John 16:23-28
"This is what I want you to do: Ask the Father for whatever is in keeping with the things I've revealed to you. Ask in my name, according to my will, and he'll most certainly give it to you. Your joy will be a river overflowing its banks!
"I've used figures of speech in telling you these things. Soon I'll drop the figures and tell you about the Father in plain language. Then you can make your requests directly to him in relation to this life I've revealed to you. I won't continue making requests of the Father on your behalf. I won't need to. Because you've gone out on a limb, committed yourselves to love and trust in me, believing I came directly from the Father, the Father loves you directly. First, I left the Father and arrived in the world; now I leave the world and travel to the Father."
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 years ago, a new program was enacted that required everyone who is covered by Medicare to choose an insurance company to cover the cost of their prescription drugs. It’s called Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Coverage… or “Part D” for short. Since I handle my grandmother’s business affairs, this decision for her coverage fell to me. As with all new programs, there were kinks and things that didn’t work like they should… and a huge learning curve.
After several weeks of frustration and getting passed from one person to another, I sent e-mail messages to all of my Congressmen and women… and my governor… to complain about the treatment I was receiving and the inefficiency of the system. Eventually I was given the number of a representative named Donna, who worked directly for Medicare. Donna was such a blessing, and by the time we had everything settled, I had her telephone number on speed dial in my phone! I could now go directly to Donna for answers… I didn’t have to contact agency after agency and get passed around like a hot potato. And for several years, I phoned Donna to get clarification about my decisions.
Imagine if we had to go through this agency and that person and someone else just to talk to God. What if we had to “leave a message” with our pastor or another church official, who would in turn talk to God and “get back to us” with a response. How much would you really try to communicate with God? Do you think your relationship with Him would be very strong?
I am so thankful for Jesus. Because He came to earth and lived among us… taught us how to live as His Disciples, and then died on the cross for our sins… we have DIRECT access to God any time we want! We don’t have to sacrifice an animal or burn an offering. We don’t have to talk to church leaders and ask them to intercede for us. We just have to open our heart – and our mouth – and say, “Hello, LORD… I’m back, and I need you!” Because of Jesus, we can ask, “LORD, please handle this for me, according to Your will,” and He will do it!
I don’t know about you, but I don’t like having to leave messages and go through this person or that one to get my answers… and I surely would not like having this kind of relationship with God. Aren’t you glad we don’t have to do this? Isn’t it time you put God on your “speed dial” and talk with Him as often as you can?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Showing posts with label sacrifice. Show all posts
Showing posts with label sacrifice. Show all posts
Daily Devotional for March 4, 2011
Mark 8:34-38
Jesus then told the crowd and the disciples to come closer, and he said: If any of you want to be my followers, you must forget about yourself. You must take up your cross and follow me. If you want to save your life, you will destroy it. But if you give up your life for me and for the good news, you will save it. What will you gain, if you own the whole world but destroy yourself? What could you give to get back your soul?
Don't be ashamed of me and my message among these unfaithful and sinful people! If you are, the Son of Man will be ashamed of you when he comes in the glory of his Father with the holy angels.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I got to watch my 15-year-old second cousin cheer for her girls’ basketball team this week in the state tournament, which is hosted at our gym. My cousin has played basketball since she was six. But this year, a friend persuaded her to try out for cheer instead. Her team won their first game, but they were defeated soundly in the second round. From what I’m told, they could have used my cousin’s skills on the court… and she says she will return to the team next year.
I am sure my cousin had fun cheering and being with her friends this season. But I could tell that she sees this is not where she really belongs. She was persuaded by her friends, as we often are… and while this was not a life-or-death decision, I think she wished she was out on the court with her team-mates and not standing on the sidelines.
We do so much of this in our spiritual life. We listen to the wrong “friends” and influences… and let’s be honest, they are often the devil’s agents! We lose our way, if only momentarily. We want to give up our old life and follow Jesus, but we are often scared to death to really do this. What if our old friends desert us? What if it’s not as much fun as we had hoped… or no fun at all? What if people it costs us… socially, emotionally, and financially? Because you see, we may have to change jobs or friends… or even distance ourselves from family members. We might have to move to another apartment, dorm room, or even college! A choice might have to be made about staying with a significant other, or even changing church families!
What could you give to get back your soul? The better question is… what would you give to get back your soul? It may not seem like our choices reflect a shame or embarrassment about our relationship with Jesus, but that’s really what is going on here. If we are not ashamed – if we are not afraid – if the Influence in our life is the Son of Man, and not Satan, we can boldly make the right choices.
What we choose… and who we choose to associate with and/or follow… defines in large part our relationship with Jesus Christ. Who are you listening to… and following… today?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Jesus then told the crowd and the disciples to come closer, and he said: If any of you want to be my followers, you must forget about yourself. You must take up your cross and follow me. If you want to save your life, you will destroy it. But if you give up your life for me and for the good news, you will save it. What will you gain, if you own the whole world but destroy yourself? What could you give to get back your soul?
Don't be ashamed of me and my message among these unfaithful and sinful people! If you are, the Son of Man will be ashamed of you when he comes in the glory of his Father with the holy angels.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I got to watch my 15-year-old second cousin cheer for her girls’ basketball team this week in the state tournament, which is hosted at our gym. My cousin has played basketball since she was six. But this year, a friend persuaded her to try out for cheer instead. Her team won their first game, but they were defeated soundly in the second round. From what I’m told, they could have used my cousin’s skills on the court… and she says she will return to the team next year.
I am sure my cousin had fun cheering and being with her friends this season. But I could tell that she sees this is not where she really belongs. She was persuaded by her friends, as we often are… and while this was not a life-or-death decision, I think she wished she was out on the court with her team-mates and not standing on the sidelines.
We do so much of this in our spiritual life. We listen to the wrong “friends” and influences… and let’s be honest, they are often the devil’s agents! We lose our way, if only momentarily. We want to give up our old life and follow Jesus, but we are often scared to death to really do this. What if our old friends desert us? What if it’s not as much fun as we had hoped… or no fun at all? What if people it costs us… socially, emotionally, and financially? Because you see, we may have to change jobs or friends… or even distance ourselves from family members. We might have to move to another apartment, dorm room, or even college! A choice might have to be made about staying with a significant other, or even changing church families!
What could you give to get back your soul? The better question is… what would you give to get back your soul? It may not seem like our choices reflect a shame or embarrassment about our relationship with Jesus, but that’s really what is going on here. If we are not ashamed – if we are not afraid – if the Influence in our life is the Son of Man, and not Satan, we can boldly make the right choices.
What we choose… and who we choose to associate with and/or follow… defines in large part our relationship with Jesus Christ. Who are you listening to… and following… today?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for August 16, 2010
Hebrews 13:16
But don't forget to help others and to share your possessions with them. This too is like offering a sacrifice that pleases God.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
A few months ago, we invited some friends over for a “soup supper” one evening. I made three “soups” – loaded baked potato, chili, and what I call “calico bean pot.” One of the guests in particular really liked my bean soup. He said, “I would like to have your recipe.” Now, I could have been really stingy and said, “Sorry, Bud … that’s a secret recipe.” I could reason that by keeping this recipe to myself, it would be all mine – somewhat one of my “signature dishes.” The only place for our family and friends to enjoy it would be at our table. But instead, I told this guest I would be glad to share the recipe with him.
Sometimes, we are like this as Christians. We don’t want to share what we have with others – from time and talent to material possessions to the blessings of an intimate relationship with the Holy Spirit. It’s like we think we will somehow diminish our self-worth or our own experience if we share with others. In truth, we all have more than we need of everything … material possessions, a few minutes of time for others, a helping hand, and even abundance in our relationship with God Almighty. If we share with others in God’s name, are we really afraid He will make us do without? Do you really believe that helping others and sharing your possessions with them will cause God to deplete your own supply?
Truly, the more we give, the more we get … although this should not be our motivation. We can find instance after instance in the Bible where someone tried to make a sacrifice, and God was so pleased that He blessed them abundantly. You can’t outdo God! So really, we have nothing to lose by giving to others. Whatever we give away, God will replace … in amounts we can’t even measure!
Don’t forget to help others and share your possessions with them … including your love and compassion. You will be amazed at what happens when you please God in this manner … and He will most surely bless you in return.
©2010 Debbie Robus
But don't forget to help others and to share your possessions with them. This too is like offering a sacrifice that pleases God.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
A few months ago, we invited some friends over for a “soup supper” one evening. I made three “soups” – loaded baked potato, chili, and what I call “calico bean pot.” One of the guests in particular really liked my bean soup. He said, “I would like to have your recipe.” Now, I could have been really stingy and said, “Sorry, Bud … that’s a secret recipe.” I could reason that by keeping this recipe to myself, it would be all mine – somewhat one of my “signature dishes.” The only place for our family and friends to enjoy it would be at our table. But instead, I told this guest I would be glad to share the recipe with him.
Sometimes, we are like this as Christians. We don’t want to share what we have with others – from time and talent to material possessions to the blessings of an intimate relationship with the Holy Spirit. It’s like we think we will somehow diminish our self-worth or our own experience if we share with others. In truth, we all have more than we need of everything … material possessions, a few minutes of time for others, a helping hand, and even abundance in our relationship with God Almighty. If we share with others in God’s name, are we really afraid He will make us do without? Do you really believe that helping others and sharing your possessions with them will cause God to deplete your own supply?
Truly, the more we give, the more we get … although this should not be our motivation. We can find instance after instance in the Bible where someone tried to make a sacrifice, and God was so pleased that He blessed them abundantly. You can’t outdo God! So really, we have nothing to lose by giving to others. Whatever we give away, God will replace … in amounts we can’t even measure!
Don’t forget to help others and share your possessions with them … including your love and compassion. You will be amazed at what happens when you please God in this manner … and He will most surely bless you in return.
©2010 Debbie Robus
August 12 ~ Luke 3:11
Luke 3:11
John told them, "If you have two coats, give one to someone who doesn't have any. If you have food, share it with someone else."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I am reminded of the Andy Griffith episode where Opie is asked to contribute to charity, and he gives a measly three cents. His dad is very upset with him, and Opie finally admits that he saved up his allowance to buy a winter coat for a needy friend. There is also an episode where Opie gives up a job delivering groceries so that another friend who needs the money can work.
This passage is about so much more than clothes and food. And as “Opie Taylor” shows us, putting the needs of the other guy ahead of our own isn’t always easy or popular. But this doesn’t negate the fact that it’s the right thing to do. It seems like Opie had a knack for seeing needs and meeting them. Sadly, if some of us see a need, we turn and look away.
We talk a lot about nurture these days. But what does “nurture” really mean? I believe it means following Luke 3:11. I believe that real nurture means turning off your favorite television program and spending that hour talking to someone who could use a friend or writing get-well cards and notes of encouragement to people you know who are struggling. Real nurture means picking up an extra package of diapers at the store and giving them to your co-worker who has a new baby and two other kids and can barely pay the bills. True nurture means dropping everything when someone you know gets sick or dies … and rushing to the side of that person and/or family and friends to offer comfort and support.
Christian nurture requires us to lift our heads, open our eyes and ears, and look outside of ourselves to see the needs of others … and then meet them! If we don’t perform some act of Christian nurture almost every day, we probably aren’t serving very well. I didn’t say we have to cook a meal or give away clothing or do something on a grand scale. I am talking about something as simple as sacrificing five or ten minutes to really ask a friend, “How are you doing?” - and stick around for their answer. I’m talking about sending an e-mail to someone to let them know that God cares about them – and so do you. I’m talking about going out of your way to be polite to someone at the grocery store or in the school cafeteria.
There are countless ways to offer Christian nurture, if we will notice them. The question is … are we paying attention?
©2010 Debbie Robus
John told them, "If you have two coats, give one to someone who doesn't have any. If you have food, share it with someone else."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I am reminded of the Andy Griffith episode where Opie is asked to contribute to charity, and he gives a measly three cents. His dad is very upset with him, and Opie finally admits that he saved up his allowance to buy a winter coat for a needy friend. There is also an episode where Opie gives up a job delivering groceries so that another friend who needs the money can work.
This passage is about so much more than clothes and food. And as “Opie Taylor” shows us, putting the needs of the other guy ahead of our own isn’t always easy or popular. But this doesn’t negate the fact that it’s the right thing to do. It seems like Opie had a knack for seeing needs and meeting them. Sadly, if some of us see a need, we turn and look away.
We talk a lot about nurture these days. But what does “nurture” really mean? I believe it means following Luke 3:11. I believe that real nurture means turning off your favorite television program and spending that hour talking to someone who could use a friend or writing get-well cards and notes of encouragement to people you know who are struggling. Real nurture means picking up an extra package of diapers at the store and giving them to your co-worker who has a new baby and two other kids and can barely pay the bills. True nurture means dropping everything when someone you know gets sick or dies … and rushing to the side of that person and/or family and friends to offer comfort and support.
Christian nurture requires us to lift our heads, open our eyes and ears, and look outside of ourselves to see the needs of others … and then meet them! If we don’t perform some act of Christian nurture almost every day, we probably aren’t serving very well. I didn’t say we have to cook a meal or give away clothing or do something on a grand scale. I am talking about something as simple as sacrificing five or ten minutes to really ask a friend, “How are you doing?” - and stick around for their answer. I’m talking about sending an e-mail to someone to let them know that God cares about them – and so do you. I’m talking about going out of your way to be polite to someone at the grocery store or in the school cafeteria.
There are countless ways to offer Christian nurture, if we will notice them. The question is … are we paying attention?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for August 10, 2010
Isaiah 58:7
Share your food with everyone who is hungry; share your home with the poor and homeless. Give clothes to those in need; don't turn away your relatives.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Recently, my maternal grandmother’s only remaining sister became very ill. She lives in a nursing home, and her two children both live on opposite coasts. Her daughter phoned my mom from New York and said she was coming to see her mother. She said she had asked the nursing home for a cot, so that she could stay in her mother’s room. My mom immediately said, “That’s not necessary … you can stay with us.”
Subsequently, Mom picked up her cousin at the airport, then again at a Little Rock hospital after her aunt was taken there for surgery. Then Mom’s husband returned the cousin to the Little Rock airport for her flight back to New York. He might have only met this woman once in his life before the weekend, but he graciously offered to drive her to the airport. This allowed my mom to work on an editing deadline for a book she is writing that must go to the publisher at the end of the week. Mom was already running behind because she took countless hours to spend with her aunt and cousin. She shrugged and said, “We don’t get to choose when we die.” She gets it that you “don’t turn away your relatives.”
Often, we are called upon to do things that are inconvenient. People don’t get sick or die on a schedule. Divorces, new babies, natural disasters, and much more happen at seemingly inopportune times. People find themselves needing a place to stay. I once observed my Mam-ma bake a wedding cake for a cousin who otherwise would not have had one, and when she came to get it, Mam-ma opened her dresser drawer, removed a brand new night gown, and handed it to the girl. Did I mention my grandparents were middle class farmers who barely made ends meet?
Many of us have become very comfortable. God has piled our blessings high, and we have somewhat become “hoarders.” It’s time to start giving away and sharing with others … not only our extras, but even the good stuff! I recently took a few articles of clothing to the local thrift shop. I have to admit, I had pulled out a couple of blouses a few weeks ago and then put them back in my closet, thinking they were too good to give away. The truth is, I don’t need them, won’t wear them, and someone else could. We all have these sorts of things. We could all share a meal with someone who needs one … or buy a sack of groceries for someone we know is struggling. We could anonymously purchase an Angel Food gift certificate for a family in need or offer to drive a relative to an appointment … or leave a package of diapers on the doorstep of young parents on a limited budget.
If you are a teenager, you could offer to do yard work for an elderly person, or give up some of your iTune downloads to buy a meal for a hungry friend. You could offer a ride to someone you know who needs one … or you could give away those extra t-shirts and your discarded-but-still-perfectly-good athletic shoes to someone who has little to none. Maybe you can help a friend or classmate who can’t afford the back-to-school supplies. The point is … WE CAN ALL DO MORE … and we should! I challenge you today to prayerfully look around and see who you can bless. Ask God to show you who needs to see Christian love in action, then share it! I guarantee you that YOU will receive the bigger blessing. That’s not the reason for doing so, but it’s a nice added bonus … and who doesn’t want to be blessed by the Lord!
©2010 Debbie Robus
Share your food with everyone who is hungry; share your home with the poor and homeless. Give clothes to those in need; don't turn away your relatives.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Recently, my maternal grandmother’s only remaining sister became very ill. She lives in a nursing home, and her two children both live on opposite coasts. Her daughter phoned my mom from New York and said she was coming to see her mother. She said she had asked the nursing home for a cot, so that she could stay in her mother’s room. My mom immediately said, “That’s not necessary … you can stay with us.”
Subsequently, Mom picked up her cousin at the airport, then again at a Little Rock hospital after her aunt was taken there for surgery. Then Mom’s husband returned the cousin to the Little Rock airport for her flight back to New York. He might have only met this woman once in his life before the weekend, but he graciously offered to drive her to the airport. This allowed my mom to work on an editing deadline for a book she is writing that must go to the publisher at the end of the week. Mom was already running behind because she took countless hours to spend with her aunt and cousin. She shrugged and said, “We don’t get to choose when we die.” She gets it that you “don’t turn away your relatives.”
Often, we are called upon to do things that are inconvenient. People don’t get sick or die on a schedule. Divorces, new babies, natural disasters, and much more happen at seemingly inopportune times. People find themselves needing a place to stay. I once observed my Mam-ma bake a wedding cake for a cousin who otherwise would not have had one, and when she came to get it, Mam-ma opened her dresser drawer, removed a brand new night gown, and handed it to the girl. Did I mention my grandparents were middle class farmers who barely made ends meet?
Many of us have become very comfortable. God has piled our blessings high, and we have somewhat become “hoarders.” It’s time to start giving away and sharing with others … not only our extras, but even the good stuff! I recently took a few articles of clothing to the local thrift shop. I have to admit, I had pulled out a couple of blouses a few weeks ago and then put them back in my closet, thinking they were too good to give away. The truth is, I don’t need them, won’t wear them, and someone else could. We all have these sorts of things. We could all share a meal with someone who needs one … or buy a sack of groceries for someone we know is struggling. We could anonymously purchase an Angel Food gift certificate for a family in need or offer to drive a relative to an appointment … or leave a package of diapers on the doorstep of young parents on a limited budget.
If you are a teenager, you could offer to do yard work for an elderly person, or give up some of your iTune downloads to buy a meal for a hungry friend. You could offer a ride to someone you know who needs one … or you could give away those extra t-shirts and your discarded-but-still-perfectly-good athletic shoes to someone who has little to none. Maybe you can help a friend or classmate who can’t afford the back-to-school supplies. The point is … WE CAN ALL DO MORE … and we should! I challenge you today to prayerfully look around and see who you can bless. Ask God to show you who needs to see Christian love in action, then share it! I guarantee you that YOU will receive the bigger blessing. That’s not the reason for doing so, but it’s a nice added bonus … and who doesn’t want to be blessed by the Lord!
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for August 1, 2010
Romans 12:1
[Christ Brings New Life] Dear friends, God is good. So I beg you to offer your bodies to him as a living sacrifice, pure and pleasing. That's the most sensible way to serve God.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Have you ever watched “Let’s Make a Deal”? Often, the host of the show gives someone a wonderful prize, and then he says something, “I’ll give you what’s behind Door #2, if you’ll give me the new couch I just gave you.” In order to get something potentially greater, the contestant has to be willing to sacrifice what he/she just won. Whether the prize behind Door #2 is actually better is not known until the curtain goes up. Choosing to do this is a 50-50 gamble. And some contestants are not willing to take the chance.
In order to experience new life in Christ, we have to “sacrifice” something … our sinful nature. When you get down to it, that’s not much of a “sacrifice” per se, but for some of us, it can feel like a hard choice or a gamble – especially at first. Some of us enjoy our old, sinful lives, and letting go of the past and the lifestyle and behaviors we are comfortable with can be daunting. What many don’t realize is how incredibly amazing – how pure and pleasing – life in Christ can be. Like the people on “Let’s Make a Deal,” we are nervous about what lies “behind Door #2”.
I won’t lie to you … choosing to follow Jesus is not always easy. You may lose a few “friends” or have to stop going some of the places you used to go and doing the things you used to do. But God will send you new friends. He will give you new activities and interests. If you fill your days and nights with loving, serving and studying Him, He will fill YOU!
What are you waiting for? Stand up and choose “what’s behind the door.” Tell God your fears and apprehensions about accepting His offer of a new life in Christ. Let Him help you work through the growing pains and attain the peace and joy that being in a right relationship with Him brings. We all get discouraged from time to time … and you will, too! But God is waiting to set you back on your feet and give you the desires of your heart. All you have to do is choose His “door”.
©2010 Debbie Robus
[Christ Brings New Life] Dear friends, God is good. So I beg you to offer your bodies to him as a living sacrifice, pure and pleasing. That's the most sensible way to serve God.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Have you ever watched “Let’s Make a Deal”? Often, the host of the show gives someone a wonderful prize, and then he says something, “I’ll give you what’s behind Door #2, if you’ll give me the new couch I just gave you.” In order to get something potentially greater, the contestant has to be willing to sacrifice what he/she just won. Whether the prize behind Door #2 is actually better is not known until the curtain goes up. Choosing to do this is a 50-50 gamble. And some contestants are not willing to take the chance.
In order to experience new life in Christ, we have to “sacrifice” something … our sinful nature. When you get down to it, that’s not much of a “sacrifice” per se, but for some of us, it can feel like a hard choice or a gamble – especially at first. Some of us enjoy our old, sinful lives, and letting go of the past and the lifestyle and behaviors we are comfortable with can be daunting. What many don’t realize is how incredibly amazing – how pure and pleasing – life in Christ can be. Like the people on “Let’s Make a Deal,” we are nervous about what lies “behind Door #2”.
I won’t lie to you … choosing to follow Jesus is not always easy. You may lose a few “friends” or have to stop going some of the places you used to go and doing the things you used to do. But God will send you new friends. He will give you new activities and interests. If you fill your days and nights with loving, serving and studying Him, He will fill YOU!
What are you waiting for? Stand up and choose “what’s behind the door.” Tell God your fears and apprehensions about accepting His offer of a new life in Christ. Let Him help you work through the growing pains and attain the peace and joy that being in a right relationship with Him brings. We all get discouraged from time to time … and you will, too! But God is waiting to set you back on your feet and give you the desires of your heart. All you have to do is choose His “door”.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for July 29, 2010
1 Peter 1:18
You were rescued from the useless way of life that you learned from your ancestors. But you know that you were not rescued by such things as silver or gold that don't last forever.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When I was in graduate school, I took a course in Educational Psychology, where we studied a book called Reality Therapy, written by psychologist William Glasser. The primary concept of Reality Therapy is that people have five basic psychological needs: power, love and belonging, freedom, fun, and survival. Whether we realize it or not, according to Glasser, pretty much everything we do is based on meeting these needs.
Glasser has quite a bit of evidence to prove that we do a lot of what we do to meet our needs based on our past. We repeat past history because that is what we know and feel comfortable with, and/or we blame our past for things not seeming to work out for us now. Either way, Glasser’s Reality Therapy is designed to help people move forward and take responsibility for their needs and leave the past behind.
This psychological approach helped me tremendously as a teacher, because so often, we want to say, “Oh, he/she is a product of his/her environment.” And this becomes the crutch for that person. The Bible refers to this in another way … “generational curse.” Just because someone’s parents or grandparents were alcoholics, abusive, drug addicts, lazy, overweight, poor, depressed, psychotic … you fill in the blanks … doesn’t mean the children have to be. Just because the home environment is nothing short of horrific doesn’t mean the child has a free ride to behave wildly in the classroom, at church, or anywhere else. There comes a time when everyone has to stand up and take responsibility for his/her own actions and stop playing “the blame game.”
In case you haven’t noticed, we’ve been focusing for several days on how Jesus rescued us from sin and sacrificed His own life and blood to do so. Here in 1 Peter 1:18, we specifically see that JESUS represents the way out of generational curses and blaming the past. Jesus rescued us … not by posting a bond at the jail … not by getting us into a rehab … not by removing us from an undesirable situation and placing us somewhere else … not by buying us a car, clothes, food, or whatever else we wanted or needed. He did not use gold or silver or any other temporary means. Jesus bought and paid for us with His blood on the cross! Jesus Christ is truly Reality Therapy … the kind that works forever and ever and throughout Eternity!
We need to recognize the incredible importance of what Jesus did for us. We need to humble ourselves before Him and pour out our hearts in thanksgiving for such an incredible gift. Because of Jesus, the “needs” for power, love and belonging, freedom, fun, and survival are all well within our grasp. Because of His sacrifice, all things are possible. We are no longer bound by our past … we are headed for a glorious future in Him.
Have you received the true Reality Therapy? Have you been rescued by the blood of Jesus? Are you ready to have all of your needs met by the One who can really do just that? The past is useless. Real knowledge and peace comes from what Jesus offers. Choose Him today, and get busy truly living for all Eternity!
©2010 Debbie Robus
You were rescued from the useless way of life that you learned from your ancestors. But you know that you were not rescued by such things as silver or gold that don't last forever.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When I was in graduate school, I took a course in Educational Psychology, where we studied a book called Reality Therapy, written by psychologist William Glasser. The primary concept of Reality Therapy is that people have five basic psychological needs: power, love and belonging, freedom, fun, and survival. Whether we realize it or not, according to Glasser, pretty much everything we do is based on meeting these needs.
Glasser has quite a bit of evidence to prove that we do a lot of what we do to meet our needs based on our past. We repeat past history because that is what we know and feel comfortable with, and/or we blame our past for things not seeming to work out for us now. Either way, Glasser’s Reality Therapy is designed to help people move forward and take responsibility for their needs and leave the past behind.
This psychological approach helped me tremendously as a teacher, because so often, we want to say, “Oh, he/she is a product of his/her environment.” And this becomes the crutch for that person. The Bible refers to this in another way … “generational curse.” Just because someone’s parents or grandparents were alcoholics, abusive, drug addicts, lazy, overweight, poor, depressed, psychotic … you fill in the blanks … doesn’t mean the children have to be. Just because the home environment is nothing short of horrific doesn’t mean the child has a free ride to behave wildly in the classroom, at church, or anywhere else. There comes a time when everyone has to stand up and take responsibility for his/her own actions and stop playing “the blame game.”
In case you haven’t noticed, we’ve been focusing for several days on how Jesus rescued us from sin and sacrificed His own life and blood to do so. Here in 1 Peter 1:18, we specifically see that JESUS represents the way out of generational curses and blaming the past. Jesus rescued us … not by posting a bond at the jail … not by getting us into a rehab … not by removing us from an undesirable situation and placing us somewhere else … not by buying us a car, clothes, food, or whatever else we wanted or needed. He did not use gold or silver or any other temporary means. Jesus bought and paid for us with His blood on the cross! Jesus Christ is truly Reality Therapy … the kind that works forever and ever and throughout Eternity!
We need to recognize the incredible importance of what Jesus did for us. We need to humble ourselves before Him and pour out our hearts in thanksgiving for such an incredible gift. Because of Jesus, the “needs” for power, love and belonging, freedom, fun, and survival are all well within our grasp. Because of His sacrifice, all things are possible. We are no longer bound by our past … we are headed for a glorious future in Him.
Have you received the true Reality Therapy? Have you been rescued by the blood of Jesus? Are you ready to have all of your needs met by the One who can really do just that? The past is useless. Real knowledge and peace comes from what Jesus offers. Choose Him today, and get busy truly living for all Eternity!
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for July 15, 2010
John 15:19
If you belonged to the world, its people would love you. But you don't belong to the world. I have chosen you to leave the world behind, and that is why its people hate you.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
We all want to belong. We all want to fit in with our friends and family… and the world at large. This is why many of us go to great lengths to be current with our fashion, hair, makeup… even the décor of our home, the car we drive, where we shop, what music we listen to, which team we root for… and more.
We also want to belong and be included socially. So often, we compromise our faith to do this. We become worldly – participating in off-color or derogatory conversations on everything from politics to race and sexual orientation. We snicker with our friends at someone who is “different” from us or seems a little “off.” We brag about parties and drinking and fighting and more… and others love us! We brush off and ignore the bothersome things we see and hear, because calling attention to them could get us kicked out of the group!
The problem is that we are willing to risk our relationship with God and His pleasure in order to be comfortable. “Taking the high road” and refusing to participate in things we know are displeasing to God takes courage and faith. Walking away from unpleasant or unkind conversations – or challenging those who are speaking rudely or inappropriately – will probably get you ugly looks at best… and maybe cost you a relationship with those who are speaking.
Nobody ever said being a Christian was easy. But the long-term rewards far outweigh any short-term discomfort. The Apostle Paul and others were thrown in prison for standing their ground. It’s highly unlikely we will be subjected to that harsh a consequence… although it may feel like you have been ostracized and “sentenced” to a prison of sorts at times.
Stay focused. Remember WHOSE you are… keep your “eye on the Prize” – the blessings and approval of our Most High God. He chose us… we belong to Him… and nothing is more important than serving Him well. Belong to the One who matters…no matter what you feel it costs in this life. You will be blessed beyond measure… and loved for all eternity.
©2010 Debbie Robus
If you belonged to the world, its people would love you. But you don't belong to the world. I have chosen you to leave the world behind, and that is why its people hate you.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
We all want to belong. We all want to fit in with our friends and family… and the world at large. This is why many of us go to great lengths to be current with our fashion, hair, makeup… even the décor of our home, the car we drive, where we shop, what music we listen to, which team we root for… and more.
We also want to belong and be included socially. So often, we compromise our faith to do this. We become worldly – participating in off-color or derogatory conversations on everything from politics to race and sexual orientation. We snicker with our friends at someone who is “different” from us or seems a little “off.” We brag about parties and drinking and fighting and more… and others love us! We brush off and ignore the bothersome things we see and hear, because calling attention to them could get us kicked out of the group!
The problem is that we are willing to risk our relationship with God and His pleasure in order to be comfortable. “Taking the high road” and refusing to participate in things we know are displeasing to God takes courage and faith. Walking away from unpleasant or unkind conversations – or challenging those who are speaking rudely or inappropriately – will probably get you ugly looks at best… and maybe cost you a relationship with those who are speaking.
Nobody ever said being a Christian was easy. But the long-term rewards far outweigh any short-term discomfort. The Apostle Paul and others were thrown in prison for standing their ground. It’s highly unlikely we will be subjected to that harsh a consequence… although it may feel like you have been ostracized and “sentenced” to a prison of sorts at times.
Stay focused. Remember WHOSE you are… keep your “eye on the Prize” – the blessings and approval of our Most High God. He chose us… we belong to Him… and nothing is more important than serving Him well. Belong to the One who matters…no matter what you feel it costs in this life. You will be blessed beyond measure… and loved for all eternity.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for June 8, 2010
June 8 ~ Psalm 37:4
Do what the LORD wants, and he will give you your heart's desire.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Have you ever felt you were supposed to do something, but you really didn’t want to do it? Maybe school seemed too hard or your job was unfulfilling, and you were tempted to quit - but you knew that this was where God wanted you to be for the moment. Or maybe you had your entire weekend mapped out – fun on the lake, meals with friends, and more… but your youth group or Sunday School class was having a prayer vigil at the church. And as much as you didn’t want to go, you knew you should. Or maybe you had some extra change in your pocket and a big, cold drink from Sonic sounded good - but as you left Wal-Mart, the Salvation Army guy was ringing his bell and asking for donations. In each case, if you gave up your desires to do what you felt GOD wanted you to do, how did you feel? Didn’t you feel better afterward?
More than this, have you ever chosen what you felt GOD wanted over what you wanted, then experienced amazing blessings later that seemed inexplicable? I can tell you that this has happened to me. More than once, I have dragged myself to something I didn’t want to attend, and I ended up being incredibly blessed. There have been times I really wanted to do something for myself – or to give up on a project when I became discouraged - but I felt God saying, “Do this anyway,” and the outcome was amazing. Somehow, when we do what God wants, He gives us time to do what we want, too. Maybe it’s not the same day… but eventually we get that day on the lake with friends or family. Eventually we get the big drink at Sonic and the time for ourselves - and blessings we didn’t even anticipate or expect.
When we keep GOD at the forefront and do what He wants first, wonderful things happen. He really does give us our heart’s desire – according to His will. This means that just because you want a silver BMW, dont expect God to give you one because you do what He wants. You may never be a millionaire or live a fancy lifestyle. But whatever God chooses to give you – however He elects to bless – will be perfect for you. Try it for yourself. Do what God wants, out of a spirit of love, obedience and gratitude… and watch what happens!
©2010 Debbie Robus
Do what the LORD wants, and he will give you your heart's desire.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Have you ever felt you were supposed to do something, but you really didn’t want to do it? Maybe school seemed too hard or your job was unfulfilling, and you were tempted to quit - but you knew that this was where God wanted you to be for the moment. Or maybe you had your entire weekend mapped out – fun on the lake, meals with friends, and more… but your youth group or Sunday School class was having a prayer vigil at the church. And as much as you didn’t want to go, you knew you should. Or maybe you had some extra change in your pocket and a big, cold drink from Sonic sounded good - but as you left Wal-Mart, the Salvation Army guy was ringing his bell and asking for donations. In each case, if you gave up your desires to do what you felt GOD wanted you to do, how did you feel? Didn’t you feel better afterward?
More than this, have you ever chosen what you felt GOD wanted over what you wanted, then experienced amazing blessings later that seemed inexplicable? I can tell you that this has happened to me. More than once, I have dragged myself to something I didn’t want to attend, and I ended up being incredibly blessed. There have been times I really wanted to do something for myself – or to give up on a project when I became discouraged - but I felt God saying, “Do this anyway,” and the outcome was amazing. Somehow, when we do what God wants, He gives us time to do what we want, too. Maybe it’s not the same day… but eventually we get that day on the lake with friends or family. Eventually we get the big drink at Sonic and the time for ourselves - and blessings we didn’t even anticipate or expect.
When we keep GOD at the forefront and do what He wants first, wonderful things happen. He really does give us our heart’s desire – according to His will. This means that just because you want a silver BMW, dont expect God to give you one because you do what He wants. You may never be a millionaire or live a fancy lifestyle. But whatever God chooses to give you – however He elects to bless – will be perfect for you. Try it for yourself. Do what God wants, out of a spirit of love, obedience and gratitude… and watch what happens!
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 22, 2010
March 22 ~ Matthew 20:18-19
We are now on our way to Jerusalem, where the Son of Man will be handed over to the chief priests and the teachers of the Law of Moses. They will sentence him to death, and then they will hand him over to foreigners who will make fun of him. They will beat him and nail him to a cross. But on the third day he will rise from death.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
There is a new show on NBC called “Who Do You Think You Are?” in which celebrities trace their family roots. The first episode followed actress Lisa Kudrow, of “Friends” fame, as she traveled to Poland to search for her ancestors. What she found there was heartbreaking. Her great-grandmother and other family members had been marched to their death by the Nazis in a small village called Ilya. History indicates that these Jewish men, women, and children were stripped naked and led in groups of three or four to the edge of a large concrete cellar and shot, then dumped into the cellar. Later, the bodies were burned.
Lisa was visibly shaken as she stood where her great-grandmother had stood and thought of her and the others, waiting there and knowing what was about to happen. She said, “I keep thinking of the children.” As I watched this story, I thought of the children, too. What did her great-grandmother say to them? Did she comfort them and reassure them it would be okay? Or was she visibly frightened – and did she convey that fear to the others?
I also thought of another “child” – Jesus, the Son of God. He knew what was going to happen, and He knew how horrific His torture and death would be. But He endured it anyway – for each of us. God knew that the sacrifice of His son would ensure that His children – you and I – would have eternal life. He apparently felt it was a reasonable exchange. Personally, I don’t think I could sacrifice the life of my own child…even to save the masses. But then, I don’t have God’s capacity for unconditional love, grace and mercy!
I am so humbled and grateful for the sacrifices of Jesus. I am heartbroken for the horrific injustices that were inflicted upon the Jews and others throughout history. But I know a God who makes everything new… a God who holds our hand through even the most heinous experiences and says, “I’m with you. I love you. Trust me, and I will save you.” I don’t understand God’s love for us, but I don’t have to – all I have to do is accept Him. God’s love is a gift – freely given to all who will believe in Him. Are you ready to receive this love and claim victory over sin and death? Are you ready to live in Christ Jesus and look forward to spending eternity with Him? If you have not already chosen a life in Christ, today is the perfect time to do so. If you have, perhaps you need to spend some time in prayer and thanksgiving for all God has done in your life. Jesus Christ rose from the dead and will return for us. Will you be ready?
©2010 Debbie Robus
We are now on our way to Jerusalem, where the Son of Man will be handed over to the chief priests and the teachers of the Law of Moses. They will sentence him to death, and then they will hand him over to foreigners who will make fun of him. They will beat him and nail him to a cross. But on the third day he will rise from death.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
There is a new show on NBC called “Who Do You Think You Are?” in which celebrities trace their family roots. The first episode followed actress Lisa Kudrow, of “Friends” fame, as she traveled to Poland to search for her ancestors. What she found there was heartbreaking. Her great-grandmother and other family members had been marched to their death by the Nazis in a small village called Ilya. History indicates that these Jewish men, women, and children were stripped naked and led in groups of three or four to the edge of a large concrete cellar and shot, then dumped into the cellar. Later, the bodies were burned.
Lisa was visibly shaken as she stood where her great-grandmother had stood and thought of her and the others, waiting there and knowing what was about to happen. She said, “I keep thinking of the children.” As I watched this story, I thought of the children, too. What did her great-grandmother say to them? Did she comfort them and reassure them it would be okay? Or was she visibly frightened – and did she convey that fear to the others?
I also thought of another “child” – Jesus, the Son of God. He knew what was going to happen, and He knew how horrific His torture and death would be. But He endured it anyway – for each of us. God knew that the sacrifice of His son would ensure that His children – you and I – would have eternal life. He apparently felt it was a reasonable exchange. Personally, I don’t think I could sacrifice the life of my own child…even to save the masses. But then, I don’t have God’s capacity for unconditional love, grace and mercy!
I am so humbled and grateful for the sacrifices of Jesus. I am heartbroken for the horrific injustices that were inflicted upon the Jews and others throughout history. But I know a God who makes everything new… a God who holds our hand through even the most heinous experiences and says, “I’m with you. I love you. Trust me, and I will save you.” I don’t understand God’s love for us, but I don’t have to – all I have to do is accept Him. God’s love is a gift – freely given to all who will believe in Him. Are you ready to receive this love and claim victory over sin and death? Are you ready to live in Christ Jesus and look forward to spending eternity with Him? If you have not already chosen a life in Christ, today is the perfect time to do so. If you have, perhaps you need to spend some time in prayer and thanksgiving for all God has done in your life. Jesus Christ rose from the dead and will return for us. Will you be ready?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for February 18, 2010
February 18 ~ Matthew 26:26-27
During the meal Jesus took some bread in his hands. He blessed the bread and broke it. Then he gave it to his disciples and said, "Take this and eat it. This is my body."
Jesus picked up a cup of wine and gave thanks to God. He then gave it to his disciples and said, "Take this and drink it.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Just prior to one of our big winter snows of late January/early February, I was shopping for groceries, along with dozens of other people. I met a fellow church member on the bread aisle, and he said, “I’ve got a jar of peanut butter and a loaf of bread… as long as you have that, you can survive just about anything.” For most of us, we figure if we have bread, we can survive a lot of things, including a snow storm!
Jesus characterized Himself often as “the Bread of Life.” He referred to His body as the bread, and His blood as the wine. As long as we have “the body and the blood,” we can survive anything that comes our way. I spent a lot of years participating in Holy Communion and hearing the words, “this is my body,” and “this is my blood.” I would eat the cracker or piece of bread and drink the juice that was offered. And in many ways, this was just a ritual of the church that we performed once a month… and also at Christmas and Easter.
Now I see that the simple act of eating a piece of bread and drinking a cup of juice – in the context of these things representing Jesus’ body and blood, given for me and my sins – is incredibly huge. I finally made the mental (and Spiritual?) connection between Jesus’ sacrifices on the cross – for me – and how they were represented in Holy Communion. It’s not about the Communion service itself… it is about the understanding that Jesus offered us HIS life in exchange for our sinful one. And because of this, He truly IS our Bread of Life. HIS blood was offered as the ultimate sacrifice for our sins – and this is represented by our communion juice or wine.
Now, when I participate in Holy Communion, I think of all of the daily challenges we face and how Jesus helps us meet them. I think of the sacrifices He made for me, and I am humbled at how unworthy I am – and even more so by the knowledge that Jesus doesn’t expect me to “deserve” or earn His sacrifices on my behalf. I am reminded that I can survive anything because I have my “Bread” and the Cup.
Today, thank Jesus for the “bread and the cup” – and for what they represent. Don’t wait for your church to offer the sacraments of Holy Communion again… celebrate what they represent each and every day. Consider that the bread and cup are given to remind us of how much Jesus loves us – and what He did for us on the cross. Express to God your desire to be sustained every day by the Bread of Life – and covered in the blood of Jesus. Thank Him for such a generous, unconditional gift. Celebrate the knowledge that you can survive anything… because you have the Bread that truly matters. Live in a way that honors Christ as you face head-on the challenges of life each day. A loaf of whole wheat and a jar of peanut butter may work in a snowstorm, but for the storms of life, give me the “bread” of Jesus!
©2009 Debbie Robus
During the meal Jesus took some bread in his hands. He blessed the bread and broke it. Then he gave it to his disciples and said, "Take this and eat it. This is my body."
Jesus picked up a cup of wine and gave thanks to God. He then gave it to his disciples and said, "Take this and drink it.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Just prior to one of our big winter snows of late January/early February, I was shopping for groceries, along with dozens of other people. I met a fellow church member on the bread aisle, and he said, “I’ve got a jar of peanut butter and a loaf of bread… as long as you have that, you can survive just about anything.” For most of us, we figure if we have bread, we can survive a lot of things, including a snow storm!
Jesus characterized Himself often as “the Bread of Life.” He referred to His body as the bread, and His blood as the wine. As long as we have “the body and the blood,” we can survive anything that comes our way. I spent a lot of years participating in Holy Communion and hearing the words, “this is my body,” and “this is my blood.” I would eat the cracker or piece of bread and drink the juice that was offered. And in many ways, this was just a ritual of the church that we performed once a month… and also at Christmas and Easter.
Now I see that the simple act of eating a piece of bread and drinking a cup of juice – in the context of these things representing Jesus’ body and blood, given for me and my sins – is incredibly huge. I finally made the mental (and Spiritual?) connection between Jesus’ sacrifices on the cross – for me – and how they were represented in Holy Communion. It’s not about the Communion service itself… it is about the understanding that Jesus offered us HIS life in exchange for our sinful one. And because of this, He truly IS our Bread of Life. HIS blood was offered as the ultimate sacrifice for our sins – and this is represented by our communion juice or wine.
Now, when I participate in Holy Communion, I think of all of the daily challenges we face and how Jesus helps us meet them. I think of the sacrifices He made for me, and I am humbled at how unworthy I am – and even more so by the knowledge that Jesus doesn’t expect me to “deserve” or earn His sacrifices on my behalf. I am reminded that I can survive anything because I have my “Bread” and the Cup.
Today, thank Jesus for the “bread and the cup” – and for what they represent. Don’t wait for your church to offer the sacraments of Holy Communion again… celebrate what they represent each and every day. Consider that the bread and cup are given to remind us of how much Jesus loves us – and what He did for us on the cross. Express to God your desire to be sustained every day by the Bread of Life – and covered in the blood of Jesus. Thank Him for such a generous, unconditional gift. Celebrate the knowledge that you can survive anything… because you have the Bread that truly matters. Live in a way that honors Christ as you face head-on the challenges of life each day. A loaf of whole wheat and a jar of peanut butter may work in a snowstorm, but for the storms of life, give me the “bread” of Jesus!
©2009 Debbie Robus
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