equally large and swung from his waist as he shuffled along. His oversized shirt further emphasized his slight frame…and his dirty fingernails underscored his rather unkempt – appearance. He looked like he might be on his last leg…yet when he stood at the receptionist’s window to sign in, he was jovial and bright as he eagerly signed in, saying…“You gave me two good eyes last time… how about a third one this time?”
Returning to sit near me, the man began to breath heavily – and steadily, as if he was asleep… and occasionally he groaned and grunted almost as if he were snoring – or talking in his sleep! I tried to keep my eyes on my Kindle and continue reading. When the nurse came to get another patient, we both looked up at the now-empty waiting room, and the man said, “I guess you and I are next!” I explained that I was merely waiting for someone and that “You’re next!” He replied, “Doesn’t matter… I’m 71 and retired… I don’t get in a hurry about anything!” (This man looked every day of NINETY-one, if he looked a day!) And then, he began to talk!
He told me that he had stayed up all night watching very good old movies… and now he was tired. He asked where I live, and he told me he had moved to this city recently because he thought renting would be cheaper than owning his own home. I listened politely to what he was saying… and soon he had picked up a magazine and settled in to read it (somewhat aloud and under his breath!).
He told me that he had stayed up all night watching very good old movies… and now he was tired. He asked where I live, and he told me he had moved to this city recently because he thought renting would be cheaper than owning his own home. I listened politely to what he was saying… and soon he had picked up a magazine and settled in to read it (somewhat aloud and under his breath!).
When the nurse came for the man, she treated him especially kindly and with respect… as if he were the most important person to her at that moment. And it struck me… shouldn’t we treat everyone this way? Why do we reserve our best for those we feel are “royalty” or celebrities? Why is it such a big deal to us to have our picture made with some people… or to get their autograph… when we might not give their family members…or most certainly their neighbors… the time of day? What makes them so much more special?
For all I know, this man was a retired professor from the university in the city we were visiting. He might have acquired his hunched appearance from bending over patients in a dental office or surgery table… or from assembling parts in a factory or shoveling garbage or soil. He might have once had a wife and children and a lively family life…but from all accounts, he now appeared to be fairly alone in the world. The point is… why would we desire his presence any less than that of a famous athlete, musician, movie star or politician? Why would we treat him with any less importance or respect? Why would we shy away from such a person in favor of someone we deem more “worthy”?
How would you feel if God treated you this way? What if He said, “You’ve not done as much as So-and-So…you’re not as important as he/she is to me. What you do with your life doesn’t really matter to me, because it will never measure up or be as good.” One of my dearest friends dropped out of college to start a family. She reared two amazing sons and practically ran her father’s construction business for nearly 30 years. She loved God and served Him in her home church and her community. And one day she said to me, “I never did anything with my life. I was just a mom.” It nearly broke my heart.
You see, God doesn’t see who we are in the world or what we have accomplished… at least not in the way we see it. God sees us as His precious creations… each one with the potential He gave us to accomplish what He desires for us in this earthly lifetime. He designed some of us to be Olympic athletes… and others to do incredible things without arms or legs. He created moms and dads who stay home and rear children... and people who never have children of their own – but parent and mentor countless others along the way. God made the well-dressed businessman sitting in the waiting area… and the disheveled, sleepy little man who sat beside me. And none is better than the next.
So think about WHO you are… and who you think you are. What are your aspirations? Are you striving to be a celebrity or hang out with kings? Or are you focused on being who God wants you to be? Are you treating others differently, according to who – or what – you think they are? Isn’t it time you treated each person as you desire for God to treat you… with respect, kindness, grace and mercy?
There is a popular television show called “Who Do You Think You Are?” that features “celebrities” who trace their family’s ancestry. They discover all sorts of things about their ancestors… some good, and some not so good. The question I have for you today is, “Who do you think you are?” We would all do well to consider this question as it relates to our own aspirations… and how we treat others in our midst. Who do you think you are… and how are you behaving as a result?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for October 27, 2013
Romans 12:9-11
Don’t just pretend to love others. Really love them. Hate what is wrong. Hold tightly to what is good. Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honoring each other. Never be lazy, but work hard and serve the Lord enthusiastically.
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.
In case you didn’t know this already, I really, really, REALLY love my little great-niece and nephews, Zola, Timothy and Nathan. I would do just about anything for them. Yes, I shower them with “things” – clothes, toys, and treats, to name a few. But I also try to show genuine affection as often as I can… hugs, kisses, snuggles, applause for accomplishments, praise for good behavior… and lots and lots of time spent together doing all sorts of things. I’ve cooked their meals, changed their diapers, bathed them, rocked them to sleep… and most importantly, I have prayed for them. Even though they are toddlers and small children, I respect them, so I try to listen to their opinions about which foods they like, their protests at naptime or bedtime, and even their choice of the toys with which they would like to play.
But because I love these children so much, I have rules they must follow. I want them to learn to be strong, morally upright, independent people who respect others… and themselves. So I insist that they at least help clean up the messes they make… that they don’t splash water out of the tub and all over me… that they don’t spit or throw food…that they use an “inside voice” and don’t yell and scream when we are inside… that they mind me and their Uncle Greg when we ask them to do something…and that they treat others with kindness and respect. They know that when they disobey these rules, there are consequences… and they are discovering that the consequences are no fun!
If I didn’t love and care for Timothy, Zola and Nathan so much, I might ditch the rules and let them have a free-for-all. Or I might just say, “Call me when you are a grown-up” and go my merry way for the next 18 years or so. I could telephone and send cards occasionally… see them on holidays for an hour or two… and tell everyone how much I love them. But this would be neither good, nor right. Real love involves action as much as words… maybe more! Real love involves respect and reverence for the other guy… and a demonstration of this through genuine affection and honor. And real love requires effort!
Our love and respect for God is no different. We can say we love Him… we can go through the motions and give Him lip service. But if we don’t show Him genuine affection… if we disrespect and dishonor Him… if we disobey His laws and try to have it our way… we have not really loved Him. Furthermore, when we treat others in this manner, we have not loved God… because to dishonor, disrespect, and mistreat one of God’s creatures is to do the same to Him. And the consequences of mistreating God are no fun, either. When we fail to show God real love, we form a separation between us and Him… we block His blessings and short-change everyone involved.
I encourage you to take a long hard look at your life. Who do you really love…and who do you pretend to love? Who do you shower with genuine affection and honor… and who do you disrespect and disobey? Where are you lazy in your efforts to love others? Where do you need to work harder to demonstrate real love? Isn’t it time you figured all of this out and started making better choices? Are you holding tightly to what is good and hating what is wrong...in your relationships with God - and with others? Do you really love God… and others? Isn’t it time you did?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Don’t just pretend to love others. Really love them. Hate what is wrong. Hold tightly to what is good. Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honoring each other. Never be lazy, but work hard and serve the Lord enthusiastically.
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.
In case you didn’t know this already, I really, really, REALLY love my little great-niece and nephews, Zola, Timothy and Nathan. I would do just about anything for them. Yes, I shower them with “things” – clothes, toys, and treats, to name a few. But I also try to show genuine affection as often as I can… hugs, kisses, snuggles, applause for accomplishments, praise for good behavior… and lots and lots of time spent together doing all sorts of things. I’ve cooked their meals, changed their diapers, bathed them, rocked them to sleep… and most importantly, I have prayed for them. Even though they are toddlers and small children, I respect them, so I try to listen to their opinions about which foods they like, their protests at naptime or bedtime, and even their choice of the toys with which they would like to play.
But because I love these children so much, I have rules they must follow. I want them to learn to be strong, morally upright, independent people who respect others… and themselves. So I insist that they at least help clean up the messes they make… that they don’t splash water out of the tub and all over me… that they don’t spit or throw food…that they use an “inside voice” and don’t yell and scream when we are inside… that they mind me and their Uncle Greg when we ask them to do something…and that they treat others with kindness and respect. They know that when they disobey these rules, there are consequences… and they are discovering that the consequences are no fun!
If I didn’t love and care for Timothy, Zola and Nathan so much, I might ditch the rules and let them have a free-for-all. Or I might just say, “Call me when you are a grown-up” and go my merry way for the next 18 years or so. I could telephone and send cards occasionally… see them on holidays for an hour or two… and tell everyone how much I love them. But this would be neither good, nor right. Real love involves action as much as words… maybe more! Real love involves respect and reverence for the other guy… and a demonstration of this through genuine affection and honor. And real love requires effort!
Our love and respect for God is no different. We can say we love Him… we can go through the motions and give Him lip service. But if we don’t show Him genuine affection… if we disrespect and dishonor Him… if we disobey His laws and try to have it our way… we have not really loved Him. Furthermore, when we treat others in this manner, we have not loved God… because to dishonor, disrespect, and mistreat one of God’s creatures is to do the same to Him. And the consequences of mistreating God are no fun, either. When we fail to show God real love, we form a separation between us and Him… we block His blessings and short-change everyone involved.
I encourage you to take a long hard look at your life. Who do you really love…and who do you pretend to love? Who do you shower with genuine affection and honor… and who do you disrespect and disobey? Where are you lazy in your efforts to love others? Where do you need to work harder to demonstrate real love? Isn’t it time you figured all of this out and started making better choices? Are you holding tightly to what is good and hating what is wrong...in your relationships with God - and with others? Do you really love God… and others? Isn’t it time you did?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for October 24, 2013
Romans 13:2
So anyone who rebels against authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and they will be punished.
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.
The quote on my calendar for today said:
As we grow and develop, we become more independent – in both thoughts and actions. And this is a good thing, for the most part. But we also seem to grow more rebellious. Many of us decide that we want to completely control our own destiny… often with disastrous results.
I saw a recent news report about motorcyclists who have made a game out of driving recklessly on public streets and highways. They call themselves “stunters”. One 33-year-old husband and father of three, who calls himself “Krash” said, “This is my rush.” When asked about the fact that riding down the highway on one wheel is illegal, he said he didn’t feel like a lawbreaker… that “I believe it can be controlled.” The reporter asked him what could be done to make him stop, and he said, “… really, nothing.” Obviously “Krash” has decided that the rules do not apply to him. He does not respect the laws - or those who enforce them – even at risk of arrest, serious personal injury, or possible death!
Where in our daily living are we behaving like “stunters”? Where have we forgotten that we are sunk without God and His authority and all-powerfulness? How have we failed to recognize that when we rebel against earthly authority, we are doing the same thing to God?
It is time for us to examine our thoughts and actions toward others and determine where we lack respect for them. We must ask God to show us how change…to develop a new mindset about the influence and mandates of everyone from our parents and teachers to our bosses…our spouses…and our leaders in everything from the community to our nation. We need to review how we are treating people and property at every “level”. If we are rebelling against authority – or showing disrespect – we have done the same to God. Timothy is right… God is in charge of everything. And as the little boy told Him in prayer… if we lose His blessing, we truly are sunk! Is this a risk you are willing to take?
©2013 Debbie Robus
So anyone who rebels against authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and they will be punished.
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.
The quote on my calendar for today said:
A little boy ended a lengthy prayer that had included everyone he could think of by saying: “And dear God, take care of Yourself. If anything happens to You, we’re all sunk!”Whoever this little boy was… he totally “got it!” I’m reminded of the last time I said night-time prayers with our Timothy, and he said, “God, thank You… for EVERYTHING!” How is it that little kids understand the omnipotence and authority of God better than we adults? “Terrible Twos” and an occasional attempt to “test the waters” aside…most children respect authority in general far better than any other age group!
As we grow and develop, we become more independent – in both thoughts and actions. And this is a good thing, for the most part. But we also seem to grow more rebellious. Many of us decide that we want to completely control our own destiny… often with disastrous results.
I saw a recent news report about motorcyclists who have made a game out of driving recklessly on public streets and highways. They call themselves “stunters”. One 33-year-old husband and father of three, who calls himself “Krash” said, “This is my rush.” When asked about the fact that riding down the highway on one wheel is illegal, he said he didn’t feel like a lawbreaker… that “I believe it can be controlled.” The reporter asked him what could be done to make him stop, and he said, “… really, nothing.” Obviously “Krash” has decided that the rules do not apply to him. He does not respect the laws - or those who enforce them – even at risk of arrest, serious personal injury, or possible death!
Where in our daily living are we behaving like “stunters”? Where have we forgotten that we are sunk without God and His authority and all-powerfulness? How have we failed to recognize that when we rebel against earthly authority, we are doing the same thing to God?
It is time for us to examine our thoughts and actions toward others and determine where we lack respect for them. We must ask God to show us how change…to develop a new mindset about the influence and mandates of everyone from our parents and teachers to our bosses…our spouses…and our leaders in everything from the community to our nation. We need to review how we are treating people and property at every “level”. If we are rebelling against authority – or showing disrespect – we have done the same to God. Timothy is right… God is in charge of everything. And as the little boy told Him in prayer… if we lose His blessing, we truly are sunk! Is this a risk you are willing to take?
©2013 Debbie Robus
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