Daily Devotional for November 17, 2015

Psalm 48:9-14
Our God, here in your temple
    we think about your love.
You are famous and praised
    everywhere on earth,
    as you win victories
    with your powerful arm.
Mount Zion will celebrate,
and all Judah will be glad,
    because you bring justice.
Let’s walk around Zion
    and count its towers.
We will see its strong walls
    and visit each fortress.
Then you can say
    to future generations,
“Our God is like this forever
    and will always guide us.”

Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.

This morning as I prepared to write this devotional, I must admit that I was conflicted.  The world seems turned upside down…senseless terrorism and murder in Paris…displaced and orphaned people by the thousands in the Middle East…people closing their hearts and their “borders” to those who have nowhere to turn…illness and disease…those who are aging and declining – and there is nothing to do but watch it happen…humans in every corner of the world are suffering and troubled…orphans abound in our own back yard, where there are 2 beds for every three children in need.  And on top of it all, the weathermen are continually warning that a strong system is approaching with high winds and potentially flooding rains.  The list seems unending.

Then I opened my Bible to Psalm 48:9-14 and read these words about the love and power of God Almighty.  And I was humbled…and renewed…and encouraged.

• We don’t know what to do with all of the senseless violence and hatred in this world.  “Our God is like this forever and will always guide us.”
• We are fearful of helping those we do not know and trust.  We are powerless to control the weather.  Honestly, we are just a little afraid of virtually everything!  ”…You win victories with Your powerful arm.”
• We feel helpless to meet the needs of orphans, the elderly, those who are sick and suffering, the grieving, and those who are homeless and in need.  “We will see its [Zion’s] strong walls and visit each fortress…we think about Your love.”
• We are weary and do not know how to keep going.  Our faith and confidence have wavered in light of all that is happening, and we cannot see how things will ever improve.  “…all Judah will be glad, because You bring justice.”

It’s easy to get caught up in the worry, frustration and grief of current events.  We go from faith-filled prayer warriors to spineless wimps afraid of our own shadows in the blink of an eye!  And we should all be ashamed.  Where is our confidence in God?  Where is our affirmation that these claims in Psalm 48 about His power and strength are absolute and indisputable?  Are we telling our next generations the truth…or selling them a bill of goods?  Because if we do not truly believe – and internalize – what the Bible tells us about God, we really are failing as Christian witnesses and Disciples.

This is the day to “hitch up your britches”…to “pull yourself up by the bootstraps”…to rise up out of your “funk” and get it together in response to God’s call.  It’s time to truly honor our gift of Salvation through Jesus Christ by modeling His teachings and affirming that God is everything the scriptures tell us He is.  More importantly, it is time for us to live out what God has demonstrated over and again – in our lives and throughout history…to walk and breathe in the truth of His victories and His power, and to validate this to the world at large. 

Worry, fear, and a closed heart have no place in the lives of faith-filled Christians.  Today is the day to kick these attitudes to the curb, once and for all, and live out God’s truths.  Will you stand with me and make this a day of great renewal?  Are you really ready to represent our mighty God?  Isn’t it time you were?
©2015 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for November 14, 2015

Psalm 37:23-25
The steps of good men are directed by the Lord. He delights in each step they take. If they fall, it isn’t fatal, for the Lord holds them with his hand.

I have been young and now I am old. And in all my years I have never seen the Lord forsake a man who loves him; nor have I seen the children of the godly go hungry.

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’s happened again…a demonstration of hatred and senseless violence against decent, innocent people – this time in Paris, France.  And this time, it’s personal for me, because the childhood friend of my mother – my best friend/neighbor’s older sister – is a resident of this European city, where she has resided for almost 40 years. When the attacks occurred, she was returning home via subway after going to a movie. She was doing what thousands were doing on a regular Friday night in a major city…enjoying herself and minding her own business.  Yet dozens just like her didn’t return home – and more than 100 of them never will.

So what are we to do?  Our church’s Bishop, Gary Mueller, wrote a poignant note today  for Facebook and suggested that the one thing we can do is to refuse operate in fear.  He said we must do this…”not because of our own strength - but because of God.” 

I look at these words of the psalmist David in Psalm 37…surely he had seen his share of violence, death, and betrayal.  And yet, he said that he had never seen the Lord forsake a man who loves Him…nor had he seen the children of the godly go hungry.  David noted that God “holds them with His hand.” 

Even today, as we see innocent blood spilled…lives turned upside down by this horrific tragedy and senseless act of hatred…we must grab hold of these words from the Psalms and cling to God’s promises. Even physical death cannot defeat those of us who truly love and trust God for everything.  I hope and pray that every single one of the victims of yesterday’s violence were immediately transported to Heaven and now sit in the presence of God Almighty. Yet I know that this may not be the case. I cannot control this…but I can do all that I am able to ensure that I meet Him there someday…and that I share the message of Christ’s love and care to every person I encounter in the meantime.

I am saddened for the families of these victims…and for my friend and all residents of Paris who are so heartsick today over what has happened in their city.  I understand that they are surely frightened for their own safety – and worried for their future.  But I am confident that God is still in control…that He is orchestrating order in this chaos…redemption in the rubble…and peace where we see pandemonium. 

I am picturing God holding each of us by His powerful-yet-gentle hand.  And I am trusting Him to handle ALL of my worries and cares – today, and always.  What about you?

©2015 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for November 12, 2015

Psalm 23:1-6

You, Lord, are my shepherd.
    I will never be in need.
You let me rest in fields
    of green grass.
You lead me to streams
    of peaceful water,
    and you refresh my life.
You are true to your name,
    and you lead me
    along the right paths.
I may walk through valleys
    as dark as death,
    but I won’t be afraid.
You are with me,
    and your shepherd’s rod
    makes me feel safe.
You treat me to a feast,
    while my enemies watch.
You honor me as your guest,
    and you fill my cup
    until it overflows.
Your kindness and love
    will always be with me
    each day of my life,
    and I will live forever
    in your house, Lord.

Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.

A couple of years ago, my brother’s childhood friend, Amy, died suddenly from a head injury that she suffered in a fall.  Her sister asked me to speak at her funeral…to offer some words of comfort to family members and friends.  God led me to the 23rd Psalm. 

We all know this passage.  You can probably recite at least most of it from heart.  “The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not want.”  But look at how this translation explains that sentence. 

“YOU Lord, are my shepherd…I will never be in need.”  Let this concept “soak in” for a bit.

”I may walk through valleys as dark as death, but I won’t be afraid. You are with me, and your shepherd’s rod makes me feel safe.” Consider these words as you wrestle with the challenges and scary situations in your own life – or that of someone you love.
 
“Your kindness and love will always be with me each day of my life…” Imagine the arm of Jesus enveloping you as you take each and every daily step.  Feel His loving presence in each breath you take…welcome His kindness even when your world seems to be crumbling around you.

I went through “The 23rd Psalm” line by line at Amy’s funeral and detailed how the words related to God’s care for her – and for each of us.  In doing so, I gained a new perspective on these words and how much God loves us.  I was reminded to worry less, and trust God more…because He truly IS meeting our every need, whether we recognize it or not.

My prayer today is that we would embrace the words of Psalm 23 and take them to heart…that we really would begin to believe in God’s presence and care and grow in confidence that He will always be with us…that we have nothing to fear…that we are safe in the love and kindness of His powerful – yet gentle – arms.  The Lord IS my shepherd, and I will never be in need.  Do you believe this?  Isn’t it time you did?
   
©2015 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for November 11, 2015

Psalm 138:8
When I walk into the thick of trouble,
    keep me alive in the angry turmoil.
With one hand
    strike my foes,
With your other hand
    save me.
Finish what you started in me, God.
    Your love is eternal—don’t quit on me now.

Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugeterson.  Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO.  All rights reserved.

In the last week or so, we have had a couple of weather fronts that brought some fairly gusty winds. The leaves, dried from weeks of drought-like conditions, “rained” down on the yards and roofs and coated the landscape like an autumnal blanket. So this morning, in anticipation of yet another weather system, Greg used his leaf blower to move the “blanket” from our yard to the woods surrounding our house and into piles that will be collected by the city street department.

Nine years ago, we walked the land where our house now sits and “brainstormed” about how and where to place our new home.  The lot was thick with underbrush and covered in trees, and as we walked from the street inward, Greg often led the way and pushed limbs and thorns aside for me and created a safe pathway.  The “reward” at the back side of the lot was a bluff that overlooked the river below… with vistas that stretched for miles in one direction and surprised us with a view of the lake and dam in another. 

We knew that clearing this lot and building our home would be a lot of work…and there were challenges to overcome - and a few setbacks.  But we could not stop.  We had to keep going.  And as I looked out on the valley below us this morning - dressed in hues of yellow, red, green and brown, and teeming with birds, squirrels, and other wildlife - I was happy that we finished what we started…that we persevered to make this spot our home.

When I first read Psalm 138:8, I immediately had the visual of walking through the woods behind someone who pushed away limbs and briars…a protector who slashed the tall weeds and cleared a path for me.  This is how I see God.  He clears the pathways.  He knocks down the obstacles and handles the worries.  And my “reward” at the end is a breathtaking “view” of my Heavenly Father in all of His glory.  I know that God will finish what He started in me…that He will never give up or leave me trailing behind to wade in the weeds and thorns by myself.

Like leaves that “rain” down on the earth during a fall rain storm, worries and troubles come to all of us.  I’m trusting God to clear them all away for me, in His perfect timing – and according to His impeccable plans for me…always and forever.  What about you?

©2015 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for November 9, 2015

Proverbs 12:25
Worry weighs us down;
    a cheerful word picks us up.

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.

About 20 years ago, the father of a young man who was our youth pastor suffered a heart attack and died.  Several church members traveled to another state to attend the funeral and support this young man and his family during their time of grief.  After the service, one of these members told the young man, “Son, it’s going to get a whole lot worse before it gets better.”  Later, the youth minister said to me, “WHY would anyone say that to me?  That was NOT what I needed to hear!”  All I could do was shake my head, say I was sorry, and tell him that I had no clue what would cause someone to say such a thing.  In all honesty, it would have been better if that “brother in Christ” had stayed home!

Let’s be real…what the man said may have very well been true…but did it help this person to heal from his grief?  Did it offer hope and a promise of better days?  What would have been wrong with saying, “Give yourself time…things WILL get better”…or “We’re gonna help you get through today…and tomorrow, we’ll do it again.”  Where was the testimony that God grants us peace and helps us to heal from sadness and sorrow?

And where in your daily conversation, are you the “Grand Master of Gloom and Doom?”  Do you see the world as a “glass half empty?”  Or is your “glass” half full?  Because EVERYONE has worries and concerns.  No one is immune to problems,  stresses and challenges.  But we Christians are supposed to have a built-in support system in form of the Holy Spirit!  We are supposed to trust that the God we serve is bigger than any of our struggles…that there is no mountain too high for Him to climb…no grief too big for Him to manage and comfort…no disease that He cannot heal…and no problem that He cannot solve.

I don’t mean to imply that we should be phonies…that there are not times in all of our lives when “the chips are down,” and we can’t help but show it.  But when we hang out in the “Land of Worries and Negativity” or enjoy a pity party just a tad too long or too often, we totally blow our demonstration of the power, strength, grace and mercy that we claim to have through Jesus Christ.  When we offer others pitiful consolation, as this church member did for a grieving young man, we have failed miserably to be a light for Christ!

Let’s ALL check our thoughts and actions and see where we have let worry and pessimism creep into our vocabulary and our demonstrations.  Let’s ask God to help us get back on track…to project a genuine hope and encouragement based in personal experience that God is able to do…” far more than you could ever imagine or guess or request in your wildest dreams!”(Ephesians 3:20)  Let’s operate in encouragement rather than worry - and be living examples of the hope of Jesus in motion.  I’m ready to give it a whirl…are you?

©2015 Debbie Robus 

Daily Devotional for November 6, 2015

Philippians 4:13
…for I can do everything God asks me to with the help of Christ who gives me the strength and power.

The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

I’ve been working on a lesson for 4th and 5th graders for this Sunday, and the objective is that “Jesus still has the power to perform miracles today as we pray.”  There are several activities that we will conduct during the class to demonstrate how there are things that we cannot do under our own power – and how Jesus can “make a way where we see none.”   I’m not necessarily talking about physical actions, like walking on water…but more the miracles and “intangible” thoughts and experiences that Jesus helps us with each day.

In our lifetimes, we will all encounter situations and circumstances that seem impossible to handle…setbacks, illnesses, the death of loved ones, disappointments.  We will all face challenges…from how to get up and speak in front of a group when we are scared stiff to trepidation about traveling in bad weather…to passing that chemistry test that has us worried sick or surviving a baby’s bout with colic on little to no sleep…to starting a new job, class, or small group.  There will be times when we have no clue about how we are to proceed – or what decision is the right one.  There will be nights when sleep doesn’t come…and days that we think won’t ever end.  And Jesus can help us with all of them.

Sunday, I hope that the children will learn more about the power of prayer and how to keep Jesus close at all times.  We will hopefully gain a better understanding of his strength and power…and a key point in this scripture - that Jesus strengthens and empowers us to do all that God desires for us.  In other words, there will be times when we do not get the wishes of our heart…because they don’t line up with God’s plans.  But when we learn to trust Jesus’ answers and recognize that His guidance is perfect, we confidently operate in His power and find lasting peace.

This is one of my favorite Bible verses.  I know that God’s plans for my life are perfect.   When I listen for His voice and follow His lead, I know that the power of Jesus Christ through His Holy Spirit will always guide me to the right answers - and protect me perfectly.  With Christ’s strength and power, I truly can do everything that God asks me to do.  What about you?

©2015 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for October 28, 2015

John 16:33     
I have told you all this so that you will have peace of heart and mind. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows; but cheer up, for I have overcome the world.”

The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of TyndalePublishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

I will tell you, I have almost stopped watching the news.  Everywhere you turn, there are heartbreaks and heartaches…wars, mistreatment of others, and injustice and indignities that at least ought to curl our hair!  Just in the last few days, I have learned of the death of two 15-year-old football players in a nearby town – the result of a car accident that left four others injured (some critically).  I’ve heard about several people who have cancer or serious illnesses and injuries, the incredible mistreatment of a misbehaving teenage girl in a South Carolina classroom, and the ravages of war in the Middle East. 

It’s enough to make us nauseous…to cause us to throw up our hands and ask, “LORD…where have You gone?”  And the short answer is, “Nowhere!  I’m still right here.”  So this begs the question…”Why?”  And John 16:33 provides the answer.  Jesus has overcome the world.  The things that rattle our cages and upset us…the words and actions that dare to rip out our hearts and cause us to doubt and become discouraged…are all part and parcel of this earthly – and often evil – world.  And Jesus overcame them all.  He died on the cross and took sin upon Himself, so that we have the chance to leave all of this behind someday…and bask in His glory in Paradise.

I don’t mean to sound the “Gloom and Doom Alarm!”  There ARE good things happening in this earthly life.  We just have to dig a little deeper sometimes to find them.  Just today, I attended the adoption hearing for a toddler placed in foster care with a family who is “like family” to Greg and me.  In his closing statements, the judge noted that he and his co-workers see and hear terrible things in the courtroom…stories of abuse, neglect and horrific injustices.  And he stated that days like these are a joy to them.  To see a child who is so obviously loved and well-attended…who is thriving in her new environment and has every prospect of a wonderful and happy life…gives them hope and renews their efforts to serve all children.

And so it is with us. This verse in John 16 should serve to bolster our courage and our hope. Our faith should be renewed, and we should be reminded to worry less and pray more - to allow the Savior who has conquered this world to handle it and the challenges that are offered…because He truly can! 

I cannot say that I am not affected by the trials and sorrows of this earthly life, because as a human being, I simply am.  But I can give them to God to handle and trust Him to do so.  I can live in faith and joy that my future – the one that really matters – is secure, peaceful and perfect.  I can cheer up…and spread the Good News.  And so can you!

©2015 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for October 27, 2015

John 14:26-27
But when the Father sends the Comforter instead of me—and by the Comforter I mean the Holy Spirit—he will teach you much, as well as remind you of everything I myself have told you.

“I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart! And the peace I give isn’t fragile like the peace the world gives. So don’t be troubled or afraid.

The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of TyndalePublishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

We’re headed toward that time of year when we start to think a lot about gifts…as in “What will I get XYZ for Christmas?” Retailers are more than ready to offer suggestions about how we should spend our money – and what would be the best present for Grandma or Jimmy!  Often, we are encouraged to give something expendable…food, cologne and toiletries, candles and room fragrances, or coloring/activity books and art supplies that are quickly used, so that there is a built-in urge to buy more!

I like to give lasting gifts…a keepsake that someone will treasure for a long time.  A couple of years ago, my cousin Natalie gave me a leather bracelet for my birthday that says, “only love today.”  It’s a reminder that God is with me…that for this day, He wants me to focus on operating in love.  This is also a subtle reminder that we are only to concern ourselves with one day at a time.  I wear this bracelet almost every day, and it does indeed remind me that God’s Holy Spirit is with me, guiding me to walk in love.  It also reminds me of my sweet cousin and our special bond.

Another lasting gift is my wedding band.  I have worn it for more than 41 years now, and it reminds me of the promises that Greg and I have made…and of how much we love each other.  When I look at that gold band, I am comforted by the peace of our enduring love and commitment to each other.  Whether we are together or not, I feel Greg’s presence and devotion every single moment.

The Holy Spirit is not something that we wear like a bracelet or a wedding band, but His presence in our heart is no less profound or impactful.  God’s Holy Spirit is most certainly not an expendable gift, like food or perfume.  His is the gentle voice you hear suggesting that you take this path or that…reminding you to be still and “let it go”…calming you in the midst of something that has you in a tizzy or a major panic. His peace is everlasting…not like the momentary relief or exhilaration that we feel after a happy incident.

The peace of the Holy Spirit is that inner calm that says, “You can do this!  You’ve got this!  I’m right here beside you, and everything will be okay.”  The peace of the Holy Spirit allows us to be calm in the face of adversity…to say, “This is going to be okay” – and mean it!  Does this mean there will never be times of temporary panic…that we will not be affected by grief, pain and suffering…that we won’t ever experience troubles?  Absolutely not!

But when we “wear” the Holy Spirit in our hearts and listen for His voice, we always feel God’s presence.  We know that He is working – often behind the scenes – to make a way where we cannot see one.  We understand that God wants us to put one foot in front of the other and keep walking…and to know that He will carry us when the steps are too difficult.  He wants us to “be still and know” that He is God…and to experience lasting peace that only He can give.

I still give baked goods and “temporary” gifts to others…and there is no such thing as a “bad gift” shared in the spirit of love.  But the best gift we’ll ever receive is Salvation in Jesus Christ… the presence of His Holy Spirit that follows…and the peace that He brings. Have you received this gift for yourself?  Isn’t it time that you did?  Ask Jesus to forgive your sins…to be the LORD and Savior of your life…and then invite His Holy Spirit to dwell in your heart.  Call on Him by saying, “Come, Holy Spirit!”…and welcome the peace that He brings forever and ever.
 
©2015 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for October 25, 2015

Jeremiah 29:11
For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord. They are plans for good and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.

The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

This morning, I filled in for the teacher of the 2nd-3rd graders at Sunday school.  Our lesson was on making good choices…and the introductory premise was that even though it seems like “bad people” often “get away with murder”…while “good people” are allowed to suffer and struggle.  But this is not God’s plan at all.  The children were encouraged to continue to make good choices…to ask, “What would Jesus do?” - and to follow His example.  They were reminded that those who “suffer” with Jesus will be rewarded.

It’s especially hard for seven and eight-year-olds to understand how they are to continue to obey, serve, and trust God in all things when they see people around them who behave badly and seem to be rewarded.  There is a tremendous challenge in convincing these youngsters that “God wins in the end” – and those who serve with Him win also.  It’s hard for us as adults to understand this, too!  There are times when we are all tempted to cut corners or “go with the flow” - and just hope that we don’t get caught!

But as I pointed out this morning, God always knows everything!  I shared with them a story of an embarrassing experience I had in high school when a friend approached me one day with a very long snake.  The snake was dead, but I didn’t know that – and it really didn’t matter.  He knew how frightened I was of snakes, and his very intention was to scare the bejeepers out of me!  And it worked!  I took off running – in a new dress and wedge sandals - and I fell and probably landed with my skirt up over my head! 

My first, second and third thoughts were of revenge…and several mutual friends and I concocted a plot to sneak up behind this boy as he played the piano for our church youth choir and snip off his long, curly hair.  That would teach him!  When I shared this with the children this morning, there were chants of “Yeah! Yeah! Yeah!  Please tell us you did it!”  Well, I didn’t – much to their chagrin - and I am glad.  The boy had apologized, and while I felt at the time that he was not sincere, my misdeed would not have served any purpose.  We talked about the potential outcomes of such an action…loss of a friendship…further retaliation…serious trouble with adults.  In the end, I told the children I had something of a “WWJD moment.”

I also shared with the children that I can look back over my life and see how some who have mistreated me don’t seem to have had as many blessings in their life as I have experienced.  I’m not saying that God punished them directly for their bad behavior…but I do believe that He planned all along for my life – and my blessings.  And because of the ways that I have tried to honor Him in several instances, I believe the tide has turned in my favor as a result. 

I also pointed out that our definition of “good” is not the same as God’s.  This does not mean that we will live in mansions and drive fancy cars and, as one boy put it…”have MILLIONS of dollars!” What God feels is in our best interest may remain a mystery to us for a long time…maybe our entire earthly lifetime!  It may seem like God allows one bad thing after another to happen to us…but all the while, we may be missing the blessings and positive results that He is enacting as a result of our misfortune or suffering.

In the end, I believe this verse from Jeremiah 29 is profoundly important for us as Christians.  It is a hallmark of what God promises to each of us who “make good choices” and stay in the right “lane” - those who ask each and every day, “What would Jesus do?” and act accordingly.  I cling to this promise…I live in the hope that EVERYTHING that God has planned for me is perfect – even when I can’t see it.  I trust that for every blessing I experience along this journey called Life, God is waiting for me at the “Finish Line” with more rewards than I can possibly count…much less carry!  I’m trusting His plans…are you?

©2015 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for October 24, 2015

James 1:19-24
Dear brothers, don’t ever forget that it is best to listen much, speak little, and not become angry; for anger doesn’t make us good, as God demands that we must be.

So get rid of all that is wrong in your life, both inside and outside, and humbly be glad for the wonderful message we have received, for it is able to save our souls as it takes hold of our hearts.

And remember, it is a message to obey, not just to listen to. So don’t fool yourselves. For if a person just listens and doesn’t obey, he is like a man looking at his face in a mirror; as soon as he walks away, he can’t see himself anymore or remember what he looks like.

The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

“When your mouth is open, your ears are closed.”  This was the “pearl of wisdom” our football coach, Isaac Witt, gave my 7th grade science class in 1970. Believe it or not, I never forgot those words.  I can’t say I always practice them…but I do remember them! 

While listening is terribly important…obedience is even more vital.  So when God tells us to do something – or not to do it – and we go right ahead with our plans, we can’t expect things to go smoothly.  This is where we often set ourselves up for unnecessary worries.  Who among us wants to be constantly looking over his/her shoulder…endlessly replaying what was said and done - and wondering what the ramifications will be?  That is no way to live!  Yet this is how many of us go through life…we speak now and worry later about how it our words and actions are received/interpreted.

Here’s the thing…every single one of us has wanted to lash out at someone else at one time or another.  We have wanted to offer the “snappy comeback”…to get even or seek revenge.  We’ve wanted to give at least one person “a good piece of our mind!”  But remember the words of Jesus…”love others as much as you love yourself.” (Matthew 22:29CEV)  Remember how it feels to be on the receiving end of such delivery…and consider your words and actions in light of your Christian discipleship.

At the heart of our Christian faith, each one of us wants God’s approval…we want to do what is right and good. We want to trust Him completely - and to leave the heavy lifting to Him.  But there are days when life (and the devil) gets the best of us…and we retaliate.  Our mouths open and our ears close…to those around us – and to God Himself. 

Today is the day to open our ears…our hearts…our minds…and to listen to God’s word and will for our lives.  This is truly the time to “let go and let God” – in every situation and circumstance…to remember Whose we are, and what we look like as new creatures in Christ.  Take a good long look in the mirror and imprint on your heart the image that God has of you as His redeemed, beloved child.  The time has come to get busy living up to His expectations!  Are you ready to begin?

©2015 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for October 17, 2015

Isaiah 40:31
but those who hope in the Lord
    will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles;
    they will run and not grow weary,
    they will walk and not be faint.

The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

This passage has had special meaning for me since the early 1980s, when my mother asked me to design a cross-stitch pattern to include these words. I can’t remember if she stitched it or I did, but the piece was framed and hangs above her desk today. 

This verse is a favorite for many and was even featured in the movie, “Chariots of Fire*,” which tells the true story of two British athletes who competed in the 1924 Summer Olympics in Paris.  Harold Abrahams – a Jew – was set to run against Eric Liddell, known as the “Flying Scotsman,” in the 100-meter race.  However, Liddell discovered that the race was to be held on Sunday, and this conflicted with his Christian convictions to keep the Sabbath for worship. 

Arrangements were made for Liddell to switch and run in a 400-meter race on another day of the week…and he was given little hope of doing well in a sprint four times the distance with which he was familiar.  On the Sunday of the 100-meter race, Liddell delivered a sermon at the Paris Church of Scotland, in which he cited Isaiah 40:31.  And the following Tuesday, Liddell ran the race of his life, defeated all other runners in the “400,” and won the gold medal.  In the movie, a friend is shown handing Liddell a piece of paper before the start of the race that contained a scripture verse from 1 Samuel 2:30 and reminded him…“He that honors me, I will honor.”  

When I read Isaiah 40:31 today, I picture the scenes in “Chariots of Fire” where Liddell is racing down the beach with a sense of peace and complete abandon – and the victory scene when he completes his race in the Olympic Stadium of Colombes. Now, when I read this verse, I not only think of my mother’s needlework piece…I also envision the runners in the 1924 Olympics – and I am reminded of the steadfast faith and courage of Eric Liddell.

What does this mean for you and me today?  I believe that Liddell’s character in “Chariots of Fire” said this best...” I want to compare faith to running in a race. It's hard. It requires concentration of will, energy of soul. You experience elation when the winner breaks the tape - especially if you've got a bet on it. But how long does that last? You go home. Maybe your dinner's burnt. Maybe you haven't got a job. So who am I to say, ‘Believe, have faith,’ in the face of life's realities? I would like to give you something more permanent, but I can only point the way. I have no formula for winning the race. Everyone runs in her own way, or his own way. And where does the power come from, to see the race to its end? From within. Jesus said, ‘Behold, the Kingdom of God is within you. If with all your hearts, you truly seek me, you shall ever surely find me.’ If you commit yourself to the love of Christ, then that is how you run a straight race.”

We are all in a “race” today.  Are you soaring on the wings of eagles and trusting God to carry you when you are too weak to continue?  Are you honoring God by your efforts…by your steadfast faith in Him to see you through anything and everything?  Isn’t it time you were?  Will this be the day that you allow God to power your race?  Don’t you think it should be?

©2015 Debbie Robus

* Chariots of Fire - http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0082158/

Daily Devotional for October 14, 2015

Galatians 6:9
Don’t get tired of helping others. You will be rewarded when the time is right, if you don’t give up.

Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.

When my Mam-ma Polly was well into her nineties, she still did more for others than most people I knew.  There was always room for one more at her table.  She prayed for others and attended as many church services and events as possible.  I still remember one fall when I took silk flowers and “fall fabric” and decorations to her so that she and her friend Ruby (also in her nineties) could decorate a booth for their church’s fall festival/fundraiser.  She was forever “seeing after” a neighbor or friend.

Of course, because Mam-ma no longer could drive, she often asked me (or someone from her church) to make her deliveries for her.  I remember once when she made vegetable soup for a cousin who was not well, and I asked her why she thought SHE needed to do this.  She said, “Well, I think of all that this family has done for me, and I just have to do this for them.”  What goes around…comes around!

I find that a lot of the things that my grandmother did for other people are resulting in blessings for me and my family even now…some 2½ years after her passing.  People will comment about her generosity…her faith and strength…her goodness.  As they tend to us and do kind things for us…pray for us and encourage us in our daily living, I see the rewards that are a direct result of my grandmother’s perseverance to help others.  She left a legacy that has not gone unnoticed.

My grandmother taught me so much…but one of her unending lessons was that of doing for others.  My mother offers this same example in many ways, and they are being returned to her now, as she faces a major illness.  In the words attributed to John Wesley, these Godly examples have shown us how to… “Do all the good you can, by all the means you can, in all the ways you can, in all the places you can, at all the times you can, to all the people you can, as long as ever you can.”

These are sound words to live by, regardless of who said them…and my mother and grandmother – and other people of faith in my circle of influence – have given me plenty of examples of how to do this – and the rewards that are produced. Even if we were never rewarded (which is pretty impossible), we should do this because God has called us to serve in whatever way we can – whenever we can.  We should do this out of a deep desire to honor Him and all of the ways that He blesses us each and every day.

I am determined to push forward…to quit worrying about when it is “my turn” and focus on the missions at hand.  Perhaps those who come after me will reap the rewards of my efforts.  Either way, I know that God is calling me to never grow weary of helping others.  What about you?

©2015 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for July 3, 2012

James 1:5-8
If you don't know what you're doing, pray to the Father. He loves to help. You'll get his help, and won't be condescended to when you ask for it. Ask boldly, believingly, without a second thought. People who "worry their prayers" are like wind-whipped waves. Don't think you're going to get anything from the Master that way, adrift at sea, keeping all your options open.

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 sister was approached recently by someone who asked, “Does God answer your prayers?” The answer was “Yes.” The person asking questions followed with, “Well, just how long does it take?” My sister tried to explain that some prayers are answered right away, while some answers take longer… even days/weeks/years. The lady asking the questions said something to the effect of, “Oh! I can’t wait that long! I need my answer within fifteen minutes!”

I’m afraid we are all like this much of the time. We ask for what we think we can get - or feel we desperately need. We hesitate to ask God for some things, fearing He will think less of us for asking. And in all prayers, we are often impatient for an outcome. When we don’t get instant answers, we “worry our prayers” … repeat them… stew about whether – or how – God might be planning to answer. And I have to believe that all the while, God is just shaking His head in frustration.

I am still often confounded by God’s timing – because I am impatient. But as I learn to trust His answers and outcomes, I am no longer surprised them. I am still occasionally caught off guard by His delivery. Let’s just call these “pleasant surprises.” It’s not that I didn’t expect God to answer. But as I release my worries to Him, I give them to Him in faith. So when He does deliver, I feel like, “Oh! That’s great!” I knew an answer was coming…but I had stopped trying to orchestrate the arrival time and date!

Understand this… no prayer or thought is too big or too small for God. Trust Him in all things – in all sizes. Never hesitate to talk to God about anything. There is a difference between bringing concerns and praises before God over and again… and brow-beating Him in an effort to get an answer. In other words, praying for someone who is ill on a daily basis is not the same as saying, “LORD, I asked You to heal Tom… did you HEAR me?” The former speaks to what – and who – is on your heart. The latter reveals our impatience and lack of faith in God to answer. Believe me… HE knows when and how the outcome should be delivered!

The best summary I can offer for this passage today is to calm down and rest in the LORD. Talk to God about everything, without any fear of retribution or ridicule. Then trust Him to answer… when the time is right… in the most perfect way. As this passage says, stop “worrying your prayers.” Never give them a second thought. Assume that God heard you the first time… because He did… and move forward in confidence that His answer is on the way.

©2012 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for June 15, 2012

Matthew 6:25-34
"If you decide for God, living a life of God-worship, it follows that you don't fuss about what's on the table at mealtimes or whether the clothes in your closet are in fashion. There is far more to your life than the food you put in your stomach, more to your outer appearance than the clothes you hang on your body. Look at the birds, free and unfettered, not tied down to a job description, careless in the care of God. And you count far more to him than birds.

"Has anyone by fussing in front of the mirror ever gotten taller by so much as an inch? All this time and money wasted on fashion—do you think it makes that much difference? Instead of looking at the fashions, walk out into the fields and look at the wildflowers. They never primp or shop, but have you ever seen color and design quite like it? The ten best-dressed men and women in the country look shabby alongside them.

"If God gives such attention to the appearance of wildflowers—most of which are never even seen—don't you think he'll attend to you, take pride in you, do his best for you? What I'm trying to do here is to get you to relax, to not be so preoccupied with getting, so you can respond to God's giving. People who don't know God and the way he works fuss over these things, but you know both God and how he works. Steep your life in God-reality, God-initiative, God-provisions. Don't worry about missing out. You'll find all your everyday human concerns will be met.

"Give your entire attention to what God is doing right now, and don't get worked up about what may or may not happen tomorrow. God will help you deal with whatever hard things come up when the time comes.

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 mom took her mother to the doctor once, and my grandmother announced that she would never return to that particular physician. When Mom questioned her, my grandmother said, “He wasn’t a real doctor… he didn’t wear a white coat or a tie.” Years later, my dad’s mother complained to me about another doctor… “He didn’t even touch me.” Do you see the difference? In reference to one of her caregivers, I recently told my grandmother, “I don’t care if she wears a clown wig and a red nose… if she takes good care of you, nothing else matters!”

We are so obsessed with appearances and STUFF. We care about the wrong things. We rush from one thing to the next and never notice the intricacies of how God knit together the feathers on a bird… how He gave spiders the ability to create the most spectacular woven creations… how the body of a tiny baby is perfectly formed – a miniature of our own larger selves. Worry is one of the devil’s biggest tools… and he surely knows how to use it!

But God is the King of “worry-busters.” If we trust Him in everything, He will handle it all, starting with the small stuff. Even those of us who trust Him for big things often forget this and begin to stress out over things like how we look, what we drive, how much money we make, and more. We focus more on what we don’t have than how much God has blessed us.

This is not a license to stop caring… to let yourself go and become a slob or a bum. God wants us to use what He has given us to the best of our ability - and represent Him well. But that doesn’t mean we will all look like cover models or superstars. Can I tell you something? The most attractively dressed person is the one who exudes faith, confidence, grace, joy, and love. We all know someone who is universally loved and respected – and looks less than perfect… and it doesn’t matter one whit! In fact, we really don’t even think about his/her looks. We’re too busy enjoying this person’s company and admiring him/her for making the most of God’s gifts.

Let’s face it… worry is excess baggage that we need to remove. Can we set it down, once and for all, and make this the day we start to fully operate in faith that God will meet our needs? Can we truly “let go and let God?” Can we recognize that our God, Who cares about the least wildflower in the field - or the tiniest bird in the air - cares deeply for each of us, as well? It is time to step away from the mirror and trust God to “cloak you in beauty.”

Let’s stop worrying about the “white coat and tie” and focus on the “touch.” The time has come for us to step up and be who God called us to be – and to trust Him to meet ALL of our needs. Are you ready to take this leap of faith?

©2012 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for March 17, 2012

Philippians 4:6-7
Don't fret or worry. Instead of worrying, pray. Let petitions and praises shape your worries into prayers, letting God know your concerns. Before you know it, a sense of God's wholeness, everything coming together for good, will come and settle you down. It's wonderful what happens when Christ displaces worry at the center of your life.

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 don’t know about you, but when I do “mindless” tasks like vacuuming or scrubbing the shower - and I have quiet time to think - my mind often races to some pretty crazy places. If I’m not careful, I can allow the devil to capture my thoughts. He will take me to places of worry… why does one person behave this way or that? Why did I say or do such a dumb thing? What if this or that happens? What will I do when I get too old to vacuum and scrub the shower? I know, I know… it’s all pretty ridiculous… and then I am mad at myself for allowing these thoughts to consume my time.

I’ve learned to begin my housekeeping and other “quiet time” chores with a conscious effort to pray through them. Instead of letting the devil control the “inner conversation,” I hold a discussion with God. Oh, sure… He already knows everything I’m thinking and feeling – and exactly what I will say to Him. But He listens anyway. In return, He calms me. He takes my “worries” and says, “I’ll handle these,” and I am free to fill my heart with His joy, grace, mercy and peace.

The more I understand about worry, the more it makes me angry when I succumb to this emotion for even a few minutes. Besides fear, I think the devil must utilize worry about as often as anything to trip us up and trouble us with frustration and a lack of faith. And I will tell you that it is incredibly easy to fall into his trap and develop a good case of the “worries” before you even know what hit you! But we must fight this. Our life in Christ should have no room for worry… but our prayer life should be filled with moments where we hand our worries to God and allow Him to handle them. And this is key… we must hand them off – and let them go!

The way I see it, we have a 50-50 proposition here. We can let the devil control us and allow worry to fester and grow within us, or we can give our worries to God in faith-filled prayer… and trust His outcome. The former will leave us feeling unsettled and unsure, if not downright miserable. The latter can result in everlasting peace. Now which one of these options sounds better to you?

©2012 Debbie Robus

Psalm 118:5-7
When I was really hurting, I prayed to the LORD. He answered my prayer, and took my worries away. The LORD is on my side, and I am not afraid of what others can do to me. With the LORD on my side, I will defeat all of my hateful enemies.

Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.

A few weeks ago, I was very worried about a specific situation. I prayed… hard… and asked God to take this burden… to give me peace. But the devil was having such a good time making me miserable… and he kept bringing up troubling thoughts. “What if this...? What if that happens? Did you think about such-and such?” I begged God for a specific outcome… MY will, I knew - but I asked that it be His, also.

In the end, I humbled myself – quite literally on my knees – and tearfully told God, “Okay. If your will is not mine, then You have to make this okay. You have to protect those involved and fix this situation… because I cannot!” And I got up and walked away, leaving my burdens and the devil for God to wrestle. I continued to pray… and I won’t say I didn’t grieve over the situation at times in the days that followed. But I was done worrying and being afraid.

I have to tell you, this was huge for me… a lesson I have had to experience many times in recent years. This either makes me a slow learner or human – or both! But each time, I feel I grow a little in my faith and my walk with God… and the pain and worry don’t consume me like they once did. And they don’t stick around nearly as long now, either. I’m not “there” yet… but I’m on my way.

What about you? Is God dealing with your enemies and defeating them for you? Is he answering your prayers and taking your worries… and are you truly praying with confidence that He can and will do this? Whose side are you on… and who is on your side? Choose God. Let Him fight your battles. Trust Him for the outcome… and let the worries go. I know it isn’t easy… but He will make it all okay. Don’t trust me on this… trust GOD… and allow Him to do exactly what He has promised.

©2011 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for April 17, 2011

Psalm 77:2-15
I found myself in trouble and went looking for my Lord; my life was an open wound that wouldn't heal. When friends said, "Everything will turn out all right," I didn't believe a word they said.

I remember God—and shake my head. I bow my head—then wring my hands. I'm awake all night—not a wink of sleep; I can't even say what's bothering me.

I go over the days one by one, I ponder the years gone by. I strum my lute all through the night, wondering how to get my life together.

Will the Lord walk off and leave us for good? Will he never smile again? Is his love worn threadbare? Has his salvation promise burned out? Has God forgotten his manners? Has he angrily stalked off and left us? "Just my luck," I said. "The High God goes out of business just the moment I need him."

Once again I'll go over what GOD has done, lay out on the table the ancient wonders; I'll ponder all the things you've accomplished, and give a long, loving look at your acts. O God! Your way is holy! No god is great like God! You're the God who makes things happen; you showed everyone what you can do— You pulled your people out of the worst kind of trouble, rescued the children of Jacob and Joseph.

Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.

Recently someone said something to me that caused me to question myself. The person expressed an opinion about how I had handled a business matter, and all of a sudden, I was filled with doubt. I thought I had done the right thing… in fact, I was sure of it. Yet the comments of one person caused me to second-guess what I already knew.

I shared the conversation with my husband, and he said, “That’s only one person’s opinion.” I reviewed some written guidelines I had been given and found that I had complied with all of them. Yet I was bothered for several hours by this encounter… until I realized that I was wasting time… and Satan was laughing. Then I got mad… and I spent some time in prayer and got over myself!

For the record, I wasn’t mad at the person with whom I spoke… or even the devil for causing me some angst. It was more a case of being mad at myself for allowing this! When I first felt unsettled about the conversation, I should have stopped everything and talked to God about it. And God tried to use my husband to tell me I was wasting time. But I still had to wring my hands for awhile and go over some scenarios in my head for how to fix things.

Here’s the deal… the next time frustration, doubt and second-guessing about anything creeps into your thought process – even something seemingly insignificant or of a highly secular manner – STOP WHAT YOU ARE DOING and PRAY! Remind yourself that God never stops working on your behalf. He always has your back. He is the God who makes things happen and pulls people out of the worst kind of trouble. Surely He can manage the doubt and worry the devil wants to give you! Don’t you think God could do a better job than you could of handling such things? Shouldn’t you at least give Him a try and find out for yourself?

©2011 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for April 16, 2011

Proverbs 12:25
Worry is a heavy burden, but a kind word always brings cheer.

Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.

Legendary news anchor Barbara Walters says that when she underwent open heart surgery last year, she recalls that she was not anxious (worried) as she was wheeled into the operating room. She thought to herself… “If I die on the operating table, I won’t know it.” If only it were always that simple to free ourselves of worry and anxiety! This scripture is right… worry is a heavy burden… and Satan makes sure most of us get a big dose of it daily.

We worry about everything from the weather to tests to whether or not our jeans will fit or we will have the right outfit for an upcoming event. We worry about big things in our lives… and the seemingly insignificant ones, as well. Many of us carry the burden of worry like a badge of honor. We’ve made a career out of brooding over worries.

God wants us to give our worries to Him. He wants us to lighten up… to be more trusting and faithful in His ability to work and bring about good in our lives. And He wants us to share that positive energy and outlook with others. We must offer a word of cheer and encouragement whenever we can, to lighten the burden of worry for the other guy.

Worry and anxiety truly do not change the outcome… but God does! The sooner we learn to rest in God and give Him control over our lives, the sooner we can become a cheerleader for others… and encourage them to do the same. Worry is a tool of the devil… designed to drag us down and keep us from experiencing the richest blessings of God. Are you really going to let him have that sort of satisfaction? Isn’t today a good day to “cast all your cares upon the LORD” and let Him do His job? Let’s focus on being the cheerleader instead of the worry-wort. Let’s see what amazing things God has in store for us when we let Him handle our day!

©2011 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for February 5, 2011

Psalm 25:17-18, 21
My awful worries keep growing. Rescue me from sadness. See my troubles and misery and forgive my sins.

I obey you with all my heart, and I trust you, knowing that you will save me.

Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.

If fear is one of the devil’s biggest tools, worry is the vehicle in which he delivers it. We worry about everything – what we will wear, who likes us or doesn’t, how we will make a living and put food on the table, what will happen to us when we grow old, and so much more. And I’m sorry to say that I am right there with everyone else much of the time.

I think what makes me the maddest is understanding how much this thrills Satan. I don’t want to give him even a split second of joy. So why can’t I stop worrying? Why can’t you?

Here’s the deal… as long as we let worry have a place in our lives, we have not “let go and let God” have control. Believe me, I know it’s hard. But I am committed to making a change… to surrendering to God’s control and letting him have my worries and any resulting troubles, misery and sadness. As the Apostle Paul pointed out, this will be a “daily surrender,” but I am ready to do whatever it takes… aren’t you?

Let’s make this the year we trust God to save us and put aside our worries. Let’s obey Him with all our heart and feel the joy and peace that can come from resting in His rescue and forgiveness. I’m more than ready for this journey… are you coming with me?

©2011 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for October 22, 2010

Proverbs 3:21-24
My child, use common sense and sound judgment! Always keep them in mind. They will help you to live a long and beautiful life. You will walk safely and never stumble; you will rest without a worry and sleep soundly.

Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.

Insomnia has become a huge problem in recent years for many people. Or maybe we are just more aware of how widespread this problem is for a number of people. In any case, there are now a lot of medications that are reputed to help with insomnia… from Ambien to Lunesta to over-the-counter solutions like Tylenol P.M. and more. Who knew that perhaps one of the best “cures” for insomnia could be found in Proverbs 3 … and why are we surprised?!

“But you don’t have any idea how many worries and stresses I have,” you may be saying. “When my head hits the pillow at night, my mind just races.” I do know… I’ve been there myself.

Proverbs 3:21-24 and scripture passages such as Psalm 127:2, which says in the King James Version…”It is vain for you to rise up early, to sit up late, to eat the bread of sorrows: for so he giveth his beloved sleep,” tell us clearly that God wants us to clear our mind, to give our worries and cares to HIM, and to sleep and rest soundly. I know this is hard… and I’m not saying some of us don’t need a little something to help us over the hump with this from time to time.

I do believe that we often fail to give our worries and burdens, stresses and “busyness” completely to God. We give Him our troubles to hold for a few minutes – and then we pick them back up again. As for common sense and sound judgment, I know firsthand that I make the mistake of failing to consult God often enough… in all situations. How hard would it be to stop and take five seconds to say, “Lord, help me to say the right things,” or to ask, “Lord, what should I do?” Even if you have to put down the phone, or raise your hand and say to someone, “Excuse me for a second,” then close your eyes and silently pray for guidance… imagine how this could affect the outcome!

If we spent more time involving God in our lives and consulting Him about even the smallest choices and decisions, our sleep might be more restful and sound… and come more easily. Our life would most certainly be more beautiful and peaceful, and we would stumble far less often.

My prayer for all of us is that we would commit to involving God more completely in our day-to-day living, and that we would experience more rest and peace in our sleep… and more safety, comfort, and blessings in our very lives. Do you have a few seconds to spare to communicate with God? Are you willing to see what a difference it can make?

©2010 Debbie Robus