Luke 6:35
But love your enemies and be good to them. Lend without expecting to be paid back. Then you will get a great reward, and you will be the true children of God in heaven. He is good even to people who are unthankful and cruel.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I can’t let this day pass without acknowledging two influential women in my life… my cousin, Betty Rhea – whom we later called Granny Betty – and my great-Aunt Zula. Both of these ladies loved with big hearts and had generosity to spare. Granny Betty was a “character” – larger than life with a boisterous, bubbly personality. She never met a stranger, and everyone adored her. Family was top priority with Granny Betty, and she doted on everyone, especially her grandchildren. Aunt Zula was a quiet, orderly school teacher. She devoted her time to her students, her family, and her church… and not necessarily in that order. She was a hard-working Ozark woman with Southern grace and genteel beauty.
While Granny Betty had a quick wit and snappy comebacks that left you laughing and smiling, Aunt Zula had the patience of Job and a low-key – but no less fun - personality. Only once did I ever see her halfway irritated… she felt a cousin had tried to take advantage of her… something that totally ran counter to her moral fortitude.
So what do these two ladies have in common, aside from their love of family, their connection to me, and their Christian faith? In the mid-1990s, Granny Betty suffered a stroke. After her husband died and she could no longer live at home, she lived in a nursing home for nine years, slowly declining until her death on December 21, 2005. Her funeral was held on December 23rd. Aunt Zula’s adult home was in Quitman, Arkansas, and she lived minutes from the school where she taught fourth grade for decades. Old age took its toll on her in recent years, claiming her eyesight, her hearing, and generally wearing out her 91-year-old body. And on December 23, 2009, she became seriously ill. She was rushed to the emergency room at our hospital, where my mom visited with her briefly. Doctors determined there was nothing left to do but keep her comfortable, so she was transported to her home a few hours later. My mom phoned to tell me that Aunt Zula barely got back into her own bed before she passed into Heaven.
If you have ever lost a loved one at Christmas time, you understand that it is almost surreal. People are hurrying and bustling here and there. Most are jolly and upbeat. Many don’t know how to respond to you in your grief… especially at what is supposed to be such a celebratory time. Truthfully, you don’t know what you are supposed to feel, either.
But I have my own theory…
This is the "Season of Giving." And honestly, what greater gift could any of us receive than to get to sit at the feet of Jesus in Heaven?! So my thinking is that Granny Betty and Aunt Zula… and others who have gone before them in the Christmas season… got an extra special Christmas gift! I know they wouldn’t come back for a thousand trees with a zillion gifts piled underneath. I know that they were good to the people around them – they lived big and loved big – and they earned their reward in heaven.
I am not sad as I think of my loved ones who have passed during the holidays… or any of my loved ones who have passed. I know that EVERY day is Christmas for them, because they spend their days with Jesus. My prayer is that we would live in such a way that we are pleasing to God… that we would ove our enemies and be good to all people. We can’t earn the reward of heaven with good deeds, but I would much rather sit at the feet of Jesus knowing I served Him well, wouldn’t you?
Today, thank God for the “Granny Bettys” and “Aunt Zulas” in your life. Thank Him for the love and influence of those who have shown you the example of being good to everyone and “loving big”. Thank Him for the gift of Heaven. And say a prayer for those who are saying a final “Goodbye” to loved ones this holiday season. Ask God to give them His comfort and peace … and to fill their hearts with happy memories of their loved one for Christmases to come.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 22, 2010
Acts 2:42
They spent their time learning from the apostles, and they were like family to each other. They also broke bread and prayed together.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
There have always been people in my “extended family” who were no blood relation. When my sister, brother and I were small, my parents were almost inseparable from another couple with two children our same ages. They were like a brother and sister to us, as were several other children whose parents were in my parents’ close inner circle of friends. And my mother’s childhood friend was forever my “Aunt Martha,” although we were not related by blood. Our close neighbors were like family members, and they shared our joys and our sorrows through the years.
My husband’s family had similar “extended family members”… friends, neighbors… people who were likely to show up at family gatherings, holiday dinners, or any other time when we were all gathered together. And as an adult, some of our dear friends have become “extended family,” as well. For many years, our Christmas festivities included a childhood next-door neighbor who is like a sister to me, her husband and their children. Also often present was a friend of my mother-in-law who had no family members living in this area. And for many years, my parents’ Christmas Eve celebration included friends of ours who had few, if any, relatives living nearby. We made them part of our family.
As years passed, some of my relatives moved away. Many others passed away, and the number of attendees at our holiday gatherings dwindled. But then we began to look around at those who had no relatives – and nowhere to go – and we started to include them in our celebration. We didn’t actively go out looking for “recruits” – it sort of happened naturally… or Supernaturally! And now, our holiday celebrations often include one or two people who are part of our extended family. We don’t love them any less, and we enjoy sharing our table, our gifts, and our company with them.
Our bonds have strengthened over the years, and the extended family members have become special to us. They know that they always have a place at our table and in our homes – during the holidays or any other time. And I am quite sure that this practice will continue in the years ahead. We’ve discovered that we are blessed far more than our guests when we open our hearts – and our homes – to them.
Who in your circle of friends have you overlooked this Christmas? Who has nowhere to go… no Christmas dinner to attend… no stocking on the mantel or even the tiniest package waiting under a tree somewhere? Who could you include in your festivities and offer a few hours of your hospitality – and the love of Christ – this holiday? Have you learned from the apostles and opened your heart and your home to others? Isn’t this a perfect time to begin?
©2010 Debbie Robus
They spent their time learning from the apostles, and they were like family to each other. They also broke bread and prayed together.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
There have always been people in my “extended family” who were no blood relation. When my sister, brother and I were small, my parents were almost inseparable from another couple with two children our same ages. They were like a brother and sister to us, as were several other children whose parents were in my parents’ close inner circle of friends. And my mother’s childhood friend was forever my “Aunt Martha,” although we were not related by blood. Our close neighbors were like family members, and they shared our joys and our sorrows through the years.
My husband’s family had similar “extended family members”… friends, neighbors… people who were likely to show up at family gatherings, holiday dinners, or any other time when we were all gathered together. And as an adult, some of our dear friends have become “extended family,” as well. For many years, our Christmas festivities included a childhood next-door neighbor who is like a sister to me, her husband and their children. Also often present was a friend of my mother-in-law who had no family members living in this area. And for many years, my parents’ Christmas Eve celebration included friends of ours who had few, if any, relatives living nearby. We made them part of our family.
As years passed, some of my relatives moved away. Many others passed away, and the number of attendees at our holiday gatherings dwindled. But then we began to look around at those who had no relatives – and nowhere to go – and we started to include them in our celebration. We didn’t actively go out looking for “recruits” – it sort of happened naturally… or Supernaturally! And now, our holiday celebrations often include one or two people who are part of our extended family. We don’t love them any less, and we enjoy sharing our table, our gifts, and our company with them.
Our bonds have strengthened over the years, and the extended family members have become special to us. They know that they always have a place at our table and in our homes – during the holidays or any other time. And I am quite sure that this practice will continue in the years ahead. We’ve discovered that we are blessed far more than our guests when we open our hearts – and our homes – to them.
Who in your circle of friends have you overlooked this Christmas? Who has nowhere to go… no Christmas dinner to attend… no stocking on the mantel or even the tiniest package waiting under a tree somewhere? Who could you include in your festivities and offer a few hours of your hospitality – and the love of Christ – this holiday? Have you learned from the apostles and opened your heart and your home to others? Isn’t this a perfect time to begin?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 21, 2010
Luke 2:13-17
Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”
When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.”
So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child…
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I love to decorate… and at Christmas, some would say I go nuts! I know there are many who do more than I, but over the years, my collection of Christmas decorations has grown quite a bit. No longer is one tree enough… we have “the big tree,” a smaller one on the piano, a lighted tree on outside on our bluff for others to enjoy… and now, a tree for Timothy that has ornaments with which he is allowed to play. I have Santas, snowmen, lots of greenery and lights… and more than 50 nativity sets that I display together as a collection. Over the years, my students, friends and family members have given me Christmas ornaments for the tree, and I proudly hang every one.
In 36 years of marriage, I think there has been one Christmas that we did not have a tree… and that was because I had undergone surgery, and we were spending the holidays with our parents. I keep many of our “winter” decorations out through much of February so the house doesn’t seem so bare in the cold, bleak months. A couple of years ago, I was packing away the decorations, and I became sad and frustrated. WHY did I do this? Putting it all away was no fun. It took several days. And let’s be honest… putting it out to start with took me two to three days, too. So WHY do it?
I said to myself, “Next year, I won’t do so much. I’ll go through my things and get rid of some of them and pare down.” But when the next year came, Timothy was here, and experiencing Christmas through the eyes of a child is a whole new ball of wax. Even though he was too small to understand, he enjoyed the lights, the sparkle, and the color. My mom came to help me get the tree decorated.
This year, Timothy is old enough to begin to enjoy the ornaments and lights… the nativities, and more. So once again, I got out our decorations and transformed our house into a holiday wonderland. And again, Mom came to help with the big tree. She no longer puts up a tree, since all of our family festivities happen at our house. So we have started a new tradition of trimming the big tree together.
I know many people who no longer decorate, for a variety of reasons… and that’s okay. And yes, we have become too commercialized about Christmas. But look at these verses in Luke again… the angels were celebrating. The shepherds left the manger to celebrate the birth of Christ with others and share this good news. Let’s be honest… at that point, the ramifications of Christ’s birth were not totally clear. Most people did not realize the significance of this event until after Jesus had died on the cross and ascended into heaven.
The point is… as much as Christmas is a celebration of the birth of our risen Savior, it also serves as a reminder of what Jesus taught us – unconditional love for our fellow man, grace, mercy, generosity in giving to others, service, joy, faith, and so much more. And don’t we often seem to be better at putting these things into action during the holidays? We truly celebrate Jesus by making our homes festive… and inviting others to visit. We put up a tree and trim it with lights and sparkling ornaments and create a party atmosphere. We are kinder and gentler with others… more generous. We seem to find more time for parties, celebrations and writing cards… baking treats to share with others… shopping and wrapping gifts.
For a few days/weeks, we at least give ourselves the opportunity to more closely emulate some of the traits Jesus taught us. Oh, sure, some will become stressed and grumpy… some will become “Scrooges” and refuse to participate… but many will transform into totally different people. And maybe… just maybe… some will continue that spirit after the tree is taken to the curb and the decorations are packed away for another year. Maybe the joy and celebration of all that Jesus’ birth represents will be shared for months to come… or even all year long! The first step is to start the party… to deck the halls and celebrate. You don’t have to put up a tree or hang a wreath on the door… all you have to do is “deck your hall” with a smile and a warm heart for those around you!
How will you celebrate this year? Are you ready to “party hearty” in Jesus’ name? Will others notice a difference… and better yet, will you keep His joy going all year long?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”
When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.”
So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child…
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I love to decorate… and at Christmas, some would say I go nuts! I know there are many who do more than I, but over the years, my collection of Christmas decorations has grown quite a bit. No longer is one tree enough… we have “the big tree,” a smaller one on the piano, a lighted tree on outside on our bluff for others to enjoy… and now, a tree for Timothy that has ornaments with which he is allowed to play. I have Santas, snowmen, lots of greenery and lights… and more than 50 nativity sets that I display together as a collection. Over the years, my students, friends and family members have given me Christmas ornaments for the tree, and I proudly hang every one.
In 36 years of marriage, I think there has been one Christmas that we did not have a tree… and that was because I had undergone surgery, and we were spending the holidays with our parents. I keep many of our “winter” decorations out through much of February so the house doesn’t seem so bare in the cold, bleak months. A couple of years ago, I was packing away the decorations, and I became sad and frustrated. WHY did I do this? Putting it all away was no fun. It took several days. And let’s be honest… putting it out to start with took me two to three days, too. So WHY do it?
I said to myself, “Next year, I won’t do so much. I’ll go through my things and get rid of some of them and pare down.” But when the next year came, Timothy was here, and experiencing Christmas through the eyes of a child is a whole new ball of wax. Even though he was too small to understand, he enjoyed the lights, the sparkle, and the color. My mom came to help me get the tree decorated.
This year, Timothy is old enough to begin to enjoy the ornaments and lights… the nativities, and more. So once again, I got out our decorations and transformed our house into a holiday wonderland. And again, Mom came to help with the big tree. She no longer puts up a tree, since all of our family festivities happen at our house. So we have started a new tradition of trimming the big tree together.
I know many people who no longer decorate, for a variety of reasons… and that’s okay. And yes, we have become too commercialized about Christmas. But look at these verses in Luke again… the angels were celebrating. The shepherds left the manger to celebrate the birth of Christ with others and share this good news. Let’s be honest… at that point, the ramifications of Christ’s birth were not totally clear. Most people did not realize the significance of this event until after Jesus had died on the cross and ascended into heaven.
The point is… as much as Christmas is a celebration of the birth of our risen Savior, it also serves as a reminder of what Jesus taught us – unconditional love for our fellow man, grace, mercy, generosity in giving to others, service, joy, faith, and so much more. And don’t we often seem to be better at putting these things into action during the holidays? We truly celebrate Jesus by making our homes festive… and inviting others to visit. We put up a tree and trim it with lights and sparkling ornaments and create a party atmosphere. We are kinder and gentler with others… more generous. We seem to find more time for parties, celebrations and writing cards… baking treats to share with others… shopping and wrapping gifts.
For a few days/weeks, we at least give ourselves the opportunity to more closely emulate some of the traits Jesus taught us. Oh, sure, some will become stressed and grumpy… some will become “Scrooges” and refuse to participate… but many will transform into totally different people. And maybe… just maybe… some will continue that spirit after the tree is taken to the curb and the decorations are packed away for another year. Maybe the joy and celebration of all that Jesus’ birth represents will be shared for months to come… or even all year long! The first step is to start the party… to deck the halls and celebrate. You don’t have to put up a tree or hang a wreath on the door… all you have to do is “deck your hall” with a smile and a warm heart for those around you!
How will you celebrate this year? Are you ready to “party hearty” in Jesus’ name? Will others notice a difference… and better yet, will you keep His joy going all year long?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 10, 2010
Isaiah 61:1-4God sent me to announce the year of his grace—
a celebration of God's destruction of our enemies—
and to comfort all who mourn,
To care for the needs of all who mourn in Zion,
give them bouquets of roses instead of ashes,
Messages of joy instead of news of doom,
a praising heart instead of a languid spirit.
Rename them "Oaks of Righteousness"
planted by God to display his glory.
They'll rebuild the old ruins,
raise a new city out of the wreckage.
They'll start over on the ruined cities,
take the rubble left behind and make it new.
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.
Every holiday season, we hear news reports about a house fire during the holidays. Just this past week, a home burned in our county, and area churches rallied to provide for the family – clothing, cleaning supplies, physical labor, and more. On the morning of December 20, 1981, my grandmother was frying sausage on her stove, preparing breakfast for herself and my grandfather before they dressed for church. My grandfather had been outside checking on his cattle. Mam-ma thought she heard sleet on their tin roof, but a glimpse out her kitchen window revealed sunshine.
My grandfather came through the door and told my Mam-ma that their house was on fire. Ironically, she turned off the burner under her sausage, then she began grabbing clothing from dresser drawers, as my grandfather hurried to move their car and truck from the carport and away from the house. A passerby stopped and helped remove items from the house as it burned… a small living room chair, the mantel clock, the family Bible and a few photos, and most of my grandparents’ clothing. They didn’t think to get wallets, eye glasses, the quilt rack in the front bedroom that held probably a half dozen of my grandmother’s hand-made creations, or even the Christmas presents sitting under the tree just inside the front door.
At the end of the day, the home my grandparents had occupied for 47 years was reduced to smoldering cinders. The fire was so hot that even the cast-iron skillets and claw-footed bath tub were reduced to ashes. This fire was determined to be due to some old faulty wiring… not a truly Christmas-related disaster. And I have shared this story before… how the churches and our community rallied to help my grandparents rebuild… how my dad called on his construction contacts to get a new house built as quickly as possible and people “pounded” my grandparents with necessary household staples and more.
I’ve talked about the yard full of petunias that rose the following spring where the old farmhouse once sat… a true “beauty for ashes” trade. But what I have not really talked about directly is the impact that the fire had on my entire family. Whether we realize it or not, that day was a huge turning point for us. It signaled the end of an era… the only home for my grandparents that I, my sister and brother had ever known. The fire resulted in the loss of countless treasures… mere things… and a greater realization of what really mattered, as we counted our blessings that my grandmother and grandfather both escaped safely.
Even though the new house and many of the replacement items were far nicer than what my grandparents had previously owned, it wasn’t the same… ever. And in thinking about this day again… as I do every December 20th… I was struck by how this correlates for us spiritually. See, we all have “fires” in our lives… moments or events or seasons that define us… change us… move us in a new direction. And these are often hard, devastating, gut-wrenching changes that grieve us and truly break our hearts – and sometimes our emotional spirit.
But God stands ready to give us “bouquets of roses for ashes”… to restore us, repair our hearts, rebuild our spirit. Sometimes, He even gives us something better to replace what was taken from us… or at least something equally wonderful. I told you that my grandparents were not ones to question “Why me?” but rather to look ahead and ask “What next?” – and as I look at my now-98-year-old grandmother and think of all of the things she has endured and how she persevered, I see another “lesson.”
God is not in the business of punishing us… or making us suffer to “teach us a lesson.” When we are in pain, He is in pain. When we grieve, He grieves. When our heart breaks, His heart breaks for us. But God can do something about all of this. He truly is the only One who can really fix things… and He wants to do this for us. But we have to trust Him. We have to let Him work. We have to ask Him, “What next?” and mean it. We have to open our eyes and see His beauty in the ashes…and we have to be grateful to Him for doing this for us.
Where is God trying to give you a bouquet of roses for ashes? Where are you blocking His efforts? In what ways do you need to move aside and let Him work? Examine your heart and your life today… find your “fires” and sift through the “ashes.” See what God has in store for you, and give Him room to do His work.
©2010 Debbie Robus
a celebration of God's destruction of our enemies—
and to comfort all who mourn,
To care for the needs of all who mourn in Zion,
give them bouquets of roses instead of ashes,
Messages of joy instead of news of doom,
a praising heart instead of a languid spirit.
Rename them "Oaks of Righteousness"
planted by God to display his glory.
They'll rebuild the old ruins,
raise a new city out of the wreckage.
They'll start over on the ruined cities,
take the rubble left behind and make it new.
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.
Every holiday season, we hear news reports about a house fire during the holidays. Just this past week, a home burned in our county, and area churches rallied to provide for the family – clothing, cleaning supplies, physical labor, and more. On the morning of December 20, 1981, my grandmother was frying sausage on her stove, preparing breakfast for herself and my grandfather before they dressed for church. My grandfather had been outside checking on his cattle. Mam-ma thought she heard sleet on their tin roof, but a glimpse out her kitchen window revealed sunshine.
My grandfather came through the door and told my Mam-ma that their house was on fire. Ironically, she turned off the burner under her sausage, then she began grabbing clothing from dresser drawers, as my grandfather hurried to move their car and truck from the carport and away from the house. A passerby stopped and helped remove items from the house as it burned… a small living room chair, the mantel clock, the family Bible and a few photos, and most of my grandparents’ clothing. They didn’t think to get wallets, eye glasses, the quilt rack in the front bedroom that held probably a half dozen of my grandmother’s hand-made creations, or even the Christmas presents sitting under the tree just inside the front door.
At the end of the day, the home my grandparents had occupied for 47 years was reduced to smoldering cinders. The fire was so hot that even the cast-iron skillets and claw-footed bath tub were reduced to ashes. This fire was determined to be due to some old faulty wiring… not a truly Christmas-related disaster. And I have shared this story before… how the churches and our community rallied to help my grandparents rebuild… how my dad called on his construction contacts to get a new house built as quickly as possible and people “pounded” my grandparents with necessary household staples and more.
I’ve talked about the yard full of petunias that rose the following spring where the old farmhouse once sat… a true “beauty for ashes” trade. But what I have not really talked about directly is the impact that the fire had on my entire family. Whether we realize it or not, that day was a huge turning point for us. It signaled the end of an era… the only home for my grandparents that I, my sister and brother had ever known. The fire resulted in the loss of countless treasures… mere things… and a greater realization of what really mattered, as we counted our blessings that my grandmother and grandfather both escaped safely.
Even though the new house and many of the replacement items were far nicer than what my grandparents had previously owned, it wasn’t the same… ever. And in thinking about this day again… as I do every December 20th… I was struck by how this correlates for us spiritually. See, we all have “fires” in our lives… moments or events or seasons that define us… change us… move us in a new direction. And these are often hard, devastating, gut-wrenching changes that grieve us and truly break our hearts – and sometimes our emotional spirit.
But God stands ready to give us “bouquets of roses for ashes”… to restore us, repair our hearts, rebuild our spirit. Sometimes, He even gives us something better to replace what was taken from us… or at least something equally wonderful. I told you that my grandparents were not ones to question “Why me?” but rather to look ahead and ask “What next?” – and as I look at my now-98-year-old grandmother and think of all of the things she has endured and how she persevered, I see another “lesson.”
God is not in the business of punishing us… or making us suffer to “teach us a lesson.” When we are in pain, He is in pain. When we grieve, He grieves. When our heart breaks, His heart breaks for us. But God can do something about all of this. He truly is the only One who can really fix things… and He wants to do this for us. But we have to trust Him. We have to let Him work. We have to ask Him, “What next?” and mean it. We have to open our eyes and see His beauty in the ashes…and we have to be grateful to Him for doing this for us.
Where is God trying to give you a bouquet of roses for ashes? Where are you blocking His efforts? In what ways do you need to move aside and let Him work? Examine your heart and your life today… find your “fires” and sift through the “ashes.” See what God has in store for you, and give Him room to do His work.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 19, 2010
Leviticus 19:18
Stop being angry and don't try to take revenge. I am the LORD, and I command you to love others as much as you love yourself.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
My brother was born when I was four years old. I actually remember praying for a baby brother. But as anyone who has had a younger sibling can tell you, this was just enough of an age gap that my brother became a pest to me much of the time when were younger. He knew how to push all my buttons… and my sister’s… and one Christmas, he made us both so mad that we plotted our revenge.
My mom has written a darling children’s story about this… “Bartholomew’s Christmas,” in which she substitutes a tiny field mouse and his family for that of my own. But here’s what really happened…
My brother had never had a new bicycle. My family’s household budget was like a lot of others with two parents and three kids – money was tight. So my dad would piece together parts of this bike and another and fashion something for my brother to peddle. What Tim really wanted was a brand spanking new “Stingray” bicycle. And he just knew that this particular Christmas was “it!” This was all we heard for weeks… “I’m getting a bicycle! I’m getting a bicycle.” It really annoyed my sister and me.
I’m guessing that my sister and I were 12 and 13, so Tim was about 9. My sister had asked for a wig for Christmas. I can’t remember what I had asked for, but on Christmas Eve, my grandparents gave my brother a tape recorder. He was so happy with that little machine, and when we got back home, my sister and I asked to borrow it. Of course, he naively said we could. We recorded a message for him, telling him that after our parents purchased my present and my sister’s wig, there just was not enough money to buy a bicycle for him. Better luck next Christmas!
We returned the tape recorder to my little brother and said, “We made a message for you!” The next thing we heard was heavy sobbing from my brother’s bedroom. We went into panic mode. We had not anticipated this reaction. We went to him and tried to convince him that we made it all up… that he WAS getting a bike for Christmas. But he continued to cry and would not believe us.
The next morning, we got up early… eager to see what was under the tree. My brother trudged into the kitchen as if he were headed to the gallows for hanging. My mom suggested he pull the sliding door curtain and take a peek out on the back patio. He was not enthused. Reluctantly, my sister and I began to reveal our dastardly deed… as our parents expressed great disapproval and unhappiness with us. But finally, we were able to coax my brother to the window, and once he saw the bicycle, he was back to dancing around and saying, “I knew it! I knew it!” And no other kid could have loved a bicycle as much as he loved this one.
My sister and I learned a valuable lesson that Christmas… one that haunted me for years to come. I apologized many times to my brother until his dying day. And he forgave me. But I saw the power of something as seemingly innocent as a practical joke. How often do we say or do something that we think is funny or harmless without stopping to truly consider the possible ramifications… the effect it could have on someone else? Do we think only of how much we will enjoy this… or how it might make us look “funny” or “interesting” in the eyes of others…failing to consider how the recipient of our “fun” might appear?
Where have we plotted to take matters into our own hands, forgetting that revenge is not our job? Instead of trying to handle these things ourselves, we should be opening our hands upward and saying, “This is yours, Father… do what You will with it.” At the end of the day, my sister and I were two young girls trying to play a joke on their pesky little brother. But even the smallest of acts has the potential for paving the way to larger, more costly situations.
Let’s stop ourselves now… let’s realize that even the tiniest things matter greatly. Let’s open our hands, let go and let GOD handle EVERYTHING… even little brothers and their bicycles.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Stop being angry and don't try to take revenge. I am the LORD, and I command you to love others as much as you love yourself.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
My brother was born when I was four years old. I actually remember praying for a baby brother. But as anyone who has had a younger sibling can tell you, this was just enough of an age gap that my brother became a pest to me much of the time when were younger. He knew how to push all my buttons… and my sister’s… and one Christmas, he made us both so mad that we plotted our revenge.
My mom has written a darling children’s story about this… “Bartholomew’s Christmas,” in which she substitutes a tiny field mouse and his family for that of my own. But here’s what really happened…
My brother had never had a new bicycle. My family’s household budget was like a lot of others with two parents and three kids – money was tight. So my dad would piece together parts of this bike and another and fashion something for my brother to peddle. What Tim really wanted was a brand spanking new “Stingray” bicycle. And he just knew that this particular Christmas was “it!” This was all we heard for weeks… “I’m getting a bicycle! I’m getting a bicycle.” It really annoyed my sister and me.
I’m guessing that my sister and I were 12 and 13, so Tim was about 9. My sister had asked for a wig for Christmas. I can’t remember what I had asked for, but on Christmas Eve, my grandparents gave my brother a tape recorder. He was so happy with that little machine, and when we got back home, my sister and I asked to borrow it. Of course, he naively said we could. We recorded a message for him, telling him that after our parents purchased my present and my sister’s wig, there just was not enough money to buy a bicycle for him. Better luck next Christmas!
We returned the tape recorder to my little brother and said, “We made a message for you!” The next thing we heard was heavy sobbing from my brother’s bedroom. We went into panic mode. We had not anticipated this reaction. We went to him and tried to convince him that we made it all up… that he WAS getting a bike for Christmas. But he continued to cry and would not believe us.
The next morning, we got up early… eager to see what was under the tree. My brother trudged into the kitchen as if he were headed to the gallows for hanging. My mom suggested he pull the sliding door curtain and take a peek out on the back patio. He was not enthused. Reluctantly, my sister and I began to reveal our dastardly deed… as our parents expressed great disapproval and unhappiness with us. But finally, we were able to coax my brother to the window, and once he saw the bicycle, he was back to dancing around and saying, “I knew it! I knew it!” And no other kid could have loved a bicycle as much as he loved this one.
My sister and I learned a valuable lesson that Christmas… one that haunted me for years to come. I apologized many times to my brother until his dying day. And he forgave me. But I saw the power of something as seemingly innocent as a practical joke. How often do we say or do something that we think is funny or harmless without stopping to truly consider the possible ramifications… the effect it could have on someone else? Do we think only of how much we will enjoy this… or how it might make us look “funny” or “interesting” in the eyes of others…failing to consider how the recipient of our “fun” might appear?
Where have we plotted to take matters into our own hands, forgetting that revenge is not our job? Instead of trying to handle these things ourselves, we should be opening our hands upward and saying, “This is yours, Father… do what You will with it.” At the end of the day, my sister and I were two young girls trying to play a joke on their pesky little brother. But even the smallest of acts has the potential for paving the way to larger, more costly situations.
Let’s stop ourselves now… let’s realize that even the tiniest things matter greatly. Let’s open our hands, let go and let GOD handle EVERYTHING… even little brothers and their bicycles.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 18, 2010
2 Peter 1:5-8
Do your best to improve your faith. You can do this by adding goodness, understanding, self-control, patience, devotion to God, concern for others, and love. If you keep growing in this way, it will show that what you know about our Lord Jesus Christ has made your lives useful and meaningful.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
In December 1932, a young man and woman made plans to marry in the community of Hiram, Arkansas. On the appointed wedding day, a heavy snow fell, and it was impossible for the groom and the pastor to get to the bride, so the wedding was postponed. The groom, almost 22, had a new suit. Because he was walking in the heavy snow, he wore his “regular” clothes over to the bride’s home and changed into his [clean and dry] “wedding suit” there. The 20-year-old bride had a new blue dress and new shoes – a luxury for this special occasion. And on December 18, 1932, my paternal grandparents “tied the knot.”
My grandfather died in 1984, culminating a nearly 52-year marriage to my grandmother. My grandparents were by no means perfect, and I have no doubt there were difficult times in their relationship. Like all of us, they both made their fair share of mistakes. I know there were extremely lean times financially and physically, and they both worked very hard from the time they were young children… picking cotton, digging potatoes, working in the fields… whatever they could do to earn a few dollars or some extra food for the table.
For as long as I can remember, my grandparents kept a Bible on their coffee table… and it didn’t just sit there and gather dust. They both were faithful members of their church. The sound of gospel music from the radio and television often resonated through their home, and they were both active, productive citizens in their community. My grandparents exercised the qualities outlined in 2 Peter 1: goodness, understanding, self-control, patience, devotion to God, concern for others, and love. They were both as generous as the day was long… and my grandmother continues to give all she can – and then some – to as many as she can.
Each year on this date, I think of my grandparents and how they leaned on God for guidance, strength, and courage. I always thought my grandparents were “wealthy ranchers.” In truth, they were regular farmers who struggled to make ends meet. But they always shared whatever they had with anyone who crossed their path. They knew that God blessed those who served Him… and they served well. They continually sought ways to improve their faith - and this was a good thing, because their faith was surely tested over the decades… loss of a baby, financial struggles…failed crops… the illnesses and deaths of family members - including my great-grandmother and my grandfather’s brother within days of each other… their own physical challenges… and a fire that claimed their home of 47 years one December morning.
Each time, my grandparents dusted themselves off and kept going. They never seemed to ask “Why me?” They just looked toward heaven and asked, “What’s next?” I know a lot of folks from their generation and the one that followed who experienced similar trials and challenges, and maybe you or your relatives have endured the same. Let’s take a look at these people and how they handled the challenges of life. Did they work at finding ways to build their faith? Did they follow the tenets outlined in 2 Peter 1?
Can we learn from the examples of our elders? Are we building our faith and exhibiting the characteristics that will guide future generations? Shouldn’t we? Ask God to help you to develop these character traits… to build your faith and grow in His wisdom and grace. If you grab this concept and start to work diligently to increase your faith, this could be the best Christmas present you will ever receive. Are you ready to begin strengthening your faith?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Do your best to improve your faith. You can do this by adding goodness, understanding, self-control, patience, devotion to God, concern for others, and love. If you keep growing in this way, it will show that what you know about our Lord Jesus Christ has made your lives useful and meaningful.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
In December 1932, a young man and woman made plans to marry in the community of Hiram, Arkansas. On the appointed wedding day, a heavy snow fell, and it was impossible for the groom and the pastor to get to the bride, so the wedding was postponed. The groom, almost 22, had a new suit. Because he was walking in the heavy snow, he wore his “regular” clothes over to the bride’s home and changed into his [clean and dry] “wedding suit” there. The 20-year-old bride had a new blue dress and new shoes – a luxury for this special occasion. And on December 18, 1932, my paternal grandparents “tied the knot.”
My grandfather died in 1984, culminating a nearly 52-year marriage to my grandmother. My grandparents were by no means perfect, and I have no doubt there were difficult times in their relationship. Like all of us, they both made their fair share of mistakes. I know there were extremely lean times financially and physically, and they both worked very hard from the time they were young children… picking cotton, digging potatoes, working in the fields… whatever they could do to earn a few dollars or some extra food for the table.
For as long as I can remember, my grandparents kept a Bible on their coffee table… and it didn’t just sit there and gather dust. They both were faithful members of their church. The sound of gospel music from the radio and television often resonated through their home, and they were both active, productive citizens in their community. My grandparents exercised the qualities outlined in 2 Peter 1: goodness, understanding, self-control, patience, devotion to God, concern for others, and love. They were both as generous as the day was long… and my grandmother continues to give all she can – and then some – to as many as she can.
Each year on this date, I think of my grandparents and how they leaned on God for guidance, strength, and courage. I always thought my grandparents were “wealthy ranchers.” In truth, they were regular farmers who struggled to make ends meet. But they always shared whatever they had with anyone who crossed their path. They knew that God blessed those who served Him… and they served well. They continually sought ways to improve their faith - and this was a good thing, because their faith was surely tested over the decades… loss of a baby, financial struggles…failed crops… the illnesses and deaths of family members - including my great-grandmother and my grandfather’s brother within days of each other… their own physical challenges… and a fire that claimed their home of 47 years one December morning.
Each time, my grandparents dusted themselves off and kept going. They never seemed to ask “Why me?” They just looked toward heaven and asked, “What’s next?” I know a lot of folks from their generation and the one that followed who experienced similar trials and challenges, and maybe you or your relatives have endured the same. Let’s take a look at these people and how they handled the challenges of life. Did they work at finding ways to build their faith? Did they follow the tenets outlined in 2 Peter 1?
Can we learn from the examples of our elders? Are we building our faith and exhibiting the characteristics that will guide future generations? Shouldn’t we? Ask God to help you to develop these character traits… to build your faith and grow in His wisdom and grace. If you grab this concept and start to work diligently to increase your faith, this could be the best Christmas present you will ever receive. Are you ready to begin strengthening your faith?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 17, 2010
2 Corinthians 3:3-4
You are like a letter written by Christ and delivered by us. But you are not written with pen and ink or on tablets made of stone. You are written in our hearts by the Spirit of the living God. We are sure about all this. Christ makes us sure in the very presence of God.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
In 1987, my husband and I quit our jobs and moved back to Heber Springs – our hometown – to begin a new business venture. Because we were just getting started and weren’t as busy as we would become in later years – and because we had vowed to find time to volunteer in our community – we delivered Meals on Wheels one day a week. We grew fond of the people on our little route… mostly elderly folks – some of whom were feeble and/or infirm in some manner.
The first winter, we had a major snowstorm. Fourteen inches of snow fell in a little more than a day. Virtually EVERYTHING came to a stop in our community. But as the snow began to pile up the first morning, the people who cooked the meals at the Senior Citizen center scrambled to prepare food for their clients – and even a little extra for the coming days. And they began to search for drivers who were willing to brave the elements to get these meals out to the people who needed them. Our car had front wheel drive, and we gladly offered to help.
It was cold… snow was blowing in a fierce wind… and we trudged through the deepening drifts to knock on the doors of homes where people were hunkered down trying to stay snug and warm. But they were so glad to see us. We made sure they had what they needed and asked if they could use anything extra. I don’t know how we thought we would have gotten back to them with it, but we would have tried.
We carried a lot more than hot food and a couple of cartons of milk to these people. We carried love and a smile… and in doing so, we carried the very presence of God. For the last few years, my husband has once again taken a route delivering Meals on Wheels at least one day a week – and sometimes more days if he is needed to substitute. And I tell him often that he is delivering so much more than food. He visits with his clients and makes sure they are well. He offers them a glimpse into the outside world… and the little ladies on his route love to see a handsome man come through the door!
But truly, his meal delivery is a blessing. The food he carries to these doorsteps feeds the body, but his smile and genuine care and concern carry the love of our Heavenly Father. His deliveries are a letter written on the hearts of these people by the Spirit of the Living God.
We take for granted the blessing of a hot meal, a warm house, and knowing we will have plenty if a major “snowstorm” befalls us. We also take for granted the opportunity to share a blessing with someone else… a “love letter” from God Almighty… in the form of something as simple as a hot meal and a carton of milk… a phone call… a note to say “thinking of you” or “I’m praying for you today”… or even a hug.
Somehow this comes a little easier to us at this time of year. We find it more moving to write the checks to charities, buy toys for needy children, or contribute canned goods to a food drive during the Christmas season. But honestly, we should be doing this all year long, wherever and whenever we can. If every single person bought an extra can of soup or tuna – an extra box of pasta or cereal – another tube of toothpaste or a bar of soap… and gave it to a food drive or an agency like Cleburne County Cares, countless people could have a “love letter from God” – and we would never miss the few pennies or dollars.
There are many ways we can deliver God’s love letter that don’t cost a dime… and a zillion ways that are more than affordable to most of us. All it takes is a prayer… all we have to do is ask God to show us where and how to deliver His love, and He will open doors and windows and flood us with opportunities. The question is… are you willing to be God’s messenger? Will you stand up and accept the challenge to deliver…and be the very presence of God to others? Will someone get a “love letter from God” this week because of you?
©2010 Debbie Robus
You are like a letter written by Christ and delivered by us. But you are not written with pen and ink or on tablets made of stone. You are written in our hearts by the Spirit of the living God. We are sure about all this. Christ makes us sure in the very presence of God.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
In 1987, my husband and I quit our jobs and moved back to Heber Springs – our hometown – to begin a new business venture. Because we were just getting started and weren’t as busy as we would become in later years – and because we had vowed to find time to volunteer in our community – we delivered Meals on Wheels one day a week. We grew fond of the people on our little route… mostly elderly folks – some of whom were feeble and/or infirm in some manner.
The first winter, we had a major snowstorm. Fourteen inches of snow fell in a little more than a day. Virtually EVERYTHING came to a stop in our community. But as the snow began to pile up the first morning, the people who cooked the meals at the Senior Citizen center scrambled to prepare food for their clients – and even a little extra for the coming days. And they began to search for drivers who were willing to brave the elements to get these meals out to the people who needed them. Our car had front wheel drive, and we gladly offered to help.
It was cold… snow was blowing in a fierce wind… and we trudged through the deepening drifts to knock on the doors of homes where people were hunkered down trying to stay snug and warm. But they were so glad to see us. We made sure they had what they needed and asked if they could use anything extra. I don’t know how we thought we would have gotten back to them with it, but we would have tried.
We carried a lot more than hot food and a couple of cartons of milk to these people. We carried love and a smile… and in doing so, we carried the very presence of God. For the last few years, my husband has once again taken a route delivering Meals on Wheels at least one day a week – and sometimes more days if he is needed to substitute. And I tell him often that he is delivering so much more than food. He visits with his clients and makes sure they are well. He offers them a glimpse into the outside world… and the little ladies on his route love to see a handsome man come through the door!
But truly, his meal delivery is a blessing. The food he carries to these doorsteps feeds the body, but his smile and genuine care and concern carry the love of our Heavenly Father. His deliveries are a letter written on the hearts of these people by the Spirit of the Living God.
We take for granted the blessing of a hot meal, a warm house, and knowing we will have plenty if a major “snowstorm” befalls us. We also take for granted the opportunity to share a blessing with someone else… a “love letter” from God Almighty… in the form of something as simple as a hot meal and a carton of milk… a phone call… a note to say “thinking of you” or “I’m praying for you today”… or even a hug.
Somehow this comes a little easier to us at this time of year. We find it more moving to write the checks to charities, buy toys for needy children, or contribute canned goods to a food drive during the Christmas season. But honestly, we should be doing this all year long, wherever and whenever we can. If every single person bought an extra can of soup or tuna – an extra box of pasta or cereal – another tube of toothpaste or a bar of soap… and gave it to a food drive or an agency like Cleburne County Cares, countless people could have a “love letter from God” – and we would never miss the few pennies or dollars.
There are many ways we can deliver God’s love letter that don’t cost a dime… and a zillion ways that are more than affordable to most of us. All it takes is a prayer… all we have to do is ask God to show us where and how to deliver His love, and He will open doors and windows and flood us with opportunities. The question is… are you willing to be God’s messenger? Will you stand up and accept the challenge to deliver…and be the very presence of God to others? Will someone get a “love letter from God” this week because of you?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 16, 2010
Isaiah 38:16-19
Your words and your deeds bring life to everyone, including me. Please make me healthy and strong again. It was for my own good that I had such hard times. But your love protected me from doom in the deep pit, and you turned your eyes none of those in the deep pit can hope for you to show them how faithful you are. Only the living can thank you, as I am doing today. Each generation tells the next about your faithfulness...
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I started following the story of Job McCully from Bigelow, Arkansas, (his name is pronounced “JOBE” – like the man whose story is recorded in the Bible) in 2006. Job was diagnosed with leukemia and received a bone marrow transplant in 2002, at the age of four. He went into remission until the following year, but then he developed RSV pneumonia and other lung issues, and subsequently, his lungs deteriorated to the point that the only hope was a lung transplant. In 2006, Job was treated in children’s hospitals from Little Rock to Houston to St. Louis, logging more than 365 consecutive days in the hospital.
More than once during this time, doctors told Job’s parents, “He won’t make it. Sign papers to remove life support if needed. This is it.” Every time, Job’s parents walked away. Job’s mother would politely say something to the effect of, “When God tells me to sign, I will… but He has not told me to do so.” Job suffered so much and was so weary and weak… his little body was poked and prodded, and I have to tell you, I began to wonder if it wouldn’t be better to let him go to heaven and be with Jesus. The faith of this child never wavered, unlike mine.
On December 11, 2007, Job received new lungs. Truly, the “eleventh hour” had come, and this was his only hope of survival. Job’s mother Tina kept a journal throughout his ordeal on a website called CaringBridge, and she often wrote such notes as this: Dear Lord, please have mercy and compassion on Job and heal his little body. Restore him to perfect health. In Jesus’ name I ask. AMEN. I have to believe that every person who read Tina’s posts – and those of Job’s grandmother (who was enduring her own battle with breast cancer) – were lifted and given renewed hope and faith in God’s promises. And I know that I was humbled by their steadfast belief that God would heal this little boy.
Since the transplant, Job has survived Histoplasmosis (a lung disease the doctors didn’t know was in his transplanted organs), CMV, Adenovirus… and now he is diabetic. He is taking treatments for bone density… his bones are so weak that a knee gave out as he walked down the hall at school, and his foot broke in three places. The ABC Extreme Home Makeover team built Job’s family a new, safe, mold-free house in 2008.
Job is twelve now and in the seventh grade. His family is recovering from their ordeal, and they continue to be a source of inspiration to others as they share their story – and their faith. I am moved to tears as I read the journal entries and remember all that this family has endured… and how their faith remained steadfast. If you want to read this remarkable story for yourself, go to www.caringbridge.org/ar/job. And the next time you decide that your problems are too big, think of Job. Remember that the God who delivered this precious boy… gave him new lungs and new hopes and dreams… the God who pulled him from the pit of death and despair… can deliver you, too. Nothing is too big for God. Until He says it’s finished, there’s always hope and a fight worth continuing.
Think of Job this December… thank God for using a now-12-year-old boy to show us how to escape the deep pits of our lives…and for continuing to use him as he lives out his faithfulness and shares the message of hope in Jesus for generations to come.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Your words and your deeds bring life to everyone, including me. Please make me healthy and strong again. It was for my own good that I had such hard times. But your love protected me from doom in the deep pit, and you turned your eyes none of those in the deep pit can hope for you to show them how faithful you are. Only the living can thank you, as I am doing today. Each generation tells the next about your faithfulness...
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I started following the story of Job McCully from Bigelow, Arkansas, (his name is pronounced “JOBE” – like the man whose story is recorded in the Bible) in 2006. Job was diagnosed with leukemia and received a bone marrow transplant in 2002, at the age of four. He went into remission until the following year, but then he developed RSV pneumonia and other lung issues, and subsequently, his lungs deteriorated to the point that the only hope was a lung transplant. In 2006, Job was treated in children’s hospitals from Little Rock to Houston to St. Louis, logging more than 365 consecutive days in the hospital.
More than once during this time, doctors told Job’s parents, “He won’t make it. Sign papers to remove life support if needed. This is it.” Every time, Job’s parents walked away. Job’s mother would politely say something to the effect of, “When God tells me to sign, I will… but He has not told me to do so.” Job suffered so much and was so weary and weak… his little body was poked and prodded, and I have to tell you, I began to wonder if it wouldn’t be better to let him go to heaven and be with Jesus. The faith of this child never wavered, unlike mine.
On December 11, 2007, Job received new lungs. Truly, the “eleventh hour” had come, and this was his only hope of survival. Job’s mother Tina kept a journal throughout his ordeal on a website called CaringBridge, and she often wrote such notes as this: Dear Lord, please have mercy and compassion on Job and heal his little body. Restore him to perfect health. In Jesus’ name I ask. AMEN. I have to believe that every person who read Tina’s posts – and those of Job’s grandmother (who was enduring her own battle with breast cancer) – were lifted and given renewed hope and faith in God’s promises. And I know that I was humbled by their steadfast belief that God would heal this little boy.
Since the transplant, Job has survived Histoplasmosis (a lung disease the doctors didn’t know was in his transplanted organs), CMV, Adenovirus… and now he is diabetic. He is taking treatments for bone density… his bones are so weak that a knee gave out as he walked down the hall at school, and his foot broke in three places. The ABC Extreme Home Makeover team built Job’s family a new, safe, mold-free house in 2008.
Job is twelve now and in the seventh grade. His family is recovering from their ordeal, and they continue to be a source of inspiration to others as they share their story – and their faith. I am moved to tears as I read the journal entries and remember all that this family has endured… and how their faith remained steadfast. If you want to read this remarkable story for yourself, go to www.caringbridge.org/ar/job. And the next time you decide that your problems are too big, think of Job. Remember that the God who delivered this precious boy… gave him new lungs and new hopes and dreams… the God who pulled him from the pit of death and despair… can deliver you, too. Nothing is too big for God. Until He says it’s finished, there’s always hope and a fight worth continuing.
Think of Job this December… thank God for using a now-12-year-old boy to show us how to escape the deep pits of our lives…and for continuing to use him as he lives out his faithfulness and shares the message of hope in Jesus for generations to come.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 15, 2010
Proverbs 11:12
It's stupid to say bad things about your neighbors. If you are sensible, you will keep quiet.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I grew up in a very tightly-knit neighborhood. For the most part, we all loved each other like family… and some of us were! In a one-block radius from my house were the homes of my grandparents, my great-aunt, my cousins, and my “Aunt Martha” and her parents. And while not related by blood, the Bakers, Baileys, Mrs. Butler… and later – the Davises were very much extended family.
When I was a child, we were in and out of each other’s houses at all hours of the night and day. It was nothing for a next-door neighbor to appear in their pajamas and bathrobe during breakfast and sit down at our table – or to drop in for any other meal. We scarcely even knocked before entering and knew “the lay” of each other’s houses. When something would happen to one family, the others would join forces to offer support – or to celebrate.
But some of the neighbors feuded. One lady got upset, supposedly because another neighbor kept her shovel and hoe leaned against a shed in the yard. The lady thought it was unsightly… and she said so! Others were quick to point out what they deemed “eyesores” to the neighborhood… and to criticize and complain if something wasn’t to their liking.
All of this pettiness was silly… and it really did nothing except make the people involved look a little ridiculous. And I have to admit, many of the biases I struggle to overcome today are directly due to the influences of my youth. When the ladies sat in porch swings on summer evenings and talked about someone they didn’t like, I decided I didn’t like that person or family, either. When I overheard them belittle a certain person as “poor” or “low class,” I decided it must be true.
These were not bad people… I loved my wonderful neighbors. But they were misguided in their thinking and actions on more than one occasion - as human beings often are - and I was a child who was watching (and learning). And that is the lesson. Someone is watching US! Someone is learning from our words and actions. Someone is becoming bigoted or biased if we are demonstrating this. Someone is learning to dislike a certain group or class of people, if that’s what we show them. Someone is deciding that it’s okay to stick your nose in where it doesn’t belong and tell our friends and neighbors how to run their lives and even decorate their houses and yards, if that’s what they see us doing!
I will say this once again… people are watching… and they are looking to us as Christians and deciding whether or not they want to follow Jesus based on how we behave! Being a Christian carries a huge responsibility in this regard. When we consider that every word we speak… the tone in our voice… every action we demonstrate… can sway someone toward or away from Jesus Christ, then even feuding with your neighbor over a hoe and a shovel becomes a big deal - and stupid!
Just how sensible are you willing to be for Christ? Can you bite your tongue when necessary and keep quiet in the face of all sorts of challenges? Are you ready to go “whole hog” for your faith? Are you ready to be the real deal in every way and demonstrate love, grace, mercy, forgiveness, humility, compassion, and more toward those you encounter? Are you ready to really be the hands and feet of Jesus and set high standards for yourself and those around you? Just what sort of “neighbor” will you be? You never know who is watching!
©2010 Debbie Robus
It's stupid to say bad things about your neighbors. If you are sensible, you will keep quiet.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I grew up in a very tightly-knit neighborhood. For the most part, we all loved each other like family… and some of us were! In a one-block radius from my house were the homes of my grandparents, my great-aunt, my cousins, and my “Aunt Martha” and her parents. And while not related by blood, the Bakers, Baileys, Mrs. Butler… and later – the Davises were very much extended family.
When I was a child, we were in and out of each other’s houses at all hours of the night and day. It was nothing for a next-door neighbor to appear in their pajamas and bathrobe during breakfast and sit down at our table – or to drop in for any other meal. We scarcely even knocked before entering and knew “the lay” of each other’s houses. When something would happen to one family, the others would join forces to offer support – or to celebrate.
But some of the neighbors feuded. One lady got upset, supposedly because another neighbor kept her shovel and hoe leaned against a shed in the yard. The lady thought it was unsightly… and she said so! Others were quick to point out what they deemed “eyesores” to the neighborhood… and to criticize and complain if something wasn’t to their liking.
All of this pettiness was silly… and it really did nothing except make the people involved look a little ridiculous. And I have to admit, many of the biases I struggle to overcome today are directly due to the influences of my youth. When the ladies sat in porch swings on summer evenings and talked about someone they didn’t like, I decided I didn’t like that person or family, either. When I overheard them belittle a certain person as “poor” or “low class,” I decided it must be true.
These were not bad people… I loved my wonderful neighbors. But they were misguided in their thinking and actions on more than one occasion - as human beings often are - and I was a child who was watching (and learning). And that is the lesson. Someone is watching US! Someone is learning from our words and actions. Someone is becoming bigoted or biased if we are demonstrating this. Someone is learning to dislike a certain group or class of people, if that’s what we show them. Someone is deciding that it’s okay to stick your nose in where it doesn’t belong and tell our friends and neighbors how to run their lives and even decorate their houses and yards, if that’s what they see us doing!
I will say this once again… people are watching… and they are looking to us as Christians and deciding whether or not they want to follow Jesus based on how we behave! Being a Christian carries a huge responsibility in this regard. When we consider that every word we speak… the tone in our voice… every action we demonstrate… can sway someone toward or away from Jesus Christ, then even feuding with your neighbor over a hoe and a shovel becomes a big deal - and stupid!
Just how sensible are you willing to be for Christ? Can you bite your tongue when necessary and keep quiet in the face of all sorts of challenges? Are you ready to go “whole hog” for your faith? Are you ready to be the real deal in every way and demonstrate love, grace, mercy, forgiveness, humility, compassion, and more toward those you encounter? Are you ready to really be the hands and feet of Jesus and set high standards for yourself and those around you? Just what sort of “neighbor” will you be? You never know who is watching!
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 14, 2010
Proverbs 26:18-19
People who shrug off deliberate deceptions, saying, "I didn't mean it, I was only joking, "Are worse than careless campers who walk away from smoldering campfires.
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.
News reports have documented all too well what happens when a careless camper flicks a cigarette or leaves a smoldering campfire. Entire parks, neighborhoods and communities have gone up in flames due to this reckless behavior. In some cases, the perpetrator was caught and prosecuted. In others, it can be hoped that the person responsible was greatly remorseful for his/her actions.
In recent weeks, we’ve seen our share of incidents where people shrug off deliberate deceptions… from politicians who say, “It was all in the spirit of the campaign,” to those who have ridiculed and bullied homosexuals to the point of suicide and then tried to brush it off as a result of the victim’s own insecurities and emotional hangups. So many people fail to see how their single act of unkindness and insensitivity can spread as rampantly as the flames induced by the spark of a campfire or cigarette ember.
As a people, we fail to recognize the power of a single sentence… or even tone with which we utter a couple of words. The Bible tells us the tongue has the power of life or death. What we say can make all the difference… either negatively, or positively.
We cannot excuse our sinful behavior or hurtful comments and judgments with the phrase, “I was only kidding.” So often, what we say and do is truly not a joke… and it’s time we realized our impact on others. I don’t know about you, but I don’t want to be the one who “burns down the forest!”
Let’s ask God to help us be more thoughtful… more Christ-like in our words and deeds. Let’s ask Him to show us how to overcome any hint of an urge to deceive others and then try to justify our behavior. Let’s be the people He has called us to be and operate in truth and love. God’s not kidding around with others’ feelings… and neither should we.
©2010 Debbie Robus
People who shrug off deliberate deceptions, saying, "I didn't mean it, I was only joking, "Are worse than careless campers who walk away from smoldering campfires.
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.
News reports have documented all too well what happens when a careless camper flicks a cigarette or leaves a smoldering campfire. Entire parks, neighborhoods and communities have gone up in flames due to this reckless behavior. In some cases, the perpetrator was caught and prosecuted. In others, it can be hoped that the person responsible was greatly remorseful for his/her actions.
In recent weeks, we’ve seen our share of incidents where people shrug off deliberate deceptions… from politicians who say, “It was all in the spirit of the campaign,” to those who have ridiculed and bullied homosexuals to the point of suicide and then tried to brush it off as a result of the victim’s own insecurities and emotional hangups. So many people fail to see how their single act of unkindness and insensitivity can spread as rampantly as the flames induced by the spark of a campfire or cigarette ember.
As a people, we fail to recognize the power of a single sentence… or even tone with which we utter a couple of words. The Bible tells us the tongue has the power of life or death. What we say can make all the difference… either negatively, or positively.
We cannot excuse our sinful behavior or hurtful comments and judgments with the phrase, “I was only kidding.” So often, what we say and do is truly not a joke… and it’s time we realized our impact on others. I don’t know about you, but I don’t want to be the one who “burns down the forest!”
Let’s ask God to help us be more thoughtful… more Christ-like in our words and deeds. Let’s ask Him to show us how to overcome any hint of an urge to deceive others and then try to justify our behavior. Let’s be the people He has called us to be and operate in truth and love. God’s not kidding around with others’ feelings… and neither should we.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 13, 2010
Psalm 52:3
You would rather do evil than good, and tell lies than speak the truth.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Do you know someone who seems to love to argue? This person is always picking a fight, bringing up a controversial topic for discussion, and generally trying to “get a rise” out of others. He/she may not be deliberately trying to be evil or stir up trouble. More likely, this individual has gotten comfortable with such behavior… and even a little lazy.
It may seem like doing good and telling the truth are boring. But actually, it takes more energy and brain power. Haven’t you heard people say, “It was easier to go along than argue.”? Don’t you know people who avoid confrontation at all costs… even to the point of lying for a friend or relative, or doing something they know is wrong just to avoid a conflict? Friends don’t want to anger or upset one another, so they “cover” for them. Parents bail their children out of messes to avoid embarrassment and unpleasantness for all concerned. People embezzle from their workplace to manage their debts… while others offer bribes to smooth over the rough spots and make troubles go away.
Owning up to our mistakes, saying “No!” when we know something isn’t right, and taking responsibility for our lives and the messes we sometimes get into is often much more difficult. This takes our time, energy, and sometimes… our money. It can cost us friendships and more. But at the end of the day, our honesty and integrity are intact… and we know from other scriptures that these are traits that God desires for us.
Additionally, if we start operating more in honesty and “doing good,” we will find that the opportunities and temptations for lying and participating in evil behavior actually diminish. Staying in a close relationship with God greatly eliminates opportunities – and our desire - for lies, cheating and deception. And when problems do arise, we have a ready Source of strength and wisdom to whom we can turn.
We are in a season that is full of opportunities to do good… to speak the truth and share the blessings of a life in Christ with others. This is a great time to stop our “busyness” and spend some time in communion with God, seeking His guidance and wisdom. We can begin today to operate in truths and making a habit of doing good. We can make a conscious effort to choose to do what is right, no matter how hard it may seem. We can stand up and say, “With God, all things are possible,” and dare to prove it through our words and actions. Are you up to the challenge?
©2010 Debbie Robus
You would rather do evil than good, and tell lies than speak the truth.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Do you know someone who seems to love to argue? This person is always picking a fight, bringing up a controversial topic for discussion, and generally trying to “get a rise” out of others. He/she may not be deliberately trying to be evil or stir up trouble. More likely, this individual has gotten comfortable with such behavior… and even a little lazy.
It may seem like doing good and telling the truth are boring. But actually, it takes more energy and brain power. Haven’t you heard people say, “It was easier to go along than argue.”? Don’t you know people who avoid confrontation at all costs… even to the point of lying for a friend or relative, or doing something they know is wrong just to avoid a conflict? Friends don’t want to anger or upset one another, so they “cover” for them. Parents bail their children out of messes to avoid embarrassment and unpleasantness for all concerned. People embezzle from their workplace to manage their debts… while others offer bribes to smooth over the rough spots and make troubles go away.
Owning up to our mistakes, saying “No!” when we know something isn’t right, and taking responsibility for our lives and the messes we sometimes get into is often much more difficult. This takes our time, energy, and sometimes… our money. It can cost us friendships and more. But at the end of the day, our honesty and integrity are intact… and we know from other scriptures that these are traits that God desires for us.
Additionally, if we start operating more in honesty and “doing good,” we will find that the opportunities and temptations for lying and participating in evil behavior actually diminish. Staying in a close relationship with God greatly eliminates opportunities – and our desire - for lies, cheating and deception. And when problems do arise, we have a ready Source of strength and wisdom to whom we can turn.
We are in a season that is full of opportunities to do good… to speak the truth and share the blessings of a life in Christ with others. This is a great time to stop our “busyness” and spend some time in communion with God, seeking His guidance and wisdom. We can begin today to operate in truths and making a habit of doing good. We can make a conscious effort to choose to do what is right, no matter how hard it may seem. We can stand up and say, “With God, all things are possible,” and dare to prove it through our words and actions. Are you up to the challenge?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 12, 2010
Jeremiah 9:5
They wear themselves out, always looking for a new way to cheat their friends.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
We need look no further than late-night infomercials on television to see the power of the line, “Have I got a deal for YOU!” Dozens, if not hundreds, of entrepreneurs stand ready to sell you their latest invention, sure to make your life better in every way imaginable. And maybe a few of these products work. I’ve been tempted to order a few… the incredible clothes hangers, the orange cleaner for your floors and other surfaces, and even the slap-chopper thingy that is supposed to make dicing onions and other veggies a breeze.
I have also seen a segment on a local news station broadcast called, “We Try It Before You Buy It.” And I’ve seen some of the niftiest looking gadgets go down in flames when the show hosts cannot make them work… or they fail to come through as promised by the merchant on TV. These “inventors” are wearing themselves out looking for a new way to make a buck. Maybe they don’t set out to intentionally cheat the public with a product that doesn’t deliver. But I have to believe that quite a few of them know their product is worthless and won’t work for the consumers who purchase it.
What are we “selling” that can’t deliver? How are we wearing ourselves out chasing our tail, so to speak… spending time and energy on things that are less than honest or fair, rather than be the real deal for Jesus? How often do we ask ourselves, “What’s in this for me?” rather than “What would Jesus do?”
I would like to think that none of us deliberately sets out to cheat our friends – or even those we don’t know! But that’s exactly what happens sometimes when we put ourselves first. Maybe you just wanted a day to yourself, but by not offering your friend a ride, he/she didn’t get to attend something important to them. Maybe you bought yourself a cup of hot coffee instead of putting your change in the Salvation Army bucket outside the store… and now someone who really needed a hot cup of coffee won’t get it. Maybe you decided you would rather be lazy and stay home than attend the funeral of a close friend’s relative… and a whole lot of other people did the same things, so the crowd of supporters was noticeably small. Each time, your excuse was good, but it was just that - an excuse (and maybe even a dishonest one!).
While these things may not quite literally be considered cheating or lying, we tend to narrow our definition of these actions to fit our own desires… when in God’s eyes, a whole lot of things we would discount are truly dishonest and wrong behaviors. When we start to truly walk in the ways of God… to let Him live in and through us, our selfish desires become secondary to non-existent. Lying and cheating are not even on our radar screen… in ways great and small. Are you there yet? Have you made this commitment… and can others see it in your daily living? Isn’t it time we began to turn the corner?
©2010 Debbie Robus
They wear themselves out, always looking for a new way to cheat their friends.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
We need look no further than late-night infomercials on television to see the power of the line, “Have I got a deal for YOU!” Dozens, if not hundreds, of entrepreneurs stand ready to sell you their latest invention, sure to make your life better in every way imaginable. And maybe a few of these products work. I’ve been tempted to order a few… the incredible clothes hangers, the orange cleaner for your floors and other surfaces, and even the slap-chopper thingy that is supposed to make dicing onions and other veggies a breeze.
I have also seen a segment on a local news station broadcast called, “We Try It Before You Buy It.” And I’ve seen some of the niftiest looking gadgets go down in flames when the show hosts cannot make them work… or they fail to come through as promised by the merchant on TV. These “inventors” are wearing themselves out looking for a new way to make a buck. Maybe they don’t set out to intentionally cheat the public with a product that doesn’t deliver. But I have to believe that quite a few of them know their product is worthless and won’t work for the consumers who purchase it.
What are we “selling” that can’t deliver? How are we wearing ourselves out chasing our tail, so to speak… spending time and energy on things that are less than honest or fair, rather than be the real deal for Jesus? How often do we ask ourselves, “What’s in this for me?” rather than “What would Jesus do?”
I would like to think that none of us deliberately sets out to cheat our friends – or even those we don’t know! But that’s exactly what happens sometimes when we put ourselves first. Maybe you just wanted a day to yourself, but by not offering your friend a ride, he/she didn’t get to attend something important to them. Maybe you bought yourself a cup of hot coffee instead of putting your change in the Salvation Army bucket outside the store… and now someone who really needed a hot cup of coffee won’t get it. Maybe you decided you would rather be lazy and stay home than attend the funeral of a close friend’s relative… and a whole lot of other people did the same things, so the crowd of supporters was noticeably small. Each time, your excuse was good, but it was just that - an excuse (and maybe even a dishonest one!).
While these things may not quite literally be considered cheating or lying, we tend to narrow our definition of these actions to fit our own desires… when in God’s eyes, a whole lot of things we would discount are truly dishonest and wrong behaviors. When we start to truly walk in the ways of God… to let Him live in and through us, our selfish desires become secondary to non-existent. Lying and cheating are not even on our radar screen… in ways great and small. Are you there yet? Have you made this commitment… and can others see it in your daily living? Isn’t it time we began to turn the corner?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 11, 2010
Proverbs 11:3
If you do the right thing, honesty will be your guide. But if you are crooked, you will be trapped by your own dishonesty.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Recently, I saw an HGTV show about a young couple who had purchased their first home, but it had some “issues.” They called in an expert, who promptly discovered that the problems were very serious. One entire wall was pulling away from the studs, the wiring was worse than sub-standard, and there was mold and leaky pipes that were causing a ceiling to cave in and risk total collapse.
The young homeowner said, “I had the house inspected before we purchased it, and the inspector said everything was okay. Maybe I should have researched inspectors a little more. Someone said this guy was a good one… but obviously, he wasn’t.” In the end, the host of the HGTV show resolved all of the construction issues… even tearing out a lot of the walls, wiring and plumbing and starting over in many instances.
I don’t know if the dishonest… and certainly disreputable… inspector was ever prosecuted for this shoddy work. But I feel certain that somewhere down the line, his dishonesty will trap him. My dad was involved in building construction, and I know that doing things right the first time might take a little longer and cost a little more… and it might even cut into the builder’s profits a bit. But taking shortcuts and operating any other way is nothing but a trap that can lead to disaster at some point.
And so it is in our daily living. Our “little white lies” may seem harmless at the time, but in the end, they pile up like the kindling to start a campfire… and when we least expect it, they ignite and blow up in our face. Choosing the wrong guide… listening to friends and acquaintances or anyone who tells us “It won’t hurt anything/anyone” or “Nobody will ever know”… sets us up for destruction.
Choose your guides wisely. Choose the ultimate Guide… and follow His advice. Do the right thing… always… according to God’s will, and your “house” will always be well constructed and in good condition.
©2010 Debbie Robus
If you do the right thing, honesty will be your guide. But if you are crooked, you will be trapped by your own dishonesty.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Recently, I saw an HGTV show about a young couple who had purchased their first home, but it had some “issues.” They called in an expert, who promptly discovered that the problems were very serious. One entire wall was pulling away from the studs, the wiring was worse than sub-standard, and there was mold and leaky pipes that were causing a ceiling to cave in and risk total collapse.
The young homeowner said, “I had the house inspected before we purchased it, and the inspector said everything was okay. Maybe I should have researched inspectors a little more. Someone said this guy was a good one… but obviously, he wasn’t.” In the end, the host of the HGTV show resolved all of the construction issues… even tearing out a lot of the walls, wiring and plumbing and starting over in many instances.
I don’t know if the dishonest… and certainly disreputable… inspector was ever prosecuted for this shoddy work. But I feel certain that somewhere down the line, his dishonesty will trap him. My dad was involved in building construction, and I know that doing things right the first time might take a little longer and cost a little more… and it might even cut into the builder’s profits a bit. But taking shortcuts and operating any other way is nothing but a trap that can lead to disaster at some point.
And so it is in our daily living. Our “little white lies” may seem harmless at the time, but in the end, they pile up like the kindling to start a campfire… and when we least expect it, they ignite and blow up in our face. Choosing the wrong guide… listening to friends and acquaintances or anyone who tells us “It won’t hurt anything/anyone” or “Nobody will ever know”… sets us up for destruction.
Choose your guides wisely. Choose the ultimate Guide… and follow His advice. Do the right thing… always… according to God’s will, and your “house” will always be well constructed and in good condition.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 10, 2010
Jeremiah 5:3
Search Jerusalem for honest people who try. If you can find even one, I'll forgive the whole city. Everyone breaks promises made in my name." I answered, "I know that you look for truth. You punished your people for their lies, but in spite of the pain, they became more stubborn and refused to turn back to you."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
We were watching a silly television sitcom recently where a man visited his ex-wife, and while he was there, he “lifted” a pair of diamond earrings he had given her shortly before she filed for divorce. He needed a birthday gift for his new girlfriend and had no money – and his justification was not only revenge but the claim that his first wife “never wore them!” The show ended with this man’s brother asking if he felt any remorse, and he held up a necklace and said something to the effect of “No… and it was even easier the second time.”
Albert Einstein defines insanity as “doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results.” Yet this is exactly what we seem to do with the truth. We know that our lies, cheating and deceit dishonor and disappoint God. We know that in the end, these behaviors create even larger problems for us. But we continue down the same path, repeating the same mistakes, and hoping for different results – this time!
The sitcom was truly silly, but it does serve to illustrate a very real point. Lying… and sin in general… becomes easier with practice. So while we may not consciously set out to get better at this over time, what seemed daunting and risky today may not seem so bad tomorrow. This is how people get into serious trouble with things like money. They “rob Peter to pay Paul” by taking a little money from their kids’ piggy bank to gamble, thinking the winnings will be more than enough to pay everyone back… and then some. But when the bet fails, and the money is gone, the gambler has to become more creative – and dishonest – about how and where to find more money for the next bet.
When you lie to a friend or family member about what you are doing or where you are going, it may be hard the first time. But it gets easier the more you practice. It may not seem like a bad thing to tell someone you accomplished something you didn’t – or to stretch the truth a little. But soon, you are well-versed in stretching things, and nobody can believe a word you say, because your claims are so outlandish and your reputation for exaggerating, at best, precedes you.
Maybe you have gotten so “good” at this that you honestly don’t know how to stop. If this is the case, it’s too late for me to tell you to never begin! But I do have help for you…and His name is Jesus. We can call on Jesus to help us accomplish whatever we cannot do on our own. We can ask Jesus to forgive us for our sins (which is the first step), and then we can call on Him to help us begin to rebuild our character and reputation. Jesus will give us the strength to tell the truth… even if it means we have to do without or make personal sacrifices. Believe me, none of them compares to the sacrifice HE made on the cross for us.
Examine your life today. Look in the nooks and crannies and see where you are practicing the insanity of lies, deceit, and sin of any kind. Confess these to Jesus and ask Him to help you get on your feet. Ask Jesus to help you avoid repeating the sins of your past. Give Him your burdens and free your mind to focus on what – and Who – really matters!
©2010 Debbie Robus
Search Jerusalem for honest people who try. If you can find even one, I'll forgive the whole city. Everyone breaks promises made in my name." I answered, "I know that you look for truth. You punished your people for their lies, but in spite of the pain, they became more stubborn and refused to turn back to you."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
We were watching a silly television sitcom recently where a man visited his ex-wife, and while he was there, he “lifted” a pair of diamond earrings he had given her shortly before she filed for divorce. He needed a birthday gift for his new girlfriend and had no money – and his justification was not only revenge but the claim that his first wife “never wore them!” The show ended with this man’s brother asking if he felt any remorse, and he held up a necklace and said something to the effect of “No… and it was even easier the second time.”
Albert Einstein defines insanity as “doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results.” Yet this is exactly what we seem to do with the truth. We know that our lies, cheating and deceit dishonor and disappoint God. We know that in the end, these behaviors create even larger problems for us. But we continue down the same path, repeating the same mistakes, and hoping for different results – this time!
The sitcom was truly silly, but it does serve to illustrate a very real point. Lying… and sin in general… becomes easier with practice. So while we may not consciously set out to get better at this over time, what seemed daunting and risky today may not seem so bad tomorrow. This is how people get into serious trouble with things like money. They “rob Peter to pay Paul” by taking a little money from their kids’ piggy bank to gamble, thinking the winnings will be more than enough to pay everyone back… and then some. But when the bet fails, and the money is gone, the gambler has to become more creative – and dishonest – about how and where to find more money for the next bet.
When you lie to a friend or family member about what you are doing or where you are going, it may be hard the first time. But it gets easier the more you practice. It may not seem like a bad thing to tell someone you accomplished something you didn’t – or to stretch the truth a little. But soon, you are well-versed in stretching things, and nobody can believe a word you say, because your claims are so outlandish and your reputation for exaggerating, at best, precedes you.
Maybe you have gotten so “good” at this that you honestly don’t know how to stop. If this is the case, it’s too late for me to tell you to never begin! But I do have help for you…and His name is Jesus. We can call on Jesus to help us accomplish whatever we cannot do on our own. We can ask Jesus to forgive us for our sins (which is the first step), and then we can call on Him to help us begin to rebuild our character and reputation. Jesus will give us the strength to tell the truth… even if it means we have to do without or make personal sacrifices. Believe me, none of them compares to the sacrifice HE made on the cross for us.
Examine your life today. Look in the nooks and crannies and see where you are practicing the insanity of lies, deceit, and sin of any kind. Confess these to Jesus and ask Him to help you get on your feet. Ask Jesus to help you avoid repeating the sins of your past. Give Him your burdens and free your mind to focus on what – and Who – really matters!
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 9, 2010
Proverbs 12:22
The LORD hates every liar, but he is the friend of all who can be trusted.
Proverbs 19:22
What matters most is loyalty. It's better to be poor than to be a liar.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
If you have ever had to make a hard decision about being truthful, you know how gut-wrenching it can be. In your heart, you may know that covering for your boss/coach/best friend/family member would make things more pleasant. But at the same time, you know that this is not what God would have you do. And believe me, God understands that you find yourself in a pickle!
I can tell you from personal experience that choosing the truth will be the best decision. I know of a teacher who was asked to lie and say that he was certified to teach a certain course so that the school would not get into trouble with the state evaluators. He was told that to be honest would mean he would be fired. Now, I seriously doubt the principal could have really accomplished this without some more lies to trump up charges on this teacher for a “just cause” dismissal. But the threat was strong enough to scare the teacher into feeling trapped. Ultimately, the teacher chose to be honest… and find a new job in a new school district. And you know what? The teacher reports that this new job is far better than the one he left!
I know other people who have been told to do something deceptive or dishonest or be kicked off a team… or lose their job. I’ve told the truth and been cut off from a circle of “friends” and activities. I refused to go along with something dishonest when I was in high school, so my classmates blackballed my sister and didn’t elect her to participate on the sophomore service team for our prom. Then they wanted me to ask her to come to prom anyway and play the piano to accompany someone who was singing. We refused. My classmates were astonished that I would not be party to this, but it was the right thing to do, and my sister appreciated that I stood up for her.
As an adult, I’ve experienced the good and bad ends of truth and lies… and you will, too. There have been times when I have told the truth and answered honestly, and it “cost” me. People lie about all sorts of things, such as finances and physical needs/ailments in order to “play the system.” But in the end, this will catch up with them. I know there are people who even lie in order to get the church to help them… and the church does this… but GOD knows the truth, and we will have to answer to Him someday for all of this.
One of the best assets you will ever have is your honesty and moral character. Do not compromise this reputation with even the smallest “white lie.” Be poor before you will be dishonest. Be cut off from “friends” before you will lie or cheat for them. Trust that God will bless your efforts and see you through the rough times… value His friendship and approval above all else, and always be His loyal servant.
©2010 Debbie Robus
The LORD hates every liar, but he is the friend of all who can be trusted.
Proverbs 19:22
What matters most is loyalty. It's better to be poor than to be a liar.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
If you have ever had to make a hard decision about being truthful, you know how gut-wrenching it can be. In your heart, you may know that covering for your boss/coach/best friend/family member would make things more pleasant. But at the same time, you know that this is not what God would have you do. And believe me, God understands that you find yourself in a pickle!
I can tell you from personal experience that choosing the truth will be the best decision. I know of a teacher who was asked to lie and say that he was certified to teach a certain course so that the school would not get into trouble with the state evaluators. He was told that to be honest would mean he would be fired. Now, I seriously doubt the principal could have really accomplished this without some more lies to trump up charges on this teacher for a “just cause” dismissal. But the threat was strong enough to scare the teacher into feeling trapped. Ultimately, the teacher chose to be honest… and find a new job in a new school district. And you know what? The teacher reports that this new job is far better than the one he left!
I know other people who have been told to do something deceptive or dishonest or be kicked off a team… or lose their job. I’ve told the truth and been cut off from a circle of “friends” and activities. I refused to go along with something dishonest when I was in high school, so my classmates blackballed my sister and didn’t elect her to participate on the sophomore service team for our prom. Then they wanted me to ask her to come to prom anyway and play the piano to accompany someone who was singing. We refused. My classmates were astonished that I would not be party to this, but it was the right thing to do, and my sister appreciated that I stood up for her.
As an adult, I’ve experienced the good and bad ends of truth and lies… and you will, too. There have been times when I have told the truth and answered honestly, and it “cost” me. People lie about all sorts of things, such as finances and physical needs/ailments in order to “play the system.” But in the end, this will catch up with them. I know there are people who even lie in order to get the church to help them… and the church does this… but GOD knows the truth, and we will have to answer to Him someday for all of this.
One of the best assets you will ever have is your honesty and moral character. Do not compromise this reputation with even the smallest “white lie.” Be poor before you will be dishonest. Be cut off from “friends” before you will lie or cheat for them. Trust that God will bless your efforts and see you through the rough times… value His friendship and approval above all else, and always be His loyal servant.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 8, 2010
Leviticus 19:11
Do not steal or tell lies or cheat others.
Psalm 101:7
No one who cheats or lies will have a position in my royal court.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Friends and I were sharing stories the other day, and one of the women in the group said she used to work at a grocery store in California called Vons. The employees were told not to so much as taste a grape from the produce bins… that it would be considered stealing. I laughed, because it reminded me of when I was a child, and my friend Shaun and I went to Mr. Hicks' grocery store one day with our mothers. The store was a small neighborhood market located on Main Street near Pizza Piezazz. Shaun and I were about 5, and we each ate a grape from the produce display. We had seen adults sample the grapes as they were purchasing them, so we thought we’d try it.
The results may have been different for Shaun, but when I got in the car, I got in a LOT of trouble. My mother had seen me eat the grape, and she let me know in no uncertain terms that this was stealing. And to this day, I’ve never sampled a grape or any other produce in the store, unless a vendor offered me a sample. When I see someone pick a grape and taste it, I always think of this incident!
So what’s the big deal about eating one lone grape in the grocery store? And why was it such a big deal for my friend and her co-workers at Vons? The point is that little things have a way of becoming bigger things. It starts with one grape, but soon, workers would be going by and helping themselves to a handful every day… or just one apple, or one banana. This adds up in a hurry. And customers are eating food for which they have not paid!
As for us, the “one grape,” becomes something bigger, and soon we think nothing of taking office supplies from work that are not ours, or stealing road signs to make a cool display in our room, or making excuses to our teachers/coaches/parents/bosses about why we were late or why we want the day off from work or a certain event. “One grape” can become a huge deal… and the cost can be incredibly high – not for us in a monetary way, maybe – but in the eyes of God.
Psalm 101:7 says that no one who cheats or lies will have a position in the royal court. In other words, God doesn’t have the time or energy for liars and cheats. Yes, He is loving and forgiving… but do you really want to anger Him or challenge His authority? He has spoken… and the rule is, NO STEALING, CHEATING or LYING… not even a grape! Are you paying attention?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Do not steal or tell lies or cheat others.
Psalm 101:7
No one who cheats or lies will have a position in my royal court.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Friends and I were sharing stories the other day, and one of the women in the group said she used to work at a grocery store in California called Vons. The employees were told not to so much as taste a grape from the produce bins… that it would be considered stealing. I laughed, because it reminded me of when I was a child, and my friend Shaun and I went to Mr. Hicks' grocery store one day with our mothers. The store was a small neighborhood market located on Main Street near Pizza Piezazz. Shaun and I were about 5, and we each ate a grape from the produce display. We had seen adults sample the grapes as they were purchasing them, so we thought we’d try it.
The results may have been different for Shaun, but when I got in the car, I got in a LOT of trouble. My mother had seen me eat the grape, and she let me know in no uncertain terms that this was stealing. And to this day, I’ve never sampled a grape or any other produce in the store, unless a vendor offered me a sample. When I see someone pick a grape and taste it, I always think of this incident!
So what’s the big deal about eating one lone grape in the grocery store? And why was it such a big deal for my friend and her co-workers at Vons? The point is that little things have a way of becoming bigger things. It starts with one grape, but soon, workers would be going by and helping themselves to a handful every day… or just one apple, or one banana. This adds up in a hurry. And customers are eating food for which they have not paid!
As for us, the “one grape,” becomes something bigger, and soon we think nothing of taking office supplies from work that are not ours, or stealing road signs to make a cool display in our room, or making excuses to our teachers/coaches/parents/bosses about why we were late or why we want the day off from work or a certain event. “One grape” can become a huge deal… and the cost can be incredibly high – not for us in a monetary way, maybe – but in the eyes of God.
Psalm 101:7 says that no one who cheats or lies will have a position in the royal court. In other words, God doesn’t have the time or energy for liars and cheats. Yes, He is loving and forgiving… but do you really want to anger Him or challenge His authority? He has spoken… and the rule is, NO STEALING, CHEATING or LYING… not even a grape! Are you paying attention?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 7, 2010
Matthew 5:43-44
You have heard people say, "Love your neighbors and hate your enemies." But I tell you to love your enemies and pray for anyone who mistreats you.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Several years ago, I learned a valuable lesson about “loving your enemies.” If you have heard this story before, please forgive me… but I think it bears repeating. I had driven my brother to Little Rock to be admitted to the hospital for experimental medication to help and control the rapid advances of his acute liver failure. The doctors felt that a “medical cocktail” used for the treatment of AIDS might be beneficial, although my brother did not have the “numbers” to support the need for this treatment. And ultimately, after a few days of having the drugs administered, Tim returned home, where the treatment did little more than make him violently ill, and he decided to suspend the medications.
But on the day he was admitted, my brother sat in the admissions area of the Oncology Unit with two Registered Nurses and answered the questions on the admissions form. Tim was an R.N., and as the nurses asked questions, he rattled off medically complicated answers that meant something to the three of them, but totally went over my head. And then one of the nurses asked, “So exactly why are you being admitted?” Without a second thought, he answered, “I’m HIV positive.”
There was no audible gasp, but I felt it anyway. And the room turned icy. The once-friendly nurses began to ask curt, to-the-point questions and offered little to no reaction as my brother responded. To his credit, he appeared not to notice, while I sat on the couch nearby and fumed. I was furious. These women were supposed to be professionals. They dealt with HIV patients every single day… they knew there was nothing to fear. Yet they acted as if my brother had just told them he was radioactive.
And then, Tim did something I will never forget. He reached into his duffle bag and produced a package of Smarties® Candies. Tim was a fanatic about candy – he loved the stuff, and he never traveled without it. He pulled out that package, held it in the air and asked, “Smarties®, anyone?” Taken aback, the nurses looked up, and then one of them began to laugh. I knew in that moment that by the end of the week, my brother would have won the hearts of every person on that floor of the hospital, and then some. His ability to “love his enemy” had made the difference. And sure enough, when he left five days later, I think more than one nurse cried.
See, we have a choice… we can let the devil have his way with us and take things personally and make mountains out of molehills. We can develop vendettas against those we think have “done us wrong,” and go around sad and miserable over every single transgression dealt us… and there will be plenty! Or, we can choose to pray for those who would dare to wrong us. We can rise above the pettiness and the judgment… the disrespect and the dismissal of others… and we can be the children of the Most High God we’re called to be. We can be the ones who don’t get upset… who don’t have ruffled feathers… who love even the unlovely, just as Jesus did.
What mode of operation will you chose? Will you only love those you perceive to love you in return, or will you offer the love of Christ to even your “enemies?” Do you have what it takes to say, “Smarties®, anyone?”
©2010 Debbie Robus
You have heard people say, "Love your neighbors and hate your enemies." But I tell you to love your enemies and pray for anyone who mistreats you.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Several years ago, I learned a valuable lesson about “loving your enemies.” If you have heard this story before, please forgive me… but I think it bears repeating. I had driven my brother to Little Rock to be admitted to the hospital for experimental medication to help and control the rapid advances of his acute liver failure. The doctors felt that a “medical cocktail” used for the treatment of AIDS might be beneficial, although my brother did not have the “numbers” to support the need for this treatment. And ultimately, after a few days of having the drugs administered, Tim returned home, where the treatment did little more than make him violently ill, and he decided to suspend the medications.
But on the day he was admitted, my brother sat in the admissions area of the Oncology Unit with two Registered Nurses and answered the questions on the admissions form. Tim was an R.N., and as the nurses asked questions, he rattled off medically complicated answers that meant something to the three of them, but totally went over my head. And then one of the nurses asked, “So exactly why are you being admitted?” Without a second thought, he answered, “I’m HIV positive.”
There was no audible gasp, but I felt it anyway. And the room turned icy. The once-friendly nurses began to ask curt, to-the-point questions and offered little to no reaction as my brother responded. To his credit, he appeared not to notice, while I sat on the couch nearby and fumed. I was furious. These women were supposed to be professionals. They dealt with HIV patients every single day… they knew there was nothing to fear. Yet they acted as if my brother had just told them he was radioactive.
And then, Tim did something I will never forget. He reached into his duffle bag and produced a package of Smarties® Candies. Tim was a fanatic about candy – he loved the stuff, and he never traveled without it. He pulled out that package, held it in the air and asked, “Smarties®, anyone?” Taken aback, the nurses looked up, and then one of them began to laugh. I knew in that moment that by the end of the week, my brother would have won the hearts of every person on that floor of the hospital, and then some. His ability to “love his enemy” had made the difference. And sure enough, when he left five days later, I think more than one nurse cried.
See, we have a choice… we can let the devil have his way with us and take things personally and make mountains out of molehills. We can develop vendettas against those we think have “done us wrong,” and go around sad and miserable over every single transgression dealt us… and there will be plenty! Or, we can choose to pray for those who would dare to wrong us. We can rise above the pettiness and the judgment… the disrespect and the dismissal of others… and we can be the children of the Most High God we’re called to be. We can be the ones who don’t get upset… who don’t have ruffled feathers… who love even the unlovely, just as Jesus did.
What mode of operation will you chose? Will you only love those you perceive to love you in return, or will you offer the love of Christ to even your “enemies?” Do you have what it takes to say, “Smarties®, anyone?”
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 6, 2010
Proverbs 10:12
Hatred stirs up trouble; love overlooks the wrongs that others do.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
In the last few months, I’ve become more aware of the use of the word “hate.” We so casually say, “Oh, I hate such-and-such.” Or “So-and-so hates me!” And maybe we don’t literally mean “hate” – but use of this word leaves room for a lot of misinterpretation… and the Bible warns us not to operate in hate. In truth, this word shouldn’t be in our vocabulary!
Newton’s law of motion says for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. For hate, the equal/opposite reaction is love. For negativity, this reaction is positivity. It’s time for us to “spin the dial”, so to speak. It’s time for us to start operating in love and positives rather than hate and negativity. Instead of seeing the glass half empty, we need to see it half full.
We must learn to look for the good in others. We must learn to see them as children of God, not the devil’s agents. We must try to find a positive side to situations we deem hopeless or unpleasant. One exercise that has helped me lately is to view others through the eyes of a parent. Every single person we encounter was once someone’s precious baby. We all know how cute and adorable babies are… how we overlook their flaws and stand ready to gently correct them and forgive them.
If you will stop and picture the person or persons involved in a situation you are drawn to “hate” as a once innocent baby or toddler, you will be more apt to find a loving solution. How would you correct the youngster? How much would you be willing to tolerate and “love away?” What is different now? Sure, the older we get, the more responsible we must become for our actions. But the principle of finding a loving solution still applies.
In everything we do, we are called to look at others with God’s eyes… to see HIS child – the one He loves – and to find a peaceful solution to the problem. Operating in hate is a tool of the devil… not our Heavenly Father. Who are you emulating these days? Whose tools are in your arsenal?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Hatred stirs up trouble; love overlooks the wrongs that others do.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
In the last few months, I’ve become more aware of the use of the word “hate.” We so casually say, “Oh, I hate such-and-such.” Or “So-and-so hates me!” And maybe we don’t literally mean “hate” – but use of this word leaves room for a lot of misinterpretation… and the Bible warns us not to operate in hate. In truth, this word shouldn’t be in our vocabulary!
Newton’s law of motion says for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. For hate, the equal/opposite reaction is love. For negativity, this reaction is positivity. It’s time for us to “spin the dial”, so to speak. It’s time for us to start operating in love and positives rather than hate and negativity. Instead of seeing the glass half empty, we need to see it half full.
We must learn to look for the good in others. We must learn to see them as children of God, not the devil’s agents. We must try to find a positive side to situations we deem hopeless or unpleasant. One exercise that has helped me lately is to view others through the eyes of a parent. Every single person we encounter was once someone’s precious baby. We all know how cute and adorable babies are… how we overlook their flaws and stand ready to gently correct them and forgive them.
If you will stop and picture the person or persons involved in a situation you are drawn to “hate” as a once innocent baby or toddler, you will be more apt to find a loving solution. How would you correct the youngster? How much would you be willing to tolerate and “love away?” What is different now? Sure, the older we get, the more responsible we must become for our actions. But the principle of finding a loving solution still applies.
In everything we do, we are called to look at others with God’s eyes… to see HIS child – the one He loves – and to find a peaceful solution to the problem. Operating in hate is a tool of the devil… not our Heavenly Father. Who are you emulating these days? Whose tools are in your arsenal?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 5, 2010
Luke 17:3
So be careful what you do. Correct any followers of mine who sin, and forgive the ones who say they are sorry.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When my niece was little and did something she shouldn’t, she would start saying, “Sorry! Sorry!” The young child of a friend of mine misbehaved continually one afternoon, despite threats of a spanking if he didn’t stop. When he hurdled the couch and knocked over a lamp, his mother grabbed a wooden spoon, and he said, “No thank you, Mommy. I don’t want a spanking!” He got a swat anyhow!
Children often believe that simply uttering the words “Sorry! Sorry!” can make all of their troubles go away. The little son of my friend thought adding “No, thank you!” would do the trick. And yes, as we age, we still hear “Sorry!” from people who don’t truly mean it or find these words a quick means to an end to their dilemma.
But there are many cases where we are not authorized to judge. We must accept that the person offering an apology is truly repentant, and forgive them. We must also gently correct – again, we’re not judging – those who we see going down the wrong path. So when you see your friends headed off to a party where there will be underage drinking, you should remind them that this is illegal activity… and refuse to go along! When you are with someone who has had too much to drink and cannot drive, you must take their keys and help them get an alternative ride home.
When you find out that someone said something unkind about you or a family member, and the person says, “I’m sorry… I was wrong,” you must forgive them and trust that this is the truth. When someone tells you, “I’ll never do that again,” you must accept their pledge, even if you suspect it won’t hold.
This is hard. We have to walk purely in faith as we accept the apologies of others and offer forgiveness. But it is not our place to judge them… or their sincerity. It is only our responsibility to operate in love and forgiveness… and let God handle the rest. And I know that we have all seen people doing stupid things or behaving badly, and we want to yell and scream at them and ask, “What were you thinking?” But this is not our job, either. We are supposed to offer “correction” – but only in the manner of positive alternatives… not admonition.
Instead of asking “Why don’t you get up and get a job or get to class?” we must say, “I noticed that So-and-so is hiring, and I think you would be a great fit!” or “I know you want to accomplish big things in your lifetime, and going to class shows that you are serious about it!” We must not chastise our friends and neighbors who don’t come to church… we must tell them, “We miss you, and we’d love to see you there soon.” With every fiber of our being, we may want to tell someone “You are acting like a fool!” But God wants us to offer constructive alternatives and gentle redirection toward more positive outcomes.
I’m not offering you pie-in-the-sky, airhead thoughts here. I’m telling you what the Bible says in Luke 17:3… and other scripture passages. We’ve elevated ourselves to a position of Judge and Jury, and that is not our job as Christians! When Luke says “be careful what you do,” he could have easily said, “Watch who you judge and how you correct others!” Talk to God about this. Ask Him to guide your heart… your thoughts, words and actions. Be sure you do exactly what He wishes… and leave the rest for Him to handle.
©2010 Debbie Robus
So be careful what you do. Correct any followers of mine who sin, and forgive the ones who say they are sorry.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When my niece was little and did something she shouldn’t, she would start saying, “Sorry! Sorry!” The young child of a friend of mine misbehaved continually one afternoon, despite threats of a spanking if he didn’t stop. When he hurdled the couch and knocked over a lamp, his mother grabbed a wooden spoon, and he said, “No thank you, Mommy. I don’t want a spanking!” He got a swat anyhow!
Children often believe that simply uttering the words “Sorry! Sorry!” can make all of their troubles go away. The little son of my friend thought adding “No, thank you!” would do the trick. And yes, as we age, we still hear “Sorry!” from people who don’t truly mean it or find these words a quick means to an end to their dilemma.
But there are many cases where we are not authorized to judge. We must accept that the person offering an apology is truly repentant, and forgive them. We must also gently correct – again, we’re not judging – those who we see going down the wrong path. So when you see your friends headed off to a party where there will be underage drinking, you should remind them that this is illegal activity… and refuse to go along! When you are with someone who has had too much to drink and cannot drive, you must take their keys and help them get an alternative ride home.
When you find out that someone said something unkind about you or a family member, and the person says, “I’m sorry… I was wrong,” you must forgive them and trust that this is the truth. When someone tells you, “I’ll never do that again,” you must accept their pledge, even if you suspect it won’t hold.
This is hard. We have to walk purely in faith as we accept the apologies of others and offer forgiveness. But it is not our place to judge them… or their sincerity. It is only our responsibility to operate in love and forgiveness… and let God handle the rest. And I know that we have all seen people doing stupid things or behaving badly, and we want to yell and scream at them and ask, “What were you thinking?” But this is not our job, either. We are supposed to offer “correction” – but only in the manner of positive alternatives… not admonition.
Instead of asking “Why don’t you get up and get a job or get to class?” we must say, “I noticed that So-and-so is hiring, and I think you would be a great fit!” or “I know you want to accomplish big things in your lifetime, and going to class shows that you are serious about it!” We must not chastise our friends and neighbors who don’t come to church… we must tell them, “We miss you, and we’d love to see you there soon.” With every fiber of our being, we may want to tell someone “You are acting like a fool!” But God wants us to offer constructive alternatives and gentle redirection toward more positive outcomes.
I’m not offering you pie-in-the-sky, airhead thoughts here. I’m telling you what the Bible says in Luke 17:3… and other scripture passages. We’ve elevated ourselves to a position of Judge and Jury, and that is not our job as Christians! When Luke says “be careful what you do,” he could have easily said, “Watch who you judge and how you correct others!” Talk to God about this. Ask Him to guide your heart… your thoughts, words and actions. Be sure you do exactly what He wishes… and leave the rest for Him to handle.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 4, 2010
1 Peter 2:1
Stop being hateful! Quit trying to fool people, and start being sincere. Don't be jealous or say cruel things about others.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Your mom has probably told you at some point, “If you can’t say something nice, don’t say anything at all.” Good advice! People can usually spot a phony a mile away… especially if that person makes a habit of telling others what they want to hear. You know the type… “fitting in” by being critical or cruel toward others, spreading gossip, and cutting down others in order to make themselves look better. These same people can turn on the charm when they come face-to-face with the very people they have criticized or berated. They know how to “work a crowd”… but not in a good way. Hopefully you are not one of these people!
There is no room in the life of a Christian for such phoniness. We don’t have time and energy to expend on anything except the things of Jesus… sharing love, grace, mercy, kindness, understanding… GOOD NEWS!
I dare you to make a concerted effort to smile more and see what happens! I challenge you to speak only kindness toward others – and about them. I beg you to realize that you don’t have to be jealous of anyone else. YOU are a child of the Most High God… heir to His throne and all the glory and riches of heaven. You don’t have to compare yourself to anyone else for even one second. In God’s eyes, you are second to none!
Also recognize this… the very people that you may speak unkindly toward – or talk about – the very ones you dislike or treat hypocritically… the ones you “love to hate” are also God’s children. They are equal to you in God’s eyes. So when you mistreat them, you are in essence mistreating God! Think about this. Do you really want to be even remotely guilty of mistreating your Heavenly Father? Do you want Him to think for even a split second that you could be less than all He has called you to be?
Kick jealousy, gossip, unkind speech, hypocrisy, deceit, and all forms of evil behavior to the curb. Be the child of God you have been called to be... operate in His goodness and mercy… and be the real deal for Jesus Christ. Truly… nothing less is good enough.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Stop being hateful! Quit trying to fool people, and start being sincere. Don't be jealous or say cruel things about others.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Your mom has probably told you at some point, “If you can’t say something nice, don’t say anything at all.” Good advice! People can usually spot a phony a mile away… especially if that person makes a habit of telling others what they want to hear. You know the type… “fitting in” by being critical or cruel toward others, spreading gossip, and cutting down others in order to make themselves look better. These same people can turn on the charm when they come face-to-face with the very people they have criticized or berated. They know how to “work a crowd”… but not in a good way. Hopefully you are not one of these people!
There is no room in the life of a Christian for such phoniness. We don’t have time and energy to expend on anything except the things of Jesus… sharing love, grace, mercy, kindness, understanding… GOOD NEWS!
I dare you to make a concerted effort to smile more and see what happens! I challenge you to speak only kindness toward others – and about them. I beg you to realize that you don’t have to be jealous of anyone else. YOU are a child of the Most High God… heir to His throne and all the glory and riches of heaven. You don’t have to compare yourself to anyone else for even one second. In God’s eyes, you are second to none!
Also recognize this… the very people that you may speak unkindly toward – or talk about – the very ones you dislike or treat hypocritically… the ones you “love to hate” are also God’s children. They are equal to you in God’s eyes. So when you mistreat them, you are in essence mistreating God! Think about this. Do you really want to be even remotely guilty of mistreating your Heavenly Father? Do you want Him to think for even a split second that you could be less than all He has called you to be?
Kick jealousy, gossip, unkind speech, hypocrisy, deceit, and all forms of evil behavior to the curb. Be the child of God you have been called to be... operate in His goodness and mercy… and be the real deal for Jesus Christ. Truly… nothing less is good enough.
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 3, 2010
Psalm 28:3
Don't drag me away, LORD, with those cruel people, who speak kind words, while planning trouble.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
If you have ever uttered the words, “I hope nobody sees me here,” or “I was there, but I was not participating,” this passage is for you. For years, I have been telling others, particularly teenagers and young children, “Whether you are doing anything wrong or not, if you are with those who are, you are likely to be accused, also.” But this has merit for adults, too.
When we go to a sporting event and sit on the sidelines, don’t people naturally assume that we are sitting on the side of “our” team? When you attend a particular church or belong to a certain club, don’t people assume you believe in the tenets of that group? So if we go to a party where people are engaged in underage drinking or doing drugs, doesn’t it appear we are involved… or at the very least that we approve? When you laugh at a joke or comment that is obscene or disrespects a particular race, ethnicity, or lifestyle, doesn’t this imply you agree? When you gossip or talk badly about someone, don’t those in the group have to ask themselves, “What does he/she say about me when I’m not around?”
Ask God to show you where you should spend time… with whom you should keep company… when you should walk away from improper comments – or speak up against them… and how to conduct yourself in a manner that pleases Him. Talk to God and see where He wants you to hang out and how He wishes for you to handle challenging situations.
It is important that we keep all of our behavior in check. People are watching, and what we say and do matters! Are you pleasing God with your words and actions? Has He rescued you from the potential for trouble?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Don't drag me away, LORD, with those cruel people, who speak kind words, while planning trouble.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
If you have ever uttered the words, “I hope nobody sees me here,” or “I was there, but I was not participating,” this passage is for you. For years, I have been telling others, particularly teenagers and young children, “Whether you are doing anything wrong or not, if you are with those who are, you are likely to be accused, also.” But this has merit for adults, too.
When we go to a sporting event and sit on the sidelines, don’t people naturally assume that we are sitting on the side of “our” team? When you attend a particular church or belong to a certain club, don’t people assume you believe in the tenets of that group? So if we go to a party where people are engaged in underage drinking or doing drugs, doesn’t it appear we are involved… or at the very least that we approve? When you laugh at a joke or comment that is obscene or disrespects a particular race, ethnicity, or lifestyle, doesn’t this imply you agree? When you gossip or talk badly about someone, don’t those in the group have to ask themselves, “What does he/she say about me when I’m not around?”
Ask God to show you where you should spend time… with whom you should keep company… when you should walk away from improper comments – or speak up against them… and how to conduct yourself in a manner that pleases Him. Talk to God and see where He wants you to hang out and how He wishes for you to handle challenging situations.
It is important that we keep all of our behavior in check. People are watching, and what we say and do matters! Are you pleasing God with your words and actions? Has He rescued you from the potential for trouble?
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 2, 2010
Ephesians 4:31
Stop being bitter and angry and mad at others. Don't yell at one another or curse each other or ever be rude.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I was watching a report on ESPN about the Miami Heat going to Cleveland, Ohio, to play the Cleveland Cavaliers in a pro basketball game. Many of the residents of Cleveland are absolutely furious that LeBron James, dubbed “The King of Cleveland”, left their beloved city to play basketball in Miami. They feel James disrespected the city by announcing his free agency on national television before giving notice to his Cavaliers team. Lest you think I am exaggerating this whole thing, the ESPN report said that security, both at the Quicken Loans Arena, and that provided by the Cleveland police force, has been beefed up for the 8:00 p.m. game to an unprecedented level… and there will be extra security around the Miami bench. One Cleveland resident said, “There needs to be!”
This is an overblown example of everything Ephesians 4:31 says NOT to do... and I believe that most of us see how foolish it all is. But the businessmen who say their restaurant revenues are down because James left town don’t see it the same way, nor do countless other Cleveland residents who feel their “beef” is valid. And honestly, even if it is on a much smaller scale, we often act just like these people about equally ridiculous things. And yet they don’t seem ridiculous to us… at least at the time.
We seem to have a knack for getting upset, mad, angry, bitter, frustrated and resentful over the craziest things. We show out, act up, and treat others rudely in the bargain. “I let him/her know such and such!” or “I showed him/her who was boss,” or “You have got to be kidding me! They can’t treat me this way!” We get mad at the wait staff, so we don’t leave a tip. We get angry at referees at every sporting event from Little League to the pros. We plot our “revenge” against friends, family members… you name it. We’ll show them!
In the end, the only person who truly suffers is us… and those who have to be subjected to our tirades! We end up being regarded as someone who is negative, difficult, and unpleasant. People start to avoid us like the plague and think up excuses to escape our company. Who wants to be around a grump or a chronic complainer? Who wants to subject themselves to the potential to be mistreated or berated? Who in their right mind would think that we are living with a heart filled with Jesus Christ by the way we behave?
Do you see my point? We can’t be true disciples of Jesus and act this way. Nobody will believe us. Nobody will see His face in ours if we are negative, angry, resentful, or rude. No one will look at us and say, “I want what he/she has! I want to feel like that!” I have to imagine that this sort of behavior causes God to hang His head and feel extremely sad and disappointed.
I pray that we would start to examine our lives… our hearts… our motives – TODAY! It’s especially easy to get caught up in the “stress” of what should be one of the most blessed seasons of the year and let our tempers flare and our feelings hang out on our sleeves. But that totally belies our faith and the Reason for this season! Take a good hard look at yourself today. See where you are letting your emotions get the better of you… and ask God to change your heart… now and all through the year.
Begin to operate in positives, blessings, grace, mercy… and the love of Christ. Make needed changes to improve your attitude… and the sentiments of those around you in the bargain… and make these changes for good!
©2010 Debbie Robus
Stop being bitter and angry and mad at others. Don't yell at one another or curse each other or ever be rude.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I was watching a report on ESPN about the Miami Heat going to Cleveland, Ohio, to play the Cleveland Cavaliers in a pro basketball game. Many of the residents of Cleveland are absolutely furious that LeBron James, dubbed “The King of Cleveland”, left their beloved city to play basketball in Miami. They feel James disrespected the city by announcing his free agency on national television before giving notice to his Cavaliers team. Lest you think I am exaggerating this whole thing, the ESPN report said that security, both at the Quicken Loans Arena, and that provided by the Cleveland police force, has been beefed up for the 8:00 p.m. game to an unprecedented level… and there will be extra security around the Miami bench. One Cleveland resident said, “There needs to be!”
This is an overblown example of everything Ephesians 4:31 says NOT to do... and I believe that most of us see how foolish it all is. But the businessmen who say their restaurant revenues are down because James left town don’t see it the same way, nor do countless other Cleveland residents who feel their “beef” is valid. And honestly, even if it is on a much smaller scale, we often act just like these people about equally ridiculous things. And yet they don’t seem ridiculous to us… at least at the time.
We seem to have a knack for getting upset, mad, angry, bitter, frustrated and resentful over the craziest things. We show out, act up, and treat others rudely in the bargain. “I let him/her know such and such!” or “I showed him/her who was boss,” or “You have got to be kidding me! They can’t treat me this way!” We get mad at the wait staff, so we don’t leave a tip. We get angry at referees at every sporting event from Little League to the pros. We plot our “revenge” against friends, family members… you name it. We’ll show them!
In the end, the only person who truly suffers is us… and those who have to be subjected to our tirades! We end up being regarded as someone who is negative, difficult, and unpleasant. People start to avoid us like the plague and think up excuses to escape our company. Who wants to be around a grump or a chronic complainer? Who wants to subject themselves to the potential to be mistreated or berated? Who in their right mind would think that we are living with a heart filled with Jesus Christ by the way we behave?
Do you see my point? We can’t be true disciples of Jesus and act this way. Nobody will believe us. Nobody will see His face in ours if we are negative, angry, resentful, or rude. No one will look at us and say, “I want what he/she has! I want to feel like that!” I have to imagine that this sort of behavior causes God to hang His head and feel extremely sad and disappointed.
I pray that we would start to examine our lives… our hearts… our motives – TODAY! It’s especially easy to get caught up in the “stress” of what should be one of the most blessed seasons of the year and let our tempers flare and our feelings hang out on our sleeves. But that totally belies our faith and the Reason for this season! Take a good hard look at yourself today. See where you are letting your emotions get the better of you… and ask God to change your heart… now and all through the year.
Begin to operate in positives, blessings, grace, mercy… and the love of Christ. Make needed changes to improve your attitude… and the sentiments of those around you in the bargain… and make these changes for good!
©2010 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for December 1, 2010
1 John 2:11
If we hate others, we are living and walking in the dark. We don't know where we are going, because we can't see in the dark.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Most of us are never truly in the dark these days. Something is blinking or shining somewhere – smoke alarms, radon detectors, digital clocks, LED screens on electronics of all sorts. I heard an older person say “I turn out the lights, and I’m still not in the dark!”
I can remember when I was a child and my grandparents lived “out in the country” on a dirt road with thickly wooded forest on one side of their house and open pasture on the others. When they turned out the lights at night, it was DARK! Once we got in bed for the night, we didn’t dare move, because there was no way to see where we were going!
I don’t know about you, but I’ve grown accustomed to the “darkness” of this century. I had to stop and think about what the older woman said, because it had not really occurred to me in quite some time just how dark the nights were when I was a child spending time on that farm. I really like getting up in the night and having the comforting illumination of a glow-in-the-dark nightlight and our digital alarm clocks with the bright LED numerals giving me the time.
This passage is not literally about “hating others.” It speaks to much more than that. Hating others… harboring bitterness and resentment… always walking around griping and grumbling about this, that, or the other thing… having a negative attitude… “seeing the glass half empty” rather than half full… all of these things add up to walking and living in the dark. These things create an atmosphere of confusion and bumbling around… a lack of direction… no purpose. And that should not in any way, shape or form describe the life of a true Christian.
What about you? Have you “grown with the times” in your faith walk? As you have learned more about God, studied His word, spent time communicating with Him in prayer and fellowship, have “the lights come on” in your world? Have you found a way to love those who are hard to love, to tolerate those who think differently, to find the positive in each situation… or a solution to problems?
Jesus IS the Light of the World. If He lives in and through us, there can be no darkness. How light is your world these days? Are you done with the dark? Shouldn’t you be?
©2010 Debbie Robus
If we hate others, we are living and walking in the dark. We don't know where we are going, because we can't see in the dark.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Most of us are never truly in the dark these days. Something is blinking or shining somewhere – smoke alarms, radon detectors, digital clocks, LED screens on electronics of all sorts. I heard an older person say “I turn out the lights, and I’m still not in the dark!”
I can remember when I was a child and my grandparents lived “out in the country” on a dirt road with thickly wooded forest on one side of their house and open pasture on the others. When they turned out the lights at night, it was DARK! Once we got in bed for the night, we didn’t dare move, because there was no way to see where we were going!
I don’t know about you, but I’ve grown accustomed to the “darkness” of this century. I had to stop and think about what the older woman said, because it had not really occurred to me in quite some time just how dark the nights were when I was a child spending time on that farm. I really like getting up in the night and having the comforting illumination of a glow-in-the-dark nightlight and our digital alarm clocks with the bright LED numerals giving me the time.
This passage is not literally about “hating others.” It speaks to much more than that. Hating others… harboring bitterness and resentment… always walking around griping and grumbling about this, that, or the other thing… having a negative attitude… “seeing the glass half empty” rather than half full… all of these things add up to walking and living in the dark. These things create an atmosphere of confusion and bumbling around… a lack of direction… no purpose. And that should not in any way, shape or form describe the life of a true Christian.
What about you? Have you “grown with the times” in your faith walk? As you have learned more about God, studied His word, spent time communicating with Him in prayer and fellowship, have “the lights come on” in your world? Have you found a way to love those who are hard to love, to tolerate those who think differently, to find the positive in each situation… or a solution to problems?
Jesus IS the Light of the World. If He lives in and through us, there can be no darkness. How light is your world these days? Are you done with the dark? Shouldn’t you be?
©2010 Debbie Robus
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