Leviticus 19:18
Stop being angry and don't try to take revenge. I am the LORD, and I command you to love others as much as you love yourself.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
My brother was born when I was four years old. I actually remember praying for a baby brother. But as anyone who has had a younger sibling can tell you, this was just enough of an age gap that my brother became a pest to me much of the time when were younger. He knew how to push all my buttons… and my sister’s… and one Christmas, he made us both so mad that we plotted our revenge.
My mom has written a darling children’s story about this… “Bartholomew’s Christmas,” in which she substitutes a tiny field mouse and his family for that of my own. But here’s what really happened…
My brother had never had a new bicycle. My family’s household budget was like a lot of others with two parents and three kids – money was tight. So my dad would piece together parts of this bike and another and fashion something for my brother to peddle. What Tim really wanted was a brand spanking new “Stingray” bicycle. And he just knew that this particular Christmas was “it!” This was all we heard for weeks… “I’m getting a bicycle! I’m getting a bicycle.” It really annoyed my sister and me.
I’m guessing that my sister and I were 12 and 13, so Tim was about 9. My sister had asked for a wig for Christmas. I can’t remember what I had asked for, but on Christmas Eve, my grandparents gave my brother a tape recorder. He was so happy with that little machine, and when we got back home, my sister and I asked to borrow it. Of course, he naively said we could. We recorded a message for him, telling him that after our parents purchased my present and my sister’s wig, there just was not enough money to buy a bicycle for him. Better luck next Christmas!
We returned the tape recorder to my little brother and said, “We made a message for you!” The next thing we heard was heavy sobbing from my brother’s bedroom. We went into panic mode. We had not anticipated this reaction. We went to him and tried to convince him that we made it all up… that he WAS getting a bike for Christmas. But he continued to cry and would not believe us.
The next morning, we got up early… eager to see what was under the tree. My brother trudged into the kitchen as if he were headed to the gallows for hanging. My mom suggested he pull the sliding door curtain and take a peek out on the back patio. He was not enthused. Reluctantly, my sister and I began to reveal our dastardly deed… as our parents expressed great disapproval and unhappiness with us. But finally, we were able to coax my brother to the window, and once he saw the bicycle, he was back to dancing around and saying, “I knew it! I knew it!” And no other kid could have loved a bicycle as much as he loved this one.
My sister and I learned a valuable lesson that Christmas… one that haunted me for years to come. I apologized many times to my brother until his dying day. And he forgave me. But I saw the power of something as seemingly innocent as a practical joke. How often do we say or do something that we think is funny or harmless without stopping to truly consider the possible ramifications… the effect it could have on someone else? Do we think only of how much we will enjoy this… or how it might make us look “funny” or “interesting” in the eyes of others…failing to consider how the recipient of our “fun” might appear?
Where have we plotted to take matters into our own hands, forgetting that revenge is not our job? Instead of trying to handle these things ourselves, we should be opening our hands upward and saying, “This is yours, Father… do what You will with it.” At the end of the day, my sister and I were two young girls trying to play a joke on their pesky little brother. But even the smallest of acts has the potential for paving the way to larger, more costly situations.
Let’s stop ourselves now… let’s realize that even the tiniest things matter greatly. Let’s open our hands, let go and let GOD handle EVERYTHING… even little brothers and their bicycles.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Showing posts with label submission. Show all posts
Showing posts with label submission. Show all posts
Daily Devotional for November 7, 2010
2 Corinthians 5:20
Because of this decision we don't evaluate people by what they have or how they look. We looked at the Messiah that way once and got it all wrong, as you know. We certainly don't look at him that way anymore. Now we look inside, and what we see is that anyone united with the Messiah gets a fresh start, is created new. The old life is gone; a new life burgeons! Look at it! All this comes from the God who settled the relationship between us and him, and then called us to settle our relationships with each other. God put the world square with himself through the Messiah, giving the world a fresh start by offering forgiveness of sins. God has given us the task of telling everyone what he is doing. We're Christ's representatives. God uses us to persuade men and women to drop their differences and enter into God's work of making things right between them. We're speaking for Christ himself now: Become friends with God; he's already a friend 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.
We’ve just come off an election week in which nastiness in both major political parties reached epic proportions. Some are now claiming that “God has spoken,” indicating that God favors one political party and it’s followers over another. I strongly disagree, because this would mean that God’s favor is only for some, and that is not what I read in the scriptures. And this is nothing new. My mom is reading a book about the writing of the Constitution, and she noted that both “sides” were praying and believing that God would give them a positive outcome.
I’ve also noticed that people credit God with victories at sporting events, the next choice for American Idol, and more. And I have to laugh. Does this mean that God doesn’t care about the “losing” team? Absolutely NOT!
Go back and read this scripture passage again… “anyone united with the Messiah gets a fresh start, is created new.” I believe this means that God may allow… or even orchestrate… the outcomes of certain events, such as elections, sporting events, and competitions of all kinds… but not for the reasons we may think! I believe if we pray for anything except GOD’s WILL… His perfect plan in the outcome of such events – and the safety and well-being of those involved and their care and blessings - we are asking God to “pick a side,” and He simply will not do this. It may be that God has a very different purpose for said outcome… perhaps He will use a victory or loss to show us far more than we would learn, were the outcome different or more to our liking.
We must remember that God’s ways are always perfect. His WILL is always perfect… but not always ours! Notice that this passage says, “All this comes from the God who settled the relationship between us and him, and then called us to settle our relationships with each other.” So this tells me that we need to be busy sharing the love and perfection of God’s plans for us with others. We don’t need to act superior to anyone else, or to lord over them the fact that our team won. We need to operate in the same love, grace and mercy that God shows to us on a minute-by-minute basis!
We need to be busy making friends with others, not separating ourselves from them. But first, we have to be sure we are truly friends with God. Is He really in charge of your life? Are you giving Him free rein… and free reign? Have you become a new creature and ditched your “old life” completely? Are you fully equipped to be a representative of God? In order to do this, you have to check your biases and your ego at the door. You have to acknowledge that you are special to God – but no more so than the next guy, regardless of his team, political party, social standing, race, lifestyle, or ethnicity. Have you done this? I won’t ask if you “can” do this, because God makes all things possible. But the choice is totally ours… what do you say?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Because of this decision we don't evaluate people by what they have or how they look. We looked at the Messiah that way once and got it all wrong, as you know. We certainly don't look at him that way anymore. Now we look inside, and what we see is that anyone united with the Messiah gets a fresh start, is created new. The old life is gone; a new life burgeons! Look at it! All this comes from the God who settled the relationship between us and him, and then called us to settle our relationships with each other. God put the world square with himself through the Messiah, giving the world a fresh start by offering forgiveness of sins. God has given us the task of telling everyone what he is doing. We're Christ's representatives. God uses us to persuade men and women to drop their differences and enter into God's work of making things right between them. We're speaking for Christ himself now: Become friends with God; he's already a friend 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.
We’ve just come off an election week in which nastiness in both major political parties reached epic proportions. Some are now claiming that “God has spoken,” indicating that God favors one political party and it’s followers over another. I strongly disagree, because this would mean that God’s favor is only for some, and that is not what I read in the scriptures. And this is nothing new. My mom is reading a book about the writing of the Constitution, and she noted that both “sides” were praying and believing that God would give them a positive outcome.
I’ve also noticed that people credit God with victories at sporting events, the next choice for American Idol, and more. And I have to laugh. Does this mean that God doesn’t care about the “losing” team? Absolutely NOT!
Go back and read this scripture passage again… “anyone united with the Messiah gets a fresh start, is created new.” I believe this means that God may allow… or even orchestrate… the outcomes of certain events, such as elections, sporting events, and competitions of all kinds… but not for the reasons we may think! I believe if we pray for anything except GOD’s WILL… His perfect plan in the outcome of such events – and the safety and well-being of those involved and their care and blessings - we are asking God to “pick a side,” and He simply will not do this. It may be that God has a very different purpose for said outcome… perhaps He will use a victory or loss to show us far more than we would learn, were the outcome different or more to our liking.
We must remember that God’s ways are always perfect. His WILL is always perfect… but not always ours! Notice that this passage says, “All this comes from the God who settled the relationship between us and him, and then called us to settle our relationships with each other.” So this tells me that we need to be busy sharing the love and perfection of God’s plans for us with others. We don’t need to act superior to anyone else, or to lord over them the fact that our team won. We need to operate in the same love, grace and mercy that God shows to us on a minute-by-minute basis!
We need to be busy making friends with others, not separating ourselves from them. But first, we have to be sure we are truly friends with God. Is He really in charge of your life? Are you giving Him free rein… and free reign? Have you become a new creature and ditched your “old life” completely? Are you fully equipped to be a representative of God? In order to do this, you have to check your biases and your ego at the door. You have to acknowledge that you are special to God – but no more so than the next guy, regardless of his team, political party, social standing, race, lifestyle, or ethnicity. Have you done this? I won’t ask if you “can” do this, because God makes all things possible. But the choice is totally ours… what do you say?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for August 1, 2010
Romans 12:1
[Christ Brings New Life] Dear friends, God is good. So I beg you to offer your bodies to him as a living sacrifice, pure and pleasing. That's the most sensible way to serve God.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Have you ever watched “Let’s Make a Deal”? Often, the host of the show gives someone a wonderful prize, and then he says something, “I’ll give you what’s behind Door #2, if you’ll give me the new couch I just gave you.” In order to get something potentially greater, the contestant has to be willing to sacrifice what he/she just won. Whether the prize behind Door #2 is actually better is not known until the curtain goes up. Choosing to do this is a 50-50 gamble. And some contestants are not willing to take the chance.
In order to experience new life in Christ, we have to “sacrifice” something … our sinful nature. When you get down to it, that’s not much of a “sacrifice” per se, but for some of us, it can feel like a hard choice or a gamble – especially at first. Some of us enjoy our old, sinful lives, and letting go of the past and the lifestyle and behaviors we are comfortable with can be daunting. What many don’t realize is how incredibly amazing – how pure and pleasing – life in Christ can be. Like the people on “Let’s Make a Deal,” we are nervous about what lies “behind Door #2”.
I won’t lie to you … choosing to follow Jesus is not always easy. You may lose a few “friends” or have to stop going some of the places you used to go and doing the things you used to do. But God will send you new friends. He will give you new activities and interests. If you fill your days and nights with loving, serving and studying Him, He will fill YOU!
What are you waiting for? Stand up and choose “what’s behind the door.” Tell God your fears and apprehensions about accepting His offer of a new life in Christ. Let Him help you work through the growing pains and attain the peace and joy that being in a right relationship with Him brings. We all get discouraged from time to time … and you will, too! But God is waiting to set you back on your feet and give you the desires of your heart. All you have to do is choose His “door”.
©2010 Debbie Robus
[Christ Brings New Life] Dear friends, God is good. So I beg you to offer your bodies to him as a living sacrifice, pure and pleasing. That's the most sensible way to serve God.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Have you ever watched “Let’s Make a Deal”? Often, the host of the show gives someone a wonderful prize, and then he says something, “I’ll give you what’s behind Door #2, if you’ll give me the new couch I just gave you.” In order to get something potentially greater, the contestant has to be willing to sacrifice what he/she just won. Whether the prize behind Door #2 is actually better is not known until the curtain goes up. Choosing to do this is a 50-50 gamble. And some contestants are not willing to take the chance.
In order to experience new life in Christ, we have to “sacrifice” something … our sinful nature. When you get down to it, that’s not much of a “sacrifice” per se, but for some of us, it can feel like a hard choice or a gamble – especially at first. Some of us enjoy our old, sinful lives, and letting go of the past and the lifestyle and behaviors we are comfortable with can be daunting. What many don’t realize is how incredibly amazing – how pure and pleasing – life in Christ can be. Like the people on “Let’s Make a Deal,” we are nervous about what lies “behind Door #2”.
I won’t lie to you … choosing to follow Jesus is not always easy. You may lose a few “friends” or have to stop going some of the places you used to go and doing the things you used to do. But God will send you new friends. He will give you new activities and interests. If you fill your days and nights with loving, serving and studying Him, He will fill YOU!
What are you waiting for? Stand up and choose “what’s behind the door.” Tell God your fears and apprehensions about accepting His offer of a new life in Christ. Let Him help you work through the growing pains and attain the peace and joy that being in a right relationship with Him brings. We all get discouraged from time to time … and you will, too! But God is waiting to set you back on your feet and give you the desires of your heart. All you have to do is choose His “door”.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for June 13, 2010
June 13 ~ Isaiah 43:5
Don't be afraid! I am with you. From both east and west I will bring you together.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
In case you have been under a rock for the last few days, this has not been the happiest week for Arkansans at large. A massive flash flood swept away campers in southwest Arkansas, killing dozens and leaving others injured and incredibly frightened. Many lost not only family members and friends, but also pets, belongings, and more. Some literally lost the clothing off their backs from the force of the water. The devastation and destruction is truly incredible.
In northeastern Arkansas, Lillian Wilson, an 80-year-old woman known locally as “Miss Lill,” was beaten to death in the sanctuary of her church with a 2-foot brass cross from the Holy Communion table. She had returned on Sunday afternoon to leave a bucket to finish out a “disaster kit” filled with cleaning supplies that, ironically, would aid in the cleanup of places just like the Albert Pike Campground area in southwestern Arkansas.
As we watched these stories unfold in the media, we couldn’t help but ask, “Why, God? Why did a two-year-old toddler have to die before her mother’s eyes? Why was a faithful Christian servant murdered in her church sanctuary… and by the very symbol of Your protection?” As I read over this scripture passage, God very clearly reminded me that He was with the people at Albert Pike Campground… and He was with Miss Lill. God is always with us, even in the most horrific circumstances. I know… you are thinking this doesn’t make sense… why doesn’t He rescue us? I believe He does… just not in the ways we envision.
I believe that there is so much about God we cannot ever understand… His power and how He really operates. If we did, we wouldn’t need Him. I believe that even in the most terrifying situations, such as being swept away by flood waters or being beaten with a brass cross, God is there, saying, “Hold My hand… I’m right here with you. You’ll see… I will make this okay.” And just as God orchestrates everything perfectly, we will see His power at work in these two tragedies. He will use the lady who made disaster relief buckets and the people who needed them to change lives. Satan may have meant these two events for evil… his plan was surely to cause us to say, “What kind of God would allow this?” But God is saying… “Don’t turn away from me in fear… turn TO me and realize that I was there all along… and I am still with you.”
This is a hard lesson. We humans want someone to blame… and more often than not we blame God instead of the real culprit – Satan. We see the negative more than the positive, and we lose our way – and our faith. Let’s renew our faith and trust in God. Let’s recognize today that He is still in control… and He is still right beside us. Let’s acknowledge that God can take the most horrific events and bring blessings out of them… and let’s take comfort in realizing how powerful He is. This is an amazing thing… we serve an awesome God. Don’t be afraid. God is bringing east, west, north and south together… and He is always… ALWAYS with us.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Don't be afraid! I am with you. From both east and west I will bring you together.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
In case you have been under a rock for the last few days, this has not been the happiest week for Arkansans at large. A massive flash flood swept away campers in southwest Arkansas, killing dozens and leaving others injured and incredibly frightened. Many lost not only family members and friends, but also pets, belongings, and more. Some literally lost the clothing off their backs from the force of the water. The devastation and destruction is truly incredible.
In northeastern Arkansas, Lillian Wilson, an 80-year-old woman known locally as “Miss Lill,” was beaten to death in the sanctuary of her church with a 2-foot brass cross from the Holy Communion table. She had returned on Sunday afternoon to leave a bucket to finish out a “disaster kit” filled with cleaning supplies that, ironically, would aid in the cleanup of places just like the Albert Pike Campground area in southwestern Arkansas.
As we watched these stories unfold in the media, we couldn’t help but ask, “Why, God? Why did a two-year-old toddler have to die before her mother’s eyes? Why was a faithful Christian servant murdered in her church sanctuary… and by the very symbol of Your protection?” As I read over this scripture passage, God very clearly reminded me that He was with the people at Albert Pike Campground… and He was with Miss Lill. God is always with us, even in the most horrific circumstances. I know… you are thinking this doesn’t make sense… why doesn’t He rescue us? I believe He does… just not in the ways we envision.
I believe that there is so much about God we cannot ever understand… His power and how He really operates. If we did, we wouldn’t need Him. I believe that even in the most terrifying situations, such as being swept away by flood waters or being beaten with a brass cross, God is there, saying, “Hold My hand… I’m right here with you. You’ll see… I will make this okay.” And just as God orchestrates everything perfectly, we will see His power at work in these two tragedies. He will use the lady who made disaster relief buckets and the people who needed them to change lives. Satan may have meant these two events for evil… his plan was surely to cause us to say, “What kind of God would allow this?” But God is saying… “Don’t turn away from me in fear… turn TO me and realize that I was there all along… and I am still with you.”
This is a hard lesson. We humans want someone to blame… and more often than not we blame God instead of the real culprit – Satan. We see the negative more than the positive, and we lose our way – and our faith. Let’s renew our faith and trust in God. Let’s recognize today that He is still in control… and He is still right beside us. Let’s acknowledge that God can take the most horrific events and bring blessings out of them… and let’s take comfort in realizing how powerful He is. This is an amazing thing… we serve an awesome God. Don’t be afraid. God is bringing east, west, north and south together… and He is always… ALWAYS with us.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for May 22, 2010
May 22 ~ Numbers 14:9
So don't rebel. We have no reason to be afraid of the people who live there. The LORD is on our side, and they won't stand a chance against us!
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
New and/or unfamiliar situations can be daunting for anyone. Small children who are entering the kindergarten or pre-school classroom for the first time may stall at the door – or even turn and cling to their mothers. More than once, I’ve had to reassure a mother, “Go ahead… five minutes after you leave he/she will have stopped crying and be fine.” I’ve even pried at least one child from the support post on the covered walkway as he screamed while his tearful mother drove away. Every single child was indeed fine after a few minutes. But stepping into the unknown and out of a comfort zone was huge for them.
In Numbers 13 and 14, Moses and Aaron have sent Caleb and Joshua to scout out the land of Canaan. They returned and reported it was “flowing with milk and honey.” It was also home to some large fortified cities. Caleb admits that there is opposition to a takeover there, but he believes the Israelites can do it. But once the people see the land for themselves, they are not so sure. They rebel and want to turn and go back to Egypt, claiming they would have been better off to die there than step into what they perceive as a death trap. So in essence, they are “clinging to the pole on the covered walkway” – frozen in their tracks with fear.
Now the point is, God had told Moses to investigate the land of Canaan. He had sanctioned this, and Moses was obedient. And when we are obedient – even when it seems like a scary - or even risky - leap of faith, God paves the way and protects us. So when your friends want you to go do things with them you know you shouldn’t, don’t fear being ridiculed. Trust God to protect you. When your boss is asking you to lie or do something dishonest or illegal at work, don’t fear losing your job… trust God to make sure that you will always have one – even if it means relocating. When someone invites you to church or a new Bible study, and you don’t want to go because “I won’t know anyone there,” step out in faith that God will help you get acquainted, if He is leading you to attend.
The key to success in this is to always consult God about everything. Don’t take a new job, accept a marriage proposal, have a baby, or move to a new city without talking to Him about it first. But also don’t join a Bible study, serve on a committee, or even run for Class President without consulting God. Make sure you have talked to God about every decision and choice in your life, both the big ones and those that seem insignificant. In all things, ask God where He is leading you… then let go of the pole and move forward.
©2010 Debbie Robus
So don't rebel. We have no reason to be afraid of the people who live there. The LORD is on our side, and they won't stand a chance against us!
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
New and/or unfamiliar situations can be daunting for anyone. Small children who are entering the kindergarten or pre-school classroom for the first time may stall at the door – or even turn and cling to their mothers. More than once, I’ve had to reassure a mother, “Go ahead… five minutes after you leave he/she will have stopped crying and be fine.” I’ve even pried at least one child from the support post on the covered walkway as he screamed while his tearful mother drove away. Every single child was indeed fine after a few minutes. But stepping into the unknown and out of a comfort zone was huge for them.
In Numbers 13 and 14, Moses and Aaron have sent Caleb and Joshua to scout out the land of Canaan. They returned and reported it was “flowing with milk and honey.” It was also home to some large fortified cities. Caleb admits that there is opposition to a takeover there, but he believes the Israelites can do it. But once the people see the land for themselves, they are not so sure. They rebel and want to turn and go back to Egypt, claiming they would have been better off to die there than step into what they perceive as a death trap. So in essence, they are “clinging to the pole on the covered walkway” – frozen in their tracks with fear.
Now the point is, God had told Moses to investigate the land of Canaan. He had sanctioned this, and Moses was obedient. And when we are obedient – even when it seems like a scary - or even risky - leap of faith, God paves the way and protects us. So when your friends want you to go do things with them you know you shouldn’t, don’t fear being ridiculed. Trust God to protect you. When your boss is asking you to lie or do something dishonest or illegal at work, don’t fear losing your job… trust God to make sure that you will always have one – even if it means relocating. When someone invites you to church or a new Bible study, and you don’t want to go because “I won’t know anyone there,” step out in faith that God will help you get acquainted, if He is leading you to attend.
The key to success in this is to always consult God about everything. Don’t take a new job, accept a marriage proposal, have a baby, or move to a new city without talking to Him about it first. But also don’t join a Bible study, serve on a committee, or even run for Class President without consulting God. Make sure you have talked to God about every decision and choice in your life, both the big ones and those that seem insignificant. In all things, ask God where He is leading you… then let go of the pole and move forward.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for May 11, 2010
May 11 ~ Romans 8:37-39
In everything we have won more than a victory because of Christ who loves us. I am sure that nothing can separate us from God's love--not life or death, not angels or spirits, not the present or the future, and not powers above or powers below. Nothing in all creation can separate us from God's love for us in Christ Jesus our Lord!
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Someone sent me an e-mail recently and asked some very good questions with regard to our scripture passage from Psalm 91. This person said, “I am a believer and even believe every word and promise in the Bible. However, my problem is sometimes with verses like the one you have used. The verse makes no provisions other than for us to ‘Run to him for safety, and no disaster will strike you or your home.’ Just think of the millions that have been struck by disaster since Hurricane Katrina in Louisiana, earthquakes, and recent tornadoes, then the drowning in Tennessee last week. I simply must believe that some of those who died were true believers who ran to God for safety. Help me! How can this be, according to the scripture?”
I do not have all of the answers, but this is my take on things... yes, troubles will come... and I say that over and over in my devotionals. If we did not endure hardship and trouble, we wouldn't need God's safety and care. I try very hard to convey my sincere conviction that even in the depths of the worst tragedy and disaster, God is there. Surely God was with Ward Baldridge when He called him to heaven recently during a tornado that struck Pearson, Arkansas - and I believe the Baldridge family would tell you today that God's care and protection has been evidenced to them in the days since the disastrous tornado - from the people who helped them clean up to the medical care given to Ward’s grandson, Blake, and his wife, Iva Jean (both seriously injured), to the thousands of prayers that have been offered for this family and others who suffered destruction and loss.
I believe that the real "meat" and meaning of this scripture passage is not that "disaster will not strike your home," but rather that no disaster will strike your home that God cannot handle for you - and help you to endure. I have asked God why family members have had to suffer and die... I've asked Him why young men have to endure the horrors of war in Iraq and Afghanistan. Why was there a Holocaust? The only thing that makes sense to me is a pervading feeling that out of these horrific tragedies have come much trust and faith that God can sustain us... and an assurance that even in the darkest hours, He was with those who suffered, just as He was with Jesus on the cross.
What I hope we gain from studying these scriptures - and the insights I try to provide - is that nothing is beyond our capability to handle with God... and even when we struggle and suffer, God hears us and answers according to a far greater plan for our lives than we are able to comprehend. I go back to my opening comment that we would have no need for God if no challenges ever presented themselves. I do not believe God uses these things to humble us... but rather that He uses circumstances and events to show us how to draw closer to Him and call on Him when life is too big for us to handle. I know that has been the case in my own life... and I hope I am truly growing in trust and letting go of fears, believing that God will be with me no matter what happens.
I hope this makes sense. I welcome all questions and comments, and I hope you know that my responses do not mean I believe that I have all the answers. These are my opinions, based on prayer, study, personal experience – and conversations with others with more expertise in Bible study than I have. I encourage you to also dig and study for yourself and see where God leads you – what answers He presents. I believe God’s desire is for us to continually grow and learn about His will for our lives. Ultimately, the “big picture” will be revealed to us in Heaven…and this gives me hope and encouragement for what is yet to come. I pray that it does the same for you.
The person who wrote to ask the question replied, “If one does not read the Bible and sometimes wonder -- then I wonder why he/she does not read more.” I wholeheartedly agree. Keep learning and seeking God – see what amazing things He will reveal to you in the process!
©2010 Debbie Robus
In everything we have won more than a victory because of Christ who loves us. I am sure that nothing can separate us from God's love--not life or death, not angels or spirits, not the present or the future, and not powers above or powers below. Nothing in all creation can separate us from God's love for us in Christ Jesus our Lord!
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Someone sent me an e-mail recently and asked some very good questions with regard to our scripture passage from Psalm 91. This person said, “I am a believer and even believe every word and promise in the Bible. However, my problem is sometimes with verses like the one you have used. The verse makes no provisions other than for us to ‘Run to him for safety, and no disaster will strike you or your home.’ Just think of the millions that have been struck by disaster since Hurricane Katrina in Louisiana, earthquakes, and recent tornadoes, then the drowning in Tennessee last week. I simply must believe that some of those who died were true believers who ran to God for safety. Help me! How can this be, according to the scripture?”
I do not have all of the answers, but this is my take on things... yes, troubles will come... and I say that over and over in my devotionals. If we did not endure hardship and trouble, we wouldn't need God's safety and care. I try very hard to convey my sincere conviction that even in the depths of the worst tragedy and disaster, God is there. Surely God was with Ward Baldridge when He called him to heaven recently during a tornado that struck Pearson, Arkansas - and I believe the Baldridge family would tell you today that God's care and protection has been evidenced to them in the days since the disastrous tornado - from the people who helped them clean up to the medical care given to Ward’s grandson, Blake, and his wife, Iva Jean (both seriously injured), to the thousands of prayers that have been offered for this family and others who suffered destruction and loss.
I believe that the real "meat" and meaning of this scripture passage is not that "disaster will not strike your home," but rather that no disaster will strike your home that God cannot handle for you - and help you to endure. I have asked God why family members have had to suffer and die... I've asked Him why young men have to endure the horrors of war in Iraq and Afghanistan. Why was there a Holocaust? The only thing that makes sense to me is a pervading feeling that out of these horrific tragedies have come much trust and faith that God can sustain us... and an assurance that even in the darkest hours, He was with those who suffered, just as He was with Jesus on the cross.
What I hope we gain from studying these scriptures - and the insights I try to provide - is that nothing is beyond our capability to handle with God... and even when we struggle and suffer, God hears us and answers according to a far greater plan for our lives than we are able to comprehend. I go back to my opening comment that we would have no need for God if no challenges ever presented themselves. I do not believe God uses these things to humble us... but rather that He uses circumstances and events to show us how to draw closer to Him and call on Him when life is too big for us to handle. I know that has been the case in my own life... and I hope I am truly growing in trust and letting go of fears, believing that God will be with me no matter what happens.
I hope this makes sense. I welcome all questions and comments, and I hope you know that my responses do not mean I believe that I have all the answers. These are my opinions, based on prayer, study, personal experience – and conversations with others with more expertise in Bible study than I have. I encourage you to also dig and study for yourself and see where God leads you – what answers He presents. I believe God’s desire is for us to continually grow and learn about His will for our lives. Ultimately, the “big picture” will be revealed to us in Heaven…and this gives me hope and encouragement for what is yet to come. I pray that it does the same for you.
The person who wrote to ask the question replied, “If one does not read the Bible and sometimes wonder -- then I wonder why he/she does not read more.” I wholeheartedly agree. Keep learning and seeking God – see what amazing things He will reveal to you in the process!
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for May 5, 2010
May 5 ~ Psalm 46:1-3
God is our mighty fortress, always ready to help in times of trouble. And so, we won't be afraid! Let the earth tremble and the mountains tumble into the deepest sea. Let the ocean roar and foam, and its raging waves shake the mountains.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Recently, we’ve had a lot of serious storms come through our state. Tornadoes, floods, high winds, lightning strikes and more have ravaged many communities. Some have even lost their lives. One stormy night, my grandmother phoned me and asked, “What do you think about this weather?” I told her we were watching the warnings on television. At age 97+, my Mam-ma is no longer able to venture to her backyard storm cellar if the tornado sirens sound, so she said she had fixed a spot for herself in an interior closet of her house. I offered – three times - to come and get her and let her ride out the storms with us. She declined, and tearfully she said, “The Lord is gonna take care of me.” While I know that she knows this to be true, she was not convincing me she was confident at that moment! I assured her that this was true… the Lord would take care of her… but I would still come get her if she wished. The storms moved out, and Mam-ma stayed put, and we all slept soundly in our own beds that evening.
How often – in so many circumstances – are we just like my Mam-ma? How often do we know deep in our heart that God will protect us, yet we panic and wring our hands and worry? I’m not talking about just when we get storm warnings. I have to admit, I grew up running to a storm cellar, and tornado warnings still agitate me and set me on edge. I know that I should be calmer and more confident… but I also know that God gave us tornado warnings to protect us by getting us to take cover!
What I’m really talking about are the “storms” of life that upend our world. How do we handle these? Do we rest in the knowledge and confidence that God is our mighty fortress – always ready to help us when troubles come? Do we allow fear (a tool of the devil) to overcome us, or do we settle in and say, “Bring it on, Mister… God will protect me!”? We need to learn to lean on God more. That doesn’t mean we shouldn’t do our part. When the “storm warnings” are issued, we need to pay attention – and take cover when necessary. But we also need to remember WHO numbers our steps… and call on Him for guidance and protection! God IS our mighty fortress, always ready to help in times of trouble… are you ready to rest in His strength?
©2010 Debbie Robus
God is our mighty fortress, always ready to help in times of trouble. And so, we won't be afraid! Let the earth tremble and the mountains tumble into the deepest sea. Let the ocean roar and foam, and its raging waves shake the mountains.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Recently, we’ve had a lot of serious storms come through our state. Tornadoes, floods, high winds, lightning strikes and more have ravaged many communities. Some have even lost their lives. One stormy night, my grandmother phoned me and asked, “What do you think about this weather?” I told her we were watching the warnings on television. At age 97+, my Mam-ma is no longer able to venture to her backyard storm cellar if the tornado sirens sound, so she said she had fixed a spot for herself in an interior closet of her house. I offered – three times - to come and get her and let her ride out the storms with us. She declined, and tearfully she said, “The Lord is gonna take care of me.” While I know that she knows this to be true, she was not convincing me she was confident at that moment! I assured her that this was true… the Lord would take care of her… but I would still come get her if she wished. The storms moved out, and Mam-ma stayed put, and we all slept soundly in our own beds that evening.
How often – in so many circumstances – are we just like my Mam-ma? How often do we know deep in our heart that God will protect us, yet we panic and wring our hands and worry? I’m not talking about just when we get storm warnings. I have to admit, I grew up running to a storm cellar, and tornado warnings still agitate me and set me on edge. I know that I should be calmer and more confident… but I also know that God gave us tornado warnings to protect us by getting us to take cover!
What I’m really talking about are the “storms” of life that upend our world. How do we handle these? Do we rest in the knowledge and confidence that God is our mighty fortress – always ready to help us when troubles come? Do we allow fear (a tool of the devil) to overcome us, or do we settle in and say, “Bring it on, Mister… God will protect me!”? We need to learn to lean on God more. That doesn’t mean we shouldn’t do our part. When the “storm warnings” are issued, we need to pay attention – and take cover when necessary. But we also need to remember WHO numbers our steps… and call on Him for guidance and protection! God IS our mighty fortress, always ready to help in times of trouble… are you ready to rest in His strength?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 24, 2010
March 24 ~ John 10:17-18
The Father loves me, because I give up my life, so that I may receive it back again. No one takes my life from me. I give it up willingly! I have the power to give it up and the power to receive it back again, just as my Father commanded me to do.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
You’ve probably seen the TV game show, Let’s Make a Deal. Sometimes the host will tell a contestant. “You can have what is behind Door #1… OR… I will give you $1000 cash, and you can walk away now.” Sometimes what is behind Door #1 is lousy, but often it is a great prize, worth far more than $1000 – a car, a boat, new home furnishings, a fantastic trip, or even big bucks. But the contestant must choose… instant gratification, or the possibility of something far greater. The power to make this choice is totally within their hands.
Nobody made Jesus die on the cross for us – not even God! Do you get this? Even Jesus had free will. He could have supernaturally come down off the cross at any time and said, “Nope – don’t think so – I’m not doing this!” He could have spun around and wiped out all of the Roman soldiers who abused and tortured Him. He could have knelt in the Garden of Gethsemane and said, “Find someone else, God… I can’t do this.” But He did it. He saw that by giving His life in this manner, He not only gained it back – He also gained the salvation of those who would follow Him… for all eternity. This was the most important choice ever made… and Jesus made it for US!
We have a choice, too. We choose to “give up” our old, sinful nature. In return, we receive a new life in Christ Jesus – and the privilege of spending eternity in His presence. When you start to feel the “cost” might be too high, consider Jesus. When you start to feel like you can’t part with your friends, your money, your addiction, your partying ways, your old bad habits of whatever sort and more, consider what Jesus sacrificed just so you could have a choice in the first place. Consider the concept that giving up your “old self” means gaining a new life… not necessarily an easy life or one filled with fun and excitement every minute of every day… but a blessed life in Christ. Think about your choice in terms of giving up short-term, “for-the-moment” satisfactions for the opportunity to spend eternity in the presence of God Almighty.
We have a choice… and believe it or not, we have the power. We can use it to choose life in Christ in exchange for our old nature, as God commands us to do. Or we can go our own way and choose to live for today only. We can “take the cash and run,” or choose what is behind Door #1, so to speak. The difference is that we KNOW what is “behind the door”… so why would we settle for less?
©2010 Debbie Robus
The Father loves me, because I give up my life, so that I may receive it back again. No one takes my life from me. I give it up willingly! I have the power to give it up and the power to receive it back again, just as my Father commanded me to do.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
You’ve probably seen the TV game show, Let’s Make a Deal. Sometimes the host will tell a contestant. “You can have what is behind Door #1… OR… I will give you $1000 cash, and you can walk away now.” Sometimes what is behind Door #1 is lousy, but often it is a great prize, worth far more than $1000 – a car, a boat, new home furnishings, a fantastic trip, or even big bucks. But the contestant must choose… instant gratification, or the possibility of something far greater. The power to make this choice is totally within their hands.
Nobody made Jesus die on the cross for us – not even God! Do you get this? Even Jesus had free will. He could have supernaturally come down off the cross at any time and said, “Nope – don’t think so – I’m not doing this!” He could have spun around and wiped out all of the Roman soldiers who abused and tortured Him. He could have knelt in the Garden of Gethsemane and said, “Find someone else, God… I can’t do this.” But He did it. He saw that by giving His life in this manner, He not only gained it back – He also gained the salvation of those who would follow Him… for all eternity. This was the most important choice ever made… and Jesus made it for US!
We have a choice, too. We choose to “give up” our old, sinful nature. In return, we receive a new life in Christ Jesus – and the privilege of spending eternity in His presence. When you start to feel the “cost” might be too high, consider Jesus. When you start to feel like you can’t part with your friends, your money, your addiction, your partying ways, your old bad habits of whatever sort and more, consider what Jesus sacrificed just so you could have a choice in the first place. Consider the concept that giving up your “old self” means gaining a new life… not necessarily an easy life or one filled with fun and excitement every minute of every day… but a blessed life in Christ. Think about your choice in terms of giving up short-term, “for-the-moment” satisfactions for the opportunity to spend eternity in the presence of God Almighty.
We have a choice… and believe it or not, we have the power. We can use it to choose life in Christ in exchange for our old nature, as God commands us to do. Or we can go our own way and choose to live for today only. We can “take the cash and run,” or choose what is behind Door #1, so to speak. The difference is that we KNOW what is “behind the door”… so why would we settle for less?
©2010 Debbie Robus
November 2009 Devotionals - Week 2
November 14 ~ 1 Chronicles 29:16-17
Our LORD God, we have brought all these things for building a temple to honor you. They belong to you, and you gave them to us. But we are happy, because everyone has voluntarily given you these things. You know what is in everyone's heart, and you are pleased when people are honest.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
Have you ever gone to church on Sunday when you would rather have stayed home? But you went to church anyway, thinking all the while you wished you were home, still in bed or sipping coffee and reading the Sunday newspaper. I’m not saying that anytime we wake up on Sunday and wish we could sleep in, we should skip church. But when we go to church wishing we were somewhere else, God knows what is in our heart. So maybe I am suggesting an “attitude adjustment” is in order on our part?
When we give to the church or charities or make any donation, and we do it because “it’s the thing to do,” or our friends are giving - or we feel obligated in any way - God knows our heart. When we pretend to be nice to people but talk about them behind their backs, God sees our heart. When we act one way in front of some people and another when they aren’t around, God sees this.
God knows our heart. He knows when we do things out of love and a desire to serve and honor Him. He sees when we are genuinely kind to others… when we give generously out of a desire to help others… when we strive to be moral and upright out of respect for Him – and for ourselves. And this pleases Him immensely.
Doesn’t it seem a little preposterous to think that God wouldn’t know our heart? Doesn’t it seem phony and disrespectful to try to pretend to Him that we feel one way when He knows good and well our feelings are the opposite? Do we really want to please God? Isn’t being honest and showing Him a genuine heart a good place to start? Open up to God and share your true self… He knows already, but He will be so pleased when you are real with Him. When you honor God and respect your relationship with Him in this manner, you be blessed with joy and satisfaction in knowing you did the right thing.
©2009 Debbie Robus
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November 13 ~ 1 Chronicles 16:10
Celebrate and worship his holy name with all your heart.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
We have no trouble cheering and celebrating when the home team wins a football game. Pretty well everybody in Arkansas and several surrounding states knows how to “call the Hogs!” Little girls (and a few not-so-little ones) go ga-ga over Miley Cyrus and Taylor Swift… and people line up for days to see the American Idol tour. We “celebrate with all our heart” at these events and others.
But when we think of God, do we celebrate as fervently? Do we feel so excited and genuinely ecstatic that we want to jump for joy in our heart, if not with our physical body? When we worship, are we totally in the moment, forgetting everything from what we will do after church service to the pot roast we left in the oven to the friends we hung out with the night before?
Doesn’t God deserve better?
Let’s make an effort to give God the celebration and worship He deserves. I’m not saying we have to jump up and shout – or even wiggle our big toe! But let’s focus totally on Him when we pray, read the Bible, or gather together for a worship service. Let’s celebrate Him in the way we live our daily lives and demonstrate clearly to others Who we serve.
God DOES deserve better than we give Him. Let’s start making changes and truly celebrate and worship His holy name with all our heart.
©2009 Debbie Robus
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November 12 ~ 1 Kings 8:39
You know what is in everyone's heart. So from your home in heaven answer their prayers, according to the way they live and what is in their hearts.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
Suppose you are struggling to make ends meet. There always seems to be a whole lot more month than money. But in your heart, you desire to do great things for God… to accomplish things that you cannot physically afford. If you pray about this, and pour out your desires to God, don’t you think He will figure out a way for these things to be accomplished? Let’s be more specific. Our church is having a “Shoe Box Drive” to send decorated shoe boxes filled with toys, school supplies, toiletries, and more to needy children. Sounds like a great project, right? But what if your financial situation doesn’t match your desire to participate? How can you possibly help?
I believe that in this situation, you could pray and ask God to see that enough boxes were donated. Ask Him to soften the hearts of those who can afford to pack a shoe box. This would be one example of God looking at your heart and answering according to what He finds there, rather than on what you were physically able to accomplish. The same could be said for being a prayer warrior. When you don’t feel you can do anything else, you can certainly pray for others and their needs. This shows God your heart… your desire to serve, witness and make changes in His name.
God looks at our heart… and when He sees that what we harbor there is pure and loving and obedient, He is moved… and He does move! Keep a close check on your heart and its motives… be bold and ask God for great things from the depths of your heart… then sit back and watch Him work!
©2009 Debbie Robus
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November 11 ~ 1 Samuel 16:7
But the LORD told him, "Samuel, don't think Eliab is the one just because he's tall and handsome. He isn't the one I've chosen. People judge others by what they look like, but I judge people by what is in their hearts."
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
Man, is this ever a hard lesson for us! We form our impressions of people in the first few seconds… and often, we don’t give them – or ourselves – a chance to decide otherwise! How many times have you met someone, and instantly you disliked something about him/her, only to find out later what a wonderful person he/she was.
Think about a coconut. On the outside, it looks pretty rough, doesn’t it! In fact, the hard, ugly brown shell is fairly impenetrable. But once you get inside, you find this wonderful milk and coconut “meat.” The heart is home to the good stuff! Imagine if God judged us by outward appearances. If God judged us by the things we said and how we looked and acted, most of us would be in pretty sad shape. Aren’t you glad He looks at the heart?
Let’s make sure our heart is right… that when God looks deep within us, He sees someone who is striving to serve Him and be obedient, even if it doesn’t always show on the outside. And let’s give others a second look. Let’s look at their heart and not make rash judgments. Surely if God judges us by our hearts, we should do the same for others. How are you evaluating others these days? Do you only see the “coconut shell” on the outside? What is in your heart?
©2009 Debbie Robus
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November 10 ~ 1 Samuel 12:20-24
Even though what you did was wrong, you don't need to be afraid. But you must always follow the LORD and worship him with all your heart. Don't worship idols! They don't have any power, and they can't help you or save you when you're in trouble. But the LORD has chosen you to be his own people. He will always take care of you so that everyone will know how great he is.
I would be disobeying the LORD if I stopped praying for you! I will always teach you how to live right. You also must obey the LORD - you must worship him with all your heart and remember the great things he has done for you.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
When you were a child, did you ever do something wrong and then hide, hoping nobody would find you and discover what had happened? Or maybe you hoped your grandparents would come along and stick up for you. If only you could find someone to be on your side and protect you from punishment and disapproval! If you are like most people, there has been at least one time in your life when you felt like you had messed things up so badly that God would never forgive you! Or maybe you feared that the “wrath of God” was about to rain down on you for your sins or misdeeds. And sometimes, in fear, we turn to people we think can help us… or worse yet, we turn to Satan. “Devil,” we say… “help me create a story to cover this. Give me an alibi… justify what I did, so that I can get out of this mess!”
The truth is, we go “looking for love in all the wrong places.” God is not standing with a whip and a chair, ready to beat us senseless for our sins. Hello! Jesus took every single one of those when He died on the cross. They are paid in full! If someone bought your lunch at a restaurant, you wouldn’t try to pay again, would you? So why do we think we have to pay over and over for the sins that Jesus bought with His own blood? This is not what God desires. All He wants is for us to love and worship Him out of the depths of our heart (that means with everything we have in us!). If we love with our whole heart, it will be harder and harder for us to sin… it just won’t feel right to us… it will go against everything we hold dear.
Our grandparents and others may be able to save us from certain troubles when we are children, but that doesn’t work well for very long. It’s time we grew up in our faith and trusted God for the promises He has given us… and loved Him with our whole heart. This is true protection and freedom… this is true safety and comfort… this is where the real blessings lie. Who has your heart today?
©2009 Debbie Robus
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November 9 ~ Deuteronomy 30:11-14
You know God's laws, and it isn't impossible to obey them. His commands aren't in heaven, so you can't excuse yourselves by saying, "How can we obey the LORD's commands? They are in heaven, and no one can go up to get them, then bring them down and explain them to us." And you can't say, "How can we obey the LORD's commands? They are across the sea, and someone must go across, then bring them back and explain them to us." No, these commands are nearby and you know them by heart. All you have to do is obey!
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
This is one of the hardest things for some people to grasp. How do we worship and obey a God we have never physically seen? How do we trust that what is written in the Bible is infallible… that the Bible really IS God’s word? How do we know for sure that following God’s commands will work… that this really IS the way to Heaven?
For me, this is where the heart comes into play. See, for nearly 35 years, I knew in my head that God was real and that the Bible was filled with guidance and perfect law for my life. I had heard this over and over from countless people. I had studied and prayed and attended church services and Sunday School classes. I had participated in Training Union on Sunday nights, “Bible drills,” youth classes and more.
But it wasn’t until I began to truly invite the Holy Spirit to penetrate my heart and I revisited a scripture verse… John 20:29, in which…”Jesus said, ‘Thomas, do you have faith because you have seen me? The people who have faith in me without seeing me are the ones who are really blessed!’" I realized that Jesus was talking about you and ME! We have never seen Him, yet we believe, so we are blessed because of our faith!
As I meditated on this thought… and internalized it, I began to understand that yes, this IS all a leap of faith, but I learned something else. I learned to look for God in ordinary and unusual places… places besides just the Bible and my prayer time. I began to see His hand in the order and circumstances of my day… and in the timing and care of His children and the events of their lives. I began to see how much God blesses those who obey Him – and how hard things are for those who don’t. This is not because God punishes, but rather because He allows us to wander aimlessly if we choose… He allows us free will.
I don’t know about you, but I want every blessing God stands ready to give me. I want to obey Him – not out of fear or concern that He won’t bless – but out of love and adoration… gratefulness for all He has given me… and a deep desire of the heart to serve Him completely. If you love someone from the depths of your heart, you understand this desire. Who deserves our heartfelt love more than God? Are His commands in your heart? Won’t you make room for them and begin living in His abundance?
©2009 Debbie Robus
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November 8 ~ Deuteronomy 30:10
But you must decide once and for all to worship him with all your heart and soul and to obey everything in The Book of God's Law.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
On the surface, you may be thinking… “This is an easy one… I’ve already done it!” And maybe you have – if so, God bless you! But think about it… have you truly decided to worship Him with all your heart and soul and obey His word completely? Or do you still disrespect your parents? Do you send out disrespectful messages about others via e-mail or make derogatory comments on social network sites? Do you party too much and ask forgiveness later? Do you use foul language – in person and/or on the Internet? Are you unkind and/or quick-tempered with others? What haven’t you given to God?
Last week I told you about a friend suggesting that I write about loving God with our head and our heart. We all know what the Bible says… we all know the Ten Commandments… and even the commandments of Jesus to love others as we love ourselves, and to love God with our heart, mind, soul and strength. And intellectually, we do this… and we say, “I love God with all of these things.” But deep in our heart… do we? Do we love Him enough to say, “Lord, whatever You desire from me, I’ll give you. I will live for You and love You even when it is hard, painful, or even grieves me. If I have to give up some old habits – or even my friends, I’ll do it. If I have to step out of my comfort zone and serve you by serving someone else, I will do that!
I didn’t notice in this passage anything about whether or not we like doing this, necessarily. This may come in time, but not all of the choices to follow God are easy ones. Still, we will never experience God and His plans for us – or His blessings – until we decide once and for all to worship Him completely with our heart and soul. What’s holding you back today? What else do you need to surrender to God?
©2009 Debbie Robus
Our LORD God, we have brought all these things for building a temple to honor you. They belong to you, and you gave them to us. But we are happy, because everyone has voluntarily given you these things. You know what is in everyone's heart, and you are pleased when people are honest.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
Have you ever gone to church on Sunday when you would rather have stayed home? But you went to church anyway, thinking all the while you wished you were home, still in bed or sipping coffee and reading the Sunday newspaper. I’m not saying that anytime we wake up on Sunday and wish we could sleep in, we should skip church. But when we go to church wishing we were somewhere else, God knows what is in our heart. So maybe I am suggesting an “attitude adjustment” is in order on our part?
When we give to the church or charities or make any donation, and we do it because “it’s the thing to do,” or our friends are giving - or we feel obligated in any way - God knows our heart. When we pretend to be nice to people but talk about them behind their backs, God sees our heart. When we act one way in front of some people and another when they aren’t around, God sees this.
God knows our heart. He knows when we do things out of love and a desire to serve and honor Him. He sees when we are genuinely kind to others… when we give generously out of a desire to help others… when we strive to be moral and upright out of respect for Him – and for ourselves. And this pleases Him immensely.
Doesn’t it seem a little preposterous to think that God wouldn’t know our heart? Doesn’t it seem phony and disrespectful to try to pretend to Him that we feel one way when He knows good and well our feelings are the opposite? Do we really want to please God? Isn’t being honest and showing Him a genuine heart a good place to start? Open up to God and share your true self… He knows already, but He will be so pleased when you are real with Him. When you honor God and respect your relationship with Him in this manner, you be blessed with joy and satisfaction in knowing you did the right thing.
©2009 Debbie Robus
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November 13 ~ 1 Chronicles 16:10
Celebrate and worship his holy name with all your heart.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
We have no trouble cheering and celebrating when the home team wins a football game. Pretty well everybody in Arkansas and several surrounding states knows how to “call the Hogs!” Little girls (and a few not-so-little ones) go ga-ga over Miley Cyrus and Taylor Swift… and people line up for days to see the American Idol tour. We “celebrate with all our heart” at these events and others.
But when we think of God, do we celebrate as fervently? Do we feel so excited and genuinely ecstatic that we want to jump for joy in our heart, if not with our physical body? When we worship, are we totally in the moment, forgetting everything from what we will do after church service to the pot roast we left in the oven to the friends we hung out with the night before?
Doesn’t God deserve better?
Let’s make an effort to give God the celebration and worship He deserves. I’m not saying we have to jump up and shout – or even wiggle our big toe! But let’s focus totally on Him when we pray, read the Bible, or gather together for a worship service. Let’s celebrate Him in the way we live our daily lives and demonstrate clearly to others Who we serve.
God DOES deserve better than we give Him. Let’s start making changes and truly celebrate and worship His holy name with all our heart.
©2009 Debbie Robus
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November 12 ~ 1 Kings 8:39
You know what is in everyone's heart. So from your home in heaven answer their prayers, according to the way they live and what is in their hearts.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
Suppose you are struggling to make ends meet. There always seems to be a whole lot more month than money. But in your heart, you desire to do great things for God… to accomplish things that you cannot physically afford. If you pray about this, and pour out your desires to God, don’t you think He will figure out a way for these things to be accomplished? Let’s be more specific. Our church is having a “Shoe Box Drive” to send decorated shoe boxes filled with toys, school supplies, toiletries, and more to needy children. Sounds like a great project, right? But what if your financial situation doesn’t match your desire to participate? How can you possibly help?
I believe that in this situation, you could pray and ask God to see that enough boxes were donated. Ask Him to soften the hearts of those who can afford to pack a shoe box. This would be one example of God looking at your heart and answering according to what He finds there, rather than on what you were physically able to accomplish. The same could be said for being a prayer warrior. When you don’t feel you can do anything else, you can certainly pray for others and their needs. This shows God your heart… your desire to serve, witness and make changes in His name.
God looks at our heart… and when He sees that what we harbor there is pure and loving and obedient, He is moved… and He does move! Keep a close check on your heart and its motives… be bold and ask God for great things from the depths of your heart… then sit back and watch Him work!
©2009 Debbie Robus
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November 11 ~ 1 Samuel 16:7
But the LORD told him, "Samuel, don't think Eliab is the one just because he's tall and handsome. He isn't the one I've chosen. People judge others by what they look like, but I judge people by what is in their hearts."
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
Man, is this ever a hard lesson for us! We form our impressions of people in the first few seconds… and often, we don’t give them – or ourselves – a chance to decide otherwise! How many times have you met someone, and instantly you disliked something about him/her, only to find out later what a wonderful person he/she was.
Think about a coconut. On the outside, it looks pretty rough, doesn’t it! In fact, the hard, ugly brown shell is fairly impenetrable. But once you get inside, you find this wonderful milk and coconut “meat.” The heart is home to the good stuff! Imagine if God judged us by outward appearances. If God judged us by the things we said and how we looked and acted, most of us would be in pretty sad shape. Aren’t you glad He looks at the heart?
Let’s make sure our heart is right… that when God looks deep within us, He sees someone who is striving to serve Him and be obedient, even if it doesn’t always show on the outside. And let’s give others a second look. Let’s look at their heart and not make rash judgments. Surely if God judges us by our hearts, we should do the same for others. How are you evaluating others these days? Do you only see the “coconut shell” on the outside? What is in your heart?
©2009 Debbie Robus
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November 10 ~ 1 Samuel 12:20-24
Even though what you did was wrong, you don't need to be afraid. But you must always follow the LORD and worship him with all your heart. Don't worship idols! They don't have any power, and they can't help you or save you when you're in trouble. But the LORD has chosen you to be his own people. He will always take care of you so that everyone will know how great he is.
I would be disobeying the LORD if I stopped praying for you! I will always teach you how to live right. You also must obey the LORD - you must worship him with all your heart and remember the great things he has done for you.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
When you were a child, did you ever do something wrong and then hide, hoping nobody would find you and discover what had happened? Or maybe you hoped your grandparents would come along and stick up for you. If only you could find someone to be on your side and protect you from punishment and disapproval! If you are like most people, there has been at least one time in your life when you felt like you had messed things up so badly that God would never forgive you! Or maybe you feared that the “wrath of God” was about to rain down on you for your sins or misdeeds. And sometimes, in fear, we turn to people we think can help us… or worse yet, we turn to Satan. “Devil,” we say… “help me create a story to cover this. Give me an alibi… justify what I did, so that I can get out of this mess!”
The truth is, we go “looking for love in all the wrong places.” God is not standing with a whip and a chair, ready to beat us senseless for our sins. Hello! Jesus took every single one of those when He died on the cross. They are paid in full! If someone bought your lunch at a restaurant, you wouldn’t try to pay again, would you? So why do we think we have to pay over and over for the sins that Jesus bought with His own blood? This is not what God desires. All He wants is for us to love and worship Him out of the depths of our heart (that means with everything we have in us!). If we love with our whole heart, it will be harder and harder for us to sin… it just won’t feel right to us… it will go against everything we hold dear.
Our grandparents and others may be able to save us from certain troubles when we are children, but that doesn’t work well for very long. It’s time we grew up in our faith and trusted God for the promises He has given us… and loved Him with our whole heart. This is true protection and freedom… this is true safety and comfort… this is where the real blessings lie. Who has your heart today?
©2009 Debbie Robus
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November 9 ~ Deuteronomy 30:11-14
You know God's laws, and it isn't impossible to obey them. His commands aren't in heaven, so you can't excuse yourselves by saying, "How can we obey the LORD's commands? They are in heaven, and no one can go up to get them, then bring them down and explain them to us." And you can't say, "How can we obey the LORD's commands? They are across the sea, and someone must go across, then bring them back and explain them to us." No, these commands are nearby and you know them by heart. All you have to do is obey!
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
This is one of the hardest things for some people to grasp. How do we worship and obey a God we have never physically seen? How do we trust that what is written in the Bible is infallible… that the Bible really IS God’s word? How do we know for sure that following God’s commands will work… that this really IS the way to Heaven?
For me, this is where the heart comes into play. See, for nearly 35 years, I knew in my head that God was real and that the Bible was filled with guidance and perfect law for my life. I had heard this over and over from countless people. I had studied and prayed and attended church services and Sunday School classes. I had participated in Training Union on Sunday nights, “Bible drills,” youth classes and more.
But it wasn’t until I began to truly invite the Holy Spirit to penetrate my heart and I revisited a scripture verse… John 20:29, in which…”Jesus said, ‘Thomas, do you have faith because you have seen me? The people who have faith in me without seeing me are the ones who are really blessed!’" I realized that Jesus was talking about you and ME! We have never seen Him, yet we believe, so we are blessed because of our faith!
As I meditated on this thought… and internalized it, I began to understand that yes, this IS all a leap of faith, but I learned something else. I learned to look for God in ordinary and unusual places… places besides just the Bible and my prayer time. I began to see His hand in the order and circumstances of my day… and in the timing and care of His children and the events of their lives. I began to see how much God blesses those who obey Him – and how hard things are for those who don’t. This is not because God punishes, but rather because He allows us to wander aimlessly if we choose… He allows us free will.
I don’t know about you, but I want every blessing God stands ready to give me. I want to obey Him – not out of fear or concern that He won’t bless – but out of love and adoration… gratefulness for all He has given me… and a deep desire of the heart to serve Him completely. If you love someone from the depths of your heart, you understand this desire. Who deserves our heartfelt love more than God? Are His commands in your heart? Won’t you make room for them and begin living in His abundance?
©2009 Debbie Robus
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November 8 ~ Deuteronomy 30:10
But you must decide once and for all to worship him with all your heart and soul and to obey everything in The Book of God's Law.
(Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.)
On the surface, you may be thinking… “This is an easy one… I’ve already done it!” And maybe you have – if so, God bless you! But think about it… have you truly decided to worship Him with all your heart and soul and obey His word completely? Or do you still disrespect your parents? Do you send out disrespectful messages about others via e-mail or make derogatory comments on social network sites? Do you party too much and ask forgiveness later? Do you use foul language – in person and/or on the Internet? Are you unkind and/or quick-tempered with others? What haven’t you given to God?
Last week I told you about a friend suggesting that I write about loving God with our head and our heart. We all know what the Bible says… we all know the Ten Commandments… and even the commandments of Jesus to love others as we love ourselves, and to love God with our heart, mind, soul and strength. And intellectually, we do this… and we say, “I love God with all of these things.” But deep in our heart… do we? Do we love Him enough to say, “Lord, whatever You desire from me, I’ll give you. I will live for You and love You even when it is hard, painful, or even grieves me. If I have to give up some old habits – or even my friends, I’ll do it. If I have to step out of my comfort zone and serve you by serving someone else, I will do that!
I didn’t notice in this passage anything about whether or not we like doing this, necessarily. This may come in time, but not all of the choices to follow God are easy ones. Still, we will never experience God and His plans for us – or His blessings – until we decide once and for all to worship Him completely with our heart and soul. What’s holding you back today? What else do you need to surrender to God?
©2009 Debbie Robus
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