Matthew 18:10-14
“Watch that you don’t treat a single one of these childlike believers arrogantly. You realize, don’t you, that their personal angels are constantly in touch with my Father in heaven?
“Look at it this way. If someone has a hundred sheep and one of them wanders off, doesn’t he leave the ninety-nine and go after the one? And if he finds it, doesn’t he make far more over it than over the ninety-nine who stay put? Your Father in heaven feels the same way. He doesn’t want to lose even one of these simple believers.
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.
In my opinion, there are few sitcoms on television today that are truly funny. Even fewer avoid tactics such as crude language and behavior, innuendo, and downright tackiness. But one of the “good guys” is ABC’s The Goldbergs. According to information about the show posted on ABC’s website*: “Before there were parenting blogs, trophies for showing up, and peanut allergies, there was a simpler time called the '80s. For geeky 11-year old Adam (Sean Giambrone) these were his wonder years and he faced them armed with a video camera to capture all the crazy. The Goldbergs are a loving family like any other, just with a lot more yelling.”
This show is based on the real life of Adam Goldberg, whose character “narrates” in a “Wonder Years” style (for those of you who remember that show!). Poor Adam has his share of woes. In a recent episode, he reminisced (not so fondly) about his days in gym class, when he was often the last person selected for team sports like kickball. In many ways, he was very much a lost, forgotten “sheep” to most everyone – except his mother, Beverly. There was nothing she wouldn’t do for her baby. She was willing to put herself on the line and look foolish – or “pull strings” and raise a ruckus to get the attention of people who knew people. She put her “skills” to work to get Adam a “Presidential pardon” from taking the President’s Physical fitness test, because he feared he could not do a pull-up!
Not to be outdone…Adam’s other family members – including his dad, brother, sister, and grandpa - had their own ways of protecting this baby brother. Ultimately, Adam was greatly loved and nurtured. Quite frankly, there are undertones amidst the humor of this wacky family story that the bonds run deep among all of them. I wouldn’t say they always operate with compassion…but at the end of the day, not one “sheep” goes untended.
Here’s how I see this scripture passage from Matthew 18 in relation to The Goldbergs. There are a lot of instances where we have an opportunity to “pick sides”… or to leave someone “out of the loop”. There are times when all of us have felt like an outsider…like we didn’t fit in – and frankly, nobody seemed to notice or care. But here’s the thing… Jesus cares…always.
“So why did He let me suffer through such embarrassment, abuse, pain, exile?” you may be asking. The simple answer is that I don’t know…except to say that I am confident that God never wastes an experience or an opportunity. More to the point, what are you doing with that experience? How are you using it in a positive manner now…maybe in helping someone through a similar situation or reaching out to others and sharing how God sustained you in a dark time?
Are you looking at other people with fresh eyes and making a point to find worth and value in each of them, so that not a single one is lost? Have you noticed that some of your friends, acquaintances, and fellow church members have drifted away…and to be honest, you don’t have a clue where they went or what happened to them?
Isn’t it time we started paying attention to each other? Isn’t it time we recognized when circumstances are allowing a “sheep” to wander or be pushed aside? Will we recognize the signs and obediently go after them? Are we willing to stick our necks out with “Bev Goldberg-style enthusiasm” and risk momentary discomfort or embarrassment for the welfare of even one of God’s children? Wouldn’t we want someone to come after us in a similar situation?
Stop and recognize how important you are to Jesus. Fully acknowledge and accept that He sacrificed EVERYTHING… for YOU! How can we consider for even a moment leaving another of God’s creatures behind…or ignoring their needs. Look around you…there’s a “sheep” somewhere in your circle who needs rescuing. Will you go after him/her? Don’t you think you should?
©2014 Debbie Robus
* http://abc.go.com/shows/the-goldbergs
Showing posts with label using our experiences to bless others. Show all posts
Showing posts with label using our experiences to bless others. Show all posts
Daily Devotional for February 26, 2014
James 1:12
God blesses those who patiently endure testing and temptation. Afterward they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
In the blink of an eye…everything can change. One minute you can be having the best day…eagerly anticipating the future…and then you step off a ledge, break your ankle and seriously damage your foot. That happened to me almost seven years ago. And for the next nine weeks, I was unable to walk without crutches and spent much of that time sitting rather helplessly on the couch or lying in bed. As we sat at our desks one hot summer morning, my mother-in-law called for Greg to come home quickly...his dad had died while sitting in his “easy chair”. An “ordinary” work day that started with picking peaches and gardening suddenly became a day that would change our lives forever.
A relative went to work one day as usual and was told “this is your last day with us.” In essence, she was fired from a job she had held for nine years – apparently over policy differences. Another cousin woke one recent morning with a fiery red rash around her mid-section that was later diagnosed as shingles – a painful, itchy, virus that can make one miserable for weeks and months. We’ve heard news reports more than once of a young athlete who collapsed and died on the football field or basketball court during a scrimmage or actual contest. I’m sure that no one wakes up on any given morning thinking, “Today I will lose my home – or my family or my life – in a tornado, fire, earthquake or flood.”
There are “good” tests, such as marriage, the arrival of a new baby, starting college, or beginning a new job. And we all know there are plenty of tests that appear to be anything but positive or happy. Let’s be honest…we are often left asking God, “Why?” We wonder “Why me?”…”Why now?”...”Why this?”. Why did God immobilize me with a foot injury just as we were building a new house and there were dozens of decisions to make? Why does God call our loved ones to heaven and leave us hurting and bewildered? Why do we experience sudden upheavals - such as a job loss or a debilitating illness - when we have bills to pay, people who are depending on us for a myriad of things, and a ton of things to get done?
Why do some people seem to have “Job-sized” troubles? I am thinking of those who experience multiple losses within the span of a few months…and often endure unexpected personal illness, needed home or vehicle repairs, and more? We truly are left to wonder “why bad things happen to good people”…and why God allows this! And the short answer is: I honestly do not know.
But here’s the thing. Every unpleasant – even devastating – experience in my life has brought blessings, strength, and a deeper dependence on God to meet my daily needs. I can look back at each one of the tests and temptations in my life and enumerate ways that God was caring for me and orchestrating events that bolstered my faith and Christian witness. And I’ve seen the same thing happen in the lives of others. If nothing else, these experiences have given me a more tender heart toward others who encounter similar circumstances. I am able to say with confidence, “You will be just fine.” I don’t offer this observation callously or without sympathy for what this person is enduring. I share this out of a deep love and concern…and firsthand knowledge of its truth.
Perhaps God is testing you as you read this. Perhaps you are in a season where life is pretty great and you are “in the zone”! Whatever lies behind you…and ahead of you…God is with you. He is equipping you to handle the tests and temptations. Just as importantly, God will give you opportunities to share compassion and empathy for these circumstances with others who are equally tested and tempted.
How will you respond? This is the real question…because you do have a choice. You can elect to wallow in self-pity and let the devil drag you down…or you can say, “LORD…I don’t understand, but I trust you completely. Show me how to use this experience for Your purposes. Strengthen me and give me courage, comfort and confidence. Place before me those who need to see how You are helping me through this…the ones who need to be encouraged and ministered to out of my own tests and temptations.”
Will this be easy? Probably not! I do not mean to imply that God will instantly take your heartaches, grief, and difficulties from you. But He will walk through them with you…every step of the way…and create opportunities and blessings you never even saw coming. Will you trust Him to do this? Are you ready for whatever comes your way because of your strength and faith in the LORD? Isn’t it time you were?
©2014 Debbie Robus
God blesses those who patiently endure testing and temptation. Afterward they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
In the blink of an eye…everything can change. One minute you can be having the best day…eagerly anticipating the future…and then you step off a ledge, break your ankle and seriously damage your foot. That happened to me almost seven years ago. And for the next nine weeks, I was unable to walk without crutches and spent much of that time sitting rather helplessly on the couch or lying in bed. As we sat at our desks one hot summer morning, my mother-in-law called for Greg to come home quickly...his dad had died while sitting in his “easy chair”. An “ordinary” work day that started with picking peaches and gardening suddenly became a day that would change our lives forever.
A relative went to work one day as usual and was told “this is your last day with us.” In essence, she was fired from a job she had held for nine years – apparently over policy differences. Another cousin woke one recent morning with a fiery red rash around her mid-section that was later diagnosed as shingles – a painful, itchy, virus that can make one miserable for weeks and months. We’ve heard news reports more than once of a young athlete who collapsed and died on the football field or basketball court during a scrimmage or actual contest. I’m sure that no one wakes up on any given morning thinking, “Today I will lose my home – or my family or my life – in a tornado, fire, earthquake or flood.”
There are “good” tests, such as marriage, the arrival of a new baby, starting college, or beginning a new job. And we all know there are plenty of tests that appear to be anything but positive or happy. Let’s be honest…we are often left asking God, “Why?” We wonder “Why me?”…”Why now?”...”Why this?”. Why did God immobilize me with a foot injury just as we were building a new house and there were dozens of decisions to make? Why does God call our loved ones to heaven and leave us hurting and bewildered? Why do we experience sudden upheavals - such as a job loss or a debilitating illness - when we have bills to pay, people who are depending on us for a myriad of things, and a ton of things to get done?
Why do some people seem to have “Job-sized” troubles? I am thinking of those who experience multiple losses within the span of a few months…and often endure unexpected personal illness, needed home or vehicle repairs, and more? We truly are left to wonder “why bad things happen to good people”…and why God allows this! And the short answer is: I honestly do not know.
But here’s the thing. Every unpleasant – even devastating – experience in my life has brought blessings, strength, and a deeper dependence on God to meet my daily needs. I can look back at each one of the tests and temptations in my life and enumerate ways that God was caring for me and orchestrating events that bolstered my faith and Christian witness. And I’ve seen the same thing happen in the lives of others. If nothing else, these experiences have given me a more tender heart toward others who encounter similar circumstances. I am able to say with confidence, “You will be just fine.” I don’t offer this observation callously or without sympathy for what this person is enduring. I share this out of a deep love and concern…and firsthand knowledge of its truth.
Perhaps God is testing you as you read this. Perhaps you are in a season where life is pretty great and you are “in the zone”! Whatever lies behind you…and ahead of you…God is with you. He is equipping you to handle the tests and temptations. Just as importantly, God will give you opportunities to share compassion and empathy for these circumstances with others who are equally tested and tempted.
How will you respond? This is the real question…because you do have a choice. You can elect to wallow in self-pity and let the devil drag you down…or you can say, “LORD…I don’t understand, but I trust you completely. Show me how to use this experience for Your purposes. Strengthen me and give me courage, comfort and confidence. Place before me those who need to see how You are helping me through this…the ones who need to be encouraged and ministered to out of my own tests and temptations.”
Will this be easy? Probably not! I do not mean to imply that God will instantly take your heartaches, grief, and difficulties from you. But He will walk through them with you…every step of the way…and create opportunities and blessings you never even saw coming. Will you trust Him to do this? Are you ready for whatever comes your way because of your strength and faith in the LORD? Isn’t it time you were?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for September 20, 2012
James 5:13-15
Are you hurting? Pray. Do you feel great? Sing. Are you sick? Call the church leaders together to pray and anoint you with oil in the name of the Master. Believing-prayer will heal you, and Jesus will put you on your feet. And if you’ve sinned, you’ll be forgiven—healed inside and out.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
Some of you have seen a video I posted on Facebook of our 3-year-old nephew, Timothy, “reading” a book to my mother-in-law, who he calls “Grandma E.” At one point, Grandma E holds a corner of the book for Timmy, so that the pages don’t fall as he reads them. Timmy gently nudges her hand away in a gesture that says, “I can do this by myself!” This is so typical of toddlers… and teenagers… and senior citizens – and all of us! We often feel that we don’t need any help. We are “big boys and girls” and can make our own decisions, handle our own problems, and make it on our own.
In truth, we all need a friend once in a while. We need someone to share our joys, sorrows, illnesses, challenges, worries and fears. We need an encouraging voice… someone to pray with us or for us… someone to say, “I understand.” It helps to talk with another person who can say, “I have been in your shoes… and this is how I survived,” or “I’ve got your back… we’ll get through this together.” And there is no shame in asking for help. In fact, James clearly tells us to do this very thing!
So call on the LORD to help you. Praise Him, and also share your happiness with those around you. Let someone know when you are sick or in distress… and allow others to love you and help you through life. Let the encouragement and support of family, friends, and fellow brothers and sisters in Christ help you to heal. One of my mom’s friends told her that when we fail to allow others to minister to us, we rob them of a blessing. Serve God by sharing in the lives of those around you… and allow them to do the same for you. Bless others in God’s name by being a blessing to them… and give them the opportunity to reciprocate.
©2012 Debbie Robus
Are you hurting? Pray. Do you feel great? Sing. Are you sick? Call the church leaders together to pray and anoint you with oil in the name of the Master. Believing-prayer will heal you, and Jesus will put you on your feet. And if you’ve sinned, you’ll be forgiven—healed inside and out.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
Some of you have seen a video I posted on Facebook of our 3-year-old nephew, Timothy, “reading” a book to my mother-in-law, who he calls “Grandma E.” At one point, Grandma E holds a corner of the book for Timmy, so that the pages don’t fall as he reads them. Timmy gently nudges her hand away in a gesture that says, “I can do this by myself!” This is so typical of toddlers… and teenagers… and senior citizens – and all of us! We often feel that we don’t need any help. We are “big boys and girls” and can make our own decisions, handle our own problems, and make it on our own.
In truth, we all need a friend once in a while. We need someone to share our joys, sorrows, illnesses, challenges, worries and fears. We need an encouraging voice… someone to pray with us or for us… someone to say, “I understand.” It helps to talk with another person who can say, “I have been in your shoes… and this is how I survived,” or “I’ve got your back… we’ll get through this together.” And there is no shame in asking for help. In fact, James clearly tells us to do this very thing!
So call on the LORD to help you. Praise Him, and also share your happiness with those around you. Let someone know when you are sick or in distress… and allow others to love you and help you through life. Let the encouragement and support of family, friends, and fellow brothers and sisters in Christ help you to heal. One of my mom’s friends told her that when we fail to allow others to minister to us, we rob them of a blessing. Serve God by sharing in the lives of those around you… and allow them to do the same for you. Bless others in God’s name by being a blessing to them… and give them the opportunity to reciprocate.
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for July 24, 2012
Luke 6:38
"Don't pick on people, jump on their failures, criticize their faults— unless, of course, you want the same treatment. Don't condemn those who are down; that hardness can boomerang. Be easy on people; you'll find life a lot easier. Give away your life; you'll find life given back, but not merely given back—given back with bonus and blessing. Giving, not getting, is the way. Generosity begets generosity."
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 was talking with my neighbor the other day about a mutual friend who is the primary caregiver for her 103-year-old mother. Several years ago this friend and her husband moved her mother here from another community to share their home. The lady is now blind and virtually deaf… and wheelchair bound. You can imagine the stress this situation places on her daughter, son-in-law, and extended family… or maybe you can’t! But I said to my neighbor, “I think so often of Anne. As much as she loves her mother, I know this is a huge burden.”
The friend replied, “Oh… it’s not that bad… she has children who help her.” This is the same friend who only a couple of years ago was caring for her own mother… and telling me often how difficult and challenging it was! I am here to tell you that anyone who cares for an elderly loved one – especially those who do so at home – experiences challenges and a lot of stress! This woman may not openly share her frustrations and difficulties with her friends, but she surely has them! Others may see someone who seems to have it all together all the time… someone who is upbeat and positive. But on the inside, he/she may be anything but cheerful and confident.
On the other hand, we may make snap judgments about someone, based on an erratic action or a snippy comeback, missing completely that something is wrong in their life… that they are experiencing hardness. I have said this before, but I distinctly remember one weekend in February 1998, when my dad was gravely ill and at death’s door. I dashed into Wal-Mart to pick up a few groceries. People were cheerfully purchasing Valentines, candy and flowers. Everywhere I turned, “love was in the air.” People were smiling and laughing - talking about plans for their special holiday or something else fun. All I wanted to do is scream to anyone who would listen, “STOP the world! My daddy is dying!” But instead, I smiled in return and hurriedly left the store.
Before you pin on my medal for bravery and patience, be assured that I have made my fair share of brash, rude comments – and then some! – when life has been stressful and challenging. I am often critical, judgmental, and hard on people. There are plenty of times when I fail to consider the other person’s heart. I am just as guilty as the next guy of picking on people and jumping on their failures. But I am trying so very hard to do better – to be better.
There are a lot of people who have judged each of us unfairly. I’m sure there are those who wonder why I am not doing more… participating in more ministries in my church… getting more done with my days. I know there are those who think I don’t do enough for my own grandmother and family… or think I waste too much time on sewing and writing. There are plenty of people who are making similar judgments about you. They may be evaluating your character, your behavior, how you use your time and talents, and your attitude in general… all without having a clue about what is truly in your heart. They have no idea what God’s call is on your life… or how you are answering Him.
The point is this… if we want others to stop judging and criticizing us… we have to take the first step and do this for them. If we want others to go easy on us and lift us up, rather than kick us when we are down, we have to start the process by doing this for those in our circle and beyond. We have to stop paying attention to what others think… stop reacting to what others say about us or anyone else… and open our hearts and minds to the fact that we all have “issues.” Everybody is dealing with something… and how we treat each other can have a direct effect on the impact of these matters.
Be a humble, gentle person. Put on your “rose-colored glasses,” so to speak, and see others with a generous heart. Recognize that God loves us, warts and all, and we are to do the same for each other. Take the first step toward creating an atmosphere where God has room to build up His children in love and kindness and to use all of us to bless each other and strengthen His kingdom. When you have the urge to pick on someone… ask God to give you the courage and strength to give them a little slack.
Giving, not getting, is the way… and this begins with our attitude and how we treat others. Be the one who jump-start this process in your own circle of friends and influence. Always give as good as you wish to get… or better… and watch the blessings multiply for everyone.
©2012 Debbie Robus
"Don't pick on people, jump on their failures, criticize their faults— unless, of course, you want the same treatment. Don't condemn those who are down; that hardness can boomerang. Be easy on people; you'll find life a lot easier. Give away your life; you'll find life given back, but not merely given back—given back with bonus and blessing. Giving, not getting, is the way. Generosity begets generosity."
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 was talking with my neighbor the other day about a mutual friend who is the primary caregiver for her 103-year-old mother. Several years ago this friend and her husband moved her mother here from another community to share their home. The lady is now blind and virtually deaf… and wheelchair bound. You can imagine the stress this situation places on her daughter, son-in-law, and extended family… or maybe you can’t! But I said to my neighbor, “I think so often of Anne. As much as she loves her mother, I know this is a huge burden.”
The friend replied, “Oh… it’s not that bad… she has children who help her.” This is the same friend who only a couple of years ago was caring for her own mother… and telling me often how difficult and challenging it was! I am here to tell you that anyone who cares for an elderly loved one – especially those who do so at home – experiences challenges and a lot of stress! This woman may not openly share her frustrations and difficulties with her friends, but she surely has them! Others may see someone who seems to have it all together all the time… someone who is upbeat and positive. But on the inside, he/she may be anything but cheerful and confident.
On the other hand, we may make snap judgments about someone, based on an erratic action or a snippy comeback, missing completely that something is wrong in their life… that they are experiencing hardness. I have said this before, but I distinctly remember one weekend in February 1998, when my dad was gravely ill and at death’s door. I dashed into Wal-Mart to pick up a few groceries. People were cheerfully purchasing Valentines, candy and flowers. Everywhere I turned, “love was in the air.” People were smiling and laughing - talking about plans for their special holiday or something else fun. All I wanted to do is scream to anyone who would listen, “STOP the world! My daddy is dying!” But instead, I smiled in return and hurriedly left the store.
Before you pin on my medal for bravery and patience, be assured that I have made my fair share of brash, rude comments – and then some! – when life has been stressful and challenging. I am often critical, judgmental, and hard on people. There are plenty of times when I fail to consider the other person’s heart. I am just as guilty as the next guy of picking on people and jumping on their failures. But I am trying so very hard to do better – to be better.
There are a lot of people who have judged each of us unfairly. I’m sure there are those who wonder why I am not doing more… participating in more ministries in my church… getting more done with my days. I know there are those who think I don’t do enough for my own grandmother and family… or think I waste too much time on sewing and writing. There are plenty of people who are making similar judgments about you. They may be evaluating your character, your behavior, how you use your time and talents, and your attitude in general… all without having a clue about what is truly in your heart. They have no idea what God’s call is on your life… or how you are answering Him.
The point is this… if we want others to stop judging and criticizing us… we have to take the first step and do this for them. If we want others to go easy on us and lift us up, rather than kick us when we are down, we have to start the process by doing this for those in our circle and beyond. We have to stop paying attention to what others think… stop reacting to what others say about us or anyone else… and open our hearts and minds to the fact that we all have “issues.” Everybody is dealing with something… and how we treat each other can have a direct effect on the impact of these matters.
Be a humble, gentle person. Put on your “rose-colored glasses,” so to speak, and see others with a generous heart. Recognize that God loves us, warts and all, and we are to do the same for each other. Take the first step toward creating an atmosphere where God has room to build up His children in love and kindness and to use all of us to bless each other and strengthen His kingdom. When you have the urge to pick on someone… ask God to give you the courage and strength to give them a little slack.
Giving, not getting, is the way… and this begins with our attitude and how we treat others. Be the one who jump-start this process in your own circle of friends and influence. Always give as good as you wish to get… or better… and watch the blessings multiply for everyone.
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for April 9, 2012
2 Corinthians 1:3-7
All praise to the God and Father of our Master, Jesus the Messiah! Father of all mercy! God of all healing counsel! He comes alongside us when we go through hard times, and before you know it, he brings us alongside someone else who is going through hard times so that we can be there for that person just as God was there for us. We have plenty of hard times that come from following the Messiah, but no more so than the good times of his healing comfort—we get a full measure of that, too.
When we suffer for Jesus, it works out for your healing and salvation. If we are treated well, given a helping hand and encouraging word, that also works to your benefit, spurring you on, face forward, unflinching. Your hard times are also our hard times. When we see that you're just as willing to endure the hard times as to enjoy the good times, we know you're going to make it, no doubt about it.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
I have just finished reading an amazing book…The Glass Castle, by Jeannette Walls. Supposed to be a true account of the author’s childhood, this harrowing story will leave you frustrated in one moment, angry the next, and even laughing from time to time. I don’t want to spoil the story for you, but let’s just say that this woman and her siblings grew up in a situation of poverty, filth, and neglect that will astound you… and hopefully give you a new perspective on those you meet who appear to be in similar circumstances.
The author and her siblings did all they could to mask the fact that they were dirty, disheveled, and dressed in tatters. Ms. Walls manages to make it to college, and she is arguing in one class about the plight of the homeless. Based on her childhood and the fact that her parents are now homeless by choice, she tries to make the point that things are not always as they seem… and perhaps the homeless sometimes “get the lives they want”. The instructor asks, “What do you know about the lives of the underprivileged? What do you know about the hardships and obstacles that the underclass faces?” In an effort to hide her true identity, the author replies, “You have a point.”
My point is that we all have made up our minds, to a degree, about other people. We have looked at others and made judgments, based on appearance, their behavior, or our own hard-and-fast opinions about certain things. Sometimes, it takes “getting knocked down a peg or two” for us to become empathetic to others’ circumstances. I’m not saying God causes this… but I do believe He allows it. So often, we are full of what we think is good advice for others… until we walk a mile in their shoes. Or we neglect those around us who are in need, because we have not shared their experiences and don’t have a clue what they are feeling… but we have deemed them to be unworthy of our time and attention.
I have shared over and again several instances where I faced something that God saw me through… and then I was able to help someone else with a similar experience. I will tell you that I did not always recognize God’s presence as profoundly as I should have… nor did I clearly see how He could ever use some of my experiences to help others. But I am learning NEVER to question God… or the things that happen in my life. More importantly, I’m learning to continually ask, “What are you showing me, LORD? How will you use this… and me… for your glory?”
If you want to put this in perspective, take a few minutes and make a list of some things that have happened to you throughout the years. Then think back over the events and look at how God stood by you… how He blessed you and cared for you. Maybe He sent someone to encourage or comfort you. Maybe He orchestrated things in amazing perfection, even in the midst of what seemed like an impossible situation. Now think about how you have been able to use those same experiences to help someone in a similar position. Have you “paid it forward?”… or have you missed some opportunities to do this? Have you truly noticed those in your midst who need your assistance?
Paul tells us that suffering for Jesus brings benefits… and opportunities to bless others in His name. Our job is to take advantage of all of these… to make the most out of every experience, with God’s help. As Paul says, when we do this, we are unstoppable… there is no doubt that we are going to make it! Look around… see where God is walking beside you – and giving you valuable experience that you can use for His glory. Don’t be ashamed of your past experiences… use them to encourage and bless others. In the end, Ms. Walls has done exactly this by writing her story. Others will surely gain a different perspective on those who appear less fortunate. I know I did.
What is God calling you to share with others today?
©2012 Debbie Robus
All praise to the God and Father of our Master, Jesus the Messiah! Father of all mercy! God of all healing counsel! He comes alongside us when we go through hard times, and before you know it, he brings us alongside someone else who is going through hard times so that we can be there for that person just as God was there for us. We have plenty of hard times that come from following the Messiah, but no more so than the good times of his healing comfort—we get a full measure of that, too.
When we suffer for Jesus, it works out for your healing and salvation. If we are treated well, given a helping hand and encouraging word, that also works to your benefit, spurring you on, face forward, unflinching. Your hard times are also our hard times. When we see that you're just as willing to endure the hard times as to enjoy the good times, we know you're going to make it, no doubt about it.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
I have just finished reading an amazing book…The Glass Castle, by Jeannette Walls. Supposed to be a true account of the author’s childhood, this harrowing story will leave you frustrated in one moment, angry the next, and even laughing from time to time. I don’t want to spoil the story for you, but let’s just say that this woman and her siblings grew up in a situation of poverty, filth, and neglect that will astound you… and hopefully give you a new perspective on those you meet who appear to be in similar circumstances.
The author and her siblings did all they could to mask the fact that they were dirty, disheveled, and dressed in tatters. Ms. Walls manages to make it to college, and she is arguing in one class about the plight of the homeless. Based on her childhood and the fact that her parents are now homeless by choice, she tries to make the point that things are not always as they seem… and perhaps the homeless sometimes “get the lives they want”. The instructor asks, “What do you know about the lives of the underprivileged? What do you know about the hardships and obstacles that the underclass faces?” In an effort to hide her true identity, the author replies, “You have a point.”
My point is that we all have made up our minds, to a degree, about other people. We have looked at others and made judgments, based on appearance, their behavior, or our own hard-and-fast opinions about certain things. Sometimes, it takes “getting knocked down a peg or two” for us to become empathetic to others’ circumstances. I’m not saying God causes this… but I do believe He allows it. So often, we are full of what we think is good advice for others… until we walk a mile in their shoes. Or we neglect those around us who are in need, because we have not shared their experiences and don’t have a clue what they are feeling… but we have deemed them to be unworthy of our time and attention.
I have shared over and again several instances where I faced something that God saw me through… and then I was able to help someone else with a similar experience. I will tell you that I did not always recognize God’s presence as profoundly as I should have… nor did I clearly see how He could ever use some of my experiences to help others. But I am learning NEVER to question God… or the things that happen in my life. More importantly, I’m learning to continually ask, “What are you showing me, LORD? How will you use this… and me… for your glory?”
If you want to put this in perspective, take a few minutes and make a list of some things that have happened to you throughout the years. Then think back over the events and look at how God stood by you… how He blessed you and cared for you. Maybe He sent someone to encourage or comfort you. Maybe He orchestrated things in amazing perfection, even in the midst of what seemed like an impossible situation. Now think about how you have been able to use those same experiences to help someone in a similar position. Have you “paid it forward?”… or have you missed some opportunities to do this? Have you truly noticed those in your midst who need your assistance?
Paul tells us that suffering for Jesus brings benefits… and opportunities to bless others in His name. Our job is to take advantage of all of these… to make the most out of every experience, with God’s help. As Paul says, when we do this, we are unstoppable… there is no doubt that we are going to make it! Look around… see where God is walking beside you – and giving you valuable experience that you can use for His glory. Don’t be ashamed of your past experiences… use them to encourage and bless others. In the end, Ms. Walls has done exactly this by writing her story. Others will surely gain a different perspective on those who appear less fortunate. I know I did.
What is God calling you to share with others today?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for February 23, 2012
Colossians 1:3-5
Our prayers for you are always spilling over into thanksgivings. We can't quit thanking God our Father and Jesus our Messiah for you! We keep getting reports on your steady faith in Christ, our Jesus, and the love you continuously extend to all Christians. The lines of purpose in your lives never grow slack, tightly tied as they are to your future in heaven, kept taut by hope.
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.
You may have heard the saying that “Iron sharpens iron.” We’ve all heard coaches talk about a team leader who strengthens other players as he/she “leads by example.” Perhaps there are people in your own circle of influence who have strengthened and encouraged you by their perseverance and faith that never seems to waver.
This passage reminds us that God has already delivered us from our sins, if we have claimed Jesus as our Savior. He has already paved the way and anchored the “lines of purpose” in our lives. We can be strengthened and blessed by God’s abundant blessings. We can prosper in all areas of life because of what He has established in and for us. The hope of spending an eternity in His presence keeps those “ropes” taut.
God is using people all around you to bless and strengthen you in His name… and He wants to use you to do this for others, as well. Look around and see who is strengthening and encouraging you. What examples of faith has God placed before you? How is He working in your own life to keep the “ropes” taut… and how can you lead by example? When was the last time you thanked God for those who bless and encourage you… and when was the last time you thanked them for being so faithful and strong?
Just as God can strengthen and bless you through His blessings, He can use you to do the same for others. Are you open to the possibilities? Remember, people are watching you! The question is… what sort of “lifelines” do they see? Are your “lines of purpose” tightly secured by hope and faith? Are you living as “God’s iron” to sharpen and encourage others in your circle? Isn’t it time you did?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Our prayers for you are always spilling over into thanksgivings. We can't quit thanking God our Father and Jesus our Messiah for you! We keep getting reports on your steady faith in Christ, our Jesus, and the love you continuously extend to all Christians. The lines of purpose in your lives never grow slack, tightly tied as they are to your future in heaven, kept taut by hope.
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.
You may have heard the saying that “Iron sharpens iron.” We’ve all heard coaches talk about a team leader who strengthens other players as he/she “leads by example.” Perhaps there are people in your own circle of influence who have strengthened and encouraged you by their perseverance and faith that never seems to waver.
This passage reminds us that God has already delivered us from our sins, if we have claimed Jesus as our Savior. He has already paved the way and anchored the “lines of purpose” in our lives. We can be strengthened and blessed by God’s abundant blessings. We can prosper in all areas of life because of what He has established in and for us. The hope of spending an eternity in His presence keeps those “ropes” taut.
God is using people all around you to bless and strengthen you in His name… and He wants to use you to do this for others, as well. Look around and see who is strengthening and encouraging you. What examples of faith has God placed before you? How is He working in your own life to keep the “ropes” taut… and how can you lead by example? When was the last time you thanked God for those who bless and encourage you… and when was the last time you thanked them for being so faithful and strong?
Just as God can strengthen and bless you through His blessings, He can use you to do the same for others. Are you open to the possibilities? Remember, people are watching you! The question is… what sort of “lifelines” do they see? Are your “lines of purpose” tightly secured by hope and faith? Are you living as “God’s iron” to sharpen and encourage others in your circle? Isn’t it time you did?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 8, 2011
Psalm 143:5-6
I remember to think about the many things you did in years gone by. Then I lift my hands in prayer, because my soul is a desert, thirsty for water from you.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
A friend and I were talking recently about tragic events that have occurred in our community. In the conversation, we mentioned some who were hurting emotionally – and others who had been through similar experiences. We noted how God could use those hurtful experiences for good. I shared with her my own experience as the “replacement” teacher for a young woman who had suffered a brain aneurysm and died. Many of the other teachers, including the woman’s best friend who taught next door, resented my presence. It took me years to realize that the anger and resentment was not personal… those who were hurting simply did not know where else to direct it other than toward me.
The very next year, the best-friend teacher was tragically killed in a car accident over the Thanksgiving break. Now there was a “replacement” teacher next door. And I found myself able to commiserate with her and offer encouragement. When she had an unpleasant or upsetting experience, she would come to me, and I would acknowledge her feelings and share how I had handled similar events. I remember the day she found the teacher’s coffee cup tucked away on a closet shelf… and I was able to say, “I found my teacher’s umbrella hanging on the closet doorknob. I understand.”
Through the years, I have gained a tremendous understanding of the many things God did in years gone by… and how they have provided both moments of great comfort and encouragement – and opportunities to bless others in His name. When I reflect on the many times that God has shown up in my life in ways I didn’t expect and couldn’t even imagine, I am truly overwhelmed. It is very much like water for the desert of a thirsty soul.
Wherever you find yourself today… in whatever circumstances you are experiencing… know that God can bless and comfort you. He can use these events – and you – to bless others in the future. He can nurture your heart and water your thirsty soul. Lift your hands and pray. Receive all that He wants to give you this day… and always.
©2011 Debbie Robus
I remember to think about the many things you did in years gone by. Then I lift my hands in prayer, because my soul is a desert, thirsty for water from you.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
A friend and I were talking recently about tragic events that have occurred in our community. In the conversation, we mentioned some who were hurting emotionally – and others who had been through similar experiences. We noted how God could use those hurtful experiences for good. I shared with her my own experience as the “replacement” teacher for a young woman who had suffered a brain aneurysm and died. Many of the other teachers, including the woman’s best friend who taught next door, resented my presence. It took me years to realize that the anger and resentment was not personal… those who were hurting simply did not know where else to direct it other than toward me.
The very next year, the best-friend teacher was tragically killed in a car accident over the Thanksgiving break. Now there was a “replacement” teacher next door. And I found myself able to commiserate with her and offer encouragement. When she had an unpleasant or upsetting experience, she would come to me, and I would acknowledge her feelings and share how I had handled similar events. I remember the day she found the teacher’s coffee cup tucked away on a closet shelf… and I was able to say, “I found my teacher’s umbrella hanging on the closet doorknob. I understand.”
Through the years, I have gained a tremendous understanding of the many things God did in years gone by… and how they have provided both moments of great comfort and encouragement – and opportunities to bless others in His name. When I reflect on the many times that God has shown up in my life in ways I didn’t expect and couldn’t even imagine, I am truly overwhelmed. It is very much like water for the desert of a thirsty soul.
Wherever you find yourself today… in whatever circumstances you are experiencing… know that God can bless and comfort you. He can use these events – and you – to bless others in the future. He can nurture your heart and water your thirsty soul. Lift your hands and pray. Receive all that He wants to give you this day… and always.
©2011 Debbie Robus
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