2 Corinthians 11:1-3
Will you put up with a little
foolish aside from me? Please, just for a moment. The thing that has me
so upset is that I care about you so much—this is the passion of God
burning inside me! I promised your hand in marriage to Christ, presented
you as a pure virgin to her husband. And now I’m afraid that exactly as
the Snake seduced Eve with his smooth patter, you are being lured away
from the simple purity of your love for Christ.
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.
Have
you received a telephone call from “the IRS” declaring that you are
about to be slapped with a lawsuit and insisting that you call a certain
number and provide personal information? Of course, it’s a scam. The
IRS would never call and tell you such a thing. But it sounds so official, doesn’t it?!
When
I was probably about 10, I got a new bicycle. A boy who lived several
blocks away from us came along one day and asked if he could ride the
bike. I told him he could…and he took off down the street! My dad
caught up with him on the other side of town…the bike was returned…and I
was told that I was not to allow anyone to ride my bike except my
siblings or our closest neighbor friends.
We’ve all seen the
stories on television of lonely people who were duped by an online love
interest who bilked them out of their life savings…and this
“boyfriend/girlfriend” turned out to be some con artist in Nigeria or
somewhere who stole the identity of a real person and impersonated
him/her to elicit the money.
My point in sharing these three
illustrations is that there is something in all of us that wants to
always believe the best in people. And yes, many of us can be gullible
at times…myself included. But what we often fail to realize is that
Satan uses these situations to get us into trouble. Not only could we
lose our life savings, our property…or our identity…we could become so
discouraged that we would turn away from God…or begin to behave in an
ungodly manner.
If we are not careful, we could get swept up into
a frenzy of falsehoods, rumors and innuendos…and we could become
accomplices who engage others to join in these dishonest activities. We
could easily stoop to Satan’s level…and essentially never know what hit
us!
So we must stay awake and alert. We must focus on God and
the things that please Him. We must be kind to others…but we must also
pray for wisdom and discernment, so that we do not fall prey to the
wiles of evil or deceptive people and circumstances. We must encourage
others not to engage in divisive behaviors or illicit activities…but
rather, to seek God and demonstrate what Jesus taught us - love, grace,
mercy, forgiveness, kindness, compassion, and unity.
Do not be
mistaken…the devil is incredibly crafty and clever. He has skills! He
can worm his way into our hearts and minds faster than you can say
“Bob’s your uncle!” He will try to convince you that Jesus wants you to
do these things – that He has ordained them! Don’t grow complacent and
think this can’t happen to you. Don’t drop your guard! Stay close to
God…listen for His voice…pray always…and use your head! Stop and ask,
“What would Jesus do?” or “What would He have me do in this situation?”
And if you have been drawn into something you know is not sanctioned by
God, get out…now…and ask Him to forgive you and set you on the right
path again.
The Apostle Paul had it right…we have been washed
spotless by the blood of Jesus and become part of His church – His
“bride.” We cannot risk staining our “wedding garments” now! Wouldn’t
you agree?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Showing posts with label what would jesus do. Show all posts
Showing posts with label what would jesus do. Show all posts
Daily Devotional for January 24, 2015
Revelation 2:14-16
“But why do you indulge that Balaam crowd? Don’t you remember that Balaam was an enemy agent, seducing Balak and sabotaging Israel’s holy pilgrimage by throwing unholy parties? And why do you put up with the Nicolaitans, who do the same thing?
“Enough! Don’t give in to them; I’ll be with you soon. I’m fed up and about to cut them to pieces with my sword-sharp words.
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.
Most of us have heard stories about – or actually know of - a teenager who attended a party where there was under-age drinking and other activities that should not have been happening. When this activity was discovered, the teen said, “But I wasn’t doing it!” While the kid felt this exonerated his/her presence…it really was no excuse. Or maybe you know of a child who broke a window because he/she was throwing rocks…or started a fire when a pack of matches was discovered…or had some sort of accident because friends dared him/her to do something crazy…but they were just “in the wrong place at the wrong time”. It really wasn’t their fault.
There is a fine line between tolerance and poor judgment. I would guess that virtually every single one of us has been in a situation or circumstance where we said, “I shouldn’t be here.” Or maybe we sensed that something did not feel “right”…yet we couldn’t seem to drag ourselves away. Some would argue that they were there to “help a buddy” – or even to “witness” to those in the wrong. But these lines of reasoning won’t hold up very well in most cases.
In this passage, God is using John to tell the people of Smyrna that they have been hanging out with the wrong crowd…and He has just about had enough of it. They have been dabbling in things they know they shouldn’t…and teetering on the brink of disaster. And this message applies to many of us today just as well. We’re dancing on the edge…testing the waters…trying to “have our cake and eat it, too”…and God is not amused.
I honestly don’t think man people grasp how terribly we grieve God on many occasions. We don’t often stop to consider that the One who loves us beyond description has feelings, too. And we break His heart over and again on a regular basis– if not every single day. But we can change…and don’t you want to?! Don’t you want to honor God for all that He has done for you? Don’t you want to live in a manner that says, “I am so very grateful for your love, grace, mercy and patience.”?
Isn’t it time we started living with more purpose…with deliberate thought and consideration for our words and actions? If we really love God, shouldn’t we stop and consider what HE would think before we say and do many of the things we do without any consideration? Will this be the day that you begin to “let go and let God” in EVERY area of your life? Or will you continue to hope that your “excuses” are good enough to merit a “pass”?
©2015 Debbie Robus
“But why do you indulge that Balaam crowd? Don’t you remember that Balaam was an enemy agent, seducing Balak and sabotaging Israel’s holy pilgrimage by throwing unholy parties? And why do you put up with the Nicolaitans, who do the same thing?
“Enough! Don’t give in to them; I’ll be with you soon. I’m fed up and about to cut them to pieces with my sword-sharp words.
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.
Most of us have heard stories about – or actually know of - a teenager who attended a party where there was under-age drinking and other activities that should not have been happening. When this activity was discovered, the teen said, “But I wasn’t doing it!” While the kid felt this exonerated his/her presence…it really was no excuse. Or maybe you know of a child who broke a window because he/she was throwing rocks…or started a fire when a pack of matches was discovered…or had some sort of accident because friends dared him/her to do something crazy…but they were just “in the wrong place at the wrong time”. It really wasn’t their fault.
There is a fine line between tolerance and poor judgment. I would guess that virtually every single one of us has been in a situation or circumstance where we said, “I shouldn’t be here.” Or maybe we sensed that something did not feel “right”…yet we couldn’t seem to drag ourselves away. Some would argue that they were there to “help a buddy” – or even to “witness” to those in the wrong. But these lines of reasoning won’t hold up very well in most cases.
In this passage, God is using John to tell the people of Smyrna that they have been hanging out with the wrong crowd…and He has just about had enough of it. They have been dabbling in things they know they shouldn’t…and teetering on the brink of disaster. And this message applies to many of us today just as well. We’re dancing on the edge…testing the waters…trying to “have our cake and eat it, too”…and God is not amused.
I honestly don’t think man people grasp how terribly we grieve God on many occasions. We don’t often stop to consider that the One who loves us beyond description has feelings, too. And we break His heart over and again on a regular basis– if not every single day. But we can change…and don’t you want to?! Don’t you want to honor God for all that He has done for you? Don’t you want to live in a manner that says, “I am so very grateful for your love, grace, mercy and patience.”?
Isn’t it time we started living with more purpose…with deliberate thought and consideration for our words and actions? If we really love God, shouldn’t we stop and consider what HE would think before we say and do many of the things we do without any consideration? Will this be the day that you begin to “let go and let God” in EVERY area of your life? Or will you continue to hope that your “excuses” are good enough to merit a “pass”?
©2015 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for August 15, 2014
August 15 ~ Luke 23:43
And Jesus replied, “Today you will be with me in Paradise. This is a solemn promise.”
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
It would have been so easy for Jesus to write off those two thieves hanging on either side of Him. After all, He was more than just a little preoccupied...beaten beyond recognition...every breath more painful than the last. And yet, He took time to forgive a sinful man and welcome him preemptively into the Kingdom of Heaven. It is understandable how Jesus found the strength to say “Good-bye” to His mother, Mary, and to commend her care to John the Apostle. But it’s hard to comprehend that He cried out to God and asked Him to forgive the soldiers who “know not what they do”. It is astounding to stop and think that Jesus’ last thoughts – and breaths – were largely spent on forgiving others.
So where does this leave us? It’s a question I’ve been asking a lot lately – both of myself and of you. I have to say, I am sensing that this is highly significant for many of us right now. It would be so easy to write a few folks off. I’m not talking in the sense of “unfriending” someone on Facebook...but truly cutting off virtually all contact with these people and acting as if they pretty much no longer exist in your world. And sometimes, we have to distance ourselves from people who are causing us pain – whether physically, mentally, emotionally – or all three.
But here’s the thing...we serve a God of second chances (and third and fourth and fifth)...and in His eyes...it’s never too late for repentance – or for grace, mercy and forgiveness. So it was God’s will that Jesus forgive that thief on the cross in his waning moments of life. And it is God’s will that we forgive others who ask for a second chance. It is His will that we operate in grace and mercy - and sometimes forgiveness...even when the other person did NOT ask for it.
We’re not being weak by doing this...we are demonstrating 1) God’s amazing power in our lives and our obedience to His will; and 2) our desire to free ourselves of bitterness and anguish, because truly, when we are unable to forgive others, WE are the ones who suffer the most.
Don’t misunderstand me. If someone is threatening to harm you – physically, mentally or emotionally - remove yourself from their presence. Put a healthy distance between the two of you. Do whatever is necessary to protect yourself and those around you. No one should stay in an abusive or dangerous situation. I’m not suggesting in the least that you try to be a hero or “tough it out” in circumstances that are unhealthy or unsafe in any manner. Get to a safe place, and then ask God to show you how to find mercy and forgiveness for the person who harmed you...from a secure distance!
For the rest of us, here are the things to remember about today’s scripture passage:
©2014 Debbie Robus
And Jesus replied, “Today you will be with me in Paradise. This is a solemn promise.”
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
It would have been so easy for Jesus to write off those two thieves hanging on either side of Him. After all, He was more than just a little preoccupied...beaten beyond recognition...every breath more painful than the last. And yet, He took time to forgive a sinful man and welcome him preemptively into the Kingdom of Heaven. It is understandable how Jesus found the strength to say “Good-bye” to His mother, Mary, and to commend her care to John the Apostle. But it’s hard to comprehend that He cried out to God and asked Him to forgive the soldiers who “know not what they do”. It is astounding to stop and think that Jesus’ last thoughts – and breaths – were largely spent on forgiving others.
So where does this leave us? It’s a question I’ve been asking a lot lately – both of myself and of you. I have to say, I am sensing that this is highly significant for many of us right now. It would be so easy to write a few folks off. I’m not talking in the sense of “unfriending” someone on Facebook...but truly cutting off virtually all contact with these people and acting as if they pretty much no longer exist in your world. And sometimes, we have to distance ourselves from people who are causing us pain – whether physically, mentally, emotionally – or all three.
But here’s the thing...we serve a God of second chances (and third and fourth and fifth)...and in His eyes...it’s never too late for repentance – or for grace, mercy and forgiveness. So it was God’s will that Jesus forgive that thief on the cross in his waning moments of life. And it is God’s will that we forgive others who ask for a second chance. It is His will that we operate in grace and mercy - and sometimes forgiveness...even when the other person did NOT ask for it.
We’re not being weak by doing this...we are demonstrating 1) God’s amazing power in our lives and our obedience to His will; and 2) our desire to free ourselves of bitterness and anguish, because truly, when we are unable to forgive others, WE are the ones who suffer the most.
Don’t misunderstand me. If someone is threatening to harm you – physically, mentally or emotionally - remove yourself from their presence. Put a healthy distance between the two of you. Do whatever is necessary to protect yourself and those around you. No one should stay in an abusive or dangerous situation. I’m not suggesting in the least that you try to be a hero or “tough it out” in circumstances that are unhealthy or unsafe in any manner. Get to a safe place, and then ask God to show you how to find mercy and forgiveness for the person who harmed you...from a secure distance!
For the rest of us, here are the things to remember about today’s scripture passage:
- The next time you think it’s too late...that you have messed up too badly, and you are doomed, remember the thief on the cross and Jesus’ response to His confession and request for mercy.
- The next time you say, “I cannot get past this. I cannot forgive him/her”...remember the cross and Jesus’ words to God about those who had abused Him and nailed Him to a cross.
- The next time you think forgiveness is too hard for you – or that it will open the door for others to mistreat you or take advantage of you, remember Jesus and how He utilized His final breaths.
©2014 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for August 14, 2014
Luke 22:34
But Jesus said, “Peter, let me tell you something. Between now and tomorrow morning when the rooster crows, you will deny me three times, declaring that you don’t even know me.”
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
The late actress Bette Davis said, “Old age ain’t no place for sissies.” More than a few of us have had to make the excruciating admission that we can no longer adequately care for Mom, Dad, Grandma or Grandpa at home...that skilled care is required, if not a facility where security is critical in order to assure our loved one’s safety. As the mind fades, so does the capacity to behave rationally. Some become violent – or tend to wander. Others are simply mad at the world and make everyone around them miserable, too.
I still remember my own grandmother’s stint at a hospital in a nearby city, after she mixed up her prescription medications and over-the-counter “aids” and began to hallucinate. She lost her ability to speak for a while...but the day that we wheeled her into a local nursing home, she plainly and angrily asked, “Why did you put me here?” Her attitude about the facility was expected...her verbalized response was not. But overall, her anger about the situation was not a surprise...and it happens every day in skilled care nursing facilities around the world.
Often, there are situations in our lives where we know that others will be angry and upset with us. Children protest their parents’ directives to take a bath and go to bed at a reasonable hour. Teens complain that their curfew is too early...their “dress code” is too stringent...and their parents and other adults simply don’t understand – anything! Seniors insist that they can still drive, after their eyesight and hearing fail...that they can still live alone and make their one decisions, even though they can’t remember to pay bills – or what they ate for breakfast...that they do not need around-the-clock assistance, even though they fall often and can no longer care for their personal needs adequately!
Alcoholics and addicts of all kinds assure loved ones that they are “never going to do this again.” And some do make a change! But others have not fully “turned the corner”...and we know almost as quickly as they utter the phrase that their next binge is on the horizon. In many relationships, friends and partners assure the other one that they are sorry for what has been said or done, and declare that this “won’t happen again”...and often the other person knows fully well that they are receiving “lip service.”
Jesus knew that Peter would deny Him three times in one night. Peter insisted that there was NO WAY that he would ever do this! But he did. Peter was heartsick...ashamed...devastated beyond description that He could sink to such a low point. Scripture indicates that he assumed that Jesus was done with him. Surely He wouldn’t want a disciple who was so despicable and disloyal. But the thing is...Jesus treated Peter with incredible mercy – and forgave him. Then He used Peter to serve in His ministry and do tremendous things to further His kingdom.
So where does that leave us? I think you know the answer. When people rail against us, say or do hurtful things, make promises we know they can’t – or won’t – keep, we must look at Jesus’ treatment of Peter and ask, “How can I do any less?” If Jesus could forgive Peter and offer Him mercy, how can we refuse to treat others any differently? How can we operate in anything but love, kindness, grace and mercy?
Will we be hurt and insulted at times? Probably. Will we want to retaliate...or alienate the person who has betrayed or belittled us? Possibly. Will we be angry and upset...will we throw a fit and tell everyone we know how badly we have been treated? More than likely. These are common human reactions...responses that many would consider perfectly normal and appropriate. Is this how Jesus treated Peter? Absolutely not!
As Disciples of Christ, we are called to operate above the fray. If Jesus truly is the LORD of our lives...if His Holy Spirit fills our heart and guides our words and actions...our reactions to others must mirror His. We are not called to crucifixion on a cross...we will most likely never be literally beaten and bloodied for our conduct...our insults and indignations pale in comparison to those inflicted upon Jesus. Do you want to respond to others as the world at large would...or with the grace and mercy of our precious Savior, Jesus Christ?
On a much smaller scale, we will be “denied three times” over and again throughout our lives. Let me ask you...how will you react?
©2014 Debbie Robus
But Jesus said, “Peter, let me tell you something. Between now and tomorrow morning when the rooster crows, you will deny me three times, declaring that you don’t even know me.”
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
The late actress Bette Davis said, “Old age ain’t no place for sissies.” More than a few of us have had to make the excruciating admission that we can no longer adequately care for Mom, Dad, Grandma or Grandpa at home...that skilled care is required, if not a facility where security is critical in order to assure our loved one’s safety. As the mind fades, so does the capacity to behave rationally. Some become violent – or tend to wander. Others are simply mad at the world and make everyone around them miserable, too.
I still remember my own grandmother’s stint at a hospital in a nearby city, after she mixed up her prescription medications and over-the-counter “aids” and began to hallucinate. She lost her ability to speak for a while...but the day that we wheeled her into a local nursing home, she plainly and angrily asked, “Why did you put me here?” Her attitude about the facility was expected...her verbalized response was not. But overall, her anger about the situation was not a surprise...and it happens every day in skilled care nursing facilities around the world.
Often, there are situations in our lives where we know that others will be angry and upset with us. Children protest their parents’ directives to take a bath and go to bed at a reasonable hour. Teens complain that their curfew is too early...their “dress code” is too stringent...and their parents and other adults simply don’t understand – anything! Seniors insist that they can still drive, after their eyesight and hearing fail...that they can still live alone and make their one decisions, even though they can’t remember to pay bills – or what they ate for breakfast...that they do not need around-the-clock assistance, even though they fall often and can no longer care for their personal needs adequately!
Alcoholics and addicts of all kinds assure loved ones that they are “never going to do this again.” And some do make a change! But others have not fully “turned the corner”...and we know almost as quickly as they utter the phrase that their next binge is on the horizon. In many relationships, friends and partners assure the other one that they are sorry for what has been said or done, and declare that this “won’t happen again”...and often the other person knows fully well that they are receiving “lip service.”
Jesus knew that Peter would deny Him three times in one night. Peter insisted that there was NO WAY that he would ever do this! But he did. Peter was heartsick...ashamed...devastated beyond description that He could sink to such a low point. Scripture indicates that he assumed that Jesus was done with him. Surely He wouldn’t want a disciple who was so despicable and disloyal. But the thing is...Jesus treated Peter with incredible mercy – and forgave him. Then He used Peter to serve in His ministry and do tremendous things to further His kingdom.
So where does that leave us? I think you know the answer. When people rail against us, say or do hurtful things, make promises we know they can’t – or won’t – keep, we must look at Jesus’ treatment of Peter and ask, “How can I do any less?” If Jesus could forgive Peter and offer Him mercy, how can we refuse to treat others any differently? How can we operate in anything but love, kindness, grace and mercy?
Will we be hurt and insulted at times? Probably. Will we want to retaliate...or alienate the person who has betrayed or belittled us? Possibly. Will we be angry and upset...will we throw a fit and tell everyone we know how badly we have been treated? More than likely. These are common human reactions...responses that many would consider perfectly normal and appropriate. Is this how Jesus treated Peter? Absolutely not!
As Disciples of Christ, we are called to operate above the fray. If Jesus truly is the LORD of our lives...if His Holy Spirit fills our heart and guides our words and actions...our reactions to others must mirror His. We are not called to crucifixion on a cross...we will most likely never be literally beaten and bloodied for our conduct...our insults and indignations pale in comparison to those inflicted upon Jesus. Do you want to respond to others as the world at large would...or with the grace and mercy of our precious Savior, Jesus Christ?
On a much smaller scale, we will be “denied three times” over and again throughout our lives. Let me ask you...how will you react?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for March 19, 2014
1 Peter 5:1-5
I have a special concern for you church leaders. I know what it’s like to be a leader, in on Christ’s sufferings as well as the coming glory. Here’s my concern: that you care for God’s flock with all the diligence of a shepherd. Not because you have to, but because you want to please God. Not calculating what you can get out of it, but acting spontaneously. Not bossily telling others what to do, but tenderly showing them the way.
When God, who is the best shepherd of all, comes out in the open with his rule, he’ll see that you’ve done it right and commend you lavishly. And you who are younger must follow your leaders. But all of you, leaders and followers alike, are to be down to earth with each other, for —
God has had it with the proud,
But takes delight in just plain people.
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 know me and “reality TV” shows…especially if they pertain to sewing or cooking! So I am currently watching a fashion design show called “Under the Gunn”. Three winners from former seasons of “Project Runway” are mentoring up-and-coming fashion designers…and offering them advice and encouragement as they compete for cash and prizes each week. One of the current mentors has had a terrible time restraining himself. He doesn’t want to truly “mentor” his prodigies…he wants to design their garments, select the fabric, and tell them how to sew the garments! He has had to be “reined in” by Tim Gunn, the show’s host…and Gunn has even had to specifically “call him out” for his over-zealous – and bossy – actions.
The designer feels like he knows best. But he is does not allow the younger designers to grow and learn. Gunn instructed him to ask more questions…to compliment when appropriate – and to encourage as needed by asking, “What do you think? How do you feel that is really looking or fitting the challenge?” Even asking “Have you considered trying another fabric, color, or construction method?” rather than saying, “Why don’t you do ABC?” would be acceptable. The mentoring designer took this advice to heart, and the results were a vast improvement. One of his designer-contestants even won the weekly competition!
Too many of us are “bossy Christians”. Instead of loving and encouraging…and leading by example…we want to cut to the chase and tell others, “You’re wrong!” or “You need to pray harder”…or even “Get over yourself!” I’ve been reading recently about how insensitive people have been to Pastor Rick and Kathy Warren, who lost their son to suicide almost a year ago. Many have complained that this author of The Purpose Driven Life and his wife should be back at the church preaching and going on with their lives…that they have grieved long enough. Kathy Warren wrote about this recently in a blog post, in which she said that there is no time limit on grief…and for the record, she and Rick will never, ever be the same people as a result of their tragic loss. They are forever changed. Friends have expressed to me in recent days how others have been insensitive to them as they grieved the loss of a loved one…and many of those critics were doing so under the guise of “Christian love”.
Being a Christian does not make us instant authorities about anything. Being a pastor or church leader does not entitle one to boss others around, either. We must think about what we say from the pulpit…in Sunday school classes and Bible studies…and yes – even in these devotionals. I include myself when I say that we must all make a concerted, intentional effort not to hurt others with our words and actions…and hurt our Christian witness by default. Think of Jesus…did He publicly condemn the woman at the well? Did He chime in and admonish the prostitute who was about to be stoned? Did he lecture and humiliate Zacchaeus…or Saul as he traveled on the road to Damascus? Did Jesus look down His nose at Judas…or Peter? Who do we think we are to do such things in His name?
As you go about your day, think of Jesus. I know it sounds cliché, but ask yourself…“What would Jesus do?” Stop, take a breath, and say a quick prayer to seek guidance and wisdom before you react and respond to others. Operate in love and compassion…not bossiness and arrogance. Remind yourself that we are servants of the Most High God…even if He has placed you in a position of leadership. Ask God to give you a hefty dose of humility as you serve Him…to help you to truly serve by example and demonstrate Jesus’ teachings – and love – to others.
When the mentoring designer’s “student” won the competition, he was ecstatic. He saw that his kind and gentle approach had paid off in benefits both tangible and intrinsic. And so it is for us, as we strive to emulate Jesus in our discipleship. God will bless us…He will use us as “mentoring shepherds” for others…and we will feel the joy of His blessings and rewards for our obedience. We are called to serve as witnesses, leaders and mentors for God…not bosses, critics and overseers. How are you doing these days?
©2014 Debbie Robus
I have a special concern for you church leaders. I know what it’s like to be a leader, in on Christ’s sufferings as well as the coming glory. Here’s my concern: that you care for God’s flock with all the diligence of a shepherd. Not because you have to, but because you want to please God. Not calculating what you can get out of it, but acting spontaneously. Not bossily telling others what to do, but tenderly showing them the way.
When God, who is the best shepherd of all, comes out in the open with his rule, he’ll see that you’ve done it right and commend you lavishly. And you who are younger must follow your leaders. But all of you, leaders and followers alike, are to be down to earth with each other, for —
God has had it with the proud,
But takes delight in just plain people.
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 know me and “reality TV” shows…especially if they pertain to sewing or cooking! So I am currently watching a fashion design show called “Under the Gunn”. Three winners from former seasons of “Project Runway” are mentoring up-and-coming fashion designers…and offering them advice and encouragement as they compete for cash and prizes each week. One of the current mentors has had a terrible time restraining himself. He doesn’t want to truly “mentor” his prodigies…he wants to design their garments, select the fabric, and tell them how to sew the garments! He has had to be “reined in” by Tim Gunn, the show’s host…and Gunn has even had to specifically “call him out” for his over-zealous – and bossy – actions.
The designer feels like he knows best. But he is does not allow the younger designers to grow and learn. Gunn instructed him to ask more questions…to compliment when appropriate – and to encourage as needed by asking, “What do you think? How do you feel that is really looking or fitting the challenge?” Even asking “Have you considered trying another fabric, color, or construction method?” rather than saying, “Why don’t you do ABC?” would be acceptable. The mentoring designer took this advice to heart, and the results were a vast improvement. One of his designer-contestants even won the weekly competition!
Too many of us are “bossy Christians”. Instead of loving and encouraging…and leading by example…we want to cut to the chase and tell others, “You’re wrong!” or “You need to pray harder”…or even “Get over yourself!” I’ve been reading recently about how insensitive people have been to Pastor Rick and Kathy Warren, who lost their son to suicide almost a year ago. Many have complained that this author of The Purpose Driven Life and his wife should be back at the church preaching and going on with their lives…that they have grieved long enough. Kathy Warren wrote about this recently in a blog post, in which she said that there is no time limit on grief…and for the record, she and Rick will never, ever be the same people as a result of their tragic loss. They are forever changed. Friends have expressed to me in recent days how others have been insensitive to them as they grieved the loss of a loved one…and many of those critics were doing so under the guise of “Christian love”.
Being a Christian does not make us instant authorities about anything. Being a pastor or church leader does not entitle one to boss others around, either. We must think about what we say from the pulpit…in Sunday school classes and Bible studies…and yes – even in these devotionals. I include myself when I say that we must all make a concerted, intentional effort not to hurt others with our words and actions…and hurt our Christian witness by default. Think of Jesus…did He publicly condemn the woman at the well? Did He chime in and admonish the prostitute who was about to be stoned? Did he lecture and humiliate Zacchaeus…or Saul as he traveled on the road to Damascus? Did Jesus look down His nose at Judas…or Peter? Who do we think we are to do such things in His name?
As you go about your day, think of Jesus. I know it sounds cliché, but ask yourself…“What would Jesus do?” Stop, take a breath, and say a quick prayer to seek guidance and wisdom before you react and respond to others. Operate in love and compassion…not bossiness and arrogance. Remind yourself that we are servants of the Most High God…even if He has placed you in a position of leadership. Ask God to give you a hefty dose of humility as you serve Him…to help you to truly serve by example and demonstrate Jesus’ teachings – and love – to others.
When the mentoring designer’s “student” won the competition, he was ecstatic. He saw that his kind and gentle approach had paid off in benefits both tangible and intrinsic. And so it is for us, as we strive to emulate Jesus in our discipleship. God will bless us…He will use us as “mentoring shepherds” for others…and we will feel the joy of His blessings and rewards for our obedience. We are called to serve as witnesses, leaders and mentors for God…not bosses, critics and overseers. How are you doing these days?
©2014 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for January 10, 2014
1 Corinthians 13:4-5
Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud or rude. It does not demand its own way. It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged.
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.
Someone shared a link on Facebook today for an article about the mother of Lance Bass, member of “boy band” ‘NSync. Bass has publicly “come out” as a gay man. Today’s devotional is really not about the debate over homosexuality. But it is about Christian compassion. And to that end, Bass’s mother - a woman whose roots run deep in Southern Baptist Christianity – had a lot to say. Diane Bass explained that she considered herself a “tenderhearted” person…and because she found her broken heart so unbearable, she asked God to take away her tender heart.
When Bass researched the word “tenderhearted”, she learned it meant “having compassion”. She studied scripture and came to the conclusion that this was not what God wanted for her. She said, “If he took away my tender heart, I would no longer have compassion for others. If I did not have compassion for others, I would not have the attitude of Christ. I never prayed that God take away my tender heart again.”*
What about you? Are you irritable…judgmental…demanding your own way and keeping records of heartaches and offenses? Are you truly tenderhearted – toward ALL people? Or are you selective, arrogant, impatient with those who do not see things as you do – even unkind at times? Do you really have Christ-like compassion for others?
I repeat…this is not a debate about homosexuality or any other hot-button issue. It really doesn’t matter which side you are on, if you are truly modeling Christian discipleship and compassion. Diane Bass also shares an experience she had as a 6-year-old child, when she unknowingly drank from a “colored” water fountain because she was thirsty. Her grandmother screamed at her to stop, and in her heart, she knew there was “something just not right about that.”
There is “something just not right” about how we treat a lot of people and situations… because we have failed to ask ourselves, “What would Jesus do?”…then act accordingly. Isn’t it time for each of us to do exactly that?
©2014 Debbie Robus
*http://www.huffingtonpost.com/lance-bass/the-first-thing-my-mom-di_b_4556471.html
Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud or rude. It does not demand its own way. It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged.
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.
Someone shared a link on Facebook today for an article about the mother of Lance Bass, member of “boy band” ‘NSync. Bass has publicly “come out” as a gay man. Today’s devotional is really not about the debate over homosexuality. But it is about Christian compassion. And to that end, Bass’s mother - a woman whose roots run deep in Southern Baptist Christianity – had a lot to say. Diane Bass explained that she considered herself a “tenderhearted” person…and because she found her broken heart so unbearable, she asked God to take away her tender heart.
When Bass researched the word “tenderhearted”, she learned it meant “having compassion”. She studied scripture and came to the conclusion that this was not what God wanted for her. She said, “If he took away my tender heart, I would no longer have compassion for others. If I did not have compassion for others, I would not have the attitude of Christ. I never prayed that God take away my tender heart again.”*
What about you? Are you irritable…judgmental…demanding your own way and keeping records of heartaches and offenses? Are you truly tenderhearted – toward ALL people? Or are you selective, arrogant, impatient with those who do not see things as you do – even unkind at times? Do you really have Christ-like compassion for others?
I repeat…this is not a debate about homosexuality or any other hot-button issue. It really doesn’t matter which side you are on, if you are truly modeling Christian discipleship and compassion. Diane Bass also shares an experience she had as a 6-year-old child, when she unknowingly drank from a “colored” water fountain because she was thirsty. Her grandmother screamed at her to stop, and in her heart, she knew there was “something just not right about that.”
There is “something just not right” about how we treat a lot of people and situations… because we have failed to ask ourselves, “What would Jesus do?”…then act accordingly. Isn’t it time for each of us to do exactly that?
©2014 Debbie Robus
*http://www.huffingtonpost.com/lance-bass/the-first-thing-my-mom-di_b_4556471.html
Daily Devotional for August 18, 2012
Psalm 34:13
Guard your tongue from profanity, and no more lying through your teeth.
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.
According to information gathered at www.rotary.org, Rotary International is a world-wide (and widely respected) service organization whose mission is…”to provide service to others, promote integrity, and advance world understanding, goodwill, and peace through its fellowship of business, professional, and community leaders.” I was a member of Rotary International for several years. Like most members, I carried a card in my wallet that outlined the Rotary “4-Way Test”…
We are on the threshold of a new school year… a new beginning for many – particularly those under the age of 25. When I was teaching, the end of August held more of a “New Year/Fresh Start” feeling for me than January 1st. So it is fitting that as we approach the “back-to-school” date on the calendar, we renew our determination to speak the truth… to avoid all unkind language (not just profanity)… to seek fairness, goodwill, better friendships…and to make sure that our words and actions are beneficial to all concerned.
Let’s make this our prayer for today and every day. Let’s incorporate the 4-Way Test into our daily Christian discipleship. Ask God to help you make this a great year… and to start it off on the right foot!
©2012 Debbie Robus
Guard your tongue from profanity, and no more lying through your teeth.
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.
According to information gathered at www.rotary.org, Rotary International is a world-wide (and widely respected) service organization whose mission is…”to provide service to others, promote integrity, and advance world understanding, goodwill, and peace through its fellowship of business, professional, and community leaders.” I was a member of Rotary International for several years. Like most members, I carried a card in my wallet that outlined the Rotary “4-Way Test”…
- Is it the TRUTH?
- Is it FAIR to all concerned?
- Will it build GOODWILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS?
- Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?
We are on the threshold of a new school year… a new beginning for many – particularly those under the age of 25. When I was teaching, the end of August held more of a “New Year/Fresh Start” feeling for me than January 1st. So it is fitting that as we approach the “back-to-school” date on the calendar, we renew our determination to speak the truth… to avoid all unkind language (not just profanity)… to seek fairness, goodwill, better friendships…and to make sure that our words and actions are beneficial to all concerned.
Let’s make this our prayer for today and every day. Let’s incorporate the 4-Way Test into our daily Christian discipleship. Ask God to help you make this a great year… and to start it off on the right foot!
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for August 17, 2012
Proverbs 15:18
Losing your temper causes a lot of trouble, but staying calm settles arguments.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I am reminded once again of Emily Litella, Gilda Radner’s character on “Saturday Night Live.” Litella was a little old lady who was hard of hearing. She appeared during the “Weekend Update” newscast with Chevy Chase and/or Jane Curtin. Emily Litella got things all mixed up and made a huge fuss over nothing. For instance, once there was a “news” report about a Supreme Court ruling on the death penalty, and she “heard” the reporter say “deaf” penalty. She went ballistic! Deaf people had enough problems already! In all of these spoofs, the “reporter” was finally able to get Litella to calm down, and the misunderstanding could be explained. Litella always replied, “Oh, that’s different! Never mind!”
We are all “Emily Litella” at one time or another. Whether we fail to listen carefully or to gather all the facts… or we fly off the handle in what we feel is a justified reaction…losing our temper can cause a lot of unnecessary trouble.
Do you remember the scripture verses in John 8 where a crowd gathered and tried to get Jesus to condemn an adulterous woman? Do you remember how Jesus quietly kept drawing in the dirt? With one sentence, He diffused the situation. He did not rant and rave. He didn’t stomp his feet and jump up and down. He did not yell and scream. Jesus merely said, “If any of you have never sinned, then go ahead and throw the first stone at her!” And then He began to write in the dirt again.
Some of us seem to be “wired” to fly off the handle. But we can change this. We can ask God to give us wisdom, patience, tolerance… and control. We can ask Him to help us count to ten, breathe deeply, or take time to pray… to do whatever is necessary to remain calm and avoid trouble. Arguments are almost never productive… and in most cases, they can cause real, lasting problems.
Let’s all work on controlling our temper and staying calm. With God’s help, We.Can.Do.This! Let’s ask Him to show us how to exercise self-control… and to give us the necessary tools to avoid conflict. We don’t want to find ourselves in a position where we have to admit, “that’s different”… much less utter, “Never mind!” Put your “Emily Litella” persona to rest and start emulating Jesus. Learn to draw in the dirt… and do your best to stay out of trouble!
©2012 Debbie Robus
Losing your temper causes a lot of trouble, but staying calm settles arguments.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I am reminded once again of Emily Litella, Gilda Radner’s character on “Saturday Night Live.” Litella was a little old lady who was hard of hearing. She appeared during the “Weekend Update” newscast with Chevy Chase and/or Jane Curtin. Emily Litella got things all mixed up and made a huge fuss over nothing. For instance, once there was a “news” report about a Supreme Court ruling on the death penalty, and she “heard” the reporter say “deaf” penalty. She went ballistic! Deaf people had enough problems already! In all of these spoofs, the “reporter” was finally able to get Litella to calm down, and the misunderstanding could be explained. Litella always replied, “Oh, that’s different! Never mind!”
We are all “Emily Litella” at one time or another. Whether we fail to listen carefully or to gather all the facts… or we fly off the handle in what we feel is a justified reaction…losing our temper can cause a lot of unnecessary trouble.
Do you remember the scripture verses in John 8 where a crowd gathered and tried to get Jesus to condemn an adulterous woman? Do you remember how Jesus quietly kept drawing in the dirt? With one sentence, He diffused the situation. He did not rant and rave. He didn’t stomp his feet and jump up and down. He did not yell and scream. Jesus merely said, “If any of you have never sinned, then go ahead and throw the first stone at her!” And then He began to write in the dirt again.
Some of us seem to be “wired” to fly off the handle. But we can change this. We can ask God to give us wisdom, patience, tolerance… and control. We can ask Him to help us count to ten, breathe deeply, or take time to pray… to do whatever is necessary to remain calm and avoid trouble. Arguments are almost never productive… and in most cases, they can cause real, lasting problems.
Let’s all work on controlling our temper and staying calm. With God’s help, We.Can.Do.This! Let’s ask Him to show us how to exercise self-control… and to give us the necessary tools to avoid conflict. We don’t want to find ourselves in a position where we have to admit, “that’s different”… much less utter, “Never mind!” Put your “Emily Litella” persona to rest and start emulating Jesus. Learn to draw in the dirt… and do your best to stay out of trouble!
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for August 9, 2012
1 Peter 3:15-18
If with heart and soul you're doing good, do you think you can be stopped? Even if you suffer for it, you're still better off. Don't give the opposition a second thought. Through thick and thin, keep your hearts at attention, in adoration before Christ, your Master. Be ready to speak up and tell anyone who asks why you're living the way you are, and always with the utmost courtesy. Keep a clear conscience before God so that when people throw mud at you, none of it will stick. They'll end up realizing that they're the ones who need a bath. It's better to suffer for doing good, if that's what God wants, than to be punished for doing bad. That's what Christ did definitively: suffered because of others' sins, the Righteous One for the unrighteous ones. He went through it all—was put to death and then made alive—to bring us to God.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
My brother was what we called a “husky boy” when we were little. I was tall and gangly… he was shorter – and stout! Even though I was four years older, Tim could take me down on any given day. And so it was one day when he tackled me in our front yard and started to pummel me, as siblings sometimes do. My dad stepped to the front door and said, “Hit him back!” I looked up and tearfully said, “I can’t!” I was always a softie when it came to my brother… but even in that childhood moment, I also knew that retaliation was not the answer!
I have to wonder at those who insist that biting a baby who bites is the solution to get him/her to stop. What part of hitting a child tells them it is not okay to hit others? Like many siblings who fought, I “suffered through” the growing pains with my little brother – and the frequent tussles we had over virtually nothing. And in his last days, I also apologized profusely to him for the times when I was not so virtuous… and even let him take the blame – and the punishment – for things I had done. To his credit, he graciously forgave me.
As children, we have to learn that slinging mud on another person is not the answer to our problems. Sadly, many of us not only fail this lesson… we actually perfect our technique! There are times when we all want to lash out at someone… when we want to stomp our foot and throw something and say, “Wait just one minute!” In Christ we find the perfect example of suffering for doing good… taking the High Road…and living with the utmost courtesy. Often, we make a much bigger statement by turning and walking away from a fight than staying to participate.
We must all ask the question…“Is this how God wants me to respond? Does He want me to get into this fight… or should I politely go about my business and let my behavior speak for itself?” I am as guilty as the next person of speaking up and lashing out when I shouldn’t. A lot of things we get involved are really not our battles. I’ve been asking God to help me with this… to give me wisdom and the good sense to bite my tongue and walk away when necessary.
At the same time, there will be people who may question your actions… those who feel they need to understand why you are not speaking up on a particular issue or getting involved in certain situations. This is the perfect opportunity for you to share your faith… and to explain how you communicate with God. Don’t be smug about it… but do take these moments as openings for a dialog about how God is working in your life. Convey how He gives you grace, mercy and forgiveness… and how He helps you to extend this to others.
God does not want us to be doormats on His behalf… but He didn’t call us to fight His battles either. It is up to us to know when and where to “hold ‘em or fold ‘em.” We must do all that we can to always represent God and honor Him - and sometimes that means suffering for the good. What about you? Are you able to resist the mud that is thrown in your direction… or has some of it managed to stick? Make today the day you come clean and begin to operate in God’s wisdom and grace. Be certain that your demeanor reflects His… and your heart remains in adoration to Christ. God will handle everything else!
©2012 Debbie Robus
If with heart and soul you're doing good, do you think you can be stopped? Even if you suffer for it, you're still better off. Don't give the opposition a second thought. Through thick and thin, keep your hearts at attention, in adoration before Christ, your Master. Be ready to speak up and tell anyone who asks why you're living the way you are, and always with the utmost courtesy. Keep a clear conscience before God so that when people throw mud at you, none of it will stick. They'll end up realizing that they're the ones who need a bath. It's better to suffer for doing good, if that's what God wants, than to be punished for doing bad. That's what Christ did definitively: suffered because of others' sins, the Righteous One for the unrighteous ones. He went through it all—was put to death and then made alive—to bring us to God.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
My brother was what we called a “husky boy” when we were little. I was tall and gangly… he was shorter – and stout! Even though I was four years older, Tim could take me down on any given day. And so it was one day when he tackled me in our front yard and started to pummel me, as siblings sometimes do. My dad stepped to the front door and said, “Hit him back!” I looked up and tearfully said, “I can’t!” I was always a softie when it came to my brother… but even in that childhood moment, I also knew that retaliation was not the answer!
I have to wonder at those who insist that biting a baby who bites is the solution to get him/her to stop. What part of hitting a child tells them it is not okay to hit others? Like many siblings who fought, I “suffered through” the growing pains with my little brother – and the frequent tussles we had over virtually nothing. And in his last days, I also apologized profusely to him for the times when I was not so virtuous… and even let him take the blame – and the punishment – for things I had done. To his credit, he graciously forgave me.
As children, we have to learn that slinging mud on another person is not the answer to our problems. Sadly, many of us not only fail this lesson… we actually perfect our technique! There are times when we all want to lash out at someone… when we want to stomp our foot and throw something and say, “Wait just one minute!” In Christ we find the perfect example of suffering for doing good… taking the High Road…and living with the utmost courtesy. Often, we make a much bigger statement by turning and walking away from a fight than staying to participate.
We must all ask the question…“Is this how God wants me to respond? Does He want me to get into this fight… or should I politely go about my business and let my behavior speak for itself?” I am as guilty as the next person of speaking up and lashing out when I shouldn’t. A lot of things we get involved are really not our battles. I’ve been asking God to help me with this… to give me wisdom and the good sense to bite my tongue and walk away when necessary.
At the same time, there will be people who may question your actions… those who feel they need to understand why you are not speaking up on a particular issue or getting involved in certain situations. This is the perfect opportunity for you to share your faith… and to explain how you communicate with God. Don’t be smug about it… but do take these moments as openings for a dialog about how God is working in your life. Convey how He gives you grace, mercy and forgiveness… and how He helps you to extend this to others.
God does not want us to be doormats on His behalf… but He didn’t call us to fight His battles either. It is up to us to know when and where to “hold ‘em or fold ‘em.” We must do all that we can to always represent God and honor Him - and sometimes that means suffering for the good. What about you? Are you able to resist the mud that is thrown in your direction… or has some of it managed to stick? Make today the day you come clean and begin to operate in God’s wisdom and grace. Be certain that your demeanor reflects His… and your heart remains in adoration to Christ. God will handle everything else!
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for July 31, 2012
Matthew 5:11-12
God will bless you when people insult you, mistreat you, and tell all kinds of evil lies about you because of me. Be happy and excited! You will have a great reward in heaven. People did these same things to the prophets who lived long ago.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When I was a teenager, a mean-spirited girl gave me a nickname. It was supposed to be an acronym for something – although she would never tell me what the initials represented. All I knew is that others snickered and giggled when she told them what she meant by it… and I felt insulted. At a reception earlier this summer, I encountered someone I had not seen since high school, and he said, “Aren’t you XYZ (insert ugly nickname)?” I smiled and told him I had not thought about that name in years, but yes, he had recognized me.
The conversation was uncomfortable and brief. Old, unpleasant feelings were quickly dashed by the happiness of greeting friends who would never dare utter that name to me. We focused instead on remembering good times and celebrating where we are now and what is yet to come. God reminded me that I am so much more than a silly nickname. While I have not forgotten its sting – this slur does not define me.
My mother used to tell me, “People only pick on you because they like you.” She was trying to make me feel better and rise above insults and jabs made by my peers. Sorry, Mom… the truth is that people pick on others out of fear and their own insecurities. It’s hard to explain that to a kid… and nobody wants to see their child hurt or insulted by another. Just the thought that any of my nieces, nephews or little cousins might have to endure even one unkind moment breaks my heart. So imagine what this does to Jesus when HIS children are unloving toward each other!
I look at people who are hurling insults left and right these days, and I wonder what is so lacking in their own lives that they feel this is appropriate. I have to conclude that they are certainly not operating out of a spirit of grace, mercy, compassion and forgiveness. They may hide behind the “Christian” label, but their actions are anything but Christ-like. I’ll be honest… I find myself asking, “What about the people who worship with me… are their thoughts and actions insulting and judgmental toward those who threaten them or their opinions in some manner? Do we as a body represent the unconditional love of Christ? If the person sitting next to me knew my true sentiments, would he/she hurl insults and mistreatment toward me?”
It’s not really a stretch to see how people become skeptical and guarded… and why a lot of folks avoid the church and those who claim to be Christians. What are we truly offering in the name of Jesus? And just as importantly, how are we reacting to insults and mistreatment launched in our direction?
Clearly, I hear God calling for me to relax… to step back and let Him have control. I feel God telling me to resist the temptation to react to insults… and most certainly to refrain from retaliation! I look at the nickname I bore through high school and see what little long-term effect it truly had on me… how God has blessed me and given me such a wonderful, abundant life. I trusted God to handle this for me, and He did. And we must encourage our children – and each other – to operate in the love and compassion of our Heavenly Father... and to rely on Him to bless us even as we are insulted and mistreated.
We must also use our own experiences with insults and mistreatment as a reminder of how to regard others. When we have any urge to offer an affront, use a slur against someone, or be openly critical or unkind, let’s stop and think about Jesus. Ask yourself, “Will my words or actions hurt another of Jesus’ children… and will His heart be broken? Will this really be worth my momentary ‘satisfaction’?”
We all need to take a step backward and remind ourselves WHO is really in charge. For whatever reason, too many of us have appointed ourselves as “judge and jury” on God’s behalf… a position He neither delegated to us nor sanctioned. We are called to operate in love, forgiveness, grace, and mercy - even when others mistreat and insult us - and to let the love of Jesus shine through. How we act – and react – will say all that is needed about our Christian faith. What are you saying these days?
©2012 Debbie Robus
God will bless you when people insult you, mistreat you, and tell all kinds of evil lies about you because of me. Be happy and excited! You will have a great reward in heaven. People did these same things to the prophets who lived long ago.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When I was a teenager, a mean-spirited girl gave me a nickname. It was supposed to be an acronym for something – although she would never tell me what the initials represented. All I knew is that others snickered and giggled when she told them what she meant by it… and I felt insulted. At a reception earlier this summer, I encountered someone I had not seen since high school, and he said, “Aren’t you XYZ (insert ugly nickname)?” I smiled and told him I had not thought about that name in years, but yes, he had recognized me.
The conversation was uncomfortable and brief. Old, unpleasant feelings were quickly dashed by the happiness of greeting friends who would never dare utter that name to me. We focused instead on remembering good times and celebrating where we are now and what is yet to come. God reminded me that I am so much more than a silly nickname. While I have not forgotten its sting – this slur does not define me.
My mother used to tell me, “People only pick on you because they like you.” She was trying to make me feel better and rise above insults and jabs made by my peers. Sorry, Mom… the truth is that people pick on others out of fear and their own insecurities. It’s hard to explain that to a kid… and nobody wants to see their child hurt or insulted by another. Just the thought that any of my nieces, nephews or little cousins might have to endure even one unkind moment breaks my heart. So imagine what this does to Jesus when HIS children are unloving toward each other!
I look at people who are hurling insults left and right these days, and I wonder what is so lacking in their own lives that they feel this is appropriate. I have to conclude that they are certainly not operating out of a spirit of grace, mercy, compassion and forgiveness. They may hide behind the “Christian” label, but their actions are anything but Christ-like. I’ll be honest… I find myself asking, “What about the people who worship with me… are their thoughts and actions insulting and judgmental toward those who threaten them or their opinions in some manner? Do we as a body represent the unconditional love of Christ? If the person sitting next to me knew my true sentiments, would he/she hurl insults and mistreatment toward me?”
It’s not really a stretch to see how people become skeptical and guarded… and why a lot of folks avoid the church and those who claim to be Christians. What are we truly offering in the name of Jesus? And just as importantly, how are we reacting to insults and mistreatment launched in our direction?
Clearly, I hear God calling for me to relax… to step back and let Him have control. I feel God telling me to resist the temptation to react to insults… and most certainly to refrain from retaliation! I look at the nickname I bore through high school and see what little long-term effect it truly had on me… how God has blessed me and given me such a wonderful, abundant life. I trusted God to handle this for me, and He did. And we must encourage our children – and each other – to operate in the love and compassion of our Heavenly Father... and to rely on Him to bless us even as we are insulted and mistreated.
We must also use our own experiences with insults and mistreatment as a reminder of how to regard others. When we have any urge to offer an affront, use a slur against someone, or be openly critical or unkind, let’s stop and think about Jesus. Ask yourself, “Will my words or actions hurt another of Jesus’ children… and will His heart be broken? Will this really be worth my momentary ‘satisfaction’?”
We all need to take a step backward and remind ourselves WHO is really in charge. For whatever reason, too many of us have appointed ourselves as “judge and jury” on God’s behalf… a position He neither delegated to us nor sanctioned. We are called to operate in love, forgiveness, grace, and mercy - even when others mistreat and insult us - and to let the love of Jesus shine through. How we act – and react – will say all that is needed about our Christian faith. What are you saying these days?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for July 19, 2012
Luke 23:34
Jesus said, “Father, forgive these people! They don’t know what they’re doing.”
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I saw a cartoon on Facebook today where a woman was talking with Jesus. She told him that she had met some fellow believers who were on the opposite end of the political spectrum from her own views. She said, “I just don’t see how they can reconcile their faith with their position on…” Jesus interrupted her, “I’ll handle the reconciling… your job is just to love them – or maybe not to hate them.”
We have a hard time with this, don’t we? Oh, if only everyone saw things exactly as we do, the world would be such a wonderful place! But we know better… or we should! Jesus has given us the ultimate example of this when He asked God to forgive those who were beating Him, spitting on Him, stripping Him naked and gambling for His clothing… and nailing Him to a cross. Jesus said, “Father, YOU handle the reconciling… I’ll do the loving.”
It would have been so easy for Jesus to hate these people. It would have been no sweat at all for Him to say, “You know what? These people are not worth My time. I’m outta here!” He could have returned to heaven, or even continued to live on earth unbothered if He chose. He could have turned the tables and wiped out every human being who was “on the opposite end of the spectrum.” But this is not at all what Jesus did.
If we want to have even the most remote chance of being like Jesus, we have to get over ourselves. We have to start operating in love instead of hate. We have to offer acceptance to those who don’t think as we do… and forgiveness to the ones who are unkind or mistreat us in some way. We don’t have to be doormats and put ourselves in positions to be continually disrespected. But we are called to love the unlovely – to give them far better than they deserve… because that’s what Jesus does – for each of us!
The next time someone treats you rudely or disrespectfully, ask God to forgive them… and then make an effort to do the same. When you encounter someone whose position – on anything from politics to religion to the weather – is different than your own, be kind and do not act as if you are superior. Allow that this person is a child of God, too – just like you! Remember that when you point your finger at someone, four are pointing in your own direction. And never forget that Jesus didn’t die on the cross for you alone… He died for all of us.
Was it worth the price Christ paid for you? Are you truly living for Him and trying to follow His example? Isn’t it time you did?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Jesus said, “Father, forgive these people! They don’t know what they’re doing.”
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I saw a cartoon on Facebook today where a woman was talking with Jesus. She told him that she had met some fellow believers who were on the opposite end of the political spectrum from her own views. She said, “I just don’t see how they can reconcile their faith with their position on…” Jesus interrupted her, “I’ll handle the reconciling… your job is just to love them – or maybe not to hate them.”
We have a hard time with this, don’t we? Oh, if only everyone saw things exactly as we do, the world would be such a wonderful place! But we know better… or we should! Jesus has given us the ultimate example of this when He asked God to forgive those who were beating Him, spitting on Him, stripping Him naked and gambling for His clothing… and nailing Him to a cross. Jesus said, “Father, YOU handle the reconciling… I’ll do the loving.”
It would have been so easy for Jesus to hate these people. It would have been no sweat at all for Him to say, “You know what? These people are not worth My time. I’m outta here!” He could have returned to heaven, or even continued to live on earth unbothered if He chose. He could have turned the tables and wiped out every human being who was “on the opposite end of the spectrum.” But this is not at all what Jesus did.
If we want to have even the most remote chance of being like Jesus, we have to get over ourselves. We have to start operating in love instead of hate. We have to offer acceptance to those who don’t think as we do… and forgiveness to the ones who are unkind or mistreat us in some way. We don’t have to be doormats and put ourselves in positions to be continually disrespected. But we are called to love the unlovely – to give them far better than they deserve… because that’s what Jesus does – for each of us!
The next time someone treats you rudely or disrespectfully, ask God to forgive them… and then make an effort to do the same. When you encounter someone whose position – on anything from politics to religion to the weather – is different than your own, be kind and do not act as if you are superior. Allow that this person is a child of God, too – just like you! Remember that when you point your finger at someone, four are pointing in your own direction. And never forget that Jesus didn’t die on the cross for you alone… He died for all of us.
Was it worth the price Christ paid for you? Are you truly living for Him and trying to follow His example? Isn’t it time you did?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Romans 12:16
Be friendly with everyone. Don’t be proud and feel that you are smarter than others. Make friends with ordinary people.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I have probably told this story before, but when I was in fifth grade, my family moved to Gore, Oklahoma, for about six months so that my dad could work as a welder on a lock and dam being constructed on the Arkansas River. For the first time in my childhood, we had discretionary income. We drove about 30 miles to Muskogee to shop and eat out. We got toys and new clothes for our Barbies – and it wasn’t even our birthday or Christmas!
Gore had a tiny elementary school – one class for each grade level. Most of the students were either children of construction workers – or very poor Native Americans. But the “construction children” were the ones others seemed to look down upon in this community. We were considered “nomads” who wandered in for a few months, then moved on to another location – some referred to us as “trailer trash.” And I can assure you, the way some folks acted toward us was anything but fun or pleasant!
I think this was the first time I realized how it felt to be “ordinary” – or something less. I recognized that people didn’t see us for who we were… we were judged on a far more exacting criteria. The one place where we were treated somewhat respectfully was at the local Baptist church… because my mom, sister and I could play the piano and organ. We were considered beneficial.
Even though this job offered my dad the opportunity to provide for his family, my mom didn’t have to work outside the home, and we had “spending money”…we were miserable. We wanted to come home, where people loved us and cared about us - and treated us like we mattered.
Think about this in the context of your life today. Do you feel like you are smarter – or better – than anyone else? Are there people in your class… at work… or in your church or community who you avoid or have an unfriendly feeling toward, for some reason? Have you examined why you feel this way? Does it really matter?
Our community holds an annual class reunion of sorts each October. The class who graduated 50 years ago serves as the hosts, and a program provides brief biographies on each class member. I have yet to come away from one where I was not amazed at the accomplishments of at least one classmate… usually the one nobody ever thought would amount to anything! Chemists and scientists, college professors, doctors, lawyers, architects, artists, world travelers, and much more are represented among these students once considered “ordinary,” or even poor – and unintelligent. How many times have you heard someone express astonishment at the success of someone who was always considered to be a lousy student?
The time has come for us to recognize that this is NOT how Jesus treats us. He does not look at any of us and say, “This one is poor and doesn’t matter… he/she isn’t the brightest bulb in the box… that one has crooked teeth or a big nose. I did not die on the cross for ‘ordinary’ people!” Each of us is precious to Jesus… so precious that He gave His very life for us. He would never treat even one of us as less than another. If we want to be like Jesus, we have to do the same.
Do you have some re-evaluating to do today? Isn’t it time we all made a little attitude check and figured out where ours needs an “alignment” of sorts? How many “ordinary people” can you count among your friends?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Be friendly with everyone. Don’t be proud and feel that you are smarter than others. Make friends with ordinary people.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I have probably told this story before, but when I was in fifth grade, my family moved to Gore, Oklahoma, for about six months so that my dad could work as a welder on a lock and dam being constructed on the Arkansas River. For the first time in my childhood, we had discretionary income. We drove about 30 miles to Muskogee to shop and eat out. We got toys and new clothes for our Barbies – and it wasn’t even our birthday or Christmas!
Gore had a tiny elementary school – one class for each grade level. Most of the students were either children of construction workers – or very poor Native Americans. But the “construction children” were the ones others seemed to look down upon in this community. We were considered “nomads” who wandered in for a few months, then moved on to another location – some referred to us as “trailer trash.” And I can assure you, the way some folks acted toward us was anything but fun or pleasant!
I think this was the first time I realized how it felt to be “ordinary” – or something less. I recognized that people didn’t see us for who we were… we were judged on a far more exacting criteria. The one place where we were treated somewhat respectfully was at the local Baptist church… because my mom, sister and I could play the piano and organ. We were considered beneficial.
Even though this job offered my dad the opportunity to provide for his family, my mom didn’t have to work outside the home, and we had “spending money”…we were miserable. We wanted to come home, where people loved us and cared about us - and treated us like we mattered.
Think about this in the context of your life today. Do you feel like you are smarter – or better – than anyone else? Are there people in your class… at work… or in your church or community who you avoid or have an unfriendly feeling toward, for some reason? Have you examined why you feel this way? Does it really matter?
Our community holds an annual class reunion of sorts each October. The class who graduated 50 years ago serves as the hosts, and a program provides brief biographies on each class member. I have yet to come away from one where I was not amazed at the accomplishments of at least one classmate… usually the one nobody ever thought would amount to anything! Chemists and scientists, college professors, doctors, lawyers, architects, artists, world travelers, and much more are represented among these students once considered “ordinary,” or even poor – and unintelligent. How many times have you heard someone express astonishment at the success of someone who was always considered to be a lousy student?
The time has come for us to recognize that this is NOT how Jesus treats us. He does not look at any of us and say, “This one is poor and doesn’t matter… he/she isn’t the brightest bulb in the box… that one has crooked teeth or a big nose. I did not die on the cross for ‘ordinary’ people!” Each of us is precious to Jesus… so precious that He gave His very life for us. He would never treat even one of us as less than another. If we want to be like Jesus, we have to do the same.
Do you have some re-evaluating to do today? Isn’t it time we all made a little attitude check and figured out where ours needs an “alignment” of sorts? How many “ordinary people” can you count among your friends?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for October 13, 2011
John 13:12-17
After Jesus had washed his disciples' feet and had put his outer garment back on, he sat down again. Then he said: Do you understand what I have done? You call me your teacher and Lord, and you should, because that is who I am. And if your Lord and teacher has washed your feet, you should do the same for each other. I have set the example, and you should do for each other exactly what I have done for you. I tell you for certain that servants are not greater than their master, and messengers are not greater than the one who sent them. You know these things, and God will bless you, if you do them.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Recently I told you about using little twinkling Christmas lights throughout our home for decorating accents. If you know anything about these strands of lights, you know that often a section will stop working, while the rest of the lights continue to glow. Several years ago, my husband told me that he was rescuing “bad” strands of lights I would throw away, and he was recycling them… replacing burned out bulbs from one strand with good bulbs from another, and creating a restored, working set of lights.
Now you may ask, “Why would a man who can afford a small strand of twinkling lights go to this much trouble?” There are at least two answers:
Each of us is so eager for Jesus to make us shine… to forgive us… to treat us with grace, mercy and kindness… and to see our value even when we cannot. Yet we find it nearly impossible to do this for others. We have to change this. We must stop and look at each person in our path and ask, “How do I wish to be treated by this person?” The answer will directly identify how we should treat him/her.
None of us is better than the next guy. A strand of bulbs that partially sparkles still shines… even if some of the bulbs are not burning at the moment. Those who have frustrated, angered, annoyed, disappointed, irritated or disgusted us still have worth to Jesus… as do we. We are called to treat all people equally… and to give them the same value as Jesus would… and as He demonstrated.
There is a saying that goes around from time to time… “You can tell a lot about a person by how he/she handles a tangled strand of Christmas lights.” How are you handling the “twinkling lights” in your life? Would Jesus handle them the same way?
©2011 Debbie Robus
After Jesus had washed his disciples' feet and had put his outer garment back on, he sat down again. Then he said: Do you understand what I have done? You call me your teacher and Lord, and you should, because that is who I am. And if your Lord and teacher has washed your feet, you should do the same for each other. I have set the example, and you should do for each other exactly what I have done for you. I tell you for certain that servants are not greater than their master, and messengers are not greater than the one who sent them. You know these things, and God will bless you, if you do them.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Recently I told you about using little twinkling Christmas lights throughout our home for decorating accents. If you know anything about these strands of lights, you know that often a section will stop working, while the rest of the lights continue to glow. Several years ago, my husband told me that he was rescuing “bad” strands of lights I would throw away, and he was recycling them… replacing burned out bulbs from one strand with good bulbs from another, and creating a restored, working set of lights.
Now you may ask, “Why would a man who can afford a small strand of twinkling lights go to this much trouble?” There are at least two answers:
- This sort of conscientious thriftiness is why we can afford to buy twinkling lights in the first place, and
- My husband sees the potential and “good” in the light strand… and he rarely wastes anything!
Each of us is so eager for Jesus to make us shine… to forgive us… to treat us with grace, mercy and kindness… and to see our value even when we cannot. Yet we find it nearly impossible to do this for others. We have to change this. We must stop and look at each person in our path and ask, “How do I wish to be treated by this person?” The answer will directly identify how we should treat him/her.
None of us is better than the next guy. A strand of bulbs that partially sparkles still shines… even if some of the bulbs are not burning at the moment. Those who have frustrated, angered, annoyed, disappointed, irritated or disgusted us still have worth to Jesus… as do we. We are called to treat all people equally… and to give them the same value as Jesus would… and as He demonstrated.
There is a saying that goes around from time to time… “You can tell a lot about a person by how he/she handles a tangled strand of Christmas lights.” How are you handling the “twinkling lights” in your life? Would Jesus handle them the same way?
©2011 Debbie Robus
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