1 John 3:14-15
The way we know we’ve been transferred from death to life is that we love our brothers and sisters. Anyone who doesn’t love is as good as dead. Anyone who hates a brother or sister is a murderer, and you know very well that eternal life and murder don’t go together.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
I really enjoy Facebook… most of the time. This social media venue is great for keeping up with our friends’ daughter and grandchildren – and my cousins – who live in northwest Arkansas. I’ve reconnected with cousins in Texas that I have not seen since childhood. I can share photos of my niece’s three babies with family members and friends who live out of town and rarely, if ever get to see them. We can see pictures of our great nieces and nephew who live in Tennessee and Missouri. AND…I can keep up with former students from Texas to Iowa to Japan, relatives and friends scattered all over the country… and I can even participate in some online garage sales!
However, I have to wade through some pretty nasty posts a lot of the time. This venue has provided some people with a platform for spewing venom and hatred… and more than a few have thoroughly honed their skills. The worst part is that many of these people spout hatred in one breath… and claim Jesus in the next!
We all need to take a good, hard look at 1 John 3:14-15 today. Do you see the line that says “anyone who hates a brother or sister is a murderer”? Do you get that when you speak so insufferably about another human being – and encourage your “friends” to join you – that you are as good as wishing them dead? Where in the life of a Christian does this fit? How did you become an officer in the courts of Heaven?
We all have the right of free speech… and the liberty to have - and voice - our opinions. But we cannot claim the name of Jesus and harbor hatred in our heart…even if we never speak it aloud or post a comment on a social media outlet. The minute you start to feel anything that approaches loathing toward another living soul, you need to stop in your tracks and ask God to strengthen you… to give you a spirit if love, forgiveness, grace, mercy and tolerance.
If someone behaves in a way you do not like, talk to God about it. Don’t ask Him to correct this person – you are not the judge and jury. Ask God to touch this person’s heart… to guide him/her according to HIS will… to give them a spirit of receptiveness to His wisdom and teachings. And ask God to give you a spirit of love and acceptance… maybe not of the person’s behaviors – but most certainly of the person.
I know this is hard… we have become a society of haters, it seems. “Oh, but I don’t HATE anybody,” you may say. And maybe you don’t. But you have to admit that we have all found it pretty easy to embrace – and sometimes express – some pretty awful thoughts about others. I don’t want to operate this way… I don’t want to have murderous thoughts or feelings… and that’s exactly what scripture says a spirit of hatred encompasses.
This is really heady stuff, and we need to stop today and take a moment to consider how we think and feel… where we have fallen short of the tremendous power that God grants us through His gifts of grace, mercy and forgiveness. We need to revisit His command to love one another and share these gifts with those in our path. Are you operating in a spirit of hatred? Are you, in essence, a murderer? Don’t you want to change this? Ask God to help you begin your transformation TODAY! Transfer from death to life and operate in the love of Jesus toward everyone. Don’t be one of “those people.” Instead, choose a genuine, loving life in Christ… and let grace, mercy and tolerance of others be your constant hallmark.
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for January 22, 2013
Matthew 5:43-47
“You’re familiar with the old written law, ‘Love your friend,’ and its unwritten companion, ‘Hate your enemy.’ I’m challenging that. I’m telling you to love your enemies. Let them bring out the best in you, not the worst. When someone gives you a hard time, respond with the energies of prayer, for then you are working out of your true selves, your God-created selves. This is what God does. He gives his best—the sun to warm and the rain to nourish—to everyone, regardless: the good and bad, the nice and nasty. If all you do is love the lovable, do you expect a bonus? Anybody can do that. If you simply say hello to those who greet you, do you expect a medal? Any run-of-the-mill sinner does that.
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.
Yesterday, we inaugurated Barack Obama for a second term as our 44th President of the United States. During the inauguration ceremonies, Myrlie Evers-Williams delivered an invocation. On June 12, 1963, Myrlie Evers-Williams’ then husband, Medgar Evers, was gunned down on the front lawn of their Mississippi home. Myrlie and her three children were inside when a sniper shot Medgar in the back as he got out of his car and walked toward the house. The bullet ricocheted and entered the home, as the children dove for cover. Myrlie ran outside to attend to her dying husband. Medgar died less than an hour later at a local hospital.
After her husband’s murder, Myrlie Evers continued to fight for civil rights, and she lodged a more-than-30-year battle to bring her husband’s killer to justice. She went back to college and got a degree in sociology, and she worked diligently for the NAACP. She also co-wrote For Us, the Living, a book that chronicled the life and work of her civil-rights-activist husband, Medgar.
I am deeply touched by the story of Medgar and Myrlie Evers. They lived with such conviction and concern for the rights of men and women who felt powerless to speak out themselves. The image of this daddy lying in his own front yard, bleeding to death while his small children cowered inside in complete terror brings tears to my eyes. Yet Myrlie Evers got up and got going… and she let her enemies bring out the best in her… not the worst.
I think of people who rub me the wrong way… those who get on my last nerve and really are unpleasant to be around… and I am ashamed of my attitude toward them. This scripture passage is a really hard one for me. I hear myself saying, “But, God…! Do you know how irritating this person is? Do you know what he/she has said/done to me or someone I care about? Do you know how unkind and unloving this individual is… the ugly, distasteful way he/she treats others and behaves in general?” And I hear God, through this scripture, saying… “Love him/her anyway. I love you, don’t I? You’re not so nice yourself on any given day. Yet I continue to meet your needs. Should I not offer the same to this person? Love them anyway.”
We have no time to waste. Life is short, and the first thing you know, that person you treated poorly or failed to love out of your true self… to pray for and be kind to even when it was truly a challenge… will be gone. At the end of the day, you want to be able to say, “That person gave me a hard time or was really difficult to love… but I did it anyway. With God’s strength behind me, and because He loves even me, I chose to love the unlovable in His name.” Serve the LORD obediently... and with no regrets.
Today is a good day to take inventory. Look around at the people you encounter and ask yourself who is lovable… and who isn’t. Are you treating all of these people equally? Are you merely offering run-of-the-mill-sinner lip service to those you find difficult to love – or to even be around? Isn’t it time to put your Christian faith and love into action… to show them kindness beyond what you feel they deserve? My prayer is that we will never have to face challenges on the same scale as Myrlie Evers-Williams… but that we will live with the same courage and conviction. I pray that we will love our enemies and always give our best in the name of Jesus. He gave us the ultimate example of how to love the unlovely. How well have you demonstrated His lesson?
©2013 Debbie Robus
“You’re familiar with the old written law, ‘Love your friend,’ and its unwritten companion, ‘Hate your enemy.’ I’m challenging that. I’m telling you to love your enemies. Let them bring out the best in you, not the worst. When someone gives you a hard time, respond with the energies of prayer, for then you are working out of your true selves, your God-created selves. This is what God does. He gives his best—the sun to warm and the rain to nourish—to everyone, regardless: the good and bad, the nice and nasty. If all you do is love the lovable, do you expect a bonus? Anybody can do that. If you simply say hello to those who greet you, do you expect a medal? Any run-of-the-mill sinner does that.
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.
Yesterday, we inaugurated Barack Obama for a second term as our 44th President of the United States. During the inauguration ceremonies, Myrlie Evers-Williams delivered an invocation. On June 12, 1963, Myrlie Evers-Williams’ then husband, Medgar Evers, was gunned down on the front lawn of their Mississippi home. Myrlie and her three children were inside when a sniper shot Medgar in the back as he got out of his car and walked toward the house. The bullet ricocheted and entered the home, as the children dove for cover. Myrlie ran outside to attend to her dying husband. Medgar died less than an hour later at a local hospital.
After her husband’s murder, Myrlie Evers continued to fight for civil rights, and she lodged a more-than-30-year battle to bring her husband’s killer to justice. She went back to college and got a degree in sociology, and she worked diligently for the NAACP. She also co-wrote For Us, the Living, a book that chronicled the life and work of her civil-rights-activist husband, Medgar.
I am deeply touched by the story of Medgar and Myrlie Evers. They lived with such conviction and concern for the rights of men and women who felt powerless to speak out themselves. The image of this daddy lying in his own front yard, bleeding to death while his small children cowered inside in complete terror brings tears to my eyes. Yet Myrlie Evers got up and got going… and she let her enemies bring out the best in her… not the worst.
I think of people who rub me the wrong way… those who get on my last nerve and really are unpleasant to be around… and I am ashamed of my attitude toward them. This scripture passage is a really hard one for me. I hear myself saying, “But, God…! Do you know how irritating this person is? Do you know what he/she has said/done to me or someone I care about? Do you know how unkind and unloving this individual is… the ugly, distasteful way he/she treats others and behaves in general?” And I hear God, through this scripture, saying… “Love him/her anyway. I love you, don’t I? You’re not so nice yourself on any given day. Yet I continue to meet your needs. Should I not offer the same to this person? Love them anyway.”
We have no time to waste. Life is short, and the first thing you know, that person you treated poorly or failed to love out of your true self… to pray for and be kind to even when it was truly a challenge… will be gone. At the end of the day, you want to be able to say, “That person gave me a hard time or was really difficult to love… but I did it anyway. With God’s strength behind me, and because He loves even me, I chose to love the unlovable in His name.” Serve the LORD obediently... and with no regrets.
Today is a good day to take inventory. Look around at the people you encounter and ask yourself who is lovable… and who isn’t. Are you treating all of these people equally? Are you merely offering run-of-the-mill-sinner lip service to those you find difficult to love – or to even be around? Isn’t it time to put your Christian faith and love into action… to show them kindness beyond what you feel they deserve? My prayer is that we will never have to face challenges on the same scale as Myrlie Evers-Williams… but that we will live with the same courage and conviction. I pray that we will love our enemies and always give our best in the name of Jesus. He gave us the ultimate example of how to love the unlovely. How well have you demonstrated His lesson?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for January 21, 2013
1 John 3:18-20
My dear children, let’s not just talk about love; let’s practice real love. This is the only way we’ll know we’re living truly, living in God’s reality. It’s also the way to shut down debilitating self-criticism, even when there is something to it. For God is greater than our worried hearts and knows more about us than we do ourselves.
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.
It’s been one of those days! So when my mother e-mailed me tonight and asked, “Are you sick? I have not had a devo from you today nor heard from you this afternoon”… I laughingly replied that the devo was coming, and I feel fine! There was a time when I would have been beside myself with frustration and self-criticism for not getting the devotional written earlier in the day. But God has shown me a lot of valuable lessons in recent months… and one of them is to cut down on the “worried heart syndrome” that has plagued me for much of my life.
Last October, my husband and I felt a call from God to help my niece and her family move back to Arkansas from Texas. Part of our offer to help included being available when needed to assist with her three children… Timothy, age 3½; Zola, now 20 months; and Nathan, almost 6 months. To say we have learned more than we ever thought possible about “practicing real love” in the last few weeks/months would be an understatement. These babies and their parents are now a vital part of our lives…and frequent visitors at our house!
So this weekend, while both boys were under the weather, we kept Zola for a couple of days/nights. I took her home this morning, just in time to return home and grab a shower, then head to the funeral of a dear friend of my maternal grandmother. Mrs. Evelyn also happened to be a table mate of my Mam-ma Polly at the assisted living facility – and one of the matriarchs of my church. I was blessed by the service and all of the wonderful memories that were shared about this dear soul and her lifetime of practicing real love and her commitment to her family, which extended to three great-great-grandchildren. After the service, I visited my grandmother at the assisted living facility and took her a copy of Mrs. Evelyn’s funeral program.
This evening, we attended a junior high girls’ basketball game to watch my husband’s great-niece play for the local team. We don’t attend all of her games, but we try to make as many of those in the home gym as possible. It is important that she know we love her and support her activities.
So now you know why the devotional is late today. I was busy “practicing real love.” And while I could have set my alarm and gotten up before everyone else this morning – or skipped watching a movie tonight with my husband in order to write this earlier – I chose otherwise. I could have even opted not to write a devo today… and the world would not have come to an end!
The point of this is not to “make more of myself than I ought to,” as my grandmother would say. But I think we need to recognize the acts of “real love” that we practice… and to cut ourselves some slack when we are not superhuman! Even something as seemingly insignificant as caring for a toddler while her brothers were sick, or attending the funeral of someone we knew and loved – and showing concern and support for the family members who survive him/her, is putting love into real practice. Going to a junior high ballgame to cheer for a friend or family member is practicing real love. Writing a note to someone just to say “Hello!” …“Get well soon!” …or “I’m thinking about you” is a gesture of love in action.
It is important that we tell others we love them. It’s more important that we show them. It is also important that we give ourselves a break once in a while and stop all of the negative self-criticism. Sometimes we need to take a step backward and recognize that we are doing the best we can in the moment. We need to learn to trust God to make the difference and realize that He loves us no matter how much we do. Some of us are so worried about disappointing God or others that we fail to stop and practice a little real love on ourselves!
When you read this devo, stop and take a quick inventory of your day. Where are you practicing real love? Have you criticized yourself harshly and operated with a worried heart? How effective were your efforts to love others when you were feeling this way? Isn’t it time to ask God to bless you and keep you… to give you strength and courage to make acts of love – toward others AND yourself – your top priority of the day? If you do this, God will see that everything else that needs to get done is accomplished. After all…He just helped me finish this devotional, didn’t He?!
©2013 Debbie Robus
My dear children, let’s not just talk about love; let’s practice real love. This is the only way we’ll know we’re living truly, living in God’s reality. It’s also the way to shut down debilitating self-criticism, even when there is something to it. For God is greater than our worried hearts and knows more about us than we do ourselves.
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.
It’s been one of those days! So when my mother e-mailed me tonight and asked, “Are you sick? I have not had a devo from you today nor heard from you this afternoon”… I laughingly replied that the devo was coming, and I feel fine! There was a time when I would have been beside myself with frustration and self-criticism for not getting the devotional written earlier in the day. But God has shown me a lot of valuable lessons in recent months… and one of them is to cut down on the “worried heart syndrome” that has plagued me for much of my life.
Last October, my husband and I felt a call from God to help my niece and her family move back to Arkansas from Texas. Part of our offer to help included being available when needed to assist with her three children… Timothy, age 3½; Zola, now 20 months; and Nathan, almost 6 months. To say we have learned more than we ever thought possible about “practicing real love” in the last few weeks/months would be an understatement. These babies and their parents are now a vital part of our lives…and frequent visitors at our house!
So this weekend, while both boys were under the weather, we kept Zola for a couple of days/nights. I took her home this morning, just in time to return home and grab a shower, then head to the funeral of a dear friend of my maternal grandmother. Mrs. Evelyn also happened to be a table mate of my Mam-ma Polly at the assisted living facility – and one of the matriarchs of my church. I was blessed by the service and all of the wonderful memories that were shared about this dear soul and her lifetime of practicing real love and her commitment to her family, which extended to three great-great-grandchildren. After the service, I visited my grandmother at the assisted living facility and took her a copy of Mrs. Evelyn’s funeral program.
This evening, we attended a junior high girls’ basketball game to watch my husband’s great-niece play for the local team. We don’t attend all of her games, but we try to make as many of those in the home gym as possible. It is important that she know we love her and support her activities.
So now you know why the devotional is late today. I was busy “practicing real love.” And while I could have set my alarm and gotten up before everyone else this morning – or skipped watching a movie tonight with my husband in order to write this earlier – I chose otherwise. I could have even opted not to write a devo today… and the world would not have come to an end!
The point of this is not to “make more of myself than I ought to,” as my grandmother would say. But I think we need to recognize the acts of “real love” that we practice… and to cut ourselves some slack when we are not superhuman! Even something as seemingly insignificant as caring for a toddler while her brothers were sick, or attending the funeral of someone we knew and loved – and showing concern and support for the family members who survive him/her, is putting love into real practice. Going to a junior high ballgame to cheer for a friend or family member is practicing real love. Writing a note to someone just to say “Hello!” …“Get well soon!” …or “I’m thinking about you” is a gesture of love in action.
It is important that we tell others we love them. It’s more important that we show them. It is also important that we give ourselves a break once in a while and stop all of the negative self-criticism. Sometimes we need to take a step backward and recognize that we are doing the best we can in the moment. We need to learn to trust God to make the difference and realize that He loves us no matter how much we do. Some of us are so worried about disappointing God or others that we fail to stop and practice a little real love on ourselves!
When you read this devo, stop and take a quick inventory of your day. Where are you practicing real love? Have you criticized yourself harshly and operated with a worried heart? How effective were your efforts to love others when you were feeling this way? Isn’t it time to ask God to bless you and keep you… to give you strength and courage to make acts of love – toward others AND yourself – your top priority of the day? If you do this, God will see that everything else that needs to get done is accomplished. After all…He just helped me finish this devotional, didn’t He?!
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for January 20, 2013
Matthew 5:11-12
“Not only that—count yourselves blessed every time people put you down or throw you out or speak lies about you to discredit me. What it means is that the truth is too close for comfort and they are uncomfortable. You can be glad when that happens—give a cheer, even!—for though they don’t like it, I do! And all heaven applauds. And know that you are in good company. My prophets and witnesses have always gotten into this kind of trouble.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
I once worked for someone who did not see eye to eye with me about some aspects of a particular project. Despite her best efforts to convince me that I was wrong and she was right, I finally told her that we would have to respectfully agree to disagree. She killed the project. I was momentarily wounded by her reaction. But in the long run, it didn’t hurt me as deeply as she had anticipated. In fact, a series of blessings followed that “course-changer,” and I’ve never looked back. There was a moral dilemma at play here… I could compromise my values and opinions – and my loyalty to my community at large - and fall into her camp, or I could “suffer the consequences.” I refused to budge.
Was this a hard decision? Maybe in some ways. Do I regret it? Not in the least! Have I seen the hand of God in many circumstances because of the choice I made? You betcha! Have I forgiven this person? Absolutely! To do anything else would be contrary to everything I believe and all that God teaches.
Here’s the deal…we are not the judge and jury. It’s not up to us to decide who is punished… or where or how. We are called to love others as we love ourselves… and that means to forgive them when they ridicule us or cause us pain in any form. Yes, your faith may cost you a job, a significant other, or any friends all. Yes, your allegiance to God could very well cost your very life. But what is the alternative? It’s certainly nothing I wish to consider… do you?
Read this scripture passage again… count your blessings every time people put you down, throw you out or speak lies about you because you are doing what God has told you to do. If you can, be glad when this happens. I know this is a tall order… but try to find joy in this “suffering.” And hear the applause of Heaven. Know that God is saying, “He/she passed the test with flying colors!” Realize that you are not the first… nor will you be the last… to be treated this way. And most importantly, your actions have pleased God. Isn’t that really all that matters?
Stand ready today to be who and what God called you to be… at all times… regardless of how others react or treat you. Be willing to step up and step out in His name, despite the cost. Prepare to hear the roar of Heaven as your grace, mercy, faithfulness and forgiveness in the name of Jesus are commended. Bask in the confidence that you have pleased the only One who really matters… His rewards blessings are the ultimate compensation.
©2013 Debbie Robus
“Not only that—count yourselves blessed every time people put you down or throw you out or speak lies about you to discredit me. What it means is that the truth is too close for comfort and they are uncomfortable. You can be glad when that happens—give a cheer, even!—for though they don’t like it, I do! And all heaven applauds. And know that you are in good company. My prophets and witnesses have always gotten into this kind of trouble.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
I once worked for someone who did not see eye to eye with me about some aspects of a particular project. Despite her best efforts to convince me that I was wrong and she was right, I finally told her that we would have to respectfully agree to disagree. She killed the project. I was momentarily wounded by her reaction. But in the long run, it didn’t hurt me as deeply as she had anticipated. In fact, a series of blessings followed that “course-changer,” and I’ve never looked back. There was a moral dilemma at play here… I could compromise my values and opinions – and my loyalty to my community at large - and fall into her camp, or I could “suffer the consequences.” I refused to budge.
Was this a hard decision? Maybe in some ways. Do I regret it? Not in the least! Have I seen the hand of God in many circumstances because of the choice I made? You betcha! Have I forgiven this person? Absolutely! To do anything else would be contrary to everything I believe and all that God teaches.
Here’s the deal…we are not the judge and jury. It’s not up to us to decide who is punished… or where or how. We are called to love others as we love ourselves… and that means to forgive them when they ridicule us or cause us pain in any form. Yes, your faith may cost you a job, a significant other, or any friends all. Yes, your allegiance to God could very well cost your very life. But what is the alternative? It’s certainly nothing I wish to consider… do you?
Read this scripture passage again… count your blessings every time people put you down, throw you out or speak lies about you because you are doing what God has told you to do. If you can, be glad when this happens. I know this is a tall order… but try to find joy in this “suffering.” And hear the applause of Heaven. Know that God is saying, “He/she passed the test with flying colors!” Realize that you are not the first… nor will you be the last… to be treated this way. And most importantly, your actions have pleased God. Isn’t that really all that matters?
Stand ready today to be who and what God called you to be… at all times… regardless of how others react or treat you. Be willing to step up and step out in His name, despite the cost. Prepare to hear the roar of Heaven as your grace, mercy, faithfulness and forgiveness in the name of Jesus are commended. Bask in the confidence that you have pleased the only One who really matters… His rewards blessings are the ultimate compensation.
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for January 19, 2013
Zephaniah 3:17
The Lord your God wins victory after victory and is always with you. He celebrates and sings because of you, and he will refresh your life with his love.”
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Like many others, my husband and I have been Arkansas Razorbacks fans for decades. I like to think we are fans whether they win or lose. But let’s be honest… it’s a whole lot more fun when they are winning! We cheer, “call the Hogs,” and sing “Oh, Lord, It’s Hard to be Humble” with the best of them at games. There is something incredibly energizing and refreshing about the drumbeat of the band and hearing the U of A Fight Song. And who can beat the exhilaration of yelling “Woo Pig Sooie!”? Even though we both graduated from Arkansas Tech, we support the Razorbacks wholeheartedly… they are forever “our team.”
There was a time when we took our fan support of the Razorbacks more seriously than we do these days… and we know some fairly rabid fans even now! They practically live and die by the ups and downs of our beloved Hogs – especially when it comes to football, basketball, baseball and track. We have settled into what I believe is a healthy loyalty… a recognition that these are just sporting events played by young men and women. We are still exuberant over victories… but far less devastated by the defeats.
I have to wonder, do we give the same allegiance to God that we give to our athletic teams? After all, He supports US like no other. He is always there for us… always winning victories on our behalf… always singing and rejoicing over our triumphs. His love refreshes and energizes us each and every day. God is much more than the “wind beneath our wings.” He is our refuge, our strength… our everything! But do we treat Him with appropriate regard?
Do we give God the same “fan support” that we give to our beloved Arkansas Razorbacks? Are we ready to praise Him and maintain a relationship with Him when the chips are down and things are not going so well in our lives? Or maybe that’s the only time we ARE in close contact… when things go badly and we need God to bail us out! We can’t have it both ways, you know. We’re either in all the way… or we’re not in at all. Faith should not be fickle… and neither should our relationship with God.
We need to recognize God’s presence and power in our lives… His ability to secure victory after victory for us… to lift us up when we are sinking… and to celebrate when we are at the top of the heap! How refreshed are you by God’s presence in your life? Do you have a “fair weather fan” relationship… or have you gone “whole hog?” Isn’t it time you gave Him your “full fan support?” God is always with YOU… can you say the same in return?
©2013 Debbie Robus
The Lord your God wins victory after victory and is always with you. He celebrates and sings because of you, and he will refresh your life with his love.”
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Like many others, my husband and I have been Arkansas Razorbacks fans for decades. I like to think we are fans whether they win or lose. But let’s be honest… it’s a whole lot more fun when they are winning! We cheer, “call the Hogs,” and sing “Oh, Lord, It’s Hard to be Humble” with the best of them at games. There is something incredibly energizing and refreshing about the drumbeat of the band and hearing the U of A Fight Song. And who can beat the exhilaration of yelling “Woo Pig Sooie!”? Even though we both graduated from Arkansas Tech, we support the Razorbacks wholeheartedly… they are forever “our team.”
There was a time when we took our fan support of the Razorbacks more seriously than we do these days… and we know some fairly rabid fans even now! They practically live and die by the ups and downs of our beloved Hogs – especially when it comes to football, basketball, baseball and track. We have settled into what I believe is a healthy loyalty… a recognition that these are just sporting events played by young men and women. We are still exuberant over victories… but far less devastated by the defeats.
I have to wonder, do we give the same allegiance to God that we give to our athletic teams? After all, He supports US like no other. He is always there for us… always winning victories on our behalf… always singing and rejoicing over our triumphs. His love refreshes and energizes us each and every day. God is much more than the “wind beneath our wings.” He is our refuge, our strength… our everything! But do we treat Him with appropriate regard?
Do we give God the same “fan support” that we give to our beloved Arkansas Razorbacks? Are we ready to praise Him and maintain a relationship with Him when the chips are down and things are not going so well in our lives? Or maybe that’s the only time we ARE in close contact… when things go badly and we need God to bail us out! We can’t have it both ways, you know. We’re either in all the way… or we’re not in at all. Faith should not be fickle… and neither should our relationship with God.
We need to recognize God’s presence and power in our lives… His ability to secure victory after victory for us… to lift us up when we are sinking… and to celebrate when we are at the top of the heap! How refreshed are you by God’s presence in your life? Do you have a “fair weather fan” relationship… or have you gone “whole hog?” Isn’t it time you gave Him your “full fan support?” God is always with YOU… can you say the same in return?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for January 18, 2013
January 18 ~ Romans 5:3-5
We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love.
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
I wish I had a dollar for every time we have watched “Frosty the Snowman” at our house in the last month! I have to say… I had forgotten how “deep” this little story really is until we started watching it with Timothy before Christmas. Now do not misunderstand me… I am not elevating “Frosty” to the status of Jesus in the least. But at the same time, I believe we can use the lessons of this jovial snowman to begin to introduce our children to the strength, love, grace and mercy of God… and maybe learn a few things for ourselves in the bargain.
Hear me out on this…
Santa Claus essentially shuts down the magician… admonishing him to go away and leave Frosty and the children alone… and outlining serious consequences if he does not. He tells the children that Frosty is going away with him to the North Pole, but that they will see him again someday… and it is at least implied that the “spirit of Christmas” will live in their hearts each and every day.
There is so much we do not understand about Jesus… how He could love us enough to come to earth and sacrifice His very life for ours. We often have trouble accepting that God could care about us enough to send His Son to die for our sins… then leave His Holy Spirit to strengthen and encourage us each and every day. Just as surely as that evil magician kept popping up in “Frosty the Snowman”… the devil keeps rearing his ugly head and giving us troubles and trials. But God is still with us, persistently offering protection and fortitude… giving us hope and confidence.
Maybe it’s time we became more like little children… readily trusting in a magical snowman who came to life when he donned an old black magician’s hat. Perhaps it’s time to recognize the presence, care and strength of our Heavenly Father in the form of His Holy Spirit… to fully embrace how much He loves us and the amazing care we are offered each and every day. Isn’t it possible that we need to step out in faith and open our hearts and minds to the power of Jesus in our daily living… to renew our resolve to believe in Him and respect His abundant and profound attention to every detail of our lives?
I have to tell you, I have developed a new perspective on “Frosty the Snowman.” Someday soon, we will be able to use this little story to help our toddlers understand how God sent Jesus to earth to guide and protect us… and how He will return someday. We will most certainly instill in them the understanding that Jesus is far more important, powerful and loving than Frosty... how He cares about every single aspect of our lives and stands ready to help us with all of them.
Maybe you and I need to become a little more childlike today in our faith and understanding of the presence and impact of God in our lives. Do you truly grasp how much you are loved by God? Do you really “get it” that Jesus gave up His very life for yours? Are you confident that you will see Him again someday… and that He is available to you every minute of the day in the meantime? Have you tapped into the supernatural power and strength He offers? Wouldn’t this be a great day to begin?
©2013 Debbie Robus
We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love.
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
I wish I had a dollar for every time we have watched “Frosty the Snowman” at our house in the last month! I have to say… I had forgotten how “deep” this little story really is until we started watching it with Timothy before Christmas. Now do not misunderstand me… I am not elevating “Frosty” to the status of Jesus in the least. But at the same time, I believe we can use the lessons of this jovial snowman to begin to introduce our children to the strength, love, grace and mercy of God… and maybe learn a few things for ourselves in the bargain.
Hear me out on this…
- When Frosty first comes to life, the children are all eager to follow him.
- There is an “evil magician” who is continually trying to destroy Frosty and hurt those who choose to love the jovial snowman.
- In an effort to stay frozen, Frosty and Hocus Pocus (the rabbit with a hefty fur coat) board a refrigerated train car with the little girl, Karen, in tow… and head for the North Pole. Karen gets very cold, and at his own expense, Frosty departs the train car and starts to seek a way to keep Karen warm. He enlists the forest animals to build a warming fire for her.
- When the evil magician stomps out the fire, Frosty takes Karen to a nearby greenhouse used for growing poinsettias, so that she can get warm. He knows that doing this will cause him great personal harm… but he sacrifices his own life for Karen’s.
- Frosty melts, and Karen is heartbroken. Santa Claus arrives and assures Karen that Frosty will come back to life… and he does.
- Frosty goes to the North Pole to live with Santa Claus. While Karen and the others are sad to see him go, they are reassured that he will be back again someday.
Santa Claus essentially shuts down the magician… admonishing him to go away and leave Frosty and the children alone… and outlining serious consequences if he does not. He tells the children that Frosty is going away with him to the North Pole, but that they will see him again someday… and it is at least implied that the “spirit of Christmas” will live in their hearts each and every day.
There is so much we do not understand about Jesus… how He could love us enough to come to earth and sacrifice His very life for ours. We often have trouble accepting that God could care about us enough to send His Son to die for our sins… then leave His Holy Spirit to strengthen and encourage us each and every day. Just as surely as that evil magician kept popping up in “Frosty the Snowman”… the devil keeps rearing his ugly head and giving us troubles and trials. But God is still with us, persistently offering protection and fortitude… giving us hope and confidence.
Maybe it’s time we became more like little children… readily trusting in a magical snowman who came to life when he donned an old black magician’s hat. Perhaps it’s time to recognize the presence, care and strength of our Heavenly Father in the form of His Holy Spirit… to fully embrace how much He loves us and the amazing care we are offered each and every day. Isn’t it possible that we need to step out in faith and open our hearts and minds to the power of Jesus in our daily living… to renew our resolve to believe in Him and respect His abundant and profound attention to every detail of our lives?
I have to tell you, I have developed a new perspective on “Frosty the Snowman.” Someday soon, we will be able to use this little story to help our toddlers understand how God sent Jesus to earth to guide and protect us… and how He will return someday. We will most certainly instill in them the understanding that Jesus is far more important, powerful and loving than Frosty... how He cares about every single aspect of our lives and stands ready to help us with all of them.
Maybe you and I need to become a little more childlike today in our faith and understanding of the presence and impact of God in our lives. Do you truly grasp how much you are loved by God? Do you really “get it” that Jesus gave up His very life for yours? Are you confident that you will see Him again someday… and that He is available to you every minute of the day in the meantime? Have you tapped into the supernatural power and strength He offers? Wouldn’t this be a great day to begin?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for January 17, 2013
Psalm 27:1
You, Lord, are the light that keeps me safe.
I am not afraid of anyone.
You protect me, and I have no fears.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Timothy and I were driving home, and he said, “I had a bad dream at Paw-Paw’s. A bear was after me.” We talked about how dreams are scary, but they can’t really hurt us… how grownups can protect children and keep them safe from scary things. And I said, “If I was scared, you would protect me… right?” Timothy said, “I can’t protect YOU… you’re BIG!” So I asked him what he would do if his little sister, Zola, was scared. He said, “I would hug her and protect her and keep her safe!” I hope this big brother remembers his vow as he gets older!
Not all of us have an older brother or sister… or anyone who is “bigger” that we trust to protect us. But each and every one of us can call on Jesus. We can rely on His strength and protection. He will keep us safe… He will calm our fears.
I have no doubt that it comforts little children greatly to think that they can trust their parents and other adults to allay their fears and keep them safe. We all need a “parental figure” we can turn to when the chips are down. But more importantly, we need to fully comprehend the strength of God… how HE protects us and keeps us safe… how He can calm our fears… how He sent Jesus Christ to be the light of the world and save us from all “darkness.” And we need to put our trust in our Heavenly Father to do exactly this for us – each and every day.
Whether you are three and a half, twenty-three, or well into your eighties or nineties, you know that the dark can be a scary place… and nightmares are no fun for anyone! Isn’t it wonderful to know that we have the light of Jesus to keep us safe in all situations… to protect us and remove our fears? Are you trusting Him to do this in your life? Shouldn’t you?
©2013 Debbie Robus
You, Lord, are the light that keeps me safe.
I am not afraid of anyone.
You protect me, and I have no fears.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Timothy and I were driving home, and he said, “I had a bad dream at Paw-Paw’s. A bear was after me.” We talked about how dreams are scary, but they can’t really hurt us… how grownups can protect children and keep them safe from scary things. And I said, “If I was scared, you would protect me… right?” Timothy said, “I can’t protect YOU… you’re BIG!” So I asked him what he would do if his little sister, Zola, was scared. He said, “I would hug her and protect her and keep her safe!” I hope this big brother remembers his vow as he gets older!
Not all of us have an older brother or sister… or anyone who is “bigger” that we trust to protect us. But each and every one of us can call on Jesus. We can rely on His strength and protection. He will keep us safe… He will calm our fears.
I have no doubt that it comforts little children greatly to think that they can trust their parents and other adults to allay their fears and keep them safe. We all need a “parental figure” we can turn to when the chips are down. But more importantly, we need to fully comprehend the strength of God… how HE protects us and keeps us safe… how He can calm our fears… how He sent Jesus Christ to be the light of the world and save us from all “darkness.” And we need to put our trust in our Heavenly Father to do exactly this for us – each and every day.
Whether you are three and a half, twenty-three, or well into your eighties or nineties, you know that the dark can be a scary place… and nightmares are no fun for anyone! Isn’t it wonderful to know that we have the light of Jesus to keep us safe in all situations… to protect us and remove our fears? Are you trusting Him to do this in your life? Shouldn’t you?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for January 16, 2013
Psalm 23:4
I may walk through valleys as dark as death,
but I won’t be afraid.
You are with me, and your shepherd’s rod
makes me feel safe.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
My husband and I took a walk one recent evening, shortly before dusk. There is a hiking trail near our house, with an access road for vehicular traffic that runs parallel to it. We have hiked the trail, but most of the time we take the access road. The trail runs underneath the side of a tall bluff and is steep in spots, rocky - and in certain areas – fairly dark. At one end of the trail, there is also an observation deck.
As we approached the overlook, we encountered a family… a father, mother, pre-teen and toddler. We said “Hello,” and the parents asked if the access road would take them back to the Visitor Center, where we assumed they had parked their car. We detected a foreign accent… perhaps German…and we decided maybe they were tourists. My husband and I pointed in the direction we were walking and gestured for them to follow us. But they were still taking in the view from the overlook, and as we trekked ahead at a steady gait, we lost sight of the group.
By the time we got to the Visitor Center, it was starting to get dark… and cold… and we could not see this family. We both agreed that surely they took the access road and had not gotten back on the trail. And soon enough, as we circled back to head home, we met all four of them walking toward us. We had been fairly certain the clan was safe. But I have to tell you, I wasn’t relishing the thought of a night-time rescue mission on that cold, precipitous hiking trail!
Isn’t it wonderful to know that God is always with us? Even when we set out on unknown trails in the dark, He is there to guide our steps. Just as this verse says…the mere thought of our Shepherd’s strong hook at the ready - should we need protection - gives us comfort. We truly have nothing to fear. The image of the strength and power of God combined with His incredible love and gentle care for us gives me goose bumps! NO ONE ELSE can do this for us! There is no other who can provide us with all of these things in anything near the measures that God does.
The next time you walk through a valley as dark as death - and you will - think about this scripture passage. Remind yourself WHO is walking alongside you. Picture God shielding and guiding you with one arm… fighting off your enemies with a shepherd’s rod in His other hand. It’s a powerful image… and He’s a powerful God. Do you recognize His presence by your side? Isn’t it time you did?
©2013 Debbie Robus
I may walk through valleys as dark as death,
but I won’t be afraid.
You are with me, and your shepherd’s rod
makes me feel safe.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
My husband and I took a walk one recent evening, shortly before dusk. There is a hiking trail near our house, with an access road for vehicular traffic that runs parallel to it. We have hiked the trail, but most of the time we take the access road. The trail runs underneath the side of a tall bluff and is steep in spots, rocky - and in certain areas – fairly dark. At one end of the trail, there is also an observation deck.
As we approached the overlook, we encountered a family… a father, mother, pre-teen and toddler. We said “Hello,” and the parents asked if the access road would take them back to the Visitor Center, where we assumed they had parked their car. We detected a foreign accent… perhaps German…and we decided maybe they were tourists. My husband and I pointed in the direction we were walking and gestured for them to follow us. But they were still taking in the view from the overlook, and as we trekked ahead at a steady gait, we lost sight of the group.
By the time we got to the Visitor Center, it was starting to get dark… and cold… and we could not see this family. We both agreed that surely they took the access road and had not gotten back on the trail. And soon enough, as we circled back to head home, we met all four of them walking toward us. We had been fairly certain the clan was safe. But I have to tell you, I wasn’t relishing the thought of a night-time rescue mission on that cold, precipitous hiking trail!
Isn’t it wonderful to know that God is always with us? Even when we set out on unknown trails in the dark, He is there to guide our steps. Just as this verse says…the mere thought of our Shepherd’s strong hook at the ready - should we need protection - gives us comfort. We truly have nothing to fear. The image of the strength and power of God combined with His incredible love and gentle care for us gives me goose bumps! NO ONE ELSE can do this for us! There is no other who can provide us with all of these things in anything near the measures that God does.
The next time you walk through a valley as dark as death - and you will - think about this scripture passage. Remind yourself WHO is walking alongside you. Picture God shielding and guiding you with one arm… fighting off your enemies with a shepherd’s rod in His other hand. It’s a powerful image… and He’s a powerful God. Do you recognize His presence by your side? Isn’t it time you did?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for January 15, 2013
Psalm 18:32-34
God arms me with strength, and he makes my way perfect.
He makes me as surefooted as a deer, He trains my hands for battle; he strengthens my arm to draw a bronze bow.
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Since I was a very small child, I have been able to play the piano “by ear.” This means that if I hear a song once or twice, I can play it – or at least parts of it – from memory. Because I can play by ear, I can jump in on jam sessions, recall a song I heard in a movie or on the radio – then sit down at the piano, and play a few measures, or someone who hums a few bars of a tune and says, “Can you play this one?”.
Honestly, until I was an adult, I truly thought every musician could play by ear – at least to some degree. I did not realize what a strength this is musically. But as with any “muscle,” I can tell you that this “natural ability” requires bolstering. So all of the hours my sister and I sat in child-sized rocking chairs behind my mother as she taught piano lessons - marking up old music books in an imitation of her - we were strengthening and developing our musical abilities. When we sat for hours at the piano as teenagers, playing and singing the latest tunes from the radio, we were building our “musical muscle.”
Additionally, we were guided by an incredibly gifted piano teacher named Barbara Little, who taught us not only to play with technical accuracy – but more importantly, to actually “feel” the music and give it life. She trained our hands and strengthened our arms... and accepted nothing less than our very best.
As I read this passage today, I thought of all the ways God strengthens and trains us for our daily living. This is an incredible gift… and some of us have decided that we have “natural ability” and can manage on our own. The truth is… we need His instruction and guidance. We need the honing of our proficiencies that can only come from God. We accomplish nothing on our own… God’s strength and training is necessary in order for us to do our very best.
I am grateful for the gifts that God has given me – including the ability to “play by ear.” I am even more grateful that He continues to strengthen and train me in all areas of life… from the seemingly insignificant tasks to my most daunting challenges. I am able to overcome obstacles, become more capable, and learn new things through the strength of God.
You have just as many strengths and abilities as the next guy… maybe more! God has equipped each of us with the potential to be everything He planned for us… if only we will tap into His “strength training.” Who is your Personal Trainer today? Who gives you strength and teaches you new skills? Are you doing all you can to build your “muscles” and give your very best at all times? Isn’t this a great day to begin?
©2013 Debbie Robus
God arms me with strength, and he makes my way perfect.
He makes me as surefooted as a deer, He trains my hands for battle; he strengthens my arm to draw a bronze bow.
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Since I was a very small child, I have been able to play the piano “by ear.” This means that if I hear a song once or twice, I can play it – or at least parts of it – from memory. Because I can play by ear, I can jump in on jam sessions, recall a song I heard in a movie or on the radio – then sit down at the piano, and play a few measures, or someone who hums a few bars of a tune and says, “Can you play this one?”.
Honestly, until I was an adult, I truly thought every musician could play by ear – at least to some degree. I did not realize what a strength this is musically. But as with any “muscle,” I can tell you that this “natural ability” requires bolstering. So all of the hours my sister and I sat in child-sized rocking chairs behind my mother as she taught piano lessons - marking up old music books in an imitation of her - we were strengthening and developing our musical abilities. When we sat for hours at the piano as teenagers, playing and singing the latest tunes from the radio, we were building our “musical muscle.”
Additionally, we were guided by an incredibly gifted piano teacher named Barbara Little, who taught us not only to play with technical accuracy – but more importantly, to actually “feel” the music and give it life. She trained our hands and strengthened our arms... and accepted nothing less than our very best.
As I read this passage today, I thought of all the ways God strengthens and trains us for our daily living. This is an incredible gift… and some of us have decided that we have “natural ability” and can manage on our own. The truth is… we need His instruction and guidance. We need the honing of our proficiencies that can only come from God. We accomplish nothing on our own… God’s strength and training is necessary in order for us to do our very best.
I am grateful for the gifts that God has given me – including the ability to “play by ear.” I am even more grateful that He continues to strengthen and train me in all areas of life… from the seemingly insignificant tasks to my most daunting challenges. I am able to overcome obstacles, become more capable, and learn new things through the strength of God.
You have just as many strengths and abilities as the next guy… maybe more! God has equipped each of us with the potential to be everything He planned for us… if only we will tap into His “strength training.” Who is your Personal Trainer today? Who gives you strength and teaches you new skills? Are you doing all you can to build your “muscles” and give your very best at all times? Isn’t this a great day to begin?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for January 14, 2013
Psalm 119:17-24
Be generous with me and I’ll live a full life; not for a minute will I take my eyes off your road. Open my eyes so I can see what you show me of your miracle-wonders. I’m a stranger in these parts; give me clear directions.
My soul is starved and hungry, ravenous!—insatiable for your nourishing commands. And those who think they know so much, ignoring everything you tell them—let them have it! Don’t let them mock and humiliate me;
I’ve been careful to do just what you said. While bad neighbors maliciously gossip about me, I’m absorbed in pondering your wise counsel. Yes, your sayings on life are what give me delight; I listen to them as to good neighbors!
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
We recently watched the Golden Globe Awards program…partly in an attempt to get some ideas for movies and television series that might interest us. There were several nominated productions that left us looking at each other and saying, “I don’t think so.” One was a mini-series that we had already tried and found so violent and depressing we could barely make it through the first episode. Another we tried was simply uninteresting. While recommended and heralded by some, these were not for us.
Just because someone recommends a movie or television series doesn’t mean that we will like it – or that we have to watch it. We have the capability of deciding for ourselves what is right – and enjoyable – and we don’t have to listen to the opinions of others. In much the same way, we get a lot of opinions and ideas from others… our “neighbors,” if you will… about how we should live, what we should think, who we should support with our vote and our allegiance, and how we should spend our time and our money. But this doesn’t mean we have to listen to – much less heed – these opinions.
The pressure can be pretty strong at times… you may feel like an outsider if you don’t agree on certain issues with those in your social circle, your class, your neighborhood, your family, or even your church! But sometimes our heads and our hearts don’t align… times when God tells us (through scripture, prayer and meditation) that we should feel one way… and people tell us something different. These are the times that we must rely on God’s strength. When we feel that God is giving us good counsel, we need to trust Him… not cave to the influence of others.
If we rent a movie or mini-series that someone recommends, and we don’t like it, we’ve not suffered a great loss. But in many instances where we allow the advice of others to influence us without first conferring with God, we put ourselves – and possibly those in OUR circle of influence – at great risk. We need to be hungry… ravenous… for the commands of God. We need to learn to rely on Him for answers both large and small… to keep our eyes squarely focused on the path toward our Heavenly Father. His directions are clear… His voice is readily detectable… His words are true – if only we will pay attention.
Are you listening? Are you watching? Do you depend on God for answers… and do you rely on His strength when He leads you down difficult paths? Have you learned to fully trust Him… to believe that what God commands is always right? Isn’t it time you began to fully operate in His wisdom… and to seek His counsel over all other? Will this be the day you choose to do exactly that?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Be generous with me and I’ll live a full life; not for a minute will I take my eyes off your road. Open my eyes so I can see what you show me of your miracle-wonders. I’m a stranger in these parts; give me clear directions.
My soul is starved and hungry, ravenous!—insatiable for your nourishing commands. And those who think they know so much, ignoring everything you tell them—let them have it! Don’t let them mock and humiliate me;
I’ve been careful to do just what you said. While bad neighbors maliciously gossip about me, I’m absorbed in pondering your wise counsel. Yes, your sayings on life are what give me delight; I listen to them as to good neighbors!
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
We recently watched the Golden Globe Awards program…partly in an attempt to get some ideas for movies and television series that might interest us. There were several nominated productions that left us looking at each other and saying, “I don’t think so.” One was a mini-series that we had already tried and found so violent and depressing we could barely make it through the first episode. Another we tried was simply uninteresting. While recommended and heralded by some, these were not for us.
Just because someone recommends a movie or television series doesn’t mean that we will like it – or that we have to watch it. We have the capability of deciding for ourselves what is right – and enjoyable – and we don’t have to listen to the opinions of others. In much the same way, we get a lot of opinions and ideas from others… our “neighbors,” if you will… about how we should live, what we should think, who we should support with our vote and our allegiance, and how we should spend our time and our money. But this doesn’t mean we have to listen to – much less heed – these opinions.
The pressure can be pretty strong at times… you may feel like an outsider if you don’t agree on certain issues with those in your social circle, your class, your neighborhood, your family, or even your church! But sometimes our heads and our hearts don’t align… times when God tells us (through scripture, prayer and meditation) that we should feel one way… and people tell us something different. These are the times that we must rely on God’s strength. When we feel that God is giving us good counsel, we need to trust Him… not cave to the influence of others.
If we rent a movie or mini-series that someone recommends, and we don’t like it, we’ve not suffered a great loss. But in many instances where we allow the advice of others to influence us without first conferring with God, we put ourselves – and possibly those in OUR circle of influence – at great risk. We need to be hungry… ravenous… for the commands of God. We need to learn to rely on Him for answers both large and small… to keep our eyes squarely focused on the path toward our Heavenly Father. His directions are clear… His voice is readily detectable… His words are true – if only we will pay attention.
Are you listening? Are you watching? Do you depend on God for answers… and do you rely on His strength when He leads you down difficult paths? Have you learned to fully trust Him… to believe that what God commands is always right? Isn’t it time you began to fully operate in His wisdom… and to seek His counsel over all other? Will this be the day you choose to do exactly that?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for January 13, 2013
Philippians 4:13
For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Last week I had one of those “what-have-I-gotten-myself-into” moments that we all have occasionally. I discovered that my cousin’s in-laws were coming to Arkansas from Indiana and Tennessee for his wife’s funeral… 20-25 of them or better. I asked my cousin if he needed any food while they were visiting. He sent word that they could use meals for Friday night, Saturday breakfast, and Saturday evening… and possibly Sunday. I had some organizing to do! So I went over to my mom’s house, and she and I sat down and made a menu for three meals… dinner Friday night, breakfast Saturday morning, and dinner again Saturday evening. That wasn’t everything the family had asked for, but it was a good start!
We made a list of people we felt would want to help, and we got out the telephone directory and began calling them. The first half dozen calls we made were unanswered. We made a plan to “divide and conquer” the list, and I headed for the grocery store. Before I left, I told my mom, “I’m not worried about this… I’ve done it before, and we always have a ‘fish and five loaves’ situation. We’ll probably end up with more than enough. I know we will be okay.” On the way to the store, I prayed that God would make it so. And he did!
By Thursday morning, we had so much food coming that we had to scale back and ask some people to provide drinks, ice and paper goods instead. As people began to drop by with desserts, bread and sandwich meat, we reduced the amount of those items on our list. Then the church that hosted the funeral decided to provide the family with an after-service meal… and the family made plans to return home Saturday evening. So we started thinking in terms of what to do with leftovers!
Just as I predicted, God provided more than enough physical sustenance for this family. As He provided for their nourishment and bodily strength, He showed me once again that I can do anything with His help. And whether you are organizing a food committee for a bereaved family or planning a move to another city, God can handle it for you. If you need to overcome an addiction or lose a few pounds, God will give you the strength to do so. When you are grieving, sick, frustrated, frightened, or stressed out over something happy and fun… call on God to meet all of your needs – and He will gladly answer!
This is one of my favorite scriptures, because truly the message of Jesus Christ is fully encompassed. I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength… who died for my sins and took them upon Himself. I can do everything through Christ, who loves me in ways I cannot begin to understand and gives me strength to love others in ways that seem daunting, if not impossible. I can do everything through Christ, who sent His Holy Spirit to dwell in me and be my constant companion until He calls me home to live forever in His glorious presence! Nothing is impossible because of Jesus!
When I have a “what-have-I-gotten-myself-into” moment, I’m learning to remind myself of this… to say, “Okay, LORD, buckle Your seatbelt! It may be a bumpy ride, but if You will drive, I know we will get there in one piece!” I am learning to operate in HIS strength – and believe that all things are possible. Can you say the same?
©2013 Debbie Robus
For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Last week I had one of those “what-have-I-gotten-myself-into” moments that we all have occasionally. I discovered that my cousin’s in-laws were coming to Arkansas from Indiana and Tennessee for his wife’s funeral… 20-25 of them or better. I asked my cousin if he needed any food while they were visiting. He sent word that they could use meals for Friday night, Saturday breakfast, and Saturday evening… and possibly Sunday. I had some organizing to do! So I went over to my mom’s house, and she and I sat down and made a menu for three meals… dinner Friday night, breakfast Saturday morning, and dinner again Saturday evening. That wasn’t everything the family had asked for, but it was a good start!
We made a list of people we felt would want to help, and we got out the telephone directory and began calling them. The first half dozen calls we made were unanswered. We made a plan to “divide and conquer” the list, and I headed for the grocery store. Before I left, I told my mom, “I’m not worried about this… I’ve done it before, and we always have a ‘fish and five loaves’ situation. We’ll probably end up with more than enough. I know we will be okay.” On the way to the store, I prayed that God would make it so. And he did!
By Thursday morning, we had so much food coming that we had to scale back and ask some people to provide drinks, ice and paper goods instead. As people began to drop by with desserts, bread and sandwich meat, we reduced the amount of those items on our list. Then the church that hosted the funeral decided to provide the family with an after-service meal… and the family made plans to return home Saturday evening. So we started thinking in terms of what to do with leftovers!
Just as I predicted, God provided more than enough physical sustenance for this family. As He provided for their nourishment and bodily strength, He showed me once again that I can do anything with His help. And whether you are organizing a food committee for a bereaved family or planning a move to another city, God can handle it for you. If you need to overcome an addiction or lose a few pounds, God will give you the strength to do so. When you are grieving, sick, frustrated, frightened, or stressed out over something happy and fun… call on God to meet all of your needs – and He will gladly answer!
This is one of my favorite scriptures, because truly the message of Jesus Christ is fully encompassed. I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength… who died for my sins and took them upon Himself. I can do everything through Christ, who loves me in ways I cannot begin to understand and gives me strength to love others in ways that seem daunting, if not impossible. I can do everything through Christ, who sent His Holy Spirit to dwell in me and be my constant companion until He calls me home to live forever in His glorious presence! Nothing is impossible because of Jesus!
When I have a “what-have-I-gotten-myself-into” moment, I’m learning to remind myself of this… to say, “Okay, LORD, buckle Your seatbelt! It may be a bumpy ride, but if You will drive, I know we will get there in one piece!” I am learning to operate in HIS strength – and believe that all things are possible. Can you say the same?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for January 12, 2013
Matthew 21:21-22
But Jesus was matter-of-fact: “Yes—and if you embrace this kingdom life and don’t doubt God, you’ll not only do minor feats like I did to the fig tree, but also triumph over huge obstacles. This mountain, for instance, you’ll tell, ‘Go jump in the lake,’ and it will jump. Absolutely everything, ranging from small to large, as you make it a part of your believing prayer, gets included as you lay hold of God.”
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
I often refer to our 19-month-old great-niece, Zola, as “our little monkey!” Zola absolutely loves to climb things. One day, as my husband sat on our couch, he put his feet on the ottoman in front of him. Zola wanted to pass by. She could easily have crawled underneath my husband’s legs and been on her way. Instead, she worked, wriggled, huffed and puffed as she attempted to “scale the mountain” and climb up and over. For her, those legs were a huge obstacle… one she faced head-on! I’m not sure where she gets her determination and confidence, but there is nothing she won’t tackle!
My favorite part of this particular translation of Matthew 21:21-22 is…” you’ll not only do minor feats … but also triumph over huge obstacles.” Most of us perform minor feats every single day - from getting to work or school on time… running a household a combination of people of all ages and maybe a pet or two…managing to squeeze in a workout that keeps us healthy.. and much more. Let’s call them “small victories.” I believe God blesses us with these to keep us encouraged and moving forward… to show us that we are strong and capable of “getting it done.”
By the same token, each one of us will likely face huge obstacles at one point or another in our life. Our “mountain” may be something such as finishing college or completing a difficult internship…losing a significant amount of weight (or that last stubborn 10 pounds) and getting in shape to reduce cholesterol and lower blood pressure…coping with the grief of losing a loved one…losing our job and/or our home… managing a serious illness (ours or that of a friend or family member)… facing the results of a crisis, such as a natural disaster… or conquering an addiction. But God can equip us with the strength, courage and fortitude to handle these obstacles… if only we will trust Him.
Isn’t it great to know that God can help us with all of this – minor feats, huge obstacles - and everything in between? Wouldn’t it be great if we operated a little more like Zola… in the “No Fear Zone?” We DO know where our determination and confidence lies… in the strength and power of God Almighty. It is up to us to lay hold of Him… to remove all doubt and claim the dominion of God as our believing prayer. Whether He directs us to crawl under or around our hurdle… or to climb to the top and tackle it head-on, we can embrace Kingdom Life and handle anything under God’s power.
Does this mean that we can literally make mountains jump into the lake by telling them to do so? Probably not! But with God’s help, the “mountains” in our individual lives can be seized and managed, captured and dominated… and we can rest in the assurance and protection of a victorious Master who always has our back. Aren’t you ready for this? What “mountain” do you need to move today? Are you ready to lay hold of God and get it done?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for January 11, 2013
Matthew 17:20
“Because you’re not yet taking God seriously,” said Jesus. “The simple truth is that if you had a mere kernel of faith, a poppy seed, say, you would tell this mountain, ‘Move!’ and it would move. There is nothing you wouldn’t be able to tackle.”
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
Have you ever eaten something with little seeds – poppy seed muffins, blackberries, blueberries or strawberries, etc. – and gotten one stuck in your teeth? It felt like the thing is the size of a marble… right? Yet when the tiny offender was removed, you might have been amazed at how insignificant in size it truly was. Still, it wielded great power – or discomfort – over your life.
Last week, a friend of mine lost her 51-year-old sister to cancer. As I exchanged messages with her, I shared with her how I try to do things for others – to show them kindness, empathy and encouragement – in honor of my brother, Tim, who left us over 14 years ago. I challenged her to honor HER sister in this way… to carry Cindy's amazing legacy for being the hands and feet of Jesus forward to those she encounters.
This week, my cousin’s 42-year-old wife died suddenly from breast cancer. We never even knew she was ill. She masked her rapid decline and talked only of Jesus and how He was allowing her to share in the ministry she and my cousin had founded - and to win countless souls for the Kingdom of Heaven. So in consoling my cousin, I have encouraged him to keep putting one foot in front of the other… to continue the work – and in so doing, to honor Angie as He honors his faith in God.
Neither one of these ladies were community leaders or well-known figures. But mention either name, and you should hear the chatter! You should see Facebook light up with comments about each one and how she blessed others – and how both of these women were on fire for Jesus. They may have been “tiny poppy seeds” on this earth… but their impact was tremendous. God’s power and strength coursing through them could not be contained… it radiated outwardly to everyone they encountered.
What about you? What are you doing with your faith and God’s blessings? Even if you only have “poppy seed faith” – or “mustard seed faith” as many translations of this scripture call it – this is enough to accomplish tremendous things in the name of Jesus. You have Supernatural power and energy running through your veins! How are you using it?
Do you put one foot in front of the other – even when what little faith you may have is tested – and see where God can take you? Isn’t it time you opened your heart to the possibilities He offers? What are you waiting for? There is NOTHING you cannot tackle with God… NOTHING! Are you ready to take Him seriously?
©2013 Debbie Robus
“Because you’re not yet taking God seriously,” said Jesus. “The simple truth is that if you had a mere kernel of faith, a poppy seed, say, you would tell this mountain, ‘Move!’ and it would move. There is nothing you wouldn’t be able to tackle.”
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
Have you ever eaten something with little seeds – poppy seed muffins, blackberries, blueberries or strawberries, etc. – and gotten one stuck in your teeth? It felt like the thing is the size of a marble… right? Yet when the tiny offender was removed, you might have been amazed at how insignificant in size it truly was. Still, it wielded great power – or discomfort – over your life.
Last week, a friend of mine lost her 51-year-old sister to cancer. As I exchanged messages with her, I shared with her how I try to do things for others – to show them kindness, empathy and encouragement – in honor of my brother, Tim, who left us over 14 years ago. I challenged her to honor HER sister in this way… to carry Cindy's amazing legacy for being the hands and feet of Jesus forward to those she encounters.
This week, my cousin’s 42-year-old wife died suddenly from breast cancer. We never even knew she was ill. She masked her rapid decline and talked only of Jesus and how He was allowing her to share in the ministry she and my cousin had founded - and to win countless souls for the Kingdom of Heaven. So in consoling my cousin, I have encouraged him to keep putting one foot in front of the other… to continue the work – and in so doing, to honor Angie as He honors his faith in God.
Neither one of these ladies were community leaders or well-known figures. But mention either name, and you should hear the chatter! You should see Facebook light up with comments about each one and how she blessed others – and how both of these women were on fire for Jesus. They may have been “tiny poppy seeds” on this earth… but their impact was tremendous. God’s power and strength coursing through them could not be contained… it radiated outwardly to everyone they encountered.
What about you? What are you doing with your faith and God’s blessings? Even if you only have “poppy seed faith” – or “mustard seed faith” as many translations of this scripture call it – this is enough to accomplish tremendous things in the name of Jesus. You have Supernatural power and energy running through your veins! How are you using it?
Do you put one foot in front of the other – even when what little faith you may have is tested – and see where God can take you? Isn’t it time you opened your heart to the possibilities He offers? What are you waiting for? There is NOTHING you cannot tackle with God… NOTHING! Are you ready to take Him seriously?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for January 10, 2013
Mark 10:52
And Jesus said to him, “Go, for your faith has healed you.” Instantly the man could see, and he followed Jesus down the road.
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Did you ever go to one of those haunted houses where someone told you to stick your hand in “a bowl of guts and eyeballs?” You knew in reason it was only boiled eggs or olives and cold spaghetti noodles… but as you put your hand in, you believed what you were told. You had faith that you were being given truthful information… that you were really touching such ghoulish, disgusting things. In this case, you were being sold a bill of goods. You believed simply because you wanted to believe. If someone had turned on the light and shown you what you touched, you would have had a totally different perspective.
With Jesus, we have to trust what we are told much of the time… what we read in scripture and what we feel God reveals to us through prayer. We must have faith in God’s promises, because honestly, we don’t always have much visible proof. If the mysteries of God were suddenly fully revealed to us… if a light were turned on, so to speak…we might not be able to handle them. For certain, our perspective would change. But over time, God shows us His power and presence in a myriad of ways that are often much more subtle. It is up to us to recognize them!
So how do we know that the strength of God is real? How do we know that His promises are sincere… that we can fully trust Him? Look around. See the day-to-day miracles that are occurring. Watch how others rely on Him to endure things that seem impossible to handle, much less overcome. Study the blessings that come into your life… take a good hard look at the events of your world over the course of a week or two and see where God has orchestrated things in a way you had not even considered. Ask yourself, “How did I make it through XYZ?” and recognize that God’s strength and power most likely made the difference!
Make this the day that your faith heals you and allows you to see God more clearly – to operate more fully in His strength and power. Learn to function in the truths of Jesus Christ, and quit allowing others to convince you their information is factual. This is not some light-hearted game like a haunted house… this is your life in Christ! Seek His truth and strength… and trust nothing less! Recognize God’s power and presence… and trust Him to deliver you!
©2013 Debbie Robus
And Jesus said to him, “Go, for your faith has healed you.” Instantly the man could see, and he followed Jesus down the road.
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Did you ever go to one of those haunted houses where someone told you to stick your hand in “a bowl of guts and eyeballs?” You knew in reason it was only boiled eggs or olives and cold spaghetti noodles… but as you put your hand in, you believed what you were told. You had faith that you were being given truthful information… that you were really touching such ghoulish, disgusting things. In this case, you were being sold a bill of goods. You believed simply because you wanted to believe. If someone had turned on the light and shown you what you touched, you would have had a totally different perspective.
With Jesus, we have to trust what we are told much of the time… what we read in scripture and what we feel God reveals to us through prayer. We must have faith in God’s promises, because honestly, we don’t always have much visible proof. If the mysteries of God were suddenly fully revealed to us… if a light were turned on, so to speak…we might not be able to handle them. For certain, our perspective would change. But over time, God shows us His power and presence in a myriad of ways that are often much more subtle. It is up to us to recognize them!
So how do we know that the strength of God is real? How do we know that His promises are sincere… that we can fully trust Him? Look around. See the day-to-day miracles that are occurring. Watch how others rely on Him to endure things that seem impossible to handle, much less overcome. Study the blessings that come into your life… take a good hard look at the events of your world over the course of a week or two and see where God has orchestrated things in a way you had not even considered. Ask yourself, “How did I make it through XYZ?” and recognize that God’s strength and power most likely made the difference!
Make this the day that your faith heals you and allows you to see God more clearly – to operate more fully in His strength and power. Learn to function in the truths of Jesus Christ, and quit allowing others to convince you their information is factual. This is not some light-hearted game like a haunted house… this is your life in Christ! Seek His truth and strength… and trust nothing less! Recognize God’s power and presence… and trust Him to deliver you!
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for January 9, 2013
Joshua 1:9
I’ve commanded you to be strong and brave. Don’t ever be afraid or discouraged! I am the Lord your God, and I will be there to help you wherever you go.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Recently, I made superhero capes and masks for my nephew, Timothy, and our cousin, Owen… both boys are three and a half. You know how this goes… when the superhero dons his/her costume, they are equipped with powers and strengths beyond any human capacity. Evil villains can be conquered… there is no challenge or problem too big – no force too formidable to be overcome. When Timmy and Owen put on their capes and “fly” around the room, they feel invincible. They have no fear… discouragement is not in their vocabularies.
None of us are superheroes… but all of us can wear the cape and mask! We can “put on the full armor of God” and feel His continual presence. We can call on His help in any and all situations. We can be brave and strong, because our strength comes from the LORD. We don’t have to be afraid or discouraged about a single thing.
Please don’t misunderstand me… if something has you worried, frustrated or frightened today, this does not mean you have no faith. If you are discouraged, you are not a bad person. This simply means you are human – and the devil is working hard to pull you over to his side. Call on God to give you superhuman strength. Believe that HE can make the difference… trust Him to help you work through whatever issues you face with courage and hope. Believe that God can – and will – make the difference!
Too many of us know deep in our hearts that God can help us with anything and everything… yet we choose to wallow in worry, fear and frustration anyhow. Don’t let this be said of you. As Pastor Joel Osteen likes to say… be a victor, not a victim. Call on God to strengthen you… be strong and brave. Put on your “superhero cape” of faith and fly with Christ!
©2013 Debbie Robus
I’ve commanded you to be strong and brave. Don’t ever be afraid or discouraged! I am the Lord your God, and I will be there to help you wherever you go.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Recently, I made superhero capes and masks for my nephew, Timothy, and our cousin, Owen… both boys are three and a half. You know how this goes… when the superhero dons his/her costume, they are equipped with powers and strengths beyond any human capacity. Evil villains can be conquered… there is no challenge or problem too big – no force too formidable to be overcome. When Timmy and Owen put on their capes and “fly” around the room, they feel invincible. They have no fear… discouragement is not in their vocabularies.
None of us are superheroes… but all of us can wear the cape and mask! We can “put on the full armor of God” and feel His continual presence. We can call on His help in any and all situations. We can be brave and strong, because our strength comes from the LORD. We don’t have to be afraid or discouraged about a single thing.
Please don’t misunderstand me… if something has you worried, frustrated or frightened today, this does not mean you have no faith. If you are discouraged, you are not a bad person. This simply means you are human – and the devil is working hard to pull you over to his side. Call on God to give you superhuman strength. Believe that HE can make the difference… trust Him to help you work through whatever issues you face with courage and hope. Believe that God can – and will – make the difference!
Too many of us know deep in our hearts that God can help us with anything and everything… yet we choose to wallow in worry, fear and frustration anyhow. Don’t let this be said of you. As Pastor Joel Osteen likes to say… be a victor, not a victim. Call on God to strengthen you… be strong and brave. Put on your “superhero cape” of faith and fly with Christ!
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for January 8, 2012
John 16:31-33
Jesus answered them, “Do you finally believe? In fact, you’re about to make a run for it—saving your own skins and abandoning me. But I’m not abandoned. The Father is with me. I’ve told you all this so that trusting me, you will be unshakable and assured, deeply at peace. In this godless world you will continue to experience difficulties. But take heart! I’ve conquered the world.”
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.
Today would be the 78th birthday of Elvis Aaron Presley. In 1960, the legendary musician and actor had a number one hit single called, “Are You Lonesome Tonight?” that is ranked #81 on Billboard’s list of “greatest songs of all time.” If I were to ask you whether you are lonesome, you very well might laugh at me. “Are you kidding? I have people around me all the time… two brothers and a sister… four kids and a wife/husband…I work with dozens of people every day…I live in an apartment complex/facility with several other families and individuals… I’m a cashier at Wal-Mart or a server at a restaurant!” Yes, I get it… you are not alone. But are you lonely? There is a difference!
People who are lonely often lack the unshakable, deep peace of God. They may sense His presence… and surely they feel the company of other people in their lives. But it is entirely possible to feel lonely without being alone. And those who do not experience the profound, unwavering presence of God are vulnerable to attack from the devil… which can bring a myriad of troubles and difficulties that often seem insurmountable.
Many of us give wonderful lip service to the acknowledgement of God’s existence in our life. We agree wholeheartedly that Jesus is with us. We claim the presence of the Holy Spirit in our heart. And then we totally abandon Him. We talk a good game… but we don’t actually live out our declarations. So while we readily recognize that the Father is with us… that we are not abandoned… we fail to trust Him completely. And we are shaken… we lack assurance and deep peace when troubles come. And Jesus has told us that troubles will come!
Search your heart today. See whether God is a visitor in your life… or a fulltime resident. When troubles come… or the devil suggests that you are lonely… where do you turn? Have you allowed him room to work in your heart, or are you deeply rooted in the unshakable peace and assurance that the Father is always with you, conquering all of your difficulties and securing His victories for you?
Wouldn’t it be great to be able to say unequivocally that Jesus has your back… that there is nothing you can’t handle with His help? Did you know that today can be that day? It’s a matter of shifting your attitude… and surrendering completely. When we “let go and let God,” nothing can permanently rattle us. Are you ready to operate in unshakable peace and assurance? Are you “lonesome tonight?” Is this you’re a great day to change?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Jesus answered them, “Do you finally believe? In fact, you’re about to make a run for it—saving your own skins and abandoning me. But I’m not abandoned. The Father is with me. I’ve told you all this so that trusting me, you will be unshakable and assured, deeply at peace. In this godless world you will continue to experience difficulties. But take heart! I’ve conquered the world.”
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.
Today would be the 78th birthday of Elvis Aaron Presley. In 1960, the legendary musician and actor had a number one hit single called, “Are You Lonesome Tonight?” that is ranked #81 on Billboard’s list of “greatest songs of all time.” If I were to ask you whether you are lonesome, you very well might laugh at me. “Are you kidding? I have people around me all the time… two brothers and a sister… four kids and a wife/husband…I work with dozens of people every day…I live in an apartment complex/facility with several other families and individuals… I’m a cashier at Wal-Mart or a server at a restaurant!” Yes, I get it… you are not alone. But are you lonely? There is a difference!
People who are lonely often lack the unshakable, deep peace of God. They may sense His presence… and surely they feel the company of other people in their lives. But it is entirely possible to feel lonely without being alone. And those who do not experience the profound, unwavering presence of God are vulnerable to attack from the devil… which can bring a myriad of troubles and difficulties that often seem insurmountable.
Many of us give wonderful lip service to the acknowledgement of God’s existence in our life. We agree wholeheartedly that Jesus is with us. We claim the presence of the Holy Spirit in our heart. And then we totally abandon Him. We talk a good game… but we don’t actually live out our declarations. So while we readily recognize that the Father is with us… that we are not abandoned… we fail to trust Him completely. And we are shaken… we lack assurance and deep peace when troubles come. And Jesus has told us that troubles will come!
Search your heart today. See whether God is a visitor in your life… or a fulltime resident. When troubles come… or the devil suggests that you are lonely… where do you turn? Have you allowed him room to work in your heart, or are you deeply rooted in the unshakable peace and assurance that the Father is always with you, conquering all of your difficulties and securing His victories for you?
Wouldn’t it be great to be able to say unequivocally that Jesus has your back… that there is nothing you can’t handle with His help? Did you know that today can be that day? It’s a matter of shifting your attitude… and surrendering completely. When we “let go and let God,” nothing can permanently rattle us. Are you ready to operate in unshakable peace and assurance? Are you “lonesome tonight?” Is this you’re a great day to change?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for January 7, 2013
Job13:15
God might kill me, but I have no other hope.
I am going to argue my case with him.
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
I spoke with my cousin JD this morning for quite a while. He is determined to carry on his tent revival ministry, despite the sudden and unexpected death yesterday of his wife and ministry partner, Angie. He reminded me that “my best Bible teacher has been pain.” And JD has endured much pain and challenge in his 30+ years - some of it self-induced, but also some that is simply part of life… the death of his mother to breast cancer when he was about twenty, the near-fatal logging accident four years ago, and several life-threatening accidents and illnesses involving his dad, just to name a few.
JD told me, “The devil has thrown prison, bankruptcy, near-death, drug abuse and more at me… and each time, I’ve shown him that He can’t beat me.” Now JD faces a tremendous hurdle… how to carry on his ministry without Angie. He is already “arguing his case”… planning his return to the mission field in Florida, as he and Angie had hoped to do later this month. As we talked, I heard such sadness and grief in JD’s voice… but I also detected a spirit of hope.
Here is some of what we shared… and what I want you to take from all of this today…
There is a profound difference between saying that you trust God, and truly TRUSTING Him. If you have ever been knocked to your knees in some way and gotten back up, you know the power of God to rescue and sustain you. Are you calling on that power as you move forward? When you plead your case before God, can you genuinely say that you have completely surrendered and relied on Him fully for strength and sustenance? If you or I woke up in the next few minutes in heaven, would we be able to plead our case with God as His faithful servant? Or do we still have work to do? I don’t believe our work for the LORD ever ends… or that we can possibly do enough for God in this lifetime… but our gauge of this and His are different. Satisfying God and fully yielding to His will is ALL that matters! How are you doing these days?
©2013 Debbie Robus
God might kill me, but I have no other hope.
I am going to argue my case with him.
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
I spoke with my cousin JD this morning for quite a while. He is determined to carry on his tent revival ministry, despite the sudden and unexpected death yesterday of his wife and ministry partner, Angie. He reminded me that “my best Bible teacher has been pain.” And JD has endured much pain and challenge in his 30+ years - some of it self-induced, but also some that is simply part of life… the death of his mother to breast cancer when he was about twenty, the near-fatal logging accident four years ago, and several life-threatening accidents and illnesses involving his dad, just to name a few.
JD told me, “The devil has thrown prison, bankruptcy, near-death, drug abuse and more at me… and each time, I’ve shown him that He can’t beat me.” Now JD faces a tremendous hurdle… how to carry on his ministry without Angie. He is already “arguing his case”… planning his return to the mission field in Florida, as he and Angie had hoped to do later this month. As we talked, I heard such sadness and grief in JD’s voice… but I also detected a spirit of hope.
Here is some of what we shared… and what I want you to take from all of this today…
- When sadness and tragedy occurs in our life, it is okay to grieve – even as a faith-filled Christian. Jesus grieved over the death of Lazarus. God understands our pain… and He grieves for us in our heartache. But He also sustains us and gives us hope and strength.
- Even in death, Angie’s ministry continues. If you could read her Facebook page, you would see that she continues to be the hands and feet of Jesus on this earth to those who knew and loved her. Are you living in such a way that the same could be said of you?
- God may allow us to endure tragic circumstances… illness, accidents, debt, natural disaster, and even loss of life… but He never leaves us. He provides us with a protective shield – sometimes in the form of shock and numbness for a time. He gives us the fortitude and courage to keep putting one foot in front of the other – and to continue serving Him.
- Healing takes many forms. We are elated when healing comes in an earthly form… but ultimate restoration comes in Heaven. So we must celebrate today that Angie has received the definitive reward… she has seen the face of Jesus, and she is radiant and exquisite in His presence.
There is a profound difference between saying that you trust God, and truly TRUSTING Him. If you have ever been knocked to your knees in some way and gotten back up, you know the power of God to rescue and sustain you. Are you calling on that power as you move forward? When you plead your case before God, can you genuinely say that you have completely surrendered and relied on Him fully for strength and sustenance? If you or I woke up in the next few minutes in heaven, would we be able to plead our case with God as His faithful servant? Or do we still have work to do? I don’t believe our work for the LORD ever ends… or that we can possibly do enough for God in this lifetime… but our gauge of this and His are different. Satisfying God and fully yielding to His will is ALL that matters! How are you doing these days?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for January 6, 2013
Isaiah 41:10
Don’t be afraid. I am with you.
Don’t tremble with fear.I am your God.
I will make you strong, as I protect you with my arm and give you victories.
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
I have been reminded that much of what we think is important in this life probably isn’t… and we’re wasting a lot of precious time. The young wife of my cousin JD has just been called home to heaven. She was in her early forties. Angie and JD married on January 8, 2011. Together, they preached the gospel of Jesus Christ throughout the United States… particularly in Arkansas, Indiana, and recently in Florida. This beautiful, Godly woman came into my cousin’s life a few short years ago and blessed him immensely. The two of them made a formidable team for Jesus and reached countless souls for Him.
For those who don’t know – or don’t remember – JD is got involved with drug abuse and drug dealing while still in high school. He ultimately ended up in prison, where he reconnected with Jesus in a profound way. JD came back into the general population a changed man. Then in late December 2008, while working as a logger, JD was hit in the face with the full force of a tree he had just cut. Virtually every bone in his face was broken, and he didn’t wake up for 9 days. JD spent the next three weeks in the hospital, and recovery and facial reconstruction took months. Through it all, he remained faithful to God and shared the message of Jesus Christ with everyone he encountered.
Believe me… I have asked God several times already why Angie has been called to heaven. She and JD were doing such tremendous work… serving so faithfully. I have asked God to strengthen JD and his immediate family – and all of us who know and love him – in the coming weeks and months. What I do know is that Angie was ready for heaven…and she was ushered into the presence of Jesus with open arms and a jubilant celebration. I also know that the service she rendered on this earth was not in vain… and will continue. God will equip JD to continue His work…He is with him and will provide him with protection – and more victories.
Surely the hand of God is evident in my cousin’s life… even on this heartbreaking day. And just as certainly, God is protecting each of us… giving us strength and reassurance – and victories. The question is… what are we giving in return? Are we serving to the best of our ability, like Angie? Is the name of Jesus on our lips and in our hearts… and is His presence in our life evident at all times? Do we exhibit in our Christian witness and daily living something that is desirable to others for themselves? Shouldn’t we?
If God calls you home this day, what will be your legacy? Will you enter His presence with assurance that you loved Him and served Him 110%? Are you able to think of your own arrival in heaven without fear or trembling, knowing that you operated fully in God’s strength and power? Wouldn’t this be a great time to make the necessary changes in your thinking… and your actions?
Please pray for JD and his family, and for Angie’s family… and also for their church family and many friends. May God bless them all.
©2013 Debbie Robus
Don’t be afraid. I am with you.
Don’t tremble with fear.I am your God.
I will make you strong, as I protect you with my arm and give you victories.
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
For those who don’t know – or don’t remember – JD is got involved with drug abuse and drug dealing while still in high school. He ultimately ended up in prison, where he reconnected with Jesus in a profound way. JD came back into the general population a changed man. Then in late December 2008, while working as a logger, JD was hit in the face with the full force of a tree he had just cut. Virtually every bone in his face was broken, and he didn’t wake up for 9 days. JD spent the next three weeks in the hospital, and recovery and facial reconstruction took months. Through it all, he remained faithful to God and shared the message of Jesus Christ with everyone he encountered.
Believe me… I have asked God several times already why Angie has been called to heaven. She and JD were doing such tremendous work… serving so faithfully. I have asked God to strengthen JD and his immediate family – and all of us who know and love him – in the coming weeks and months. What I do know is that Angie was ready for heaven…and she was ushered into the presence of Jesus with open arms and a jubilant celebration. I also know that the service she rendered on this earth was not in vain… and will continue. God will equip JD to continue His work…He is with him and will provide him with protection – and more victories.
Surely the hand of God is evident in my cousin’s life… even on this heartbreaking day. And just as certainly, God is protecting each of us… giving us strength and reassurance – and victories. The question is… what are we giving in return? Are we serving to the best of our ability, like Angie? Is the name of Jesus on our lips and in our hearts… and is His presence in our life evident at all times? Do we exhibit in our Christian witness and daily living something that is desirable to others for themselves? Shouldn’t we?
If God calls you home this day, what will be your legacy? Will you enter His presence with assurance that you loved Him and served Him 110%? Are you able to think of your own arrival in heaven without fear or trembling, knowing that you operated fully in God’s strength and power? Wouldn’t this be a great time to make the necessary changes in your thinking… and your actions?
Please pray for JD and his family, and for Angie’s family… and also for their church family and many friends. May God bless them all.
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for January 5, 2013
Isaiah 40:28-31
Have you never heard? Have you never understood? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of all the earth.
He never grows weak or weary. No one can measure the depths of his understanding. He gives power to the weak and strength to the powerless.
Even youths will become weak and tired, and young men will fall in exhaustion. But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint.
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
The other day, my three-year-old cousin, Owen, had a little meltdown. His mom said, “I think someone needs a nap.” Owen replied, “I don’t need a nap… I’m just tired!” Often, when Timothy is cranky, he will say, “But I did get my nap out!” In truth, this means that he did NOT have a nap… or at least a very good one!
Let us take a little rest… grab a nap for an hour or two… or get a good night’s rest, and most of us are refreshed and re-energized. But sometimes, there are circumstances that prevent us from getting a nap or plenty of rest. There are times when we do grow weary and very tired. Maybe we are studying for finals… or up half the night with a baby who is sick or refuses to sleep…or maybe a medical crisis has us sitting half the night in a hospital Emergency Room. There are times when we seem to be “running on fumes.” And honestly, there seems to be little to no explanation for how we survive without crashing in a heap in the corner of the room and falling into a much-needed sleep.
There are other times when we are mentally or emotionally drained… when stresses (both good and bad) have kept our mind racing or filled us with excitement – anxiety, anticipation, frustration, or even giddiness. Whatever has revved our motor, we can’t seem to settle down and relax… or turn off our thoughts.
In all of these circumstances, there IS a strength and power that we often fail to tap into – much less recognize… the unfailing care and nurture of Almighty God. When we are too tired to put one foot in front of the other, He gives us that little boost to take our next steps. When we think we can’t handle another challenge, God lifts us up and says, “You’re not tackling this by yourself!” When we are so worn out and frustrated that we want to throw up our hands and walk away, God says, “I will carry you for a while.”
How can we give up when we soar on wings as strong as those of eagles… when we operate under the power and strength of such a loving, everlasting God? We may be tired and need a “nap”… or even have a temporary meltdown. But at the end of the day, we need to recognize WHO is carrying us much of the time… filling us with His strength and power to endure whatever comes our way. Isn’t it time you operated in this power? Shouldn’t you embrace the strength of God and call on Him to meet your every need? Wouldn’t this a great time to begin?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Have you never heard? Have you never understood? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of all the earth.
He never grows weak or weary. No one can measure the depths of his understanding. He gives power to the weak and strength to the powerless.
Even youths will become weak and tired, and young men will fall in exhaustion. But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint.
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
The other day, my three-year-old cousin, Owen, had a little meltdown. His mom said, “I think someone needs a nap.” Owen replied, “I don’t need a nap… I’m just tired!” Often, when Timothy is cranky, he will say, “But I did get my nap out!” In truth, this means that he did NOT have a nap… or at least a very good one!
Let us take a little rest… grab a nap for an hour or two… or get a good night’s rest, and most of us are refreshed and re-energized. But sometimes, there are circumstances that prevent us from getting a nap or plenty of rest. There are times when we do grow weary and very tired. Maybe we are studying for finals… or up half the night with a baby who is sick or refuses to sleep…or maybe a medical crisis has us sitting half the night in a hospital Emergency Room. There are times when we seem to be “running on fumes.” And honestly, there seems to be little to no explanation for how we survive without crashing in a heap in the corner of the room and falling into a much-needed sleep.
There are other times when we are mentally or emotionally drained… when stresses (both good and bad) have kept our mind racing or filled us with excitement – anxiety, anticipation, frustration, or even giddiness. Whatever has revved our motor, we can’t seem to settle down and relax… or turn off our thoughts.
In all of these circumstances, there IS a strength and power that we often fail to tap into – much less recognize… the unfailing care and nurture of Almighty God. When we are too tired to put one foot in front of the other, He gives us that little boost to take our next steps. When we think we can’t handle another challenge, God lifts us up and says, “You’re not tackling this by yourself!” When we are so worn out and frustrated that we want to throw up our hands and walk away, God says, “I will carry you for a while.”
How can we give up when we soar on wings as strong as those of eagles… when we operate under the power and strength of such a loving, everlasting God? We may be tired and need a “nap”… or even have a temporary meltdown. But at the end of the day, we need to recognize WHO is carrying us much of the time… filling us with His strength and power to endure whatever comes our way. Isn’t it time you operated in this power? Shouldn’t you embrace the strength of God and call on Him to meet your every need? Wouldn’t this a great time to begin?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for January 4, 2012
Genesis 22:1-3
Some years later God decided to test Abraham, so he spoke to him.
Abraham answered, “Here I am, Lord.”
The Lord said, “Go get Isaac, your only son, the one you dearly love! Take him to the land of Moriah, and I will show you a mountain where you must sacrifice him to me on the fires of an altar.” So Abraham got up early the next morning and chopped wood for the fire. He put a saddle on his donkey and left with Isaac and two servants for the place where God had told him to go.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I was watching a story on television this week about a woman who is in prison… convicted of negligent homicide in the death of a foster child who was in her care. While a judge and jury found ample evidence to place her there, many insist she was a victim of circumstances. The woman is the biological mother of more than one child… and a former missionary who worked with special needs children. She stated in an interview for this story …“I always said, ‘LORD, I’ll go anywhere you send me.’ I just didn’t know He would send me to prison.”
I have no idea if the LORD sent this woman to prison… she may use this thought as a coping mechanism – and these words as a ploy to try to convince others of her innocence. But her comment did cause me to stop and think… “Where is God sending me?” Has it ever occurred to any of us that the little bumps in the road… or even the BIGGER ones… might be God calling us to do something difficult – testing how deeply we rely on Him for strength? When we have our life all mapped out, and we get thrown a curve ball… do we see it as an inconvenience - or an opportunity?
How profoundly would our lives change if instead of asking, “Why me, LORD?” we said, “Here I am!” – and meant it? What if we shifted our thinking to look at tests of our strength as chances to demonstrate God’s power and presence in our life? Isn’t this at least worth a try? Where is God sending you today… and how are you reacting?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Some years later God decided to test Abraham, so he spoke to him.
Abraham answered, “Here I am, Lord.”
The Lord said, “Go get Isaac, your only son, the one you dearly love! Take him to the land of Moriah, and I will show you a mountain where you must sacrifice him to me on the fires of an altar.” So Abraham got up early the next morning and chopped wood for the fire. He put a saddle on his donkey and left with Isaac and two servants for the place where God had told him to go.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I was watching a story on television this week about a woman who is in prison… convicted of negligent homicide in the death of a foster child who was in her care. While a judge and jury found ample evidence to place her there, many insist she was a victim of circumstances. The woman is the biological mother of more than one child… and a former missionary who worked with special needs children. She stated in an interview for this story …“I always said, ‘LORD, I’ll go anywhere you send me.’ I just didn’t know He would send me to prison.”
I have no idea if the LORD sent this woman to prison… she may use this thought as a coping mechanism – and these words as a ploy to try to convince others of her innocence. But her comment did cause me to stop and think… “Where is God sending me?” Has it ever occurred to any of us that the little bumps in the road… or even the BIGGER ones… might be God calling us to do something difficult – testing how deeply we rely on Him for strength? When we have our life all mapped out, and we get thrown a curve ball… do we see it as an inconvenience - or an opportunity?
How profoundly would our lives change if instead of asking, “Why me, LORD?” we said, “Here I am!” – and meant it? What if we shifted our thinking to look at tests of our strength as chances to demonstrate God’s power and presence in our life? Isn’t this at least worth a try? Where is God sending you today… and how are you reacting?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for January 3, 2013
Exodus 15:2
The Lord is my strength and my song; he has given me victory. This is my God, and I will praise him—my father’s God, and I will exalt him!
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
As an online seller, I can tell you that positive feedback is vital. I’ve worked hard to build up a base of good feedback. The trouble is… less than half of all buyers take the time to provide any response. This is really frustrating to us sellers… and it has made me more aware of the importance of providing feedback when I purchase something – especially if it was from an individual, like a seller on Etsy, eBay or from an independent retailer on Amazon.
“What’s the big deal about feedback?” you may ask. Positive feedback tells potential buyers that this person had a good experience… that the customer got what he/she paid for… that the shipping was reasonable and quick… that the overall service was good. One customer who purchased vintage earrings from me wrote, “These are beautiful! I will cherish them! Thank you so much!” Another said of an antique table runner…“Very beautiful! It’s in great vintage condition as advertised. I LOVE it! Thanks for the careful packaging and super fast shipping!”
I wonder… what sort of feedback do we give for God? Do we let others know what wonderful things He has done for us? Are we quick to point out how amazing God is… the power He brings to our life and how beautifully He orchestrates every detail? Do we sing His praises and tell the world that He is worthy of our devotion…more than enough to meet our every need… our joy and our strength? Do we give God credit for a victorious life over sin and death? Do we acknowledge that He is preparing a mansion for us in heaven, where the streets are paved with gold?
Are we like those who buy online and never bother to let anyone know whether they had a good experience or not? Do we take all that God will give us without so much as a word or a gesture to show our appreciation? Isn’t it time we stopped and took a good hard look at how we treat our Most High God? Don’t you think He deserves to be heralded… to hear our song of praise… to feel our acknowledgment? Shouldn’t we tell everyone in sight how much God has done for us and offer them a chance to experience His incredible strength in their own life?
What are you waiting for? Make this the day that you begin to give daily positive feedback to Almighty God. Make Him not only your strength, but your song… and exalt Him to the best of your ability. We can never repay God for all He does for us… for all He will do for us in the future. But we can give Him our best effort and continual feedback. God wants to hear from us… He wants us to tell others about Him. When was the last time you sang His praises?
©2013 Debbie Robus
The Lord is my strength and my song; he has given me victory. This is my God, and I will praise him—my father’s God, and I will exalt him!
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
As an online seller, I can tell you that positive feedback is vital. I’ve worked hard to build up a base of good feedback. The trouble is… less than half of all buyers take the time to provide any response. This is really frustrating to us sellers… and it has made me more aware of the importance of providing feedback when I purchase something – especially if it was from an individual, like a seller on Etsy, eBay or from an independent retailer on Amazon.
“What’s the big deal about feedback?” you may ask. Positive feedback tells potential buyers that this person had a good experience… that the customer got what he/she paid for… that the shipping was reasonable and quick… that the overall service was good. One customer who purchased vintage earrings from me wrote, “These are beautiful! I will cherish them! Thank you so much!” Another said of an antique table runner…“Very beautiful! It’s in great vintage condition as advertised. I LOVE it! Thanks for the careful packaging and super fast shipping!”
I wonder… what sort of feedback do we give for God? Do we let others know what wonderful things He has done for us? Are we quick to point out how amazing God is… the power He brings to our life and how beautifully He orchestrates every detail? Do we sing His praises and tell the world that He is worthy of our devotion…more than enough to meet our every need… our joy and our strength? Do we give God credit for a victorious life over sin and death? Do we acknowledge that He is preparing a mansion for us in heaven, where the streets are paved with gold?
Are we like those who buy online and never bother to let anyone know whether they had a good experience or not? Do we take all that God will give us without so much as a word or a gesture to show our appreciation? Isn’t it time we stopped and took a good hard look at how we treat our Most High God? Don’t you think He deserves to be heralded… to hear our song of praise… to feel our acknowledgment? Shouldn’t we tell everyone in sight how much God has done for us and offer them a chance to experience His incredible strength in their own life?
What are you waiting for? Make this the day that you begin to give daily positive feedback to Almighty God. Make Him not only your strength, but your song… and exalt Him to the best of your ability. We can never repay God for all He does for us… for all He will do for us in the future. But we can give Him our best effort and continual feedback. God wants to hear from us… He wants us to tell others about Him. When was the last time you sang His praises?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for January 2, 2013
Deuteronomy 31:6
So be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid and do not panic before them. For the Lord your God will personally go ahead of you. He will neither fail you nor abandon you.”
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
This morning, my mother shared with me the blog post of a fellow writer. Her topic centered on Psalm 46:10, which begins… “Be still and know that I am God.” The writer referenced the recent events at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut… how the reaction and outrage had ranged from a call for total gun control to one of “let’s arm everybody!” In other words, many people panicked.
This is nothing new… in ways great and small, we panic about a lot of things. We “jump the gun,” or “borrow trouble” or race to “do damage control”… when what we really need to do is “Be still.” If only we would recognize that God has gone ahead of us… that He will neither fail us nor abandon us…we might fare better.
I am as guilty as the next person of operating in panic more often than I care to admit. I race ahead, thinking I have to handle things… often wringing my hands in worry and fear. Where is my strength? What happened to my courage? Did I forget WHO is leading the way? Have YOU forgotten?
Some of my friends have recently lost loved ones… others are sitting vigil at the deathbed of a dear family member or friend. Still others are worried about everything from finances to health scares to how they will ever resolve a myriad of conflicts. In their own way, each of these people are in a panic. How will they cope with their grief? How will they make ends meet and/or get ahead? Will they ever get along with So-and-so?
Look… life will happen. There will be challenges and moments that make us panic. And if we let him, the devil will have a field day making us crazy with all sorts of emotions and fears that serve absolutely no purpose other than to convolute and confuse us. We all need to stop and simply “BE STILL!” We need to recognize God’s presence… His strength and power… and find our courage in Him.
Where does this leave you today? Have you allowed God to personally go ahead of you? Are you strong and courageous? A lot can happen if we will simply “be still.” Aren’t you ready to find out firsthand?
©2013 Debbie Robus
So be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid and do not panic before them. For the Lord your God will personally go ahead of you. He will neither fail you nor abandon you.”
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
This morning, my mother shared with me the blog post of a fellow writer. Her topic centered on Psalm 46:10, which begins… “Be still and know that I am God.” The writer referenced the recent events at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut… how the reaction and outrage had ranged from a call for total gun control to one of “let’s arm everybody!” In other words, many people panicked.
This is nothing new… in ways great and small, we panic about a lot of things. We “jump the gun,” or “borrow trouble” or race to “do damage control”… when what we really need to do is “Be still.” If only we would recognize that God has gone ahead of us… that He will neither fail us nor abandon us…we might fare better.
I am as guilty as the next person of operating in panic more often than I care to admit. I race ahead, thinking I have to handle things… often wringing my hands in worry and fear. Where is my strength? What happened to my courage? Did I forget WHO is leading the way? Have YOU forgotten?
Some of my friends have recently lost loved ones… others are sitting vigil at the deathbed of a dear family member or friend. Still others are worried about everything from finances to health scares to how they will ever resolve a myriad of conflicts. In their own way, each of these people are in a panic. How will they cope with their grief? How will they make ends meet and/or get ahead? Will they ever get along with So-and-so?
Look… life will happen. There will be challenges and moments that make us panic. And if we let him, the devil will have a field day making us crazy with all sorts of emotions and fears that serve absolutely no purpose other than to convolute and confuse us. We all need to stop and simply “BE STILL!” We need to recognize God’s presence… His strength and power… and find our courage in Him.
Where does this leave you today? Have you allowed God to personally go ahead of you? Are you strong and courageous? A lot can happen if we will simply “be still.” Aren’t you ready to find out firsthand?
©2013 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for January 1, 2013
2 Timothy 4:17
But the Lord stood beside me. He gave me the strength to tell his full message, so that all Gentiles would hear it. And I was kept safe from hungry lions.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Timothy was a lion for Halloween. I found a little “lion suit” at the consignment store, and I made him a mask out of a paper plate, some felt, fleece fringe, and scraps from my fabric bin. He told me just last week about how the lions were after him, but because he was wearing his lion suit… “they didn’t get me.” Timothy talks a lot about the lions being after him… undoubtedly the result of some movie he has watched. I always assure him that the lions cannot get him… that he is safe with us and his family… that we will protect him. In essence, we give him strength to be the happiest three-year-old boy he can be… and we keep him safe from the “hungry lions” of the world. And apparently, he has decided that his “lion suit” from Halloween has some magical power and strength in the face of his adversaries.
Can I tell you something? There are “hungry lions” after every single one of us. They are not necessarily the four-legged kind with a mane and a tail… but their “teeth” are just as menacing. The devil sends these beasts to frighten us… to nip at our heels and cause us to worry and tremble. They come in every form imaginable… from stress about classes and workloads to dissention with family members, friends and co-workers - to concerns over how to pay bills and handle the effects of the “fiscal cliff.” When you are sad over the loss of a friend or loved one, the devil can take advantage of your grief to drag you down even further and steal your joy. When you are disappointed, discouraged or frustrated, Satan steps in to say, “See, life is lousy… things never truly work out like you envisioned.”
When you are sick or injured, the devil will tell you that you are weak and don’t deserve to be well. When you find yourself in a situation that is uncertain, he will send “lions” to roar that you are not smart enough and don’t deserve to do better. When you are lonely, his “lions” will do all they can to assure you that you are not worthy of companionship.
But GOD will keep us safe from all of these “lions” and more… if only we will call on Him. He will never leave our side. God will lift us, encourage us, and assure us that by His strength and power, we can do and be anything! God will fill in the gaps and raise us out of depression, disappointment, and fear. He will embolden us to learn new things… and to share the Good News of Jesus Christ with others.
We have a choice… we can put on the “lion suit” of God’s armor and fight the devil on a more-than-level playing field… or we can let the devil’s “lions” devour us. I know which I am choosing…do you?
©2013 Debbie Robus
But the Lord stood beside me. He gave me the strength to tell his full message, so that all Gentiles would hear it. And I was kept safe from hungry lions.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Timothy was a lion for Halloween. I found a little “lion suit” at the consignment store, and I made him a mask out of a paper plate, some felt, fleece fringe, and scraps from my fabric bin. He told me just last week about how the lions were after him, but because he was wearing his lion suit… “they didn’t get me.” Timothy talks a lot about the lions being after him… undoubtedly the result of some movie he has watched. I always assure him that the lions cannot get him… that he is safe with us and his family… that we will protect him. In essence, we give him strength to be the happiest three-year-old boy he can be… and we keep him safe from the “hungry lions” of the world. And apparently, he has decided that his “lion suit” from Halloween has some magical power and strength in the face of his adversaries.
Can I tell you something? There are “hungry lions” after every single one of us. They are not necessarily the four-legged kind with a mane and a tail… but their “teeth” are just as menacing. The devil sends these beasts to frighten us… to nip at our heels and cause us to worry and tremble. They come in every form imaginable… from stress about classes and workloads to dissention with family members, friends and co-workers - to concerns over how to pay bills and handle the effects of the “fiscal cliff.” When you are sad over the loss of a friend or loved one, the devil can take advantage of your grief to drag you down even further and steal your joy. When you are disappointed, discouraged or frustrated, Satan steps in to say, “See, life is lousy… things never truly work out like you envisioned.”
When you are sick or injured, the devil will tell you that you are weak and don’t deserve to be well. When you find yourself in a situation that is uncertain, he will send “lions” to roar that you are not smart enough and don’t deserve to do better. When you are lonely, his “lions” will do all they can to assure you that you are not worthy of companionship.
But GOD will keep us safe from all of these “lions” and more… if only we will call on Him. He will never leave our side. God will lift us, encourage us, and assure us that by His strength and power, we can do and be anything! God will fill in the gaps and raise us out of depression, disappointment, and fear. He will embolden us to learn new things… and to share the Good News of Jesus Christ with others.
We have a choice… we can put on the “lion suit” of God’s armor and fight the devil on a more-than-level playing field… or we can let the devil’s “lions” devour us. I know which I am choosing…do you?
©2013 Debbie Robus
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