1 Corinthians 13:1-13
What if I could speak all
languages of humans and of angels? If I did not love others, I would be
nothing more than a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal.
What if I
could prophesy and understand all secrets and all knowledge? And what if
I had faith that moved mountains? I would be nothing, unless I loved
others.
What if I gave away all that I owned and let myself be burned alive? I would gain nothing, unless I loved others.
Love
is kind and patient, never jealous, boastful, proud, or rude. Love
isn’t selfish or quick tempered. It doesn’t keep a record of wrongs that
others do. Love rejoices in the truth, but not in evil. Love is always
supportive, loyal, hopeful, and trusting. Love never fails!
Everyone who prophesies will stop, and unknown languages will no longer be spoken. All that we know will be forgotten.
We
don’t know everything, and our prophecies are not complete. But what is
perfect will someday appear, and what isn’t perfect will then
disappear.
When we were children, we thought and reasoned as
children do. But when we grew up, we quit our childish ways. Now all we
can see of God is like a cloudy picture in a mirror. Later we will see
him face to face. We don’t know everything, but then we will, just as
God completely understands us.
For now there are faith, hope, and love. But of these three, the greatest is love.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Our
church’s Sunday school focus for this quarter is on “church”…what is
it? Who makes up the “church”? How can we be the “church” to others?
There are a lot of people who think they are the church, because they
“do all the right things.” They attend worship services on Sundays…they
participate in Bible studies and small groups…they wear the appropriate
cross jewelry and t-shirts and/or have crosses, fish and bumper
stickers on their vehicles. They might even have a sign in their yard
that says, “This family attends XYZ church.” And they hang out with
other people who attend their “church.”
But check these folks on
any given day, and you will see someone who does not seem to represent
the “church” described in the Book of Acts - in any way, shape or
form. Yesterday, I asked a group of 2nd-3rd graders how they could
better represent the church that Jesus commissioned in the Book of
Acts. One child said, “I could watch my language and not say ugly
words.” Another said, “I could pray more and tell others about Jesus.”
Still another said, “I could control my temper."
All of the children in this class were sweet and sincere…they want
to be loving servants. But they are children…and they are human. 1
Corinthians 13:11 tells us that most children think and reason
differently from us. Unfortunately, we adults behave like children far
too often. We do not operate in love…and we do not represent Jesus. We
may “look the part,” on the outside…but our hearts are certainly not
filled with love for others.
I told the children what I often
remind each of us in these devotionals…people are watching. When they
look at us, we want them to see the love of Jesus. We want others to
see behaviors and hear talk that represents His teachings…offers hope,
demonstrates faith, and surrounds them with love and acceptance. If we
don’t truly have the love of Christ in our hearts…if we don’t carry His
Holy Spirit with us…this will not be possible.
Examine your heart
today. See where you have become nothing more than a noisy gong or a
clanging cymbal. Ask Jesus to fill you with His love…and to help you
share His compassion tenderness, grace and mercy with others. We are
called to “feed His sheep” by our demonstrations of love, hope and
faith. How are you doing today?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Showing posts with label sharing God's love with others. Show all posts
Showing posts with label sharing God's love with others. Show all posts
Daily Devotional for January 5, 2016
Proverbs 1:7-9
How does a man become wise? The first step is to trust and reverence the Lord!
Only fools refuse to be taught. Listen to your father and mother. What you learn from them will stand you in good stead; it will gain you many honors.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
I’m sitting at my mother’s house…the home she has occupied for 56+ years – since I was 2 years of age. She is lying in a hospital bed in front of the fireplace, where her family can gather around her and try to meet her every need until Jesus has her heavenly home ready.
I have been reading comments to my mother that have been posted on Facebook and sent via e-mail. The accolades are each precious. But over and again, words are repeated from comment to comment…”walking testament to God's love and grace…never have I met such a gentle, caring, intelligent, talented lady…what a super woman! If only we all could be more like her this would be a better world.”
Like all mothers, mine taught me lots of things. But the most important thing she instilled in me was a love of Jesus…and unending faith. She lived these…she demonstrated them. One of her fellow teacher friends commented about a time all of the teachers got tickled at a lady falling asleep at a workshop and could NOT stop giggling…”even with your mom giving us the EYE!” I know that “eye!” My mother has always had a strong sense of right and wrong…and she made sure we knew the difference!
I have neither the time nor the energy to write all I could about my mother. But people have sent me so many dear, sweet comments about how I have a lot of her finest qualities. And I am humbled. Indeed, what I have learned from her has gained me many honors…and I am truly blessed to have such a Godly mother.
Nothing could be better in my book than to be known as a woman who loved and revered the LORD…who cared for others and shared God’s love and promise with them, as my own mother has done for so many. She has taught me well, and I will be forever grateful.
This has been a truly unbelievable time for us. I posted on Facebook yesterday that…“as we have seen this last 2½ weeks, life is short and precious...and none of us know how much longer we have on this earth.” Treasure those who are dear to you…listen and learn from those who are faithful servants…and trust and reverence the LORD. As my mother has taught me so well…God will never desert you, especially in the most troubling of times.
©2016 Debbie Robus
How does a man become wise? The first step is to trust and reverence the Lord!
Only fools refuse to be taught. Listen to your father and mother. What you learn from them will stand you in good stead; it will gain you many honors.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
I’m sitting at my mother’s house…the home she has occupied for 56+ years – since I was 2 years of age. She is lying in a hospital bed in front of the fireplace, where her family can gather around her and try to meet her every need until Jesus has her heavenly home ready.
I have been reading comments to my mother that have been posted on Facebook and sent via e-mail. The accolades are each precious. But over and again, words are repeated from comment to comment…”walking testament to God's love and grace…never have I met such a gentle, caring, intelligent, talented lady…what a super woman! If only we all could be more like her this would be a better world.”
Like all mothers, mine taught me lots of things. But the most important thing she instilled in me was a love of Jesus…and unending faith. She lived these…she demonstrated them. One of her fellow teacher friends commented about a time all of the teachers got tickled at a lady falling asleep at a workshop and could NOT stop giggling…”even with your mom giving us the EYE!” I know that “eye!” My mother has always had a strong sense of right and wrong…and she made sure we knew the difference!
I have neither the time nor the energy to write all I could about my mother. But people have sent me so many dear, sweet comments about how I have a lot of her finest qualities. And I am humbled. Indeed, what I have learned from her has gained me many honors…and I am truly blessed to have such a Godly mother.
Nothing could be better in my book than to be known as a woman who loved and revered the LORD…who cared for others and shared God’s love and promise with them, as my own mother has done for so many. She has taught me well, and I will be forever grateful.
This has been a truly unbelievable time for us. I posted on Facebook yesterday that…“as we have seen this last 2½ weeks, life is short and precious...and none of us know how much longer we have on this earth.” Treasure those who are dear to you…listen and learn from those who are faithful servants…and trust and reverence the LORD. As my mother has taught me so well…God will never desert you, especially in the most troubling of times.
©2016 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for July 28, 2015
Deuteronomy 16:18-20
Appoint judges and officers, organized by tribes, in all the towns that God, your God, is giving you. They are to judge the people fairly and honestly. Don’t twist the law. Don’t play favorites. Don’t take a bribe—a bribe blinds even a wise person; it undermines the intentions of the best of people.
The right! The right! Pursue only what’s right! It’s the only way you can really live and possess the land that God, your God, is giving you.
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 can’t make this stuff up! I found an article at prnewswire.com that says…” According to a recent online survey, released by Great American Cookies® and conducted online on the brand's behalf, 94 percent of parents say they have rewarded their children for good behavior.” In response to the survey results, this company is launching the first-ever National Bribe Your Child Week from Aug. 9th – 15th. Parents can visit a website and download a worksheet to complete with their child and turn it in at any Great American Cookies® store for a free cookie.
It would be great if this company had chosen to call the project “National Reward Your Child Week"…but at the end of the day, hundreds of parents have just been bribed to participate in this program with the offer of a “free” cookie. So maybe their choice of words was appropriate. See how easily we are drawn in?
I utilize a reward system with Timothy, Zola and Nathan, where I punch numbers on a little card as they demonstrate “good” behaviors. When all twenty of the numbers on the card have been punched, the child gets to choose a “prize” from my basket of goodies…cars, trucks, dinosaurs, small stuffed animals, crayons and chalk, and more. So far, this has worked well…and it is a fair way to address each child’s behavior individually. They often plan which prize they will “work for” next!
Some have said that this amounts to bribery. The children will tell you that they earn these rewards. I can see both sides…but they are learning valuable lessons about incentives to behave nicely – and penalties when this doesn’t happen (because they do NOT get a prize if their card isn’t punched). And I will admit that I sometimes offer a Life Saver® as a quick and simple “bribe” for positive actions.
Try as we might to ignore or deny this, bribes are a common “currency” among many adults in our culture. Some are slick about it and do their best to disguise these as “incentives” or fair exchanges. But when we drill it down, they are bribes, pure and simple…and scripture tells us not to operate in these inducements.
This is more easily said than done, as we are somewhat geared to help those who help us – and to show them favor. But we must learn to stop operating in the mode of “what’s in it for me?” and model the teachings of Jesus as we figure out how we are to show someone else love, grace, mercy, forgiveness and compassion. When we shift our attitude to reflect that of our Savior, we are more concerned with pleasing Him than earning a material prize or the attention and approval of another. We desire to treat others in such a way that they do what is right because they want to…not because we paid them to do so.
The challenge for each of us is to live each and every day with the intention to serve God with our whole heart and mind…to make sure that every action is positive and without reproach. Rewards will follow…but they will be the kind that God ordains – not man – and they will not be dangled before us as enticements to serve Him. In other words, don’t look for God to offer you a cookie anytime soon!
©2015 Debbie Robus
Appoint judges and officers, organized by tribes, in all the towns that God, your God, is giving you. They are to judge the people fairly and honestly. Don’t twist the law. Don’t play favorites. Don’t take a bribe—a bribe blinds even a wise person; it undermines the intentions of the best of people.
The right! The right! Pursue only what’s right! It’s the only way you can really live and possess the land that God, your God, is giving you.
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 can’t make this stuff up! I found an article at prnewswire.com that says…” According to a recent online survey, released by Great American Cookies® and conducted online on the brand's behalf, 94 percent of parents say they have rewarded their children for good behavior.” In response to the survey results, this company is launching the first-ever National Bribe Your Child Week from Aug. 9th – 15th. Parents can visit a website and download a worksheet to complete with their child and turn it in at any Great American Cookies® store for a free cookie.
It would be great if this company had chosen to call the project “National Reward Your Child Week"…but at the end of the day, hundreds of parents have just been bribed to participate in this program with the offer of a “free” cookie. So maybe their choice of words was appropriate. See how easily we are drawn in?
I utilize a reward system with Timothy, Zola and Nathan, where I punch numbers on a little card as they demonstrate “good” behaviors. When all twenty of the numbers on the card have been punched, the child gets to choose a “prize” from my basket of goodies…cars, trucks, dinosaurs, small stuffed animals, crayons and chalk, and more. So far, this has worked well…and it is a fair way to address each child’s behavior individually. They often plan which prize they will “work for” next!
Some have said that this amounts to bribery. The children will tell you that they earn these rewards. I can see both sides…but they are learning valuable lessons about incentives to behave nicely – and penalties when this doesn’t happen (because they do NOT get a prize if their card isn’t punched). And I will admit that I sometimes offer a Life Saver® as a quick and simple “bribe” for positive actions.
Try as we might to ignore or deny this, bribes are a common “currency” among many adults in our culture. Some are slick about it and do their best to disguise these as “incentives” or fair exchanges. But when we drill it down, they are bribes, pure and simple…and scripture tells us not to operate in these inducements.
This is more easily said than done, as we are somewhat geared to help those who help us – and to show them favor. But we must learn to stop operating in the mode of “what’s in it for me?” and model the teachings of Jesus as we figure out how we are to show someone else love, grace, mercy, forgiveness and compassion. When we shift our attitude to reflect that of our Savior, we are more concerned with pleasing Him than earning a material prize or the attention and approval of another. We desire to treat others in such a way that they do what is right because they want to…not because we paid them to do so.
The challenge for each of us is to live each and every day with the intention to serve God with our whole heart and mind…to make sure that every action is positive and without reproach. Rewards will follow…but they will be the kind that God ordains – not man – and they will not be dangled before us as enticements to serve Him. In other words, don’t look for God to offer you a cookie anytime soon!
©2015 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for July 20, 2015
1 Corinthians 13:4
Love is very patient and kind, never jealous or envious, never boastful or proud…
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Dr. Randy Hyde, Senior Pastor at Pulaski Heights Baptist Church in Little Rock, Arkansas, delivered a sermon on July 5, 2015, titled “Conversations About Freedom.” I encourage you to go to http://www.phbclr.com/members/sermons/sermon/?id=252 and read the message for yourself.
Dr. Hyde shares an exchange he had with a retired and newly widowed friend in Baltimore who took a job at Walmart as a greeter. When Hyde returned for a visit recently, the man expressed to his former pastor that he was not sure how to relate to the large number of customers who shopped in his store who were Muslim. It was not that the man felt animosity or disdain toward these people because of their religious preferences or ethnicity. But he was at a lost about how to relate to them…and how to share His Christian faith with them. Dr. Hyde sensed that this quandary was greatly troubling his friend.
Again, I encourage you to read the sermon for yourself (it’s fairly brief, but full of good stuff!)…but Dr. Hyde says that he didn’t have a lot of time to visit with this man and give him a decent answer. After returning home, he pulled his thoughts together in the form of this message. Essentially, the pastor wishes he had told his friend that when people come into Walmart, they are seeking more than a bottle of shampoo or a bag of mulch…they are seeking love and acceptance…and the freedom to be who they are without fear of persecution or intimidation.
Now, you may think this is a stretch…but consider your own life. As you travel through your day, how do you react to the words and actions of others? Can a friendly smile change your attitude? Can one glance or a comment that you construe as negative or critical ruin your whole morning or afternoon? Do you ever feel judged just by the way people look at you and react to you? Does something as basic and simple as a wave and greeting at Walmart – or the lack thereof - have an impact on your demeanor?
Too often, we underestimate the power of a loving gesture. We fail to see the effect that a smile can have on another person. We take for granted the person who strives to be patient, humble and speak softly with a tone of grace and acceptance. We remember people who treat us unkindly, criticize or judge, and speak negatively. But we also remember those who are loving and merciful…those who offer words of encouragement and offer positive “vibes.” We remember people who smile a lot and seem to be filled with joy most of the time!
Which do you suppose has more of an impact on others? Which best represents Jesus Christ and His message? Which draws others in rather than creating a divide? Where would you rather land in this equation…and where do you think God wants you to be?
Dr. Hyde concluded his thoughts by saying that “kindness and faith come from the same Source”…and I believe that we can draw more people to Jesus with a spirit of love, patience, kindness and humility than we could ever reach with a thousand sermons or criticisms. It is no small thing that one of Jesus’ greatest commandments to us is to “love one another.” A smile and a positive attitude are pretty good places to start…and in doing so, we represent the love of Jesus Christ.
When we create an atmosphere where all people feel accepted and free to be themselves, we are demonstrating our confidence that Jesus was right all along in how He treated people…and we make room for Him to work in ways great and small. What does your demeanor say to others about your Christian faith? Are you a walking – and welcoming – example of the love of Christ? Don’t you think you should be?
©2015 Debbie Robus
Love is very patient and kind, never jealous or envious, never boastful or proud…
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Dr. Randy Hyde, Senior Pastor at Pulaski Heights Baptist Church in Little Rock, Arkansas, delivered a sermon on July 5, 2015, titled “Conversations About Freedom.” I encourage you to go to http://www.phbclr.com/members/sermons/sermon/?id=252 and read the message for yourself.
Dr. Hyde shares an exchange he had with a retired and newly widowed friend in Baltimore who took a job at Walmart as a greeter. When Hyde returned for a visit recently, the man expressed to his former pastor that he was not sure how to relate to the large number of customers who shopped in his store who were Muslim. It was not that the man felt animosity or disdain toward these people because of their religious preferences or ethnicity. But he was at a lost about how to relate to them…and how to share His Christian faith with them. Dr. Hyde sensed that this quandary was greatly troubling his friend.
Again, I encourage you to read the sermon for yourself (it’s fairly brief, but full of good stuff!)…but Dr. Hyde says that he didn’t have a lot of time to visit with this man and give him a decent answer. After returning home, he pulled his thoughts together in the form of this message. Essentially, the pastor wishes he had told his friend that when people come into Walmart, they are seeking more than a bottle of shampoo or a bag of mulch…they are seeking love and acceptance…and the freedom to be who they are without fear of persecution or intimidation.
Now, you may think this is a stretch…but consider your own life. As you travel through your day, how do you react to the words and actions of others? Can a friendly smile change your attitude? Can one glance or a comment that you construe as negative or critical ruin your whole morning or afternoon? Do you ever feel judged just by the way people look at you and react to you? Does something as basic and simple as a wave and greeting at Walmart – or the lack thereof - have an impact on your demeanor?
Too often, we underestimate the power of a loving gesture. We fail to see the effect that a smile can have on another person. We take for granted the person who strives to be patient, humble and speak softly with a tone of grace and acceptance. We remember people who treat us unkindly, criticize or judge, and speak negatively. But we also remember those who are loving and merciful…those who offer words of encouragement and offer positive “vibes.” We remember people who smile a lot and seem to be filled with joy most of the time!
Which do you suppose has more of an impact on others? Which best represents Jesus Christ and His message? Which draws others in rather than creating a divide? Where would you rather land in this equation…and where do you think God wants you to be?
Dr. Hyde concluded his thoughts by saying that “kindness and faith come from the same Source”…and I believe that we can draw more people to Jesus with a spirit of love, patience, kindness and humility than we could ever reach with a thousand sermons or criticisms. It is no small thing that one of Jesus’ greatest commandments to us is to “love one another.” A smile and a positive attitude are pretty good places to start…and in doing so, we represent the love of Jesus Christ.
When we create an atmosphere where all people feel accepted and free to be themselves, we are demonstrating our confidence that Jesus was right all along in how He treated people…and we make room for Him to work in ways great and small. What does your demeanor say to others about your Christian faith? Are you a walking – and welcoming – example of the love of Christ? Don’t you think you should be?
©2015 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for February 26, 2015
Jeremiah 9:23-24
The Lord says:
Don’t brag about your wisdom
or strength or wealth.
If you feel you must brag,
then have enough sense
to brag about worshiping me,
the Lord.
What I like best
is showing kindness,
justice, and mercy
to everyone on earth.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
On the rare occasion that I am sick and need a doctor, I don’t mind seeing his/her diplomas hanging on the wall. It doesn’t bother me to know what schools this person attended – or that they belong to an honor society or even a fraternity or sorority. But what I really want to know is whether this person knows what he/she is doing with regard to my health. So I ask questions…I “shop around” and ask others what their experience was like with this physician. I listen in the clinic and the ER to the chatter of nurses and other staff and note when they readily volunteer, “He/she is good! You will be well cared for"...and I note when the references are NOT so glowing!
At the end of the day, it doesn’t matter to me what color or gender a doctor is…his/her country of origin…and most certainly his/her sexual orientation, economic level, or political preferences. All I care about are: 1) is he/she knowledgeable about medicine and how to treat my condition, and 2) whether this care can be administered with kindness, concern, and a decent bedside manner!
And so it is for us in our fellowship with God. He wants us to have a profound knowledge of Him and His word - and such an intimate relationship and communion with His Holy Spirit - that we exude confidence, hope and courage in our daily living. He wants us to operate with a good “bedside manner” toward others. God wants us to dispense kindness, justice and mercy to everyone…just as He gives these things to us. When we demonstrate these things rather than bravado or our own narcissism, God draws nearer to us…and we feel His presence and peace.
When you boil it all down, nothing in life is all about us. We are merely God’s vehicles to deliver love, grace, mercy, kindness, wisdom, forgiveness and the message of salvation through Jesus Christ to others. When we get caught up in how wonderful we are or what we have accomplished, we essentially shove God into a closet and press against the door...and nobody benefits. Will this be the day that you open that door and usher God to the forefront? Will this be the day that you start to consider the other guy more than yourself…and in doing so, truly feel God’s presence? Don’t you think it should be?
©2015 Debbie Robus
The Lord says:
Don’t brag about your wisdom
or strength or wealth.
If you feel you must brag,
then have enough sense
to brag about worshiping me,
the Lord.
What I like best
is showing kindness,
justice, and mercy
to everyone on earth.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
On the rare occasion that I am sick and need a doctor, I don’t mind seeing his/her diplomas hanging on the wall. It doesn’t bother me to know what schools this person attended – or that they belong to an honor society or even a fraternity or sorority. But what I really want to know is whether this person knows what he/she is doing with regard to my health. So I ask questions…I “shop around” and ask others what their experience was like with this physician. I listen in the clinic and the ER to the chatter of nurses and other staff and note when they readily volunteer, “He/she is good! You will be well cared for"...and I note when the references are NOT so glowing!
At the end of the day, it doesn’t matter to me what color or gender a doctor is…his/her country of origin…and most certainly his/her sexual orientation, economic level, or political preferences. All I care about are: 1) is he/she knowledgeable about medicine and how to treat my condition, and 2) whether this care can be administered with kindness, concern, and a decent bedside manner!
And so it is for us in our fellowship with God. He wants us to have a profound knowledge of Him and His word - and such an intimate relationship and communion with His Holy Spirit - that we exude confidence, hope and courage in our daily living. He wants us to operate with a good “bedside manner” toward others. God wants us to dispense kindness, justice and mercy to everyone…just as He gives these things to us. When we demonstrate these things rather than bravado or our own narcissism, God draws nearer to us…and we feel His presence and peace.
When you boil it all down, nothing in life is all about us. We are merely God’s vehicles to deliver love, grace, mercy, kindness, wisdom, forgiveness and the message of salvation through Jesus Christ to others. When we get caught up in how wonderful we are or what we have accomplished, we essentially shove God into a closet and press against the door...and nobody benefits. Will this be the day that you open that door and usher God to the forefront? Will this be the day that you start to consider the other guy more than yourself…and in doing so, truly feel God’s presence? Don’t you think it should be?
©2015 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for January 22, 2015
Proverbs 16:24
Kind words are like honey—
they cheer you up
and make you feel strong.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
There is really not much I can add to this! Speak kind words to others today…particularly those people to whom you may not feel so loving or tolerant, for whatever reason. Let your “kindness” serve as a balm for their souls...and let them see the love of Jesus in your words and body language. You might catch a few people off guard…but it will all be good in the end. And as you lift another person, you will feel stronger, more lighthearted, and confident in your relationship with Jesus. You will be blessed to be a blessing!
So get going! Who will be the first to feel the love of Jesus in your kind words this day?
©2015 Debbie Robus
Kind words are like honey—
they cheer you up
and make you feel strong.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
There is really not much I can add to this! Speak kind words to others today…particularly those people to whom you may not feel so loving or tolerant, for whatever reason. Let your “kindness” serve as a balm for their souls...and let them see the love of Jesus in your words and body language. You might catch a few people off guard…but it will all be good in the end. And as you lift another person, you will feel stronger, more lighthearted, and confident in your relationship with Jesus. You will be blessed to be a blessing!
So get going! Who will be the first to feel the love of Jesus in your kind words this day?
©2015 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 27, 2014
1 Corinthians 10:6-7, 10
The same thing could happen to us. We must be on guard so that we never get caught up in wanting our own way as they did. And we must not turn our religion into a circus as they did—“First the people partied, then they threw a dance.”
We must be careful not to stir up discontent; discontent destroyed them.
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.
“Attitude…not aptitude…determines altitude.” - Zig Ziglar
Our kids did not get expensive gifts for Christmas this year. Yet more than once, Timothy declared this “…the BEST Christmas EVER!” Our nephew’s wife posted a photo of their 6-month-old daughter, surrounded by Christmas gifts…and playing with a water bottle! While children are often content with the simplest of objects, toys or situations, they are also masters at wanting things their own way – and doing whatever it takes to achieve this. And a lot of us have continued this manipulation into our adulthood.
It might be cute on a 5-year-old or a six-month-old, but selfishness and discord are not attractive traits as we get older. Our 3-year-old Zola was adorable when she told me that she wanted to stay overnight with us…then pointed to 5-year-old Timothy and said, “but I don’t want HIM to stay!” It’s not pretty at all when we adults say, “This person is welcome…but HE/SHE is not!”…based on their appearance, their opinions, their lifestyle choices, and more.
God sent Jesus to earth to share love, grace, mercy, compassion and salvation with ALL of us. Jesus came that we might have abundant, joyful, and peaceful life…that we might get along as brothers and sisters in Him. Just like a child favors some Christmas gifts over others, we won’t always enjoy the presence of every single one of God’s creatures. People and situations will rub us the wrong way at times – even big brothers and little sisters! But when we look UP…when we keep our focus on Jesus and strive to emulate His teachings, our attitude can’t help but improve.
It’s not about you – or me…it’s about Jesus. When we figure this out and call on Him to show us how to make “life” work, we are elevated in His love and grace. Our attitude does indeed determine our altitude. How high are you ready to soar with Jesus?
©2014 Debbie Robus
The same thing could happen to us. We must be on guard so that we never get caught up in wanting our own way as they did. And we must not turn our religion into a circus as they did—“First the people partied, then they threw a dance.”
We must be careful not to stir up discontent; discontent destroyed them.
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.
“Attitude…not aptitude…determines altitude.” - Zig Ziglar
Our kids did not get expensive gifts for Christmas this year. Yet more than once, Timothy declared this “…the BEST Christmas EVER!” Our nephew’s wife posted a photo of their 6-month-old daughter, surrounded by Christmas gifts…and playing with a water bottle! While children are often content with the simplest of objects, toys or situations, they are also masters at wanting things their own way – and doing whatever it takes to achieve this. And a lot of us have continued this manipulation into our adulthood.
It might be cute on a 5-year-old or a six-month-old, but selfishness and discord are not attractive traits as we get older. Our 3-year-old Zola was adorable when she told me that she wanted to stay overnight with us…then pointed to 5-year-old Timothy and said, “but I don’t want HIM to stay!” It’s not pretty at all when we adults say, “This person is welcome…but HE/SHE is not!”…based on their appearance, their opinions, their lifestyle choices, and more.
God sent Jesus to earth to share love, grace, mercy, compassion and salvation with ALL of us. Jesus came that we might have abundant, joyful, and peaceful life…that we might get along as brothers and sisters in Him. Just like a child favors some Christmas gifts over others, we won’t always enjoy the presence of every single one of God’s creatures. People and situations will rub us the wrong way at times – even big brothers and little sisters! But when we look UP…when we keep our focus on Jesus and strive to emulate His teachings, our attitude can’t help but improve.
It’s not about you – or me…it’s about Jesus. When we figure this out and call on Him to show us how to make “life” work, we are elevated in His love and grace. Our attitude does indeed determine our altitude. How high are you ready to soar with Jesus?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 16, 2014
Romans 10:15
And how will anyone go and tell them unless someone sends him? That is what the Scriptures are talking about when they say, “How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the Gospel of peace with God and bring glad tidings of good things.” In other words, how welcome are those who come preaching God’s Good News!
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Greg and I took a walk today on a trail near our house. We trekked some 2+ miles along a forested trail and enjoyed the late-afternoon sunshine, birds and squirrels chirping overhead, and the gentle trickle of water that washed across a creek bed. On the last stretch of the walk, I thanked God for two strong feet that get me where I need to go…and then some! My feet may not be small or dainty in appearance, but they do amazing things – like walk, run, hop, jump, and paddle in the water! In this regard, my feet are truly quite beautiful! Hopefully, your feet enable you to do these same things - and are equally “gorgeous”!
This particular scripture passage is a reference to Isaiah 52:7. So “beautiful feet” are spoken of twice in the Bible…once in the Old Testament – and again in the New Testament. These are not the “feet” that physically carry you from one place to another. This scripture refers to the “feet” of a messenger who brings God’s Good News to others. Now THOSE are some beautiful feet!
This is a time of year when we hear a lot about the message of Christ…how angels heralded His arrival…how shepherds and kings visited the manger and returned to their farms and villages to share this news with family and friends. But the message of this season serves as a reminder to us to spread this Good News to those in OUR midst…to share the glad tidings of all that Jesus has done for us - and will continue to do - with everyone we meet!
As Christians, every single one of us has a pair of “beautiful feet”. How do you use yours?
©2014 Debbie Robus
And how will anyone go and tell them unless someone sends him? That is what the Scriptures are talking about when they say, “How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the Gospel of peace with God and bring glad tidings of good things.” In other words, how welcome are those who come preaching God’s Good News!
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Greg and I took a walk today on a trail near our house. We trekked some 2+ miles along a forested trail and enjoyed the late-afternoon sunshine, birds and squirrels chirping overhead, and the gentle trickle of water that washed across a creek bed. On the last stretch of the walk, I thanked God for two strong feet that get me where I need to go…and then some! My feet may not be small or dainty in appearance, but they do amazing things – like walk, run, hop, jump, and paddle in the water! In this regard, my feet are truly quite beautiful! Hopefully, your feet enable you to do these same things - and are equally “gorgeous”!
This particular scripture passage is a reference to Isaiah 52:7. So “beautiful feet” are spoken of twice in the Bible…once in the Old Testament – and again in the New Testament. These are not the “feet” that physically carry you from one place to another. This scripture refers to the “feet” of a messenger who brings God’s Good News to others. Now THOSE are some beautiful feet!
This is a time of year when we hear a lot about the message of Christ…how angels heralded His arrival…how shepherds and kings visited the manger and returned to their farms and villages to share this news with family and friends. But the message of this season serves as a reminder to us to spread this Good News to those in OUR midst…to share the glad tidings of all that Jesus has done for us - and will continue to do - with everyone we meet!
As Christians, every single one of us has a pair of “beautiful feet”. How do you use yours?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for November 8, 2014
November 8 ~ Colossians 3:15-17
Let the peace of heart that comes from Christ be always present in your hearts and lives, for this is your responsibility and privilege as members of his body. And always be thankful.
Remember what Christ taught, and let his words enrich your lives and make you wise; teach them to each other and sing them out in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing to the Lord with thankful hearts. And whatever you do or say, let it be as a representative of the Lord Jesus, and come with him into the presence of God the Father to give him your thanks.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
From time to time, I like to read through my prayer journal and reflect on what I noted there in recent months. While I communicate with God every single day…I’ll be honest, I am not as diligent with the journal. There can be days or even weeks between entries. Some are lengthy and detailed…others resemble more of a short prayer or a quick list of my concerns at that particular moment. But sprinkled throughout the pages are names and concerns for which God has faithfully answered me…not always as I asked or hoped…but He answered, just the same. And for all of these answers and so much more, I am truly grateful and blessed.
The journal I picked up this morning began on January 1, 2014…a day on which I noted the unexpected death of my dad’s childhood best friend. Mixed with sadness for his daughter and other family members – and the thought that another person whose life was significant to mine – was the joy that I felt in thinking about what heaven must be like for him…how happy my dad and others must have been to see him…and how free and whole in Jesus this person is now.
As I read through other entries, I noted probably a dozen or more people for whom I prayed who have passed on to Glory and now sit at the feet of Jesus…Greg’s beloved aunt…more than one of my grandmother’s dear friends and acquaintances…a young father who had brain cancer and a schoolmate of ours who also had a form of cancer…the son of a schoolmate who died from a drug overdose…and other friends and acquaintances. For many of these, I prayed for healing. And God answered – He truly did! And then I prayed for their families as they grieved – and again, I believed God continues to answer those petitions even today.
I thanked God for blessings and generous outpourings of His grace and mercy over me and members of my family. I called on Him to work things out according to His will in situations where I absolutely could see no solution. I asked Him to cover me, my family members, friends and acquaintances – and those in my community and the world at large – with His amazing grace, mercy, love and protection. And I found subsequent entries where I thanked Him for answering these prayers.
Even though I do not write in this journal every single day, I find reviewing some of my prayers and praises over the last few months to be helpful – enriching and reaffirming. I see that God is absolutely in complete control. I am able to read – “in black and white” – how He has “made a way” where quite often, I positively felt that none was possible. What was I thinking?! How dare I doubt my God! Surely He is able to do all things! We know this…but sometimes we really don’t understand it fully. And the scary thing is that I have a feeling that in these moments, we show this doubt and fear to others – through our words and actions.
So today, my “journal entry” is one of profound gratitude…if nothing else, for where God has brought me in the last 10+ months. But of course, I am grateful for so much more…and I know that God will continue to use my “journey” and the daily experiences, blessings and answered prayers of my own life – and yours – to enrich the lives of others in His precious name…if only we will pay attention and allow it!
A friend said to me recently that “there is so much sadness right now…so many with cancer and other problems”. My response to her was that I think we just happen to know about many specific situations right now…that there is truly no more or no less suffering and sadness today than at any other time. What do we do with all of this? We look to God for faith and hope…and we look at our reactions and demeanor and examine how we are representing Him to others, in any and every situation.
My prayer today is that we would be a reflection of God’s amazing grace and blessings…that we would be truly grateful for where He has brought us…and where we are headed…and that all of the glory and honor would always be His. Are you with me?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Let the peace of heart that comes from Christ be always present in your hearts and lives, for this is your responsibility and privilege as members of his body. And always be thankful.
Remember what Christ taught, and let his words enrich your lives and make you wise; teach them to each other and sing them out in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing to the Lord with thankful hearts. And whatever you do or say, let it be as a representative of the Lord Jesus, and come with him into the presence of God the Father to give him your thanks.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
From time to time, I like to read through my prayer journal and reflect on what I noted there in recent months. While I communicate with God every single day…I’ll be honest, I am not as diligent with the journal. There can be days or even weeks between entries. Some are lengthy and detailed…others resemble more of a short prayer or a quick list of my concerns at that particular moment. But sprinkled throughout the pages are names and concerns for which God has faithfully answered me…not always as I asked or hoped…but He answered, just the same. And for all of these answers and so much more, I am truly grateful and blessed.
The journal I picked up this morning began on January 1, 2014…a day on which I noted the unexpected death of my dad’s childhood best friend. Mixed with sadness for his daughter and other family members – and the thought that another person whose life was significant to mine – was the joy that I felt in thinking about what heaven must be like for him…how happy my dad and others must have been to see him…and how free and whole in Jesus this person is now.
As I read through other entries, I noted probably a dozen or more people for whom I prayed who have passed on to Glory and now sit at the feet of Jesus…Greg’s beloved aunt…more than one of my grandmother’s dear friends and acquaintances…a young father who had brain cancer and a schoolmate of ours who also had a form of cancer…the son of a schoolmate who died from a drug overdose…and other friends and acquaintances. For many of these, I prayed for healing. And God answered – He truly did! And then I prayed for their families as they grieved – and again, I believed God continues to answer those petitions even today.
I thanked God for blessings and generous outpourings of His grace and mercy over me and members of my family. I called on Him to work things out according to His will in situations where I absolutely could see no solution. I asked Him to cover me, my family members, friends and acquaintances – and those in my community and the world at large – with His amazing grace, mercy, love and protection. And I found subsequent entries where I thanked Him for answering these prayers.
Even though I do not write in this journal every single day, I find reviewing some of my prayers and praises over the last few months to be helpful – enriching and reaffirming. I see that God is absolutely in complete control. I am able to read – “in black and white” – how He has “made a way” where quite often, I positively felt that none was possible. What was I thinking?! How dare I doubt my God! Surely He is able to do all things! We know this…but sometimes we really don’t understand it fully. And the scary thing is that I have a feeling that in these moments, we show this doubt and fear to others – through our words and actions.
So today, my “journal entry” is one of profound gratitude…if nothing else, for where God has brought me in the last 10+ months. But of course, I am grateful for so much more…and I know that God will continue to use my “journey” and the daily experiences, blessings and answered prayers of my own life – and yours – to enrich the lives of others in His precious name…if only we will pay attention and allow it!
A friend said to me recently that “there is so much sadness right now…so many with cancer and other problems”. My response to her was that I think we just happen to know about many specific situations right now…that there is truly no more or no less suffering and sadness today than at any other time. What do we do with all of this? We look to God for faith and hope…and we look at our reactions and demeanor and examine how we are representing Him to others, in any and every situation.
My prayer today is that we would be a reflection of God’s amazing grace and blessings…that we would be truly grateful for where He has brought us…and where we are headed…and that all of the glory and honor would always be His. Are you with me?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for October 22, 2014
Matthew 8:14-17
Jesus went to the home of Peter, where he found that Peter’s mother-in-law was sick in bed with fever. He took her by the hand, and the fever left her. Then she got up and served Jesus a meal.
That evening many people with demons in them were brought to Jesus. And with only a word he forced out the evil spirits and healed everyone who was sick. So God’s promise came true, just as the prophet Isaiah had said,
“He healed our diseases and made us well.”
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Do you remember when you were a kid and got a "boo-boo" or "owie", and a grown-up "kissed it and made it better"? We all know that this "kiss" really didn't physically change anything...it didn't heal a blister, scraped knee or bump on the head. But the healing power of the gesture was immeasurable. And remarkably, we really felt better!
By the same token, we all can remember a time when someone came to our side and soothed us with their presence and words...and we were better for it. We know the healing power of a card that arrives in the mail with thoughts of love and care. We understand the feeling of joy and acceptance that washes over us when someone shoots us a smile. We are blessed and comforted beyond description when we learn that someone has prayed for us.
All of these things are paradoxically obtuse and powerful - all at the same time. And yet, they change us. To some degree, they heal us and make us well.
The GOOD NEWS is that for every one of these gestures, Jesus offers us so much more. He truly does have the power to heal. He can cast out demons of all kinds - from the nasty habit of gossip to our deepest, darkest, most secret sins. Just the whisper of His name can result in tremendous changes in our lives. His "touch" is the "kiss that makes it all better"!
Don't miss this! Jesus is with us. His loving care and healing power are available to us every moment of the day, even though we don't physically "see" Him standing before us. The promise of Isaiah 53:5 ["He was wounded and crushed because of our sins; by taking our punishment, he made us completely well."] has been delivered. It is up to us to accept - and treasure - this gift.
Moreover, our job as Christians is to share the touch of Jesus with others. We do not offer this out of our own suffering...but because of His sacrifices and the grace and mercy that He has extended to each of us. Just as we receive the healing power of Jesus and feel His "touch" in our own lives, we are to extend this blessing to others.
Does this mean that we can "lay hands" on the sick and they will be instantly healed? Probably not literally...but consider the healing power of a simple handshake. Think of the grace, mercy, love, forgiveness and acceptance that you can convey by clasping another person's hands, patting someone on the back, or "kissing a child's boo-boo and making it better."
Look around and find ways to reach out to others in Jesus' name...to be the healing touch" or the soothing word that makes their lives a little easier and more joyful. Embrace the power of Jesus - in your own life, and as His Disciple. Look for opportunities to "kiss a boo-boo" - or even to cast out a demon! Believe that Jesus' power working in and through you can heal and restore at the mere whisper of His name!
The opportunities to serve - and heal - in the name of Jesus are more numerous than you can imagine. It's time for us to get busy doing exactly that. What are you waiting for? Whose "boo-boos" will you "kiss and make better" today?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Jesus went to the home of Peter, where he found that Peter’s mother-in-law was sick in bed with fever. He took her by the hand, and the fever left her. Then she got up and served Jesus a meal.
That evening many people with demons in them were brought to Jesus. And with only a word he forced out the evil spirits and healed everyone who was sick. So God’s promise came true, just as the prophet Isaiah had said,
“He healed our diseases and made us well.”
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Do you remember when you were a kid and got a "boo-boo" or "owie", and a grown-up "kissed it and made it better"? We all know that this "kiss" really didn't physically change anything...it didn't heal a blister, scraped knee or bump on the head. But the healing power of the gesture was immeasurable. And remarkably, we really felt better!
By the same token, we all can remember a time when someone came to our side and soothed us with their presence and words...and we were better for it. We know the healing power of a card that arrives in the mail with thoughts of love and care. We understand the feeling of joy and acceptance that washes over us when someone shoots us a smile. We are blessed and comforted beyond description when we learn that someone has prayed for us.
All of these things are paradoxically obtuse and powerful - all at the same time. And yet, they change us. To some degree, they heal us and make us well.
The GOOD NEWS is that for every one of these gestures, Jesus offers us so much more. He truly does have the power to heal. He can cast out demons of all kinds - from the nasty habit of gossip to our deepest, darkest, most secret sins. Just the whisper of His name can result in tremendous changes in our lives. His "touch" is the "kiss that makes it all better"!
Don't miss this! Jesus is with us. His loving care and healing power are available to us every moment of the day, even though we don't physically "see" Him standing before us. The promise of Isaiah 53:5 ["He was wounded and crushed because of our sins; by taking our punishment, he made us completely well."] has been delivered. It is up to us to accept - and treasure - this gift.
Moreover, our job as Christians is to share the touch of Jesus with others. We do not offer this out of our own suffering...but because of His sacrifices and the grace and mercy that He has extended to each of us. Just as we receive the healing power of Jesus and feel His "touch" in our own lives, we are to extend this blessing to others.
Does this mean that we can "lay hands" on the sick and they will be instantly healed? Probably not literally...but consider the healing power of a simple handshake. Think of the grace, mercy, love, forgiveness and acceptance that you can convey by clasping another person's hands, patting someone on the back, or "kissing a child's boo-boo and making it better."
Look around and find ways to reach out to others in Jesus' name...to be the healing touch" or the soothing word that makes their lives a little easier and more joyful. Embrace the power of Jesus - in your own life, and as His Disciple. Look for opportunities to "kiss a boo-boo" - or even to cast out a demon! Believe that Jesus' power working in and through you can heal and restore at the mere whisper of His name!
The opportunities to serve - and heal - in the name of Jesus are more numerous than you can imagine. It's time for us to get busy doing exactly that. What are you waiting for? Whose "boo-boos" will you "kiss and make better" today?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for August 5, 2014
1 Peter 4:7-11
Everything in the world is about to be wrapped up, so take nothing for granted. Stay wide-awake in prayer. Most of all, love each other as if your life depended on it. Love makes up for practically anything. Be quick to give a meal to the hungry, a bed to the homeless—cheerfully. Be generous with the different things God gave you, passing them around so all get in on it: if words, let it be God’s words; if help, let it be God’s hearty help. That way, God’s bright presence will be evident in everything through Jesus, and he’ll get all the credit as the One mighty in everything—encores to the end of time. Oh, yes!
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
This morning, Timothy and I went to the local library for their daily program for school-age children. We discovered this program rather late in the summer, but we’ve been several times in the last few weeks. Timothy and Zola both enjoy the library, but Timothy especially loves the programs...the books...the computer games...all of it! And his enthusiasm shows. He is always very excited...so eager...and quite appreciative, for a five-year-old. As we left today, he hugged Mrs. Pat, the librarian, and said, “Thank you, Mrs. Pat! See you in three sleeps for the Dragon program!”
Timothy has an extraordinarily tender heart for a child his age. He is sensitive to the feelings of others...and quick to offer a “Hello!” or a “Thank you!” without prompting from anyone else. He thanks us for taking him places and doing things with him...for gifts and meals and much more. He has his moments, like any child, but overall, he is truly a compassionate, loving child. And he often spontaneously expresses his affection for us and others. One morning, Greg showed up at the library to surprise the kids. As I was fastening Timothy into his car seat later, he sighed and said, “I so love Uncle Greg.” He will tell complete strangers how nice they look or how pretty they are. And one Sunday as we drove home after church, he unexpectedly told my mother-in-law, “Grandma E...I love you!”
I have to tell you, this kid’s enthusiasm and sweet disposition are contagious! People of all ages enjoy his company, because he is generous with the kind spirit that God has given him. He seems to innately sense that love and kindheartedness make up for practically anything. I learn so much as I view the world through His eyes. I see the joy and beauty of simple things...and how to view others in a different (and more compassionate) light.
Oh, Timothy notices things and asks questions...like why my elbows are wrinkled and why did I paint my toenails... or why does a bald-headed man at the swimming pool have such a wrinkled head (he’s a little concerned with wrinkles!). He notices that people come in all sizes, shapes and colors...that some are neater and cleaner, happier or sadder than others. But he doesn’t discriminate. These differences do not represent anything to him other than God’s penchant to paint with a brush of diversity!
I pray that Timothy never changes...that he never grows out of his penchant for compassion. I hope he is forever sensitive to the needs and feelings of others...and that he is always eager to be the bright, positive light of Jesus to others. Because you see, in his five-year-old way, this is what he is doing. He is sharing the love of Jesus...God’s “hearty help”...as best he can.
My question for us is... what are we doing? Are we operating in the love of Christ and treating others as if our very lives depended on it? Are we sharing God’s “hearty help” in word and deed? Or have we grown up – and out – of this simple mode of discipleship? What can God teach us from the unpretentious, unadulterated tenderheartedness of a five-year-old? Will we live in such a manner that we “light up a room” with the love of Jesus? Don’t you think we should?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Everything in the world is about to be wrapped up, so take nothing for granted. Stay wide-awake in prayer. Most of all, love each other as if your life depended on it. Love makes up for practically anything. Be quick to give a meal to the hungry, a bed to the homeless—cheerfully. Be generous with the different things God gave you, passing them around so all get in on it: if words, let it be God’s words; if help, let it be God’s hearty help. That way, God’s bright presence will be evident in everything through Jesus, and he’ll get all the credit as the One mighty in everything—encores to the end of time. Oh, yes!
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
This morning, Timothy and I went to the local library for their daily program for school-age children. We discovered this program rather late in the summer, but we’ve been several times in the last few weeks. Timothy and Zola both enjoy the library, but Timothy especially loves the programs...the books...the computer games...all of it! And his enthusiasm shows. He is always very excited...so eager...and quite appreciative, for a five-year-old. As we left today, he hugged Mrs. Pat, the librarian, and said, “Thank you, Mrs. Pat! See you in three sleeps for the Dragon program!”
Timothy has an extraordinarily tender heart for a child his age. He is sensitive to the feelings of others...and quick to offer a “Hello!” or a “Thank you!” without prompting from anyone else. He thanks us for taking him places and doing things with him...for gifts and meals and much more. He has his moments, like any child, but overall, he is truly a compassionate, loving child. And he often spontaneously expresses his affection for us and others. One morning, Greg showed up at the library to surprise the kids. As I was fastening Timothy into his car seat later, he sighed and said, “I so love Uncle Greg.” He will tell complete strangers how nice they look or how pretty they are. And one Sunday as we drove home after church, he unexpectedly told my mother-in-law, “Grandma E...I love you!”
I have to tell you, this kid’s enthusiasm and sweet disposition are contagious! People of all ages enjoy his company, because he is generous with the kind spirit that God has given him. He seems to innately sense that love and kindheartedness make up for practically anything. I learn so much as I view the world through His eyes. I see the joy and beauty of simple things...and how to view others in a different (and more compassionate) light.
Oh, Timothy notices things and asks questions...like why my elbows are wrinkled and why did I paint my toenails... or why does a bald-headed man at the swimming pool have such a wrinkled head (he’s a little concerned with wrinkles!). He notices that people come in all sizes, shapes and colors...that some are neater and cleaner, happier or sadder than others. But he doesn’t discriminate. These differences do not represent anything to him other than God’s penchant to paint with a brush of diversity!
I pray that Timothy never changes...that he never grows out of his penchant for compassion. I hope he is forever sensitive to the needs and feelings of others...and that he is always eager to be the bright, positive light of Jesus to others. Because you see, in his five-year-old way, this is what he is doing. He is sharing the love of Jesus...God’s “hearty help”...as best he can.
My question for us is... what are we doing? Are we operating in the love of Christ and treating others as if our very lives depended on it? Are we sharing God’s “hearty help” in word and deed? Or have we grown up – and out – of this simple mode of discipleship? What can God teach us from the unpretentious, unadulterated tenderheartedness of a five-year-old? Will we live in such a manner that we “light up a room” with the love of Jesus? Don’t you think we should?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for July 10, 2014
1 Corinthians 13:4-7
Love is kind and patient,
never jealous, boastful,
proud, or rude.
Love isn’t selfish
or quick tempered.
It doesn’t keep a record
of wrongs that others do.
Love rejoices in the truth,
but not in evil.
Love is always supportive,
loyal, hopeful,
and trusting.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
We’ve heard this passage so many times. The pastor read it during our wedding ceremony when Greg and I married. Many people know at least some of the verses by heart.
“Love is kind and patient”…or is it? We say we love one another…but if love is patient and kind, how many of us can honestly claim these traits? Love is “never jealous, boastful, proud, or rude”…you still there? “Love isn’t selfish or quick tempered”…wanna jump off the bandwagon?
“Love “doesn’t keep a record of wrongs that others do.” How many of you did I just lose? How many of us aren’t just a little bit pleased when something bad happens to someone we’re not particularly fond of…who among us “is always supportive, loyal, hopeful, and trusting”?
And yet, what if Jesus failed to do any one of these things for us? Many of us would turn our backs on Him in a heartbeat! We expect Him to love us…always and in all ways. But when it’s time for us to do the same as His disciples, we simply cannot…or will not.
We really should stop giving lip service to this passage. We should quit framing copies of it to hang on our walls, posting beautiful photographs with portions of the verse superimposed across the bottom…and using it to express our affection toward our beloveds…until we can fully embrace and enact what it says. I can tell you that I, for one, have a lot of work to do in this area!
There are people who rub me the wrong way…those whom I find “hard to love”…some who irritate, anger or upset me with everything from their treatment of others to what I consider to be their ridiculous political and social ideas and opinions. I judge. I keep score. I am so disgusted with some that I can barely be in their presence…much less show them support or loyalty. And trust them? Forget it!
But here’s this passage in God’s word…clearly outlining what love is…and I’m not always all of these things toward all of God’s children. But I’m working on it…and with God’s help (and by His grace), I can do better. I am not foolish enough to think I will ever master this completely and love everyone unconditionally – or without judgments and hesitation. I most certainly will remain guarded toward certain people who have demonstrated a poor track record for trustworthiness. But I can do better…I must love better. What about you?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Love is kind and patient,
never jealous, boastful,
proud, or rude.
Love isn’t selfish
or quick tempered.
It doesn’t keep a record
of wrongs that others do.
Love rejoices in the truth,
but not in evil.
Love is always supportive,
loyal, hopeful,
and trusting.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
We’ve heard this passage so many times. The pastor read it during our wedding ceremony when Greg and I married. Many people know at least some of the verses by heart.
“Love is kind and patient”…or is it? We say we love one another…but if love is patient and kind, how many of us can honestly claim these traits? Love is “never jealous, boastful, proud, or rude”…you still there? “Love isn’t selfish or quick tempered”…wanna jump off the bandwagon?
“Love “doesn’t keep a record of wrongs that others do.” How many of you did I just lose? How many of us aren’t just a little bit pleased when something bad happens to someone we’re not particularly fond of…who among us “is always supportive, loyal, hopeful, and trusting”?
And yet, what if Jesus failed to do any one of these things for us? Many of us would turn our backs on Him in a heartbeat! We expect Him to love us…always and in all ways. But when it’s time for us to do the same as His disciples, we simply cannot…or will not.
We really should stop giving lip service to this passage. We should quit framing copies of it to hang on our walls, posting beautiful photographs with portions of the verse superimposed across the bottom…and using it to express our affection toward our beloveds…until we can fully embrace and enact what it says. I can tell you that I, for one, have a lot of work to do in this area!
There are people who rub me the wrong way…those whom I find “hard to love”…some who irritate, anger or upset me with everything from their treatment of others to what I consider to be their ridiculous political and social ideas and opinions. I judge. I keep score. I am so disgusted with some that I can barely be in their presence…much less show them support or loyalty. And trust them? Forget it!
But here’s this passage in God’s word…clearly outlining what love is…and I’m not always all of these things toward all of God’s children. But I’m working on it…and with God’s help (and by His grace), I can do better. I am not foolish enough to think I will ever master this completely and love everyone unconditionally – or without judgments and hesitation. I most certainly will remain guarded toward certain people who have demonstrated a poor track record for trustworthiness. But I can do better…I must love better. What about you?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for May 9, 2014
John 3:16-18
“This is how much God loved the world: He gave his Son, his one and only Son. And this is why: so that no one need be destroyed; by believing in him, anyone can have a whole and lasting life. God didn’t go to all the trouble of sending his Son merely to point an accusing finger, telling the world how bad it was. He came to help, to put the world right again. Anyone who trusts in him is acquitted; anyone who refuses to trust him has long since been under the death sentence without knowing it. And why? Because of that person’s failure to believe in the one-of-a-kind Son of God when introduced to him.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
This time of year makes me think of strawberries. They are now in season in our neck of the woods…and stands with fresh Arkansas strawberries for sale are starting to pop up in our area. Nearly 40 years ago, the mother of one of my kindergarten students showed up one Friday afternoon and presented me with a homemade fresh strawberry pie. It happened to be Mother’s Day weekend, and she said, “You are momma to our kids all week…I thought you needed a Mother’s Day present.” Every time I think of strawberries – and Mother’s Day – I think of her and that delicious pie.
This morning, my cousin Natalie sent me an e-mail with the subject line: Surprise. The message said, “Olivia and Owen left you a surprise on your bench. Happy Mother's Day! We love you!!!” I looked out the window, and there on my front porch bench sat a glass vase holding a dozen beautiful, deep red roses. This was indeed a surprise…the best kind! I could almost hear the children giggle and see their faces as their mother drove her vehicle into our driveway early this morning. I could picture them as they stealthily placed the vase on our porch bench and quietly crept back out of our neighborhood and headed for school. And the love in that gesture was palpable.
This afternoon, I read the post of an acquaintance on Facebook who said that his mother has been celebrating Mother’s Day in heaven for 28 years now. He noted how much he misses her…but he also thanked the “divinely-inspired mothers” who have been there for him over the years – and still are to this day.
I like the verse that reminds us that God didn’t send Jesus to point his finger and accuse us of being evil. Yes, we’ve all sinned…and Jesus died to absolve us. But His dying words were not, “Do you see how despicable you are and what I’ve had to endure for you?” Jesus NEVER EVER pointed a finger at us. He never said, “This is all your fault!” This scripture passage tells us that God could have found another way to show us how much He loved us. But He sent Jesus to walk among us…to quietly teach us…to show us about love, grace, mercy, forgiveness…and obedience.
God is using ordinary people in our lives today to show us how much we are loved. He is recognizing “mothers” who never birthed a baby. He is providing us with teachers, guardians, caregivers, and friends who continually nurture us, encourage us, and show us kindnesses out of love and care. They do not do this with an accusatory demeanor or a scolding…but with a quiet demonstration of God’s abiding care and affection. We have two choices…we can recognize His presence in this form and accept this love – or we can ignore it.
When we pay attention and find God in the people, places and things that constitute our life as a whole, we are richly blessed in ways both tangible and indefinable. When we recognize and accept His love and care…and take it at face value without attaching “strings” or our own interpretations and conditions…we are assured a place in His presence for all eternity. But if we wander through life in our own little world…skeptical of everything and everyone who reaches out to us…cynical about most everything – and fail to recognize God’s presence in our lives, we miss out on His amazing blessings. And we pretty well ruin everything – in this life and beyond.
I find God in some amazing places these days. Just this morning, He shared His love with me through the surprise gift from three of my favorite people! Every time I look at those roses, I think of my precious cousins…and of Him. I hope that I never miss a visit from God…that I am never too busy…too preoccupied…too suspicious of others’ motives or too distrustful to truly recognize His presence. When we come to a place where we can find God in the small details…where we see His love instead of reprimands and indictments…we have truly begun to grasp the depths of His passion and tender heart for us.
Are you truly seeing God today – even in something as obscure as a strawberry pie or a vase of flowers? Is He using you to reveal Himself to others? Do you know God in a way that has secured your place in heaven someday? Aren’t these questions that need to be settled in your life? Wouldn’t today be the perfect time to do exactly that?
©2014 Debbie Robus
“This is how much God loved the world: He gave his Son, his one and only Son. And this is why: so that no one need be destroyed; by believing in him, anyone can have a whole and lasting life. God didn’t go to all the trouble of sending his Son merely to point an accusing finger, telling the world how bad it was. He came to help, to put the world right again. Anyone who trusts in him is acquitted; anyone who refuses to trust him has long since been under the death sentence without knowing it. And why? Because of that person’s failure to believe in the one-of-a-kind Son of God when introduced to him.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
This time of year makes me think of strawberries. They are now in season in our neck of the woods…and stands with fresh Arkansas strawberries for sale are starting to pop up in our area. Nearly 40 years ago, the mother of one of my kindergarten students showed up one Friday afternoon and presented me with a homemade fresh strawberry pie. It happened to be Mother’s Day weekend, and she said, “You are momma to our kids all week…I thought you needed a Mother’s Day present.” Every time I think of strawberries – and Mother’s Day – I think of her and that delicious pie.
This morning, my cousin Natalie sent me an e-mail with the subject line: Surprise. The message said, “Olivia and Owen left you a surprise on your bench. Happy Mother's Day! We love you!!!” I looked out the window, and there on my front porch bench sat a glass vase holding a dozen beautiful, deep red roses. This was indeed a surprise…the best kind! I could almost hear the children giggle and see their faces as their mother drove her vehicle into our driveway early this morning. I could picture them as they stealthily placed the vase on our porch bench and quietly crept back out of our neighborhood and headed for school. And the love in that gesture was palpable.
This afternoon, I read the post of an acquaintance on Facebook who said that his mother has been celebrating Mother’s Day in heaven for 28 years now. He noted how much he misses her…but he also thanked the “divinely-inspired mothers” who have been there for him over the years – and still are to this day.
I like the verse that reminds us that God didn’t send Jesus to point his finger and accuse us of being evil. Yes, we’ve all sinned…and Jesus died to absolve us. But His dying words were not, “Do you see how despicable you are and what I’ve had to endure for you?” Jesus NEVER EVER pointed a finger at us. He never said, “This is all your fault!” This scripture passage tells us that God could have found another way to show us how much He loved us. But He sent Jesus to walk among us…to quietly teach us…to show us about love, grace, mercy, forgiveness…and obedience.
God is using ordinary people in our lives today to show us how much we are loved. He is recognizing “mothers” who never birthed a baby. He is providing us with teachers, guardians, caregivers, and friends who continually nurture us, encourage us, and show us kindnesses out of love and care. They do not do this with an accusatory demeanor or a scolding…but with a quiet demonstration of God’s abiding care and affection. We have two choices…we can recognize His presence in this form and accept this love – or we can ignore it.
When we pay attention and find God in the people, places and things that constitute our life as a whole, we are richly blessed in ways both tangible and indefinable. When we recognize and accept His love and care…and take it at face value without attaching “strings” or our own interpretations and conditions…we are assured a place in His presence for all eternity. But if we wander through life in our own little world…skeptical of everything and everyone who reaches out to us…cynical about most everything – and fail to recognize God’s presence in our lives, we miss out on His amazing blessings. And we pretty well ruin everything – in this life and beyond.
I find God in some amazing places these days. Just this morning, He shared His love with me through the surprise gift from three of my favorite people! Every time I look at those roses, I think of my precious cousins…and of Him. I hope that I never miss a visit from God…that I am never too busy…too preoccupied…too suspicious of others’ motives or too distrustful to truly recognize His presence. When we come to a place where we can find God in the small details…where we see His love instead of reprimands and indictments…we have truly begun to grasp the depths of His passion and tender heart for us.
Are you truly seeing God today – even in something as obscure as a strawberry pie or a vase of flowers? Is He using you to reveal Himself to others? Do you know God in a way that has secured your place in heaven someday? Aren’t these questions that need to be settled in your life? Wouldn’t today be the perfect time to do exactly that?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for April 26, 2014
Ephesians 1:3-6
How blessed is God! And what a blessing he is! He’s the Father of our Master, Jesus Christ, and takes us to the high places of blessing in him. Long before he laid down earth’s foundations, he had us in mind, had settled on us as the focus of his love, to be made whole and holy by his love. Long, long ago he decided to adopt us into his family through Jesus Christ. (What pleasure he took in planning this!) He wanted us to enter into the celebration of his lavish gift-giving by the hand of his beloved Son.
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.
Greg’s nephew, John, and his wife, Leslie, are expecting their second child soon. They planned for this child, just as they planned for their 3½-year-old daughter, Kelsey. They have spent weeks attending pre-natal checkups and “Big Sister” classes and getting the new baby’s room ready. They already know that this baby will be a girl, and they will call her Ellie. They have Ellie on their mind…she is already the focus of their love, and they cannot wait to welcome her into their family.
John and Leslie will adore their children…and like most people, I am sure they have wondered how they will ever love another child as much as their first. But when Ellie is placed in their arms for the first time, they will understand the capacity to love more than one child with your whole heart.
Now, picture yourself as God’s child. Imagine that you are one of millions of God’s children! How could He ever focus on you? How could God love you with His whole heart…and have the capacity to love others the same way? Yet, He does exactly that! God loves you with reckless abandon…full throttle…all in…lavishly…unconditionally…and thoughtfully. He planned for your birth and has a design for your every breath! You matter to God…more than you can ever realize – and more than you will ever matter to any human being! Does God play favorites? Absolutely…YOU are His favorite…I am His favorite…we are ALL God’s favorites! He gave the ultimate sacrifice…Jesus Christ…who died on the cross for each of us!
I know how much our great-niece, Kelsey, loves her mom and dad. I am certain that Ellie will love them, too. She will be delighted to belong to such a blessed family…and they will bless her in return. I pray that she will enjoy a long and joyful relationship with her parents and Kelsey (and with any future siblings who may be born), and that they will always be a close-knit family filled with love and devotion for one another.
God wants this sort of relationship with each of us. He longs for us to be close to Him…to seek His companionship…and to keep Him squarely planted in our hearts at all times. He is available 24/7/365…just for this purpose. All we have to do is turn and recognize Him. Just think of it…the God who planned for you, longed for your arrival, and designed every heartbeat of your existence wants to be an integral part of your life – on this earth and for all Eternity! Don’t you want to be part of His?
©2014 Debbie Robus
How blessed is God! And what a blessing he is! He’s the Father of our Master, Jesus Christ, and takes us to the high places of blessing in him. Long before he laid down earth’s foundations, he had us in mind, had settled on us as the focus of his love, to be made whole and holy by his love. Long, long ago he decided to adopt us into his family through Jesus Christ. (What pleasure he took in planning this!) He wanted us to enter into the celebration of his lavish gift-giving by the hand of his beloved Son.
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.
Greg’s nephew, John, and his wife, Leslie, are expecting their second child soon. They planned for this child, just as they planned for their 3½-year-old daughter, Kelsey. They have spent weeks attending pre-natal checkups and “Big Sister” classes and getting the new baby’s room ready. They already know that this baby will be a girl, and they will call her Ellie. They have Ellie on their mind…she is already the focus of their love, and they cannot wait to welcome her into their family.
John and Leslie will adore their children…and like most people, I am sure they have wondered how they will ever love another child as much as their first. But when Ellie is placed in their arms for the first time, they will understand the capacity to love more than one child with your whole heart.
Now, picture yourself as God’s child. Imagine that you are one of millions of God’s children! How could He ever focus on you? How could God love you with His whole heart…and have the capacity to love others the same way? Yet, He does exactly that! God loves you with reckless abandon…full throttle…all in…lavishly…unconditionally…and thoughtfully. He planned for your birth and has a design for your every breath! You matter to God…more than you can ever realize – and more than you will ever matter to any human being! Does God play favorites? Absolutely…YOU are His favorite…I am His favorite…we are ALL God’s favorites! He gave the ultimate sacrifice…Jesus Christ…who died on the cross for each of us!
I know how much our great-niece, Kelsey, loves her mom and dad. I am certain that Ellie will love them, too. She will be delighted to belong to such a blessed family…and they will bless her in return. I pray that she will enjoy a long and joyful relationship with her parents and Kelsey (and with any future siblings who may be born), and that they will always be a close-knit family filled with love and devotion for one another.
God wants this sort of relationship with each of us. He longs for us to be close to Him…to seek His companionship…and to keep Him squarely planted in our hearts at all times. He is available 24/7/365…just for this purpose. All we have to do is turn and recognize Him. Just think of it…the God who planned for you, longed for your arrival, and designed every heartbeat of your existence wants to be an integral part of your life – on this earth and for all Eternity! Don’t you want to be part of His?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for April 11, 2014
Psalm 51:1
Have mercy on me, O God,
because of your unfailing love.
Because of your great compassion,
blot out the stain of my sins.
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.
Someone recently shared a version of this story with me…the author is unknown…
We must be grateful for God’s compassion and mercy in our own lives…but we must also remember to always seek this for others. We must do our part to represent God to them…even in the simple form of a shared Twinkie®. How will you share the mercy, love and compassion of God with someone today?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Have mercy on me, O God,
because of your unfailing love.
Because of your great compassion,
blot out the stain of my sins.
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.
Someone recently shared a version of this story with me…the author is unknown…
A little boy wanted to meet God. He knew it was a long trip to where God lived, so he packed his suitcase with Twinkies and a six-pack of root beer and he started his journey. When he had gone about three blocks, he met an elderly man. The man was sitting in the park just feeding some pigeons.How does this line up with Psalm 51:1? Too often, we are quick to ask God to provide US with compassion, mercy, love, and forgiveness…but we cannot – or will not – seek the same for others. We don’t acknowledge their importance to Him…or the impact of our gestures of love and compassion toward them in His name.
The boy sat down next to him and opened his suitcase. He was about to take a drink from his root beer when he noticed that the man looked hungry, so he offered him a Twinkie®. The man gratefully accepted it and smiled at boy. His smile was so pleasant that the boy wanted to see it again, so he offered him a root beer. Again, the man smiled at him. The boy was delighted! They sat there all afternoon eating and smiling, but they never said a word.
As it grew dark, the boy realized how tired he was and he got up to leave, but before he had gone more than a few steps, he turned around, ran back to the man, and gave him a hug. The man gave him his biggest smile ever. When the boy opened the door to his own house a short time later, his mother was surprised by the look of joy on his face. She asked him, "What did you do today that made you so happy? "He replied, "I had lunch with God." But before his mother could respond, he added, "You know what? God's got the most beautiful smile I've ever seen!"
Meanwhile, the elderly man, also radiant with joy, returned to his home. His son was stunned by the look of peace on his face and he asked," Dad, what did you do today that made you so happy?" He replied, "I ate Twinkies® in the park with God." However, before his son responded, he added," You know, he's much younger than I expected."
Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around. People come into our lives for a reason, a season, or a lifetime. Embrace all equally!
We must be grateful for God’s compassion and mercy in our own lives…but we must also remember to always seek this for others. We must do our part to represent God to them…even in the simple form of a shared Twinkie®. How will you share the mercy, love and compassion of God with someone today?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for April 1, 2014
1 John 3:1-2
See how very much our Father loves us, for he calls us his children, and that is what we are! But the people who belong to this world don’t recognize that we are God’s children because they don’t know him. Dear friends, we are already God’s children, but he has not yet shown us what we will be like when Christ appears. But we do know that we will be like him, for we will see him as he really is.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
We are so blessed to have so many people in our church who are willing to serve in the children’s ministries…people who truly love God – AND our children. Last Sunday, Timothy told his Uncle Greg… “My teachers made me sad.” Greg asked him why, and Timothy replied, “When I got there, they hugged me and told me they were so glad to see me…and when I left, they hugged me again.” We explained to Timothy that these were good hugs…happy hugs…gestures of love from his teachers. I’m not sure why he associated hugs and affection from someone other than family members as a sad thing. But apparently, he doesn’t fully understand how much he is loved by so many people…and why!
Somehow I think that this is also the case for many of us in our relationship with God. There are probably some who wonder what we are up to…what “ulterior motives” we have for showing them kindness, grace, mercy, love and compassion. They don’t trust us…don’t see us as God’s children. And truthfully, we may not fully understand our role as God’s children, either. For some of us, expressing God’s love and care for others is more of a “chore” or an act of responsive obedience than something we have internalized and taken to heart. If we have trouble with this, it should be easy to see that surely those less comfortable in their relationship with God – or those who have no relationship with Him – would find this confusing.
So what can we do? First, I believe “practice makes perfect”. Each day, we must ask God…”Where do you want me to serve today?” We must call on Him to show us who needs to experience love, comfort, empathy or encouragement through us…and make it happen. The more we do these things for others, the easier they become. As we develop our “faith muscle” and become more comfortable demonstrating Jesus’ love and compassion, others will hopefully see that this is genuine.
There will always be skeptics…or those who label us “Jesus freaks” for expressing the love of Christ in our lives – and outwardly toward them. And some days, it will be hard to do what God has called us to do…to “love the unlovely” in His name. But we must trust that God is developing us in His image…making us more like Jesus. Someday, this will all be clearly revealed to us when we meet Him face-to-face.
We have work to do! We have people to love in the name of Jesus! We have hugs to give out to “children” of all ages…whether they fully understand why we are “hugging” them or not! God has called you to be His child…this is who and what you are! Others still don’t know Him…at least not in this way. It’s our “job” to introduce them to Jesus…through our words, actions…and how we conduct our lives each and every day. The more we practice this…the easier it gets – and the better we become at it. Are you ready to roll up your sleeves and start “hugging” others for Jesus? When people look at you, Who will they really see?
©2014 Debbie Robus
See how very much our Father loves us, for he calls us his children, and that is what we are! But the people who belong to this world don’t recognize that we are God’s children because they don’t know him. Dear friends, we are already God’s children, but he has not yet shown us what we will be like when Christ appears. But we do know that we will be like him, for we will see him as he really is.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
We are so blessed to have so many people in our church who are willing to serve in the children’s ministries…people who truly love God – AND our children. Last Sunday, Timothy told his Uncle Greg… “My teachers made me sad.” Greg asked him why, and Timothy replied, “When I got there, they hugged me and told me they were so glad to see me…and when I left, they hugged me again.” We explained to Timothy that these were good hugs…happy hugs…gestures of love from his teachers. I’m not sure why he associated hugs and affection from someone other than family members as a sad thing. But apparently, he doesn’t fully understand how much he is loved by so many people…and why!
Somehow I think that this is also the case for many of us in our relationship with God. There are probably some who wonder what we are up to…what “ulterior motives” we have for showing them kindness, grace, mercy, love and compassion. They don’t trust us…don’t see us as God’s children. And truthfully, we may not fully understand our role as God’s children, either. For some of us, expressing God’s love and care for others is more of a “chore” or an act of responsive obedience than something we have internalized and taken to heart. If we have trouble with this, it should be easy to see that surely those less comfortable in their relationship with God – or those who have no relationship with Him – would find this confusing.
So what can we do? First, I believe “practice makes perfect”. Each day, we must ask God…”Where do you want me to serve today?” We must call on Him to show us who needs to experience love, comfort, empathy or encouragement through us…and make it happen. The more we do these things for others, the easier they become. As we develop our “faith muscle” and become more comfortable demonstrating Jesus’ love and compassion, others will hopefully see that this is genuine.
There will always be skeptics…or those who label us “Jesus freaks” for expressing the love of Christ in our lives – and outwardly toward them. And some days, it will be hard to do what God has called us to do…to “love the unlovely” in His name. But we must trust that God is developing us in His image…making us more like Jesus. Someday, this will all be clearly revealed to us when we meet Him face-to-face.
We have work to do! We have people to love in the name of Jesus! We have hugs to give out to “children” of all ages…whether they fully understand why we are “hugging” them or not! God has called you to be His child…this is who and what you are! Others still don’t know Him…at least not in this way. It’s our “job” to introduce them to Jesus…through our words, actions…and how we conduct our lives each and every day. The more we practice this…the easier it gets – and the better we become at it. Are you ready to roll up your sleeves and start “hugging” others for Jesus? When people look at you, Who will they really see?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 30, 2014
Psalms 86:1-7
Please listen, Lord,
and answer my prayer!
I am poor and helpless.
Protect me and save me
because you are my God.
I am your faithful servant,
and I trust you.
Be kind to me!
I pray to you all day.
Make my heart glad!
I serve you,
and my prayer is sincere.
You willingly forgive,
and your love is always there
for those who pray to you.
Please listen, Lord!
Answer my prayer for help.
When I am in trouble, I pray,
knowing you will listen.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
The “theme” of our morning worship service today centered on the woman “with the issue of blood” who touched the hem of Jesus’ garment and was made well. This story comes from Mark 5:25-34, which says,
Is this the Jesus you know? Do you follow the One who can make you well simply because you dared to touch the hem of His robe? Obviously I am not talking about us literally touching Jesus’ robe…clearly we cannot do this. But do we believe so deeply that Jesus cares for us…that He has unending compassion for us…that His deepest desire is to make us “healthy” and “whole” in every way…that we never hesitate to call on Him to do so? Do we operate in the confidence that…”When I am in trouble, I pray, knowing You will listen”?
Consider the courage and faith of this woman. To push through the crowd just for the chance to touch the hem of a robe - believing that this would be sufficient for Jesus to know you needed His help - seems extraordinary. And yet, what Jesus did for her…He stands ready, willing, and able to gladly do for each of us. Do we have as much faith as this woman? Do we truly believe that Jesus cares for us so deeply that simply calling on Him for help – and believing He will deliver it – is enough?
None of us contains the supernatural power of Jesus. We cannot instantly heal someone who touches our clothes and believes. But we can be there for others when they call on us. When others ask for our help, we can give it. When we see people in need, we can operate in compassion, kindness, grace and mercy toward them. Each of us can become a person who others know to be someone with integrity, honor, and reliability. We can be known as someone who shows the love of Jesus for others…someone whose love is always there for others, in His name.
So where does this leave you? Do you have faith in the love and compassion of Jesus that rivals that of the woman in Mark’s Gospel? Do you call on Jesus to meet your every need…and trust Him to do so? Are you known by others as a person who offers kindness, compassion, love, grace and mercy? Can others count on you to share the love of Jesus with them?
How you answer these questions matters greatly! If God is your GOD…and you truly are His faithful servant, you must be filled with faith and confidence in His power and ability to meet your needs. And you must be willing to demonstrate Jesus’ love to others. Have you “touched the hem of Jesus’ garment” lately? Isn’t it time you did?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Please listen, Lord,
and answer my prayer!
I am poor and helpless.
Protect me and save me
because you are my God.
I am your faithful servant,
and I trust you.
Be kind to me!
I pray to you all day.
Make my heart glad!
I serve you,
and my prayer is sincere.
You willingly forgive,
and your love is always there
for those who pray to you.
Please listen, Lord!
Answer my prayer for help.
When I am in trouble, I pray,
knowing you will listen.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
The “theme” of our morning worship service today centered on the woman “with the issue of blood” who touched the hem of Jesus’ garment and was made well. This story comes from Mark 5:25-34, which says,
“In the crowd was a woman who had been bleeding for twelve years. She had gone to many doctors, and they had not done anything except cause her a lot of pain. She had paid them all the money she had. But instead of getting better, she only got worse.
The woman had heard about Jesus, so she came up behind him in the crowd and barely touched his clothes. She had said to herself, ‘If I can just touch his clothes, I will get well.’ As soon as she touched them, her bleeding stopped, and she knew she was well.
At that moment Jesus felt power go out from him. He turned to the crowd and asked, ‘Who touched my clothes?’”
Is this the Jesus you know? Do you follow the One who can make you well simply because you dared to touch the hem of His robe? Obviously I am not talking about us literally touching Jesus’ robe…clearly we cannot do this. But do we believe so deeply that Jesus cares for us…that He has unending compassion for us…that His deepest desire is to make us “healthy” and “whole” in every way…that we never hesitate to call on Him to do so? Do we operate in the confidence that…”When I am in trouble, I pray, knowing You will listen”?
Consider the courage and faith of this woman. To push through the crowd just for the chance to touch the hem of a robe - believing that this would be sufficient for Jesus to know you needed His help - seems extraordinary. And yet, what Jesus did for her…He stands ready, willing, and able to gladly do for each of us. Do we have as much faith as this woman? Do we truly believe that Jesus cares for us so deeply that simply calling on Him for help – and believing He will deliver it – is enough?
None of us contains the supernatural power of Jesus. We cannot instantly heal someone who touches our clothes and believes. But we can be there for others when they call on us. When others ask for our help, we can give it. When we see people in need, we can operate in compassion, kindness, grace and mercy toward them. Each of us can become a person who others know to be someone with integrity, honor, and reliability. We can be known as someone who shows the love of Jesus for others…someone whose love is always there for others, in His name.
So where does this leave you? Do you have faith in the love and compassion of Jesus that rivals that of the woman in Mark’s Gospel? Do you call on Jesus to meet your every need…and trust Him to do so? Are you known by others as a person who offers kindness, compassion, love, grace and mercy? Can others count on you to share the love of Jesus with them?
How you answer these questions matters greatly! If God is your GOD…and you truly are His faithful servant, you must be filled with faith and confidence in His power and ability to meet your needs. And you must be willing to demonstrate Jesus’ love to others. Have you “touched the hem of Jesus’ garment” lately? Isn’t it time you did?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 26, 2014
Philippians 4:10-14
How I praise the Lord that you are concerned about me again. I know you have always been concerned for me, but you didn’t have the chance to help me. Not that I was ever in need, for I have learned how to be content with whatever I have. I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little. For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength. Even so, you have done well to share with me in my present difficulty.
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Do you know someone who seems to be totally self-sufficient? When you think of this person, you readily assume that he/she has everything under control, lacks for little to nothing, and seems to always manage quite nicely. We all know people who seem to need lots of help. But don’t we also know those who seem to always have all of their bases covered?
Here’s the thing…nobody’s life is THAT together all the time! And while you may feel like there is very little you can do for some people, you must never underestimate the power of letting them know how much you care. The person who seems so busy caring for others needs a little tender “caregiving” from time to time. The friend or co-worker who never appears to have a bad day is probably putting on a good front. Everyone gets sick once in a while. At some point, every person will have troubles, grieve, or feel discouraged. And even if we never see this side of a person, we must assume that these things happen in his/her life.
So what can you do? Reach out to others. The Apostle Paul says quite clearly that he is content…that all of his needs are met, and he has learned how to live with little – or a lot. But at the same time, he is clearly grateful for the love and support of others. In our own “ministry”, this support might come in the form of a phone call or note of encouragement. It might mean just being friendly to others and offering a smile…asking “How is your day going?”…or saying, “I really appreciate how hard you are working on XYZ.” It might mean asking, “Is there anything I could do for you?”… or just saying, “If you ever need anything – even just a friendly ear – I’m here for you.”
When given an opportunity to meet physical needs of someone else, we must be first in line to do so. We must be ready, willing, and able to share a meal, a ride, a hand with a task, or even a few dollars when possible. This goes beyond the obvious…the canned food drives…the mission projects at church and in our community...the public fundraisers for this cause or that. I’m talking about meeting people on a personal level…sharing and caring…showing compassion and concern – even for those who seem to have no needs and are in fact busy meeting the needs of others.
Everyone gets weary. Everyone has needs on any given day. A good example is our pastors. They are human beings with families and daily challenges just like the rest of us. Yet we expect them to be superheroes that come to our rescue and minister to us at the drop of a hat! So while this scripture passage is often referred to for other reasons…while the focus is usually on the verses about learning to be content in whatever situation we find ourselves…I want to emphasize other sentences today.
Let’s look at three phrases:
©2014 Debbie Robus
How I praise the Lord that you are concerned about me again. I know you have always been concerned for me, but you didn’t have the chance to help me. Not that I was ever in need, for I have learned how to be content with whatever I have. I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little. For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength. Even so, you have done well to share with me in my present difficulty.
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Do you know someone who seems to be totally self-sufficient? When you think of this person, you readily assume that he/she has everything under control, lacks for little to nothing, and seems to always manage quite nicely. We all know people who seem to need lots of help. But don’t we also know those who seem to always have all of their bases covered?
Here’s the thing…nobody’s life is THAT together all the time! And while you may feel like there is very little you can do for some people, you must never underestimate the power of letting them know how much you care. The person who seems so busy caring for others needs a little tender “caregiving” from time to time. The friend or co-worker who never appears to have a bad day is probably putting on a good front. Everyone gets sick once in a while. At some point, every person will have troubles, grieve, or feel discouraged. And even if we never see this side of a person, we must assume that these things happen in his/her life.
So what can you do? Reach out to others. The Apostle Paul says quite clearly that he is content…that all of his needs are met, and he has learned how to live with little – or a lot. But at the same time, he is clearly grateful for the love and support of others. In our own “ministry”, this support might come in the form of a phone call or note of encouragement. It might mean just being friendly to others and offering a smile…asking “How is your day going?”…or saying, “I really appreciate how hard you are working on XYZ.” It might mean asking, “Is there anything I could do for you?”… or just saying, “If you ever need anything – even just a friendly ear – I’m here for you.”
When given an opportunity to meet physical needs of someone else, we must be first in line to do so. We must be ready, willing, and able to share a meal, a ride, a hand with a task, or even a few dollars when possible. This goes beyond the obvious…the canned food drives…the mission projects at church and in our community...the public fundraisers for this cause or that. I’m talking about meeting people on a personal level…sharing and caring…showing compassion and concern – even for those who seem to have no needs and are in fact busy meeting the needs of others.
Everyone gets weary. Everyone has needs on any given day. A good example is our pastors. They are human beings with families and daily challenges just like the rest of us. Yet we expect them to be superheroes that come to our rescue and minister to us at the drop of a hat! So while this scripture passage is often referred to for other reasons…while the focus is usually on the verses about learning to be content in whatever situation we find ourselves…I want to emphasize other sentences today.
Let’s look at three phrases:
- “I know that you have always been concerned for me.” Do people know this about you? Do they sense your concern and compassion for them? Do they believe that you truly care?
- “For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.” Do you trust God to give you the strength, courage, wisdom and compassion as you meet the needs of others each day?
- “... you have done well to share with me in my present difficulty.” Have you modeled true Christian discipleship by sharing with others in their present difficulties? Have you opened your eyes and ears to the needs of those in your midst…and done your best – with God’s help – to meet them?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 21, 2014
1 Thessalonians 5:13-28
Get along among yourselves, each of you doing your part. Our counsel is that you warn the freeloaders to get a move on. Gently encourage the stragglers, and reach out for the exhausted, pulling them to their feet. Be patient with each person, attentive to individual needs. And be careful that when you get on each other’s nerves you don’t snap at each other. Look for the best in each other, and always do your best to bring it out.
Be cheerful no matter what; pray all the time; thank God no matter what happens. This is the way God wants you who belong to Christ Jesus to live.
Don’t suppress the Spirit, and don’t stifle those who have a word from the Master. On the other hand, don’t be gullible. Check out everything, and keep only what’s good. Throw out anything tainted with evil.
May God himself, the God who makes everything holy and whole, make you holy and whole, put you together—spirit, soul, and body—and keep you fit for the coming of our Master, Jesus Christ. The One who called you is completely dependable. If he said it, he’ll do it!
Friends, keep up your prayers for us. Greet all the followers of Jesus there with a holy embrace. And make sure this letter gets read to all the brothers and sisters. Don’t leave anyone out.
The amazing grace of Jesus Christ be with you!
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.
A new “group” has been started on Facebook for people in my “neck of the woods” who wish to share photos and information about the history of this area. It’s been a lot of fun to look at old pictures and reminisce…to see the ancestors of others – and to discover in some instances that we are connected “down the line” in some manner. And as with all things of this sort, there have been some mislabeled photos…some “data” that was not quite accurate…and more than one case of mistaken identity.
This page has sparked some new “friendships”, and for the most part it has been cordial. On a similar site, someone asked the simple question, “Which of you are truly ‘from’ our city?” This caused a firestorm of hurt feelings among people who were not truly “native”…but felt a deep connection to this community, nonetheless. This was unfortunate and something that we must try to avoid. Furthermore, these pages have somewhat rekindled my decades-long interest in family history.
I mentioned to my mom that I was considering spending the “big bucks” to rejoin a well-known genealogy website and get serious about this. She asked, “Isn’t much of the info on that site dependent on the input of others?” And she is right! So for now, I am going to glean what I can from friends and family members via Facebook and other avenues…ask questions…be cordial, and share my own info in the spirit of “good will”…and do my best to operate in accuracies, joy and encouragement of others. At least we are all talking about something positive on Facebook, for a change…which is incredibly refreshing!
What does this have to do with the Apostle Paul’s letter to the Thessalonians? This “group” on Facebook is a microcosm of the world at large. I do not know every person who is participating. I do not recognize all of the family names presented…and many of the photographs are portraits of people I’ve never heard of or seen. But they are important to someone…namely, the person who posted the photo!
Everything I say - and everything I post on this page – represents who I am as a person – and a Christian. I must do all I can to get along with others…to make my comments positive, polite and pleasant – even when questioning someone’s sources or the accuracy of his/her data. I must respond to others’ questions and posts with kindness and respect. I must remind myself that each interaction is an opportunity to witness to others…to represent God and demonstrate my love for Jesus Christ. And I must courteously and gently ask questions to ensure that we all exchange accurate information – for ourselves and for future generations.
In our daily living, we encounter people we know well…and those we only know casually. But each one is important to someone…and especially to God - just as we are. It is important that we treat others with love, compassion, and genuine kindness. Whatever our circumstances or the challenges we are facing on any given day, we can offer a smile – and where appropriate, a hug - to someone else. We can treat them with respect and convey to them a sense of value and worth. We can ask ourselves, “How would Jesus treat me if we were chatting on Facebook or met at school, in church – or even at Wal-Mart? How would He respond to me if He saw me at a restaurant – or a mutual friend introduced us? How would I want Him to respond?” THIS is the answer to how we should treat others!
Occasionally, I am contacted by someone who read one of these devotionals or saw something I posted on one of my blogs or Facebook. I’m not talking about those annoying “spammers” who sometimes contact us pretending to be someone they aren’t. God wants us to be cautious… to be able to determine when we are in danger of being scammed or mistreated. It’s okay to block these people…or to politely cut conversations short and avoid interaction with those you feel reasonably certain are pursuing you to further their own advantage - or with underhanded motives.
I’m talking about real, honest-to-goodness people who are seeking encouragement or compassion…young people who are wrestling with the challenges of daily life… caregivers who are struggling to deal with a relative who is aging…a grandma who is looking for cute sewing ideas for her grandchildren…someone who is grieving and truly having a difficult time coping with his/her feelings. I believe that God creates such encounters in order to provide us with an opportunity to share His love with others…and to give those whom we bless in His name the “good things” that they need to remain encouraged. Each time I respond to one of these people or situations, I am representing my faith in God and how He has blessed me. I am being obedient to God’s directives via Paul’s message in this scripture passage. It matters greatly what I say, how I say it, and the attitude and demeanor I convey in the process. And the same is true for you!
God never wastes an opportunity…and neither should we! Let’s double our efforts to be vigilant in sharing His love, compassion, kindness and encouragement with others. And let’s make sure that we do so with a smile, a hug or pat on the back when appropriate, accuracy, a kind word, and a positive attitude. Let’s be guardedly friendly…and do our part to bring out the best in others. In many cases, we will never truly realize the impact we have on those we encounter – both positively and negatively. Make every effort to be a whole, holy and fit creation of God…and to make each and every gesture really count for Him!
©2014 Debbie Robus
Get along among yourselves, each of you doing your part. Our counsel is that you warn the freeloaders to get a move on. Gently encourage the stragglers, and reach out for the exhausted, pulling them to their feet. Be patient with each person, attentive to individual needs. And be careful that when you get on each other’s nerves you don’t snap at each other. Look for the best in each other, and always do your best to bring it out.
Be cheerful no matter what; pray all the time; thank God no matter what happens. This is the way God wants you who belong to Christ Jesus to live.
Don’t suppress the Spirit, and don’t stifle those who have a word from the Master. On the other hand, don’t be gullible. Check out everything, and keep only what’s good. Throw out anything tainted with evil.
May God himself, the God who makes everything holy and whole, make you holy and whole, put you together—spirit, soul, and body—and keep you fit for the coming of our Master, Jesus Christ. The One who called you is completely dependable. If he said it, he’ll do it!
Friends, keep up your prayers for us. Greet all the followers of Jesus there with a holy embrace. And make sure this letter gets read to all the brothers and sisters. Don’t leave anyone out.
The amazing grace of Jesus Christ be with you!
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.
A new “group” has been started on Facebook for people in my “neck of the woods” who wish to share photos and information about the history of this area. It’s been a lot of fun to look at old pictures and reminisce…to see the ancestors of others – and to discover in some instances that we are connected “down the line” in some manner. And as with all things of this sort, there have been some mislabeled photos…some “data” that was not quite accurate…and more than one case of mistaken identity.
This page has sparked some new “friendships”, and for the most part it has been cordial. On a similar site, someone asked the simple question, “Which of you are truly ‘from’ our city?” This caused a firestorm of hurt feelings among people who were not truly “native”…but felt a deep connection to this community, nonetheless. This was unfortunate and something that we must try to avoid. Furthermore, these pages have somewhat rekindled my decades-long interest in family history.
I mentioned to my mom that I was considering spending the “big bucks” to rejoin a well-known genealogy website and get serious about this. She asked, “Isn’t much of the info on that site dependent on the input of others?” And she is right! So for now, I am going to glean what I can from friends and family members via Facebook and other avenues…ask questions…be cordial, and share my own info in the spirit of “good will”…and do my best to operate in accuracies, joy and encouragement of others. At least we are all talking about something positive on Facebook, for a change…which is incredibly refreshing!
What does this have to do with the Apostle Paul’s letter to the Thessalonians? This “group” on Facebook is a microcosm of the world at large. I do not know every person who is participating. I do not recognize all of the family names presented…and many of the photographs are portraits of people I’ve never heard of or seen. But they are important to someone…namely, the person who posted the photo!
Everything I say - and everything I post on this page – represents who I am as a person – and a Christian. I must do all I can to get along with others…to make my comments positive, polite and pleasant – even when questioning someone’s sources or the accuracy of his/her data. I must respond to others’ questions and posts with kindness and respect. I must remind myself that each interaction is an opportunity to witness to others…to represent God and demonstrate my love for Jesus Christ. And I must courteously and gently ask questions to ensure that we all exchange accurate information – for ourselves and for future generations.
In our daily living, we encounter people we know well…and those we only know casually. But each one is important to someone…and especially to God - just as we are. It is important that we treat others with love, compassion, and genuine kindness. Whatever our circumstances or the challenges we are facing on any given day, we can offer a smile – and where appropriate, a hug - to someone else. We can treat them with respect and convey to them a sense of value and worth. We can ask ourselves, “How would Jesus treat me if we were chatting on Facebook or met at school, in church – or even at Wal-Mart? How would He respond to me if He saw me at a restaurant – or a mutual friend introduced us? How would I want Him to respond?” THIS is the answer to how we should treat others!
Occasionally, I am contacted by someone who read one of these devotionals or saw something I posted on one of my blogs or Facebook. I’m not talking about those annoying “spammers” who sometimes contact us pretending to be someone they aren’t. God wants us to be cautious… to be able to determine when we are in danger of being scammed or mistreated. It’s okay to block these people…or to politely cut conversations short and avoid interaction with those you feel reasonably certain are pursuing you to further their own advantage - or with underhanded motives.
I’m talking about real, honest-to-goodness people who are seeking encouragement or compassion…young people who are wrestling with the challenges of daily life… caregivers who are struggling to deal with a relative who is aging…a grandma who is looking for cute sewing ideas for her grandchildren…someone who is grieving and truly having a difficult time coping with his/her feelings. I believe that God creates such encounters in order to provide us with an opportunity to share His love with others…and to give those whom we bless in His name the “good things” that they need to remain encouraged. Each time I respond to one of these people or situations, I am representing my faith in God and how He has blessed me. I am being obedient to God’s directives via Paul’s message in this scripture passage. It matters greatly what I say, how I say it, and the attitude and demeanor I convey in the process. And the same is true for you!
God never wastes an opportunity…and neither should we! Let’s double our efforts to be vigilant in sharing His love, compassion, kindness and encouragement with others. And let’s make sure that we do so with a smile, a hug or pat on the back when appropriate, accuracy, a kind word, and a positive attitude. Let’s be guardedly friendly…and do our part to bring out the best in others. In many cases, we will never truly realize the impact we have on those we encounter – both positively and negatively. Make every effort to be a whole, holy and fit creation of God…and to make each and every gesture really count for Him!
©2014 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 20, 2014
2 Corinthians 1:3-4
Praise God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! The Father is a merciful God, who always gives us comfort. He comforts us when we are in trouble, so that we can share that same comfort with others in trouble.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I recently attended the funeral of a friend who died suddenly at the age of 63. This man was an only child who moved to California as an adult and built a career there as a landscape architect. I only saw him in later life on occasions when he would return to visit his mother, who has been a friend of mine since I was a little girl. This woman is probably somewhere close to 90 now, and in failing health. She was absolutely devastated to lose her only son, and it broke my heart to see her so distraught at the funeral.
I have no firsthand knowledge of the profound grief that comes from losing a child. But I’ve witnessed it firsthand…my mother, my grandmother, the mothers and fathers of dear childhood friends, and even close friends about our age whose teenage son died in a car crash. As I hugged this woman and tried to offer her some semblance of comfort, I thought of my then-87-year-old grandmother and recalled how devastated she was when my dad passed away – also at age 63. This woman is probably about the same age as my grandmother was then. Remembering how God sent others to minister to us in our own grief, I felt confident in reassuring her that God would comfort her, too. I believe that God reminded me of things that comforted my own grandmother in her grief…and showed me how to offer consolation to this friend in the same manner.
Like most 56-year-olds, I have experienced troubles in my lifetime…but I know many people who have endured far worse – and lived to tell about it! Over and again, I have seen how God has given comfort to those in trouble…and used them to encourage and console many who are placed in their path. There are two things that I have taken away from my own experiences:
Take stock of your own life. Ask God to show you where you have experienced something that could aid you in comforting or encouraging someone else. Use your life events to offer compassion and hope to others. “Show and tell” them what God has done in your life – and assure them that He offers these same helps and blessings to them.
God never wastes an experience…and we shouldn’t either! How is he leading you to encourage or comfort someone today? Will you answer the call?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Praise God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! The Father is a merciful God, who always gives us comfort. He comforts us when we are in trouble, so that we can share that same comfort with others in trouble.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I recently attended the funeral of a friend who died suddenly at the age of 63. This man was an only child who moved to California as an adult and built a career there as a landscape architect. I only saw him in later life on occasions when he would return to visit his mother, who has been a friend of mine since I was a little girl. This woman is probably somewhere close to 90 now, and in failing health. She was absolutely devastated to lose her only son, and it broke my heart to see her so distraught at the funeral.
I have no firsthand knowledge of the profound grief that comes from losing a child. But I’ve witnessed it firsthand…my mother, my grandmother, the mothers and fathers of dear childhood friends, and even close friends about our age whose teenage son died in a car crash. As I hugged this woman and tried to offer her some semblance of comfort, I thought of my then-87-year-old grandmother and recalled how devastated she was when my dad passed away – also at age 63. This woman is probably about the same age as my grandmother was then. Remembering how God sent others to minister to us in our own grief, I felt confident in reassuring her that God would comfort her, too. I believe that God reminded me of things that comforted my own grandmother in her grief…and showed me how to offer consolation to this friend in the same manner.
Like most 56-year-olds, I have experienced troubles in my lifetime…but I know many people who have endured far worse – and lived to tell about it! Over and again, I have seen how God has given comfort to those in trouble…and used them to encourage and console many who are placed in their path. There are two things that I have taken away from my own experiences:
- I firmly believe that God will place people in your path to whom you can offer His grace, mercy, encouragement, comfort and compassion. OUR JOB is to be open and obedient to share out of our own life events…to demonstrate to others how God helped us…and to offer this same help to them in His name.
- I also believe that ANYONE who calls on God for help and comfort will receive it. You may not feel like He answers in the way you desired. You may think that God’s timing is slow or that He has allowed you to suffer too much. But the bottom line is that God is truly a “merciful God, who always gives us comfort”. God will never leave you…and when you call on Him for help, He will answer.
Take stock of your own life. Ask God to show you where you have experienced something that could aid you in comforting or encouraging someone else. Use your life events to offer compassion and hope to others. “Show and tell” them what God has done in your life – and assure them that He offers these same helps and blessings to them.
God never wastes an experience…and we shouldn’t either! How is he leading you to encourage or comfort someone today? Will you answer the call?
©2014 Debbie Robus
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