September 26 ~ Psalm 15:1-5
God, who gets invited
to dinner at your place?
How do we get on your guest list?
“Walk straight,
act right,
tell the truth.
“Don’t hurt your friend,
don’t blame your neighbor;
despise the despicable.
“Keep your word even when it costs you,
make an honest living,
never take a bribe.
“You’ll never get blacklisted
if you live like this.”
Scripture
quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002
by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs,
CO. All rights reserved.
My mother received the
devastating news this week that she probably has cancer. She meets with
an oncologist in a few days to review the results of a biopsy and
confirm a diagnosis, but all indications are that this is very serious.
I respectfully ask all of you to pray for my mother…and for us as we
support her in what may be a battle of major proportions.
Countless
friends and loved ones have reached out to us already with offers of
love, prayers, encouragement…and everything else under the sun. We
appreciate them all. One person said, “Your mother doesn’t deserve
this.” Well, no…she doesn’t. But then, no one deserves the
beast that is cancer – or any other disease or malady. And while we
know that God will use this experience for His glory, we do wish that
things were different.
But here’s the thing. My mother has a
permanent place on the “guest list” for dinner with God. She has served
Him well for decades. She lives out the “criteria” listed in these
verses from Psalm 15. And she has done her very best to instill these
same traits in her children and those around her. I’d like to think that
she has done a pretty good job on all accounts…but I know that I am
still a work in progress!
So as we turn the corner and start the
next leg of this earthly journey together, we do so with confidence that
our reservations are confirmed…that we are on the “guest list” for
perpetual dining with God at His bountiful table. I find this assurance
to be amazing…incredible…comforting and exciting.
Many who
clamor to nab a seat at a fine dining establishment are just glad to be
seated. But in most restaurants, some seats are better than others.
There are prime locations that provide ambience and garner impeccable
attention from the staff…and there are those near the kitchen door or
the restrooms, where the atmosphere is a little less hospitable. I want
to maintain a “good seat” at God’s table…next to my mother! This
scripture passage tells us in part how to achieve that.
Are you
on God’s “guest list?” Are you living for him in a way that garners a
“good seat” at the table? Frankly, too many people are content just to
be seated in the room somewhere. But we should be serving God in such a
way that He is constantly saying, “Come closer! Move on up nearer to
Me!” This is our goal as Christian brothers and sisters…or it should
be. Read the “criteria” in these verses again, and put them into action
in your daily discipleship.
Where is your “seat” at
God’s table these days? Are you hanging out in the corner of “Good
Enough?” Are you ready to serve Him in all areas of your life and enjoy
His offer of “fine dining” each and every day? Will this be the day
that you begin?
©2015 Debbie Robus
Showing posts with label serving others. Show all posts
Showing posts with label serving others. Show all posts
Daily Devotional for August 4, 2011
Psalm 103:1-2
With all my heart I praise the LORD, and with all that I am I praise his holy name! With all my heart I praise the LORD! I will never forget how kind he has been.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
We all have experiences we will never forget...where we were on 9-11 (or if you are old enough, the day that President Kennedy was assassinated). Every January 28th, I’m reminded of the Space Shuttle Challenger that exploded in mid-air upon takeoff in 1986. Others will never forget experiencing a tornado, flood, earthquake, or some sort of natural disaster.
While we all can recall major events such as these with vivid detail, I bet you can also recall a kindness done toward you at some point in your life. Perhaps someone said something profound to you that you’ve never forgotten. Maybe you remember how somebody gave you a loan when you really needed one… or another person showed love and compassion toward you when you were really down and in need. Perhaps you’ve never forgotten a teacher who took special interest in you or someone in your church or community who nurtured you… an aunt, uncle, grandparent or friend who gave good advice and was always available when you needed them. Maybe a stranger helped you out of a real jam.
My math teacher, Mrs. Berry, took a special interest in me in junior high school. She really listened to me and showed concern for my feelings. I remember my guidance counselor, Mrs. Crabtree, who encouraged me when others said my plan to go to college early would never work! My freshman English professor, Francis Irby Gwaltney, nurtured me, taught me to write down my thoughts in a way that made sense… and declared that my new husband was “a keeper.” I will never forget Pastor Dooley Fowler, who sat with me on my Walk to Emmaus and reminded me that I had placed all of my burdens at the foot of the cross… and I needed to leave them there.
The point is that we could probably list a half dozen or more events that have affected us deeply – and at least a handful of people who have said or done something we will never forget (hopefully in a positive manner). We are forever changed because of these people and events. But do you realize that every kindness that has been shown to you by someone else was orchestrated by God? In essence, He was pouring out His kindness on you through the words and actions of others.
See, God is always “on the clock” on our behalf! So the things you say you will “never forget” that someone said to you – or did for you – were really kindnesses from God! There will be times in your life when you ask God for something… guidance, help, blessings, a specific outcome… and you feel His direct answer. Other times, He will answer and work through various individuals and events. But all of this combines to give us even more reason to praise Him with our whole heart.
I encourage you to write down a list of kindnesses that have occurred in your life… even those you feel you will “never forget.” The next time you are tempted to question God… the next time you wonder where He is hiding or start to feel sorry for yourself, take out the list and read over them. Remind yourself of the many ways God has shown you kindness in the past… and be assured He has more to offer. Thank Him for all of this… praise Him with your whole heart… and never forget how much He loves you – now and forever!
©2011 Debbie Robus
With all my heart I praise the LORD, and with all that I am I praise his holy name! With all my heart I praise the LORD! I will never forget how kind he has been.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
We all have experiences we will never forget...where we were on 9-11 (or if you are old enough, the day that President Kennedy was assassinated). Every January 28th, I’m reminded of the Space Shuttle Challenger that exploded in mid-air upon takeoff in 1986. Others will never forget experiencing a tornado, flood, earthquake, or some sort of natural disaster.
While we all can recall major events such as these with vivid detail, I bet you can also recall a kindness done toward you at some point in your life. Perhaps someone said something profound to you that you’ve never forgotten. Maybe you remember how somebody gave you a loan when you really needed one… or another person showed love and compassion toward you when you were really down and in need. Perhaps you’ve never forgotten a teacher who took special interest in you or someone in your church or community who nurtured you… an aunt, uncle, grandparent or friend who gave good advice and was always available when you needed them. Maybe a stranger helped you out of a real jam.
My math teacher, Mrs. Berry, took a special interest in me in junior high school. She really listened to me and showed concern for my feelings. I remember my guidance counselor, Mrs. Crabtree, who encouraged me when others said my plan to go to college early would never work! My freshman English professor, Francis Irby Gwaltney, nurtured me, taught me to write down my thoughts in a way that made sense… and declared that my new husband was “a keeper.” I will never forget Pastor Dooley Fowler, who sat with me on my Walk to Emmaus and reminded me that I had placed all of my burdens at the foot of the cross… and I needed to leave them there.
The point is that we could probably list a half dozen or more events that have affected us deeply – and at least a handful of people who have said or done something we will never forget (hopefully in a positive manner). We are forever changed because of these people and events. But do you realize that every kindness that has been shown to you by someone else was orchestrated by God? In essence, He was pouring out His kindness on you through the words and actions of others.
See, God is always “on the clock” on our behalf! So the things you say you will “never forget” that someone said to you – or did for you – were really kindnesses from God! There will be times in your life when you ask God for something… guidance, help, blessings, a specific outcome… and you feel His direct answer. Other times, He will answer and work through various individuals and events. But all of this combines to give us even more reason to praise Him with our whole heart.
I encourage you to write down a list of kindnesses that have occurred in your life… even those you feel you will “never forget.” The next time you are tempted to question God… the next time you wonder where He is hiding or start to feel sorry for yourself, take out the list and read over them. Remind yourself of the many ways God has shown you kindness in the past… and be assured He has more to offer. Thank Him for all of this… praise Him with your whole heart… and never forget how much He loves you – now and forever!
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for July 3, 2011
Proverbs 22:1
A good reputation and respect are worth much more than silver and gold.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I could easily name two dozen people who are (or were) both well-recognized and wealthy – and I would get two dozen different impressions of these people. Let me give you a few examples… Elvis Presley, Robert Redford, Angelina Jolie, Ashley Judd, Bobby Knight, Ken Hatfield, Billy Graham, Ted Haggard, Donald Trump, and Bill Gates. When you think of each of these people, their reputation comes to mind, doesn’t it?! You may think of how successful – or “powerful” they are (or were)… what they accomplished, and how much money they have made.
But let me ask you a question… do you respect all of these people equally? Have they conducted themselves in the same manner… and with the same integrity? Has money brought them happiness… have they utilized their wealth and “position” well? Now let me ask you another question… in the scheme of things, don’t you know people in your own community or circle of influence who have done as much – or more – with far less? Don’t you know people in your own back yard who you respect far more than any celebrity… and whose reputation is beyond reproach?
Reputation DOES matter. Take some time to think about your own life… and how you believe people see you. When your name is spoken, do others envision someone with integrity… a person worthy of their respect? Do they see a reflection of Jesus in your behavior and accomplishments? Or do they see someone known as a gossip, a party animal (and not in a good sense)… someone with loose morals and poor business practices… someone who drinks too much or spews foul language… someone who neglects their children and family members and blows money at every turn?
Money can buy reputation… but not necessarily a good one. Money cannot buy genuine respect. A close relationship with God… an earnest desire to serve Him and please Him with the gifts and resources He has provided builds the kind of reputation we should hope people will remember. Reputations that are less than stellar can be changed… especially for those who will draw close to God and ask Him to help them accomplish this. It may take time – and it will most certainly take effort – but it can be done.
What sort of reputation do you have? Does your reputation earn you the respect of others… or merely the notoriety that grabs their attention? Are there areas in which you need to improve? Isn’t it time to get started?
©2011 Debbie Robus
A good reputation and respect are worth much more than silver and gold.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I could easily name two dozen people who are (or were) both well-recognized and wealthy – and I would get two dozen different impressions of these people. Let me give you a few examples… Elvis Presley, Robert Redford, Angelina Jolie, Ashley Judd, Bobby Knight, Ken Hatfield, Billy Graham, Ted Haggard, Donald Trump, and Bill Gates. When you think of each of these people, their reputation comes to mind, doesn’t it?! You may think of how successful – or “powerful” they are (or were)… what they accomplished, and how much money they have made.
But let me ask you a question… do you respect all of these people equally? Have they conducted themselves in the same manner… and with the same integrity? Has money brought them happiness… have they utilized their wealth and “position” well? Now let me ask you another question… in the scheme of things, don’t you know people in your own community or circle of influence who have done as much – or more – with far less? Don’t you know people in your own back yard who you respect far more than any celebrity… and whose reputation is beyond reproach?
Reputation DOES matter. Take some time to think about your own life… and how you believe people see you. When your name is spoken, do others envision someone with integrity… a person worthy of their respect? Do they see a reflection of Jesus in your behavior and accomplishments? Or do they see someone known as a gossip, a party animal (and not in a good sense)… someone with loose morals and poor business practices… someone who drinks too much or spews foul language… someone who neglects their children and family members and blows money at every turn?
Money can buy reputation… but not necessarily a good one. Money cannot buy genuine respect. A close relationship with God… an earnest desire to serve Him and please Him with the gifts and resources He has provided builds the kind of reputation we should hope people will remember. Reputations that are less than stellar can be changed… especially for those who will draw close to God and ask Him to help them accomplish this. It may take time – and it will most certainly take effort – but it can be done.
What sort of reputation do you have? Does your reputation earn you the respect of others… or merely the notoriety that grabs their attention? Are there areas in which you need to improve? Isn’t it time to get started?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for June 14, 2011
Luke 16:8-9
"Now here's a surprise: The master praised the crooked manager! And why? Because he knew how to look after himself. Streetwise people are smarter in this regard than law-abiding citizens. They are on constant alert, looking for angles, surviving by their wits. I want you to be smart in the same way—but for what is right—using every adversity to stimulate you to creative survival, to concentrate your attention on the bare essentials, so you'll live, really live, and not complacently just get by on good behavior."
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.
There is a new television show on one of the cable networks called “Extreme Couponing.” People across America have become obsessed with clipping coupons. They combine them with store sales, store discount cards, and other special offers to purchase hundreds-to-thousands of dollars in merchandise for as little as pennies. Some have even done so well that the store paid them to carry home enough products to fill multiple shopping carts.
I’ve always been a coupon clipper. I almost always have coupons for paper towels, toilet paper, laundry detergent and dish-washing liquid. I hardly ever pay full price for toothpaste, cereal, or diapers. But “extreme couponers” will buy more than a hundred bottles of hot sauce because they have coupons that can be coupled with store sales to get these items “for free.” Their storage rooms are filled with items that nobody in their family uses. The single woman with a shelf unit full of diapers… the couple with a wall lined with dog food and no dog… the man who has closet shelf full of vitamins and more pain reliever than he could ever possibly use… all have truly taken couponing to the “extreme!”
Don’t get me wrong… I’m all for people saving money on their grocery bill… and if these folks want to spend their lives clipping and filing coupons, researching store sales and trying to score dozens of products for free… that’s their business. But stockpiling items you will never need or use, just because you can, doesn’t seem quite right to me. However, there are several “extreme couponers” who are sharing the wealth. They are using the hundreds of tubes of toothpaste, bars of soap and bottles of shampoo to create “toiletries kits” for soldiers and the homeless. One mom is feeding her extended family, her neighbors, and the teenage friends of her children with the products she amasses. Another young woman is providing her elderly grandmother with “free” groceries and household goods from her stock closet.
My point is that God wants us to look at the “street-wise” behavior of those who may be focusing on themselves and their own agendas and see where we can take some of those same tactics and use them in the right manner. He is not encouraging us to lie, cheat, or steal… but rather to “make lemons out of lemonade.” He is telling us that our focus is not to be on what we can get for ourselves, but what we can do for others. So instead of concentrating on how to cut corners, “play the system,” and get something for nothing… we should be using our wits to figure out how to genuinely accomplish more for God’s Kingdom, serve others in His name, and meet the needs of people wherever they are.
We all know people who say they are doing things “in the name of Jesus” – all the while hiding behind our LORD in order to make themselves look good… and to get ahead. This is exactly what Jesus is warning against. He wants us to be smart… but in a way that glorifies Him. Instead of stockpiling toothpaste, soap and toilet paper “because we can,” He wants us to use our ability to amass these products to share with those who can’t afford to buy them. The same energy some of us spend applying for loans, grants and public assistance, and "get-rich-quick schemes" to help us pay bills and put food on the table could be spent on getting a job with benefits and earning our own way.
Are we smart with the gifts God has given us… and are we using them to serve Him and those around us… or ourselves? Isn’t it time we stopped focusing inward and started looking around to see where and how we can truly live… and serve… in Jesus name? Just how “street smart” for Jesus are you these days?
©2011 Debbie Robus
"Now here's a surprise: The master praised the crooked manager! And why? Because he knew how to look after himself. Streetwise people are smarter in this regard than law-abiding citizens. They are on constant alert, looking for angles, surviving by their wits. I want you to be smart in the same way—but for what is right—using every adversity to stimulate you to creative survival, to concentrate your attention on the bare essentials, so you'll live, really live, and not complacently just get by on good behavior."
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.
There is a new television show on one of the cable networks called “Extreme Couponing.” People across America have become obsessed with clipping coupons. They combine them with store sales, store discount cards, and other special offers to purchase hundreds-to-thousands of dollars in merchandise for as little as pennies. Some have even done so well that the store paid them to carry home enough products to fill multiple shopping carts.
I’ve always been a coupon clipper. I almost always have coupons for paper towels, toilet paper, laundry detergent and dish-washing liquid. I hardly ever pay full price for toothpaste, cereal, or diapers. But “extreme couponers” will buy more than a hundred bottles of hot sauce because they have coupons that can be coupled with store sales to get these items “for free.” Their storage rooms are filled with items that nobody in their family uses. The single woman with a shelf unit full of diapers… the couple with a wall lined with dog food and no dog… the man who has closet shelf full of vitamins and more pain reliever than he could ever possibly use… all have truly taken couponing to the “extreme!”
Don’t get me wrong… I’m all for people saving money on their grocery bill… and if these folks want to spend their lives clipping and filing coupons, researching store sales and trying to score dozens of products for free… that’s their business. But stockpiling items you will never need or use, just because you can, doesn’t seem quite right to me. However, there are several “extreme couponers” who are sharing the wealth. They are using the hundreds of tubes of toothpaste, bars of soap and bottles of shampoo to create “toiletries kits” for soldiers and the homeless. One mom is feeding her extended family, her neighbors, and the teenage friends of her children with the products she amasses. Another young woman is providing her elderly grandmother with “free” groceries and household goods from her stock closet.
My point is that God wants us to look at the “street-wise” behavior of those who may be focusing on themselves and their own agendas and see where we can take some of those same tactics and use them in the right manner. He is not encouraging us to lie, cheat, or steal… but rather to “make lemons out of lemonade.” He is telling us that our focus is not to be on what we can get for ourselves, but what we can do for others. So instead of concentrating on how to cut corners, “play the system,” and get something for nothing… we should be using our wits to figure out how to genuinely accomplish more for God’s Kingdom, serve others in His name, and meet the needs of people wherever they are.
We all know people who say they are doing things “in the name of Jesus” – all the while hiding behind our LORD in order to make themselves look good… and to get ahead. This is exactly what Jesus is warning against. He wants us to be smart… but in a way that glorifies Him. Instead of stockpiling toothpaste, soap and toilet paper “because we can,” He wants us to use our ability to amass these products to share with those who can’t afford to buy them. The same energy some of us spend applying for loans, grants and public assistance, and "get-rich-quick schemes" to help us pay bills and put food on the table could be spent on getting a job with benefits and earning our own way.
Are we smart with the gifts God has given us… and are we using them to serve Him and those around us… or ourselves? Isn’t it time we stopped focusing inward and started looking around to see where and how we can truly live… and serve… in Jesus name? Just how “street smart” for Jesus are you these days?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for June 4, 2011
1 Samuel 14:6
Jonathan said to his armor bearer, "Come on now, let's go across to these uncircumcised pagans. Maybe GOD will work for us. There's no rule that says GOD can only deliver by using a big army. No one can stop GOD from saving when he sets his mind to it."
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 April 12, 2011, 10-year-old LaShaun Armstrong’s 25-year-old mother put him and three siblings in the family van and told them, “If I’m going to die, you’re all going to die with me.” Then she drove the van into the frigid waters of the Hudson River near Newburgh, New York, 60 miles north of New York City. LaShaun managed to open a driver’s side window and swim to safety. His mother had crawled into the back seat, where she held LaShaun’s siblings – ages 5, 2, and eleven months. LaShaun says as he broke free, his mother said, “Oh, my God, I made a mistake” and tried to climb into the front seat and put the car in reverse. But it was too late. LaShaun was the only survivor.
News reports of this tragic incident hit the airwaves, and people were shocked and heartbroken. In particular, Baltimore Ravens linebacker Ray Lewis was greatly moved by the courage of a young boy… and his tremendous loss. Lewis was so touched by LaShaun’s story that he formed a foundation and garnered the assistance of some of his friends from the Carolina Panthers. Lewis has since become something of a “big brother” to LaShaun. He said, "I looked at him and told him, 'I'm here for you man. I can't replace what you've lost. But I can tell you that I'm here to go forward with you.'"
Lewis was particularly touched by LaShaun’s story, because his own mother was unable to afford to keep him when he was a teenager. He knows the devastation of feeling abandoned by his mother… and he has vowed to make a difference in LaShaun’s life. Now, others have joined him, and LaShaun is surrounded by the love and care of many who are vowing to make a difference for him.
I know that Ray Lewis is a pro athlete with lots of resources. But he also has a big heart. He didn’t have to take an interest in a 10-year-old boy. Like many, he could have said, “That’s sad… but I’m just one person – and I don’t even know LaShaun Armstrong. There’s no way I could do anything.” Instead, this is an example of a man who has been given much using his wealth, status and resources to help others. And we can do this, too. Just as Jonathan learned in this passage from 1 Samuel, God doesn’t always need an army to make a difference… He can do great things with just one person, if He so desires.
When someone I knew to be a faithful Christian would say to me, “I am praying for you,” I used to reply, “Good… because I know you have a direct line to Heaven.” That sounds nice, and it’s quite the compliment… but it simply is not true. Nobody has a more direct line to heaven than another person. Your “line” to God is just as clear and has as many “bars” as the next person’s. You may seem to hear from Him more clearly than some… and your faithful contact may seem to result in more blessings… but God is waiting to help each of us equally.
We seriously underestimate God’s power and purpose to use “lil’ ole me” to serve and further His kingdom. He may not be calling you to fight a legion of pagans – or start a foundation to help an abandoned 10-year-old boy. But He does have plans for you – just “lil’ ole YOU”! Are you paying attention? Are you hearing God’s voice and answering His call?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Jonathan said to his armor bearer, "Come on now, let's go across to these uncircumcised pagans. Maybe GOD will work for us. There's no rule that says GOD can only deliver by using a big army. No one can stop GOD from saving when he sets his mind to it."
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 April 12, 2011, 10-year-old LaShaun Armstrong’s 25-year-old mother put him and three siblings in the family van and told them, “If I’m going to die, you’re all going to die with me.” Then she drove the van into the frigid waters of the Hudson River near Newburgh, New York, 60 miles north of New York City. LaShaun managed to open a driver’s side window and swim to safety. His mother had crawled into the back seat, where she held LaShaun’s siblings – ages 5, 2, and eleven months. LaShaun says as he broke free, his mother said, “Oh, my God, I made a mistake” and tried to climb into the front seat and put the car in reverse. But it was too late. LaShaun was the only survivor.
News reports of this tragic incident hit the airwaves, and people were shocked and heartbroken. In particular, Baltimore Ravens linebacker Ray Lewis was greatly moved by the courage of a young boy… and his tremendous loss. Lewis was so touched by LaShaun’s story that he formed a foundation and garnered the assistance of some of his friends from the Carolina Panthers. Lewis has since become something of a “big brother” to LaShaun. He said, "I looked at him and told him, 'I'm here for you man. I can't replace what you've lost. But I can tell you that I'm here to go forward with you.'"
Lewis was particularly touched by LaShaun’s story, because his own mother was unable to afford to keep him when he was a teenager. He knows the devastation of feeling abandoned by his mother… and he has vowed to make a difference in LaShaun’s life. Now, others have joined him, and LaShaun is surrounded by the love and care of many who are vowing to make a difference for him.
I know that Ray Lewis is a pro athlete with lots of resources. But he also has a big heart. He didn’t have to take an interest in a 10-year-old boy. Like many, he could have said, “That’s sad… but I’m just one person – and I don’t even know LaShaun Armstrong. There’s no way I could do anything.” Instead, this is an example of a man who has been given much using his wealth, status and resources to help others. And we can do this, too. Just as Jonathan learned in this passage from 1 Samuel, God doesn’t always need an army to make a difference… He can do great things with just one person, if He so desires.
When someone I knew to be a faithful Christian would say to me, “I am praying for you,” I used to reply, “Good… because I know you have a direct line to Heaven.” That sounds nice, and it’s quite the compliment… but it simply is not true. Nobody has a more direct line to heaven than another person. Your “line” to God is just as clear and has as many “bars” as the next person’s. You may seem to hear from Him more clearly than some… and your faithful contact may seem to result in more blessings… but God is waiting to help each of us equally.
We seriously underestimate God’s power and purpose to use “lil’ ole me” to serve and further His kingdom. He may not be calling you to fight a legion of pagans – or start a foundation to help an abandoned 10-year-old boy. But He does have plans for you – just “lil’ ole YOU”! Are you paying attention? Are you hearing God’s voice and answering His call?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for June 3, 2011
Proverbs 21:20
Be sensible and store up precious treasures-- don't waste them like a fool.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
My mother loves to travel. It seems like she is “on the go” a lot of the time, and one day she said, “I’m doing all I can while I am still young enough and able… because I know the day will come when I no longer can do all of this.” My mother is a writer, and she pursues her career as she travels, but she is also semi-retired, so she has the freedom and luxury of spare time to visit interesting destinations. She is storing up “precious treasures” in the form of memories of all of the places she has visited and people she has met.
But not all “treasures” we store are so precious! We seem to have time for some things… but not others. It’s sometimes interesting to see that working parents who will find time to watch a favorite television program, or sporting event are too busy to sit and hold a child and read a second bed-time story… or to toss a ball or shoot hoops with a fifth-grader after dinner. Busy adults have time to meet a friend for a cup of coffee or a night of Bunco or poker, but they can’t spare an hour to commiserate as an aging grandmother talks one more time about her declining health or Grandpa tells about his days as a soldier or the sore spot on his leg.
It’s amazing how friends have time to come over to your house and hang out or share a meal… but when you are sick or injured, they just don’t have time to drop by and even see if you need anything. It’s funny how we have time for concerts, sporting events, “important” meetings at work and school… but we can’t spare a couple of hours on Sunday for worship with fellow believers, much less an afternoon to do mission work.
I often think about my grandparents and my great-grandparents and how hard they worked… farming, doing all sorts of housework without microwaves and washing machines, refrigerators and gas or electric cook stoves. I marvel at how they made all of their own clothing and bedding… and still had time to teach children to sew and plant a garden, do mission work in their church, and study their Bible in the evenings. Some of my fondest memories of my grandparents are the times they seemed to drop everything they were doing just to do what I wanted or needed. Regrettably, I also recall times when I have told my own nieces or grandparents, “I’m just too busy for that.”
Often, what we think is precious treasure may actually be selfish pleasure. It is important that we learn to tell the difference… that we pay attention and ask God to show us which is which… and then make wise choices about how we spend our time. What consumes your time these days? Are you making the best use of your time and storing up treasures that matter for Eternity? Isn’t it time you began?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Be sensible and store up precious treasures-- don't waste them like a fool.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
My mother loves to travel. It seems like she is “on the go” a lot of the time, and one day she said, “I’m doing all I can while I am still young enough and able… because I know the day will come when I no longer can do all of this.” My mother is a writer, and she pursues her career as she travels, but she is also semi-retired, so she has the freedom and luxury of spare time to visit interesting destinations. She is storing up “precious treasures” in the form of memories of all of the places she has visited and people she has met.
But not all “treasures” we store are so precious! We seem to have time for some things… but not others. It’s sometimes interesting to see that working parents who will find time to watch a favorite television program, or sporting event are too busy to sit and hold a child and read a second bed-time story… or to toss a ball or shoot hoops with a fifth-grader after dinner. Busy adults have time to meet a friend for a cup of coffee or a night of Bunco or poker, but they can’t spare an hour to commiserate as an aging grandmother talks one more time about her declining health or Grandpa tells about his days as a soldier or the sore spot on his leg.
It’s amazing how friends have time to come over to your house and hang out or share a meal… but when you are sick or injured, they just don’t have time to drop by and even see if you need anything. It’s funny how we have time for concerts, sporting events, “important” meetings at work and school… but we can’t spare a couple of hours on Sunday for worship with fellow believers, much less an afternoon to do mission work.
I often think about my grandparents and my great-grandparents and how hard they worked… farming, doing all sorts of housework without microwaves and washing machines, refrigerators and gas or electric cook stoves. I marvel at how they made all of their own clothing and bedding… and still had time to teach children to sew and plant a garden, do mission work in their church, and study their Bible in the evenings. Some of my fondest memories of my grandparents are the times they seemed to drop everything they were doing just to do what I wanted or needed. Regrettably, I also recall times when I have told my own nieces or grandparents, “I’m just too busy for that.”
Often, what we think is precious treasure may actually be selfish pleasure. It is important that we learn to tell the difference… that we pay attention and ask God to show us which is which… and then make wise choices about how we spend our time. What consumes your time these days? Are you making the best use of your time and storing up treasures that matter for Eternity? Isn’t it time you began?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for May 26, 2011
Judges 16:26-30
A young man was leading Samson by the hand, and Samson said to him, "I need to lean against something. Take me over to the columns that hold up the roof." The Philistine rulers were celebrating in a temple packed with people and with three thousand more on the flat roof. They had all been watching Samson and making fun of him.
Samson prayed, "Please remember me, LORD God. The Philistines poked out my eyes, but make me strong one last time, so I can take revenge for at least one of my eyes!" Samson was standing between the two middle columns that held up the roof. He felt around and found one column with his right hand, and the other with his left hand.
Then he shouted, "Let me die with the Philistines!" He pushed against the columns as hard as he could, and the temple collapsed with the Philistine rulers and everyone else still inside. Samson killed more Philistines when he died than he had killed during his entire life.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I watched CNN’s Anderson Cooper interview a young woman in Joplin, Missouri, who was caught in the devastating tornado that ravaged her community. The woman said that while she took refuge underneath an overpass, she observed an eighteen-wheeler flying through the air… literally tossed about by the tornado. When it came to rest, the vehicle was on its side. She left her car and rushed to check on the driver, who was trapped in the cab. The windshield was loose in one spot, and she somehow managed to grab hold of the windshield wipers and rip the windshield away so that the man could climb out and free himself.
She explained that after she rescued this driver, she returned to her car, and a law enforcement officer approached her with a person who was injured and asked her to drive this person to medical help. She began searching for a Red Cross rescue unit for this person… thinking she could stick around and volunteer. The woman explained that she had volunteered for the Red Cross before in disasters that were far more minor.
Anderson Cooper was amazed that this young woman who had just experienced such a shocking event was willing and able to volunteer to help others. He was even more stunned when she casually said, “Well, my home was destroyed, so this gave me something to do.” It was as if she said, “Lord, my eyes have been poked out by the enemy, but please remember me one more time. Let me bring something constructive and good out of all of this chaos.”
I wonder… how often do we do this? When our “eyes” are gouged out by the enemy, do we ask God to give us opportunities to serve? Or do we “tuck tail” and run for the hills? Samson was by no means a perfect man. He had his flaws… and his failures. His faith may have faltered at times, but He never gave up on God… and God never gave up on Samson!
God has not given up on you, either. It may seem like He has turned His back on you… but truly, this is not the case. God may step back and give us a little room to squirm… a chance to learn a few hard lessons… but He never deserts us completely. We are the ones who walk away. But it doesn’t have to be like this. We have everything to gain by staying faithful to God… and everything to lose by trying to do things our own way. We shouldn’t have to have a tornado or an “eyes gouged out” moment to shake us into a right relationship with God, but if that’s where you find yourself… there is still hope.
Stop what you are doing and talk with God. Ask Him to forgive you for wandering away and thinking you could make it on your own. Humbly come before Him and offer yourself to Him…gouged eyes and all…and see what He has in store. Discover the opportunities that God has waiting for you… to serve… to be a blessing… and to be blessed.
©2011 Debbie Robus
A young man was leading Samson by the hand, and Samson said to him, "I need to lean against something. Take me over to the columns that hold up the roof." The Philistine rulers were celebrating in a temple packed with people and with three thousand more on the flat roof. They had all been watching Samson and making fun of him.
Samson prayed, "Please remember me, LORD God. The Philistines poked out my eyes, but make me strong one last time, so I can take revenge for at least one of my eyes!" Samson was standing between the two middle columns that held up the roof. He felt around and found one column with his right hand, and the other with his left hand.
Then he shouted, "Let me die with the Philistines!" He pushed against the columns as hard as he could, and the temple collapsed with the Philistine rulers and everyone else still inside. Samson killed more Philistines when he died than he had killed during his entire life.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I watched CNN’s Anderson Cooper interview a young woman in Joplin, Missouri, who was caught in the devastating tornado that ravaged her community. The woman said that while she took refuge underneath an overpass, she observed an eighteen-wheeler flying through the air… literally tossed about by the tornado. When it came to rest, the vehicle was on its side. She left her car and rushed to check on the driver, who was trapped in the cab. The windshield was loose in one spot, and she somehow managed to grab hold of the windshield wipers and rip the windshield away so that the man could climb out and free himself.
She explained that after she rescued this driver, she returned to her car, and a law enforcement officer approached her with a person who was injured and asked her to drive this person to medical help. She began searching for a Red Cross rescue unit for this person… thinking she could stick around and volunteer. The woman explained that she had volunteered for the Red Cross before in disasters that were far more minor.
Anderson Cooper was amazed that this young woman who had just experienced such a shocking event was willing and able to volunteer to help others. He was even more stunned when she casually said, “Well, my home was destroyed, so this gave me something to do.” It was as if she said, “Lord, my eyes have been poked out by the enemy, but please remember me one more time. Let me bring something constructive and good out of all of this chaos.”
I wonder… how often do we do this? When our “eyes” are gouged out by the enemy, do we ask God to give us opportunities to serve? Or do we “tuck tail” and run for the hills? Samson was by no means a perfect man. He had his flaws… and his failures. His faith may have faltered at times, but He never gave up on God… and God never gave up on Samson!
God has not given up on you, either. It may seem like He has turned His back on you… but truly, this is not the case. God may step back and give us a little room to squirm… a chance to learn a few hard lessons… but He never deserts us completely. We are the ones who walk away. But it doesn’t have to be like this. We have everything to gain by staying faithful to God… and everything to lose by trying to do things our own way. We shouldn’t have to have a tornado or an “eyes gouged out” moment to shake us into a right relationship with God, but if that’s where you find yourself… there is still hope.
Stop what you are doing and talk with God. Ask Him to forgive you for wandering away and thinking you could make it on your own. Humbly come before Him and offer yourself to Him…gouged eyes and all…and see what He has in store. Discover the opportunities that God has waiting for you… to serve… to be a blessing… and to be blessed.
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for April 14, 2011
Psalm 71:17-18
You got me when I was an unformed youth, God, and taught me everything I know. Now I'm telling the world your wonders; I'll keep at it until I'm old and gray. God, don't walk off and leave me until I get out the news of your strong right arm to this world, news of your power to the world yet to come, Your famous and righteous ways, O God.
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.
I have laughingly remarked more than once that I know a few older folks who run circles around me on a daily basis. They have more zip than the Energizer Bunny, and by the time I get up, many of them have accomplished a day’s worth of work! But I also hear older people say, “You’re still young… I just can’t do what I used to any more.” And I get that. When I taught kindergarten in my 20s, I could get up and down out of the floor all day long without a second thought. Now, every time I get in the floor with Timothy, the ache in my knees when I stand reminds me that I’m no longer 20-something.
But this doesn’t mean that I can’t do things with my little nephew… or that older Christians cannot continue to serve. It just means that there truly is a “time for every season,” as we read in Ecclesiastes… and we may have to shift our attitude and our focus to fit each stage of life. The question is… are we meeting the challenge and doing all we are capable of doing in each “season”?
See, when we are young and able-bodied, God may be calling us to work with children, do physical labor like yard work for the elderly or simple carpentry and repairs. He may be asking us to drive a route for Meals on Wheels or deliver older adults to medical and shopping appointments and more. As we age, God may shift us to more of a stationary role… prayer warrior, someone who makes phone calls to check on others or sends cards of encouragement and concern. He may want you to use your workplace or your position in the community to share His message with others… and when you are older – possibly retired – He may use you in new and different ways. My 98-year-old grandmother lives in an apartment at an assisted living facility… and she walks across the street to visit nursing home residents.
The bottom line is this… we are never too young or too old to serve God. He will never “shove us on a shelf” and declare us of no use. OUR job is to figure out how and where He wants us to serve… then get busy doing just that! Do you know what He’s calling you to do in this season of your life? Are you getting out the news as He wishes?
©2011 Debbie Robus
You got me when I was an unformed youth, God, and taught me everything I know. Now I'm telling the world your wonders; I'll keep at it until I'm old and gray. God, don't walk off and leave me until I get out the news of your strong right arm to this world, news of your power to the world yet to come, Your famous and righteous ways, O God.
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.
I have laughingly remarked more than once that I know a few older folks who run circles around me on a daily basis. They have more zip than the Energizer Bunny, and by the time I get up, many of them have accomplished a day’s worth of work! But I also hear older people say, “You’re still young… I just can’t do what I used to any more.” And I get that. When I taught kindergarten in my 20s, I could get up and down out of the floor all day long without a second thought. Now, every time I get in the floor with Timothy, the ache in my knees when I stand reminds me that I’m no longer 20-something.
But this doesn’t mean that I can’t do things with my little nephew… or that older Christians cannot continue to serve. It just means that there truly is a “time for every season,” as we read in Ecclesiastes… and we may have to shift our attitude and our focus to fit each stage of life. The question is… are we meeting the challenge and doing all we are capable of doing in each “season”?
See, when we are young and able-bodied, God may be calling us to work with children, do physical labor like yard work for the elderly or simple carpentry and repairs. He may be asking us to drive a route for Meals on Wheels or deliver older adults to medical and shopping appointments and more. As we age, God may shift us to more of a stationary role… prayer warrior, someone who makes phone calls to check on others or sends cards of encouragement and concern. He may want you to use your workplace or your position in the community to share His message with others… and when you are older – possibly retired – He may use you in new and different ways. My 98-year-old grandmother lives in an apartment at an assisted living facility… and she walks across the street to visit nursing home residents.
The bottom line is this… we are never too young or too old to serve God. He will never “shove us on a shelf” and declare us of no use. OUR job is to figure out how and where He wants us to serve… then get busy doing just that! Do you know what He’s calling you to do in this season of your life? Are you getting out the news as He wishes?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for April 10, 2011
Luke 9:23-27
Then he told them what they could expect for themselves: "Anyone who intends to come with me has to let me lead. You're not in the driver's seat—I am. Don't run from suffering; embrace it. Follow me and I'll show you how. Self-help is no help at all. Self-sacrifice is the way, my way, to finding yourself, your true self. What good would it do to get everything you want and lose you, the real you? If any of you is embarrassed with me and the way I'm leading you, know that the Son of Man will be far more embarrassed with you when he arrives in all his splendor in company with the Father and the holy angels. This isn't, you realize, pie in the sky by and by. Some who have taken their stand right here are going to see it happen, see with their own eyes the kingdom of God."
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.
Recently, we attended a benefit performance to raise funds for Autism Speaks. Did you know that a child is diagnosed with autism somewhere in the world every 20 minutes? At the performance, several family members spoke about living with someone who has autism. One mother told of moving her family from Florida to Little Rock so that her son could attend a certain school and receive necessary help. A little boy talked about his brother’s obsession with air fresheners… Febreze, Glade, Air Wick… and how sick he is of smelling a few of the “signature scents.” A dad talked about the wonders of hearing his son tell him “I love you.”
All in all, these families embraced their children – and the struggles that they encounter on a daily basis. I’m sure it’s not all a bed of roses for any of them, but you wouldn’t have known it on this day, as the families danced together on stage with a professional modern dance company in the grand finale.
In The Purpose Driven Life, Pastor Rick Warren says our question is not to be “Why me?” but rather “What do you want me to learn?” Truly, God is always teaching us… even in the most difficult moments of our lives. Moments of suffering and sorrow can often be some of the biggest opportunities for us to grow in faith and our trust in God and His promises. These can also be our times to shine for Jesus… as we share His love for each of us with others.
I have no doubt that the families that include an autistic child would like to have a few minutes with God to sit down and tell Him a thing or two. But the fact is, God already knows how difficult the challenges are for these children and the families to whom they belong. And I have no doubt that their struggles and challenges are lessened if/when they really learn to move over and let God “drive the car.”
We have such a hard time with this concept. WE want to be in the driver’s seat… but that is simply not where we Christians belong. We can never get things right like God can… we can never know what is truly best for our situation like He does… and we are foolish to think otherwise. We have to let God lead… we have to accept – even embrace – whatever He allows in our lives… understanding that we have a lot left to learn, no matter what age we may be.
So who is driving your “car” these days? Are you stuck in the “Why me?” mode… wondering “When is it my turn?” to be “footloose and fancy free?” Or have you surrendered your heart and life completely to Jesus, trusting that He has much for you to learn… and He will be with you every step of the way? The choice is really pretty simple… so why not go ahead and hand over the keys?!
©2011 Debbie Robus
Then he told them what they could expect for themselves: "Anyone who intends to come with me has to let me lead. You're not in the driver's seat—I am. Don't run from suffering; embrace it. Follow me and I'll show you how. Self-help is no help at all. Self-sacrifice is the way, my way, to finding yourself, your true self. What good would it do to get everything you want and lose you, the real you? If any of you is embarrassed with me and the way I'm leading you, know that the Son of Man will be far more embarrassed with you when he arrives in all his splendor in company with the Father and the holy angels. This isn't, you realize, pie in the sky by and by. Some who have taken their stand right here are going to see it happen, see with their own eyes the kingdom of God."
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.
Recently, we attended a benefit performance to raise funds for Autism Speaks. Did you know that a child is diagnosed with autism somewhere in the world every 20 minutes? At the performance, several family members spoke about living with someone who has autism. One mother told of moving her family from Florida to Little Rock so that her son could attend a certain school and receive necessary help. A little boy talked about his brother’s obsession with air fresheners… Febreze, Glade, Air Wick… and how sick he is of smelling a few of the “signature scents.” A dad talked about the wonders of hearing his son tell him “I love you.”
All in all, these families embraced their children – and the struggles that they encounter on a daily basis. I’m sure it’s not all a bed of roses for any of them, but you wouldn’t have known it on this day, as the families danced together on stage with a professional modern dance company in the grand finale.
In The Purpose Driven Life, Pastor Rick Warren says our question is not to be “Why me?” but rather “What do you want me to learn?” Truly, God is always teaching us… even in the most difficult moments of our lives. Moments of suffering and sorrow can often be some of the biggest opportunities for us to grow in faith and our trust in God and His promises. These can also be our times to shine for Jesus… as we share His love for each of us with others.
I have no doubt that the families that include an autistic child would like to have a few minutes with God to sit down and tell Him a thing or two. But the fact is, God already knows how difficult the challenges are for these children and the families to whom they belong. And I have no doubt that their struggles and challenges are lessened if/when they really learn to move over and let God “drive the car.”
We have such a hard time with this concept. WE want to be in the driver’s seat… but that is simply not where we Christians belong. We can never get things right like God can… we can never know what is truly best for our situation like He does… and we are foolish to think otherwise. We have to let God lead… we have to accept – even embrace – whatever He allows in our lives… understanding that we have a lot left to learn, no matter what age we may be.
So who is driving your “car” these days? Are you stuck in the “Why me?” mode… wondering “When is it my turn?” to be “footloose and fancy free?” Or have you surrendered your heart and life completely to Jesus, trusting that He has much for you to learn… and He will be with you every step of the way? The choice is really pretty simple… so why not go ahead and hand over the keys?!
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 17, 2011
Proverbs 10:22
When the LORD blesses you with riches, you have nothing to regret.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Timothy Kodjo Owusu Frim, the little boy in Ghana whom we sponsor through Compassion International often writes that he is praying for us. How humbled I am by this! I recently read that in Ghana, most of the children who get an opportunity to go to school are those sponsored by people like my husband and me. And the schooling is slow… ten and twelve-year-olds are often just completing work in kindergarten and first grade. So when our ten-year-old Kodjo asks me to pray for him as he studies in school and at his church, I am very humbled and honored.
The average income in Kodjo’s village is around $32 a month… the amount my husband and I spend for his monthly sponsorship. We are allowed to send additional monetary gifts for Kodjo’s birthday and at Christmas… but there are dollar limits so that one child does not have more than his/her peers. We can send $25 to buy new clothes, a soccer ball, or a game Kodjo might like – and a little extra at Christmas time. Kodjo tells us that he loves our gifts. He also talks of time spent with family celebrating holidays and seasonal breaks from school, and he appears to feel quite blessed and “rich”, while by the world’s standards, he is living in abject poverty.
Pastor Rick Warren says in The Purpose Driven Life that… “you could reach all of your personal goals, become a raving success by the world’s standard, and still miss the purposes for which God created you.” This explains why some of the “richest” people in the world are some of those many of us would consider poor.
This is nothing new… the Apostle Paul spent much of his Christian life in prison – often in horrid, unthinkable conditions – and yet he was apparently happily praising God and sharing the Good News of Jesus with others… encouraging them and offering counsel and comfort. Mother Teresa had virtually nothing of her own, yet she devoted her life to giving to others… and apparently felt quite blessed by doing so.
It seems like this is a good time for all of us to take a good look at our lives and see what we value the most. What makes us “rich” – things and money, property and possessions? Or are we rich in relationships… first and foremost with Jesus Christ, and then with others, like family, friends, and members of our community? Are we blessed because of the generosity and love of others… or are we blessed because we are a blessing in Jesus’ name?
When you get to heaven, if all of the “riches” you accumulated were things that you left behind to gather dust or be haggled over by others, you really wasted your time. But if you have a heart filled with blessings… healthy relationships, wise use of your time and money to help others and share the love of Christ, a genuine effort to bless others and be a blessing… you will have no regrets. God will congratulate you on your faithful service, and He will assign you to greater positions than you ever imagined in His kingdom.
I wonder… when I get to heaven, will I be anywhere as rich as Kodjo and others like him? I hope so! I’m asking God to humble me and help me to use the earthly riches with which He entrusts me to make a difference with eternal ramifications, so that I have no regrets when I meet Him in person. Are you willing to do the same?
©2011 Debbie Robus
When the LORD blesses you with riches, you have nothing to regret.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Timothy Kodjo Owusu Frim, the little boy in Ghana whom we sponsor through Compassion International often writes that he is praying for us. How humbled I am by this! I recently read that in Ghana, most of the children who get an opportunity to go to school are those sponsored by people like my husband and me. And the schooling is slow… ten and twelve-year-olds are often just completing work in kindergarten and first grade. So when our ten-year-old Kodjo asks me to pray for him as he studies in school and at his church, I am very humbled and honored.
The average income in Kodjo’s village is around $32 a month… the amount my husband and I spend for his monthly sponsorship. We are allowed to send additional monetary gifts for Kodjo’s birthday and at Christmas… but there are dollar limits so that one child does not have more than his/her peers. We can send $25 to buy new clothes, a soccer ball, or a game Kodjo might like – and a little extra at Christmas time. Kodjo tells us that he loves our gifts. He also talks of time spent with family celebrating holidays and seasonal breaks from school, and he appears to feel quite blessed and “rich”, while by the world’s standards, he is living in abject poverty.
Pastor Rick Warren says in The Purpose Driven Life that… “you could reach all of your personal goals, become a raving success by the world’s standard, and still miss the purposes for which God created you.” This explains why some of the “richest” people in the world are some of those many of us would consider poor.
This is nothing new… the Apostle Paul spent much of his Christian life in prison – often in horrid, unthinkable conditions – and yet he was apparently happily praising God and sharing the Good News of Jesus with others… encouraging them and offering counsel and comfort. Mother Teresa had virtually nothing of her own, yet she devoted her life to giving to others… and apparently felt quite blessed by doing so.
It seems like this is a good time for all of us to take a good look at our lives and see what we value the most. What makes us “rich” – things and money, property and possessions? Or are we rich in relationships… first and foremost with Jesus Christ, and then with others, like family, friends, and members of our community? Are we blessed because of the generosity and love of others… or are we blessed because we are a blessing in Jesus’ name?
When you get to heaven, if all of the “riches” you accumulated were things that you left behind to gather dust or be haggled over by others, you really wasted your time. But if you have a heart filled with blessings… healthy relationships, wise use of your time and money to help others and share the love of Christ, a genuine effort to bless others and be a blessing… you will have no regrets. God will congratulate you on your faithful service, and He will assign you to greater positions than you ever imagined in His kingdom.
I wonder… when I get to heaven, will I be anywhere as rich as Kodjo and others like him? I hope so! I’m asking God to humble me and help me to use the earthly riches with which He entrusts me to make a difference with eternal ramifications, so that I have no regrets when I meet Him in person. Are you willing to do the same?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 27, 2010
1 Corinthians 12:25-26
He did this to make all parts of the body work together smoothly, with each part caring about the others. If one part of our body hurts, we hurt all over. If one part of our body is honored, the whole body will be happy.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Last year, my niece and our great-nephew Timothy got sick a couple of weeks before Christmas with stomach flu. This “bug” was running rampant through our community, and by the week of Christmas, my sister and her husband had succumbed. On December 22nd, my sister called me and weakly asked, “Can you come and get Timothy? His mother is working, and we [meaning she and her husband] are too sick to care for him.” I went right away and collected Timothy, who was still fairly sick himself.
Over the course of the next few days, Timothy got better and began to drink his bottles again and keep down liquid Jello and a drink designed to restore the electrolytes in infants. By Christmas Eve, my sister and my niece seemed to be feeling better, too. Everyone gather at our home for a Christmas Eve lunch and an afternoon of opening gifts and visiting.
I noticed that my husband distanced himself from the group, but since not everyone could fit at the dining table anyway, I didn’t think much about it. But when he told me he had a headache and disappeared to an upstairs bedroom, I knew all was not well. By the end of the evening, he was too sick to move… and sometime after midnight, I woke up feeling just as badly. When the weekend was over, everyone in the family had gotten some version of this “bug” except my mother. My husband and I felt so badly that we postponed opening our Christmas gifts to each other.
While this was not funny at the time, we later laughed about “Timothy’s first Christmas” and how we all were so sick. We took the admonition of Paul to share one another’s hurts to a whole new level – and not by choice! I knew when I picked up the baby and brought him to our house that we would most likely catch his virus. But on that day, a tiny sick baby needed someone to care for him… and we were the only ones available to do so. There was no way we would have refused.
But here’s the deal… so often, we focus so much on ourselves that we don’t consider the other person’s feelings. We say, “I cannot get involved in that… I have my own problems.” Or we decide that “This is really none of my concern.” We look at the person who is hurting in some way… someone with great need… and we either pass judgment and determine that they got into this mess on their own and should get out of it the same way – or we declare that “this is simply not my problem.”
But Paul says otherwise. He tells us in this passage that when one of our sisters or brothers in Christ is hurting or in need, we should feel this deeply ourselves. “I feel your pain,” should not be a cliché… it should be the way Christians behave toward others. I’m not saying that there are never situations and circumstances that are none of our business. But the Christian servant prayerfully knows how to tell the difference.
Where has God given you opportunities to share in others’ needs, yet you turned and went in another direction? Where have you stepped up and answered the call? Can you do more? Shouldn’t you? Ask God to show you how and where to empathize with others in your daily life… to make a difference when possible… and to operate with wisdom and discernment in choosing when and where to get involved. Start looking for new ways to make the entire body of Christ happy, and see how greatly everyone is blessed by your efforts.
©2010 Debbie Robus
He did this to make all parts of the body work together smoothly, with each part caring about the others. If one part of our body hurts, we hurt all over. If one part of our body is honored, the whole body will be happy.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Last year, my niece and our great-nephew Timothy got sick a couple of weeks before Christmas with stomach flu. This “bug” was running rampant through our community, and by the week of Christmas, my sister and her husband had succumbed. On December 22nd, my sister called me and weakly asked, “Can you come and get Timothy? His mother is working, and we [meaning she and her husband] are too sick to care for him.” I went right away and collected Timothy, who was still fairly sick himself.
Over the course of the next few days, Timothy got better and began to drink his bottles again and keep down liquid Jello and a drink designed to restore the electrolytes in infants. By Christmas Eve, my sister and my niece seemed to be feeling better, too. Everyone gather at our home for a Christmas Eve lunch and an afternoon of opening gifts and visiting.
I noticed that my husband distanced himself from the group, but since not everyone could fit at the dining table anyway, I didn’t think much about it. But when he told me he had a headache and disappeared to an upstairs bedroom, I knew all was not well. By the end of the evening, he was too sick to move… and sometime after midnight, I woke up feeling just as badly. When the weekend was over, everyone in the family had gotten some version of this “bug” except my mother. My husband and I felt so badly that we postponed opening our Christmas gifts to each other.
While this was not funny at the time, we later laughed about “Timothy’s first Christmas” and how we all were so sick. We took the admonition of Paul to share one another’s hurts to a whole new level – and not by choice! I knew when I picked up the baby and brought him to our house that we would most likely catch his virus. But on that day, a tiny sick baby needed someone to care for him… and we were the only ones available to do so. There was no way we would have refused.
But here’s the deal… so often, we focus so much on ourselves that we don’t consider the other person’s feelings. We say, “I cannot get involved in that… I have my own problems.” Or we decide that “This is really none of my concern.” We look at the person who is hurting in some way… someone with great need… and we either pass judgment and determine that they got into this mess on their own and should get out of it the same way – or we declare that “this is simply not my problem.”
But Paul says otherwise. He tells us in this passage that when one of our sisters or brothers in Christ is hurting or in need, we should feel this deeply ourselves. “I feel your pain,” should not be a cliché… it should be the way Christians behave toward others. I’m not saying that there are never situations and circumstances that are none of our business. But the Christian servant prayerfully knows how to tell the difference.
Where has God given you opportunities to share in others’ needs, yet you turned and went in another direction? Where have you stepped up and answered the call? Can you do more? Shouldn’t you? Ask God to show you how and where to empathize with others in your daily life… to make a difference when possible… and to operate with wisdom and discernment in choosing when and where to get involved. Start looking for new ways to make the entire body of Christ happy, and see how greatly everyone is blessed by your efforts.
©2010 Debbie Robus
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