Daily Devotional for October 7, 2011

Psalm 118:14-17
My power and my strength come from the LORD, and he has saved me. From the tents of God's people come shouts of victory: "The LORD is powerful! With his mighty arm the LORD wins victories! The LORD is powerful!" And so my life is safe, and I will live to tell what the LORD has done.

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

I never know where God will lead me for inspiration as I write these devotionals. In recent months, I’ve pretty much written them one at a time, rather than writing several in advance… trusting God each day to show me what I need to share. Today is no exception. I found this scripture passage, then walked away to pray and consider what I should write as commentary. God led me to the piano, where I keep a book my mother gave me one year for Christmas. It is titled “Then Sings My Soul” and contains 300 of the world’s greatest hymns, along with a commentary about each and how it was written.

I thumbed through and the page opened to a hymn I have always loved, based on 2 Timothy 1:12 – “I Know Whom I Have Believed.” The back story explained how Major Daniel Webster Whittle enlisted in the 72nd Illinois Infantry when the Civil War began. He was seriously injured in the Battle of Vicksburg and lost an arm. Out of boredom, Whittle picked up a New Testament and began to read. He considered inviting Jesus to be his Savior, but drifted off to sleep. An orderly woke him and asked him to pray with a POW who was dying. Whittle declined, and the orderly told him that he assumed Whittle was a Christian, because… “I have seen you reading your Bible.” At that moment, Whittle did confess his sins to Jesus and invited Him into his heart. Then he knelt and prayed with the POW, rising to see that the young boy had died, but his once-troubled face was peaceful. Whittle recognized the power of God to use him to lead this young man to trust Jesus for himself and find peace and pardon. Later, he penned this hymn to express his own faith.

So often, we fail to recognize the power and strength of God in our daily lives… the ability He gives us to do all things – from the simple to the extraordinary. We miss opportunities to convey the safety of trusting God to claim victory over sin in our lives – and to give us tremendous comfort and care.

Today, as you read the words of this beautiful hymn, claim victory in Jesus for yourself. Recognize the strength and power of God in your life… His desire and ability to conquer all challenges and sins - and give you total victory. Know Whom you have believed… and be persuaded that He is able to keep that which you have committed to Him forever and ever.

I Know Whom I Have Believed
 Daniel W. Whittle, pub.1883 - now public domain

I know not why God’s wondrous grace
To me He hath made known,
Nor why, unworthy, Christ in love
Redeemed me for His own.

I know not how this saving faith
To me He did impart,
Nor how believing in His Word
Wrought peace within my heart.

I know not how the Spirit moves,
Convincing men of sin,
Revealing Jesus through the Word,
Creating faith in Him.

I know not what of good or ill
May be reserved for me,
Of weary ways or golden days,
Before His face I see.

I know not when my Lord may come,
At night or noonday fair,
Nor if I walk the vale with Him,
Or meet Him in the air.

Refrain:
But “I know Whom I have believed,
And am persuaded that He is able
To keep that which I’ve committed
Unto Him against that day.”

©2011 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for October 6, 2011

Psalm 117
Praise GOD, everybody! Applaud GOD, all people!
His love has taken over our lives; GOD's faithful ways are eternal.
Hallelujah!

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.

One day recently, I picked up my great-nephew Timothy at daycare and told him, “We’re going to see your cousins, Owen and Olivia!” He was thrilled and began to tell me how he was going to give “big hugs” and kisses when he saw them. Then as we drove along, he said, “DebDeb, I so happy! Are Oooo happy?” I assured him that when he is happy… yes, I am very happy! This little 2-year-old caught me off guard with his “applause.” Quite often, without any prompting, he will say “Thank you” for everything from handing him a toy to a cup of milk or juice to “letting” him brush his teeth. At such a young age, Timothy already knows how to lavish love on us… how to praise us and make us feel like we are on top of the world.

As I thought about our traveling conversation, I wondered… “How often do I lavish love on God? When was the last time I told Him how happy I am that His love has taken over my life… that His faithful ways are eternal, and I praise Him for this? How long has it been since I applauded God for His presence in my life and His mighty works in general?” I have to admit, I find plenty of time to tell God what I need… but far less to tell Him how glad I am that He shows up every minute of the day for me.

When was the last time you praised God for His presence in your life… or anything else, for that matter? Have you, in essence, said, “Father, I’m so happy… are You happy with me?” Isn’t today a good day to take a page from a toddler? Isn’t it time we fully acknowledged and glorified the One who makes everything possible in our lives?

Today is a great day to give God a big round of applause. The collective roar of our praise should be deafening to His ears! Let’s all stand and clap together now… shall we?

©2011 Debbie Robus

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

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

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

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

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

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

©2011 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for October 4, 2011

Psalm 116:4-7
I prayed and said, "LORD, please don't let me die!" You are kind, LORD, so good and merciful. You protect ordinary people, and when I was helpless, you saved me and treated me so kindly that I don't need to worry anymore.

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

This week we said goodbye to Louise Hall, a woman my family knew as “Aunt Louise.” She wasn’t really our aunt, but in the words of another friend who grew up alongside us in this community, “she was our ‘Aunt Louise’, too.” Aunt Louise recently celebrated her 90th birthday, only to be hospitalized a few days later… one of her many trips to the hospital in recent years for various ailments and injuries. At her funeral, the pastor spoke of the devotion Aunt Louise had for family and friends… for church members and her community at large.

Louise Hall never married. When her sister suddenly lost her husband – while pregnant and already rearing three small children – Louise and her parents took them in and helped care for the family. When her own mother became ill and frail, Louise took early retirement to care for her. And when her sister developed Alzheimer’s, Louise helped her sister’s children care for her, too.

In between, she managed a 30-year career, taught small children in Sunday School for 25 years, sang in the church choir, and served on numerous church committees… including a stint in her later years on the Condolence Committee, which organized meals for grieving families. And always, Louise helped her own family with whatever they needed. Over and again, the pastor mentioned how Louise was fair and treated everyone so kindly. And she did.

Aunt Louise would have told you she was just an ordinary person doing what God had called her to do. And if we look at this passage in the Psalms and think about how good, fair, merciful, and comforting God is to us, we see that Aunt Louise understood what so many of us do not. She “got it” that we are to do these very things if we want to share the love of God with others. We are to strive to be like Him as much as humanly possible. We will never attain perfection, but the goal is to honor God… not to be perfect… and we must never stop trying to do more.

One more thing… this passage asks God to protect us from death. But I don’t think the Psalmist necessarily meant physical death. Because you see, in death, Aunt Louise and countless other faithful Christians have realized the ultimate reward… a home at the feet of Jesus. Instead, I think the “death” we must ask God to save us from is a sinful life… the emptiness of living without Him… and a “Christian” life that is devoid of service, honor and treating others fairly and mercifully.

The pastor said that preachers do not preach funerals… that people “preach” their own funeral by the way they live their lives… and Aunt Louise “preached a dandy!” What about you? If God called you to heaven tomorrow, would others speak of you as someone who was fair and merciful… always treating others equally and with love and kindness? What sort of funeral would your life preach?

Most of us still have work to do to “polish the edges” of our life sermon. And some of us still need to ask God to save us from the “death” of a life without Him. What sort of work do you still need to do? Where could you use a little “spit and polish” and the mighty hand of God? Isn’t it time you got busy asking Him to help you get on track? When God calls your name and invites you to step into heaven, will your funeral “preach” like Aunt Louise’s? Shouldn’t it?

©2011 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for October 3, 2011

Psalm 116:1-2
I love you, LORD! You answered my prayers. You paid attention to me, and so I will pray to you as long as I live.

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

Timothy loves a YouTube video from Sesame Street that features comedian Jon Stewart demonstrating the word “practice.” In this clip, Stewart reads the definition of the word “practice” several times, reiterating that practice means to do something over and over again until you get it right. When it comes to prayer, we could all use some practice!

The more I pray, the more I see God at work and experience His answers… feel His presence and His attention to even the tiniest details of my life. And I have to tell you, this motivates me to pray even more… to pray to God as long as I live!

I encourage you to give prayer some practice… to pray over and over again until you get it right… feel God’s attention and His answers. I am pretty sure you will find the same outcome as I did… and you will want to pray as long as you live, also.

We have everything to gain and nothing to lose. God is waiting to talk with us… to lavish His love and attention upon us. Won’t you “pick up the phone”, so to speak, and dial in to a connection with Him? See for yourself what blessings the “practice” of prayer can bring to you and those for whom you pray.

©2011 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for October 2, 2011

2 Kings 17:38-41
I will say it again: Do not worship any god except me. I am the LORD your God, and I will rescue you from all your enemies.

But the people living in Israel ignored that command and kept on following their old customs. They did worship the LORD, but they also worshiped their own idols. Their descendants did the same thing.

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

A few years ago, the nicotine patch was introduced as a way to help smokers kick the habit. And I knew several who tried it. The trouble is… some of them continued to smoke while wearing the patch. This is a big “no-no” – and they were really taking a risk, because they actually got EXTRA nicotine in their system by doing this. The results could have been incredibly harmful to them. Whether they were desperate, ignorant of how this all worked, or just indifferent to the consequences, they tried to have things both ways. I have to tell you, it didn’t work! They did not quit smoking, and they could not sustain this dual-dosing with the patch. In the end, everything fell apart.

This is just one example among thousands of how we try to “have our cake and eat it, too.” We want God to bless us… but could He please do so on our terms? We want to live in abundance and experience “Heaven on earth,” but we also want to indulge in our “guilty pleasures” and “little vices” and think about God on Sundays between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and noon.

God does not work this way! He does not allow us to worship him part of the time – or halfway. And if you feel like you have skated by with this way of living, let me assure you that a day is coming when the jig is up! If you don’t believe me, read through 1 Kings and 2 Kings and see what happened. Better yet, read the Book of Revelation!

I know I have talked about this before. But this message is repeated over and again throughout these chapters and the entire Bible, so it must be pretty important! Giving your heart to Jesus and asking Him to forgive your sins does not mean you get a free ticket to act however you please until He calls you to heaven! When you accept Jesus’ gift of Salvation, you commit to Him… and to following His teachings. You submit to God’s will for your life, and you become a disciple of Christ.

We seem to have no trouble accepting a “free gift” in exchange for trying a certain product or service. We stick to our end of the bargain… we will fill out a survey, try the product or take the tour – or whatever is asked. We are not “buying” our gift… but we are committing to give back whatever is asked by the giver. So why when God offers us salvation and eternal life with Him do we have so much trouble giving back our devotion and obedience?

I’m telling you today that “the jig IS up!” It’s time to evaluate our loyalty to God… to clean house and remove all other idols and objects of worship and devotion… and to concentrate fully on serving God and God alone! What’s in your “closets” today? Who and what are you worshipping besides God? Have you given your heart and mind a good cleaning lately? Shouldn’t you?

©2011 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for October 1, 2011

2 Kings 17:18-20
The LORD became so furious with the people of Israel that he allowed them to be carried away as prisoners.

Only the people living in Judah were left, but they also disobeyed the LORD's commands and acted like the Israelites. So the LORD turned his back on everyone in Israel and Judah and let them be punished and defeated until no one was left.

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

I’ve been reading the books of 1 Kings and 2 Kings, and over and again I’ve seen this phrase… “He disobeyed the LORD and caused the Israelites to sin.” Otherwise, these chapters have been pretty much an account of one king after another and commands of God that were ignored. There were a few who listened – sometimes only partially… but on a whole, these kings were “Burger Kings” – they had things their own way!

I asked myself… “Why is this important? If God felt it should be included in the Bible, what is He trying to show us with these accounts?” The conclusion I came to is found in today’s verses… God loves us and protects us – but He also doles out consequences and punishments when we misbehave. And we need to understand this!

When a child disobeys, they get “time out” or lose their toys for a while. When teenagers break the rules, they are grounded and may lose their car keys, cell phone, and other privileges. When adults break the law, they are arrested – and may go to jail or suffer a fine. And when we sin, sometimes God hangs His head in disappointment and walks away temporarily. Just because we are saved by the blood of Jesus doesn’t mean we get a free ticket, any more than becoming king made those rulers above the laws and directives of God Almighty!

When little children disobey and misbehave, we may place them in “time out” or send them to their room and walk away for a little bit… but we never desert them completely. And God will not totally abandon you, either. But He may very well turn away and leave you to fend for yourself at times, so that you learn to respect His desires and guidance for your life – and seek His forgiveness and restoration.

Whatever you do, remember that God loves you and will care for you… but He may also teach you a few hard lessons along the way. Work hard to stay obedient and to operate within His will. Don’t try to have things your way when you know that God desires something else. And most certainly do not cause others to sin!

Listen carefully for God’s voice. Seek Him in every area of your life… even those that seem small and not worth His time. I assure you, everything about you matters to God! Have you acted like He matters to you lately? Isn’t it time you did?

©2011 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for September 30, 2011

2 Kings 5:1-14
Naaman was the commander of the Syrian army. The LORD had helped him and his troops defeat their enemies, so the king of Syria respected Naaman very much.

Naaman was a brave soldier, but he had leprosy. One day while the Syrian troops were raiding Israel, they captured a girl, and she became a servant of Naaman's wife. Some time later the girl said, "If your husband Naaman would go to the prophet in Samaria, he would be cured of his leprosy."

When Naaman told the king what the girl had said, the king replied, "Go ahead! I will give you a letter to take to the king of Israel." Naaman left and took along seven hundred fifty pounds of silver, one hundred fifty pounds of gold, and ten new outfits. He also carried the letter to the king of Israel. It said, "I am sending my servant Naaman to you. Would you cure him of his leprosy?"

When the king of Israel read the letter, he tore his clothes in fear and shouted, "That Syrian king believes I can cure this man of leprosy! Does he think I'm God with power over life and death? He must be trying to pick a fight with me."

As soon as Elisha the prophet heard what had happened, he sent the Israelite king this message: "Why are you so afraid? Send the man to me, so that he will know there is a prophet in Israel." Naaman left with his horses and chariots and stopped at the door of Elisha's house. Elisha sent someone outside to say to him, "Go wash seven times in the Jordan River. Then you'll be completely cured."

But Naaman stormed off, grumbling, "Why couldn't he come out and talk to me? I thought for sure he would stand in front of me and pray to the LORD his God, then wave his hand over my skin and cure me. What about the Abana River or the Pharpar River? Those rivers in Damascus are just as good as any river in Israel. I could have washed in them and been cured." His servants went over to him and said, "Sir, if the prophet had told you to do something difficult, you would have done it. So why don't you do what he said? Go wash and be cured."

Naaman walked down to the Jordan; he waded out into the water and stooped down in it seven times, just as Elisha had told him. Right away, he was cured, and his skin became as smooth as a child's.

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

A few weeks ago, our telephone began to crackle and buzz when we tried to call someone, so we did all of the recommended troubleshooting procedures suggested by our telephone service provider. When these did not work, I contacted the company and filed a request for repairs. I was told that a technician would come out and repair our phone – within a week! Thankfully we had cell phones for backup. For many folks, this “solution” would have left them without phone service of any kind for several days. And just as promised, the phone was repaired – about five days later!

I was using the Postal Service online options to mail a package, and a question arose for which I could not find an online answer. So I engaged in a LiveChat option. Before I could even ask my question, the rep came online and began typing a long, “canned” answer to what she perceived to be my problem. When I was finally given a chance to type, I asked, “May I have time to ask my question now?” Immediately afterward, we were disconnected. Apparently I was supposed to accept her comments and make them work for my situation.

In both of these cases, the agencies with whom I spoke appeared to take the attitude that “this action is as good as any.” Just like Namaan, who tried to cut corners and take shortcuts to heal his leprosy, I felt like they were saying… “Take it or leave it.” It appeared to me that these people were not willing to put in the time and effort to get the best result – to do their very best. And the outcome was less than satisfactory. Apparently they were satisfied to operate in “blemished skin.”

This is what happened to Namaan… he didn’t listen, and he concluded that bathing in any old river was good enough. And this is what we often do… in life, and in our life in Christ. Our best should be the only option. Nothing else is good enough. We should not give half-hearted efforts to our studies, our family, our jobs, our community, or our church… and most certainly to our Heavenly Father!

We’ve come to a point in this society where a lot of people are doing the bare minimum. Getting by and “making do” are good enough. As long as we make it through another day without the sky falling in on us, we figure we have achieved our goal! Nothing could be further from the truth!

It’s time for us to re-prioritize. We must prayerfully consider what God is calling us to do… in everything from our service to Him to the simplest hobby in which we engage. We need to be striving to do our very best at all times… not just when it is convenient or serves our purposes – and we need to always be listening for God’s voice and guidance.

Ask God to show you what He expects of you… then do everything possible to accomplish this to the very best of your abilities. Make your best the only outcome that is acceptable. Live in a way that honors God and your role as His precious child and servant. Never wear the “blemished skin of a leper”, so to speak… but live your best life every day in the “smooth skin” of a precious child of the Most High God.

©2011 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for September 29, 2011

1 Kings 19:9-14
While Elijah was on Mount Sinai, the LORD asked, "Elijah, why are you here?"

He answered, "LORD God All-Powerful, I've always done my best to obey you. But your people have broken their solemn promise to you. They have torn down your altars and killed all your prophets, except me. And now they are even trying to kill me!"

"Go out and stand on the mountain," the LORD replied. "I want you to see me when I pass by."

All at once, a strong wind shook the mountain and shattered the rocks. But the LORD was not in the wind. Next, there was an earthquake, but the LORD was not in the earthquake. Then there was a fire, but the LORD was not in the fire.

Finally, there was a gentle breeze, and when Elijah heard it, he covered his face with his coat. He went out and stood at the entrance to the cave. The LORD asked, "Elijah, why are you here?" Elijah answered, "LORD God All-Powerful, I've always done my best to obey you. But your people have broken their solemn promise to you. They have torn down your altars and killed all your prophets, except me. And now they are even trying to kill me!"

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

When an argument or crisis arises, the general human temptation is to raise one’s voice… to yell and scream. If you have ever been involved in a discussion with someone who remained calm and spoke softly and slowly, you know that this can be an incredibly powerful tactic. In public debate, the person who keeps his/her cool and controls the voice is usually the more effective speaker.

So why is it any surprise that God would come to us in a whisper instead of a loud booming voice? After all, He really doesn’t need to shout, does he? We are often looking – and listening – for the blustery effects of God’s “earth, wind and fire”… while He is whispering, “I’m right here, ready to meet your every need.”

Our challenge for today is to calm ourselves and truly look and listen for God… not in major, earth-shattering events or “signs” – but in the still small voice of a whisper. Where is He showing you His will for your life… a blessing you didn’t expect… or an opportunity to serve Him? Will you truly recognize God when He speaks?

Have you dialed back the volume your own heart and mind, so that you are attuned to whatever decibel level God uses? Isn’t it time you did?

©2011 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for September 28, 2011

John 12:1-8
Six days before Passover Jesus went back to Bethany, where he had raised Lazarus from death. A meal had been prepared for Jesus. Martha was doing the serving, and Lazarus himself was there.

Mary took a very expensive bottle of perfume and poured it on Jesus' feet. She wiped them with her hair, and the sweet smell of the perfume filled the house. A disciple named Judas Iscariot was there. He was the one who was going to betray Jesus, and he asked, "Why wasn't this perfume sold for three hundred silver coins and the money given to the poor?" Judas did not really care about the poor. He asked this because he carried the moneybag and sometimes would steal from it. Jesus replied, "Leave her alone! She has kept this perfume for the day of my burial. You will always have the poor with you, but you won't always have me."

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

Every day, we make choices about what is important. We choose whether to spend time studying or watching television or video games. We decide whether to eat the healthy cereal in our cabinet or that powdered sugar donut on the counter that keeps calling our name. We make a decision to spend money on things we want but may not really need… often at the expense of paying our bills. Life is pretty much a series of choices.

The life of a Christian involves choices, too. Obviously we are supposed to choose a Godly life over one filled with sin. As followers of Jesus, we are also called to make several other choices. And one of them is Who – and how – to serve.

Today, this scripture reminded me that we are not supposed to judge others for their service… and they are not to judge us. Just because one person teaches Sunday School, sings in the choir, and serves on a half dozen committees at church doesn’t mean this is what God is asking of us. We are not to question another believer’s donations, mission trips, or motives in general. It may appear to us that someone is not carrying his/her load… we may feel that some spend their time unwisely or waste their talents and resources. But this is not our call… and Jesus clearly pointed this out when Mary poured the precious, expensive oil on His feet and Judas criticized her.

Each of us is called to serve God in a unique way. What He expects of us may be completely different from what is expected of another. As long as we listen for God’s call… stay attuned to His will for us… and serve in the way that He desires, it’s really nobody else’s business. And we are not to judge the other guy, either.

So this scripture passage represents a wake-up call. We need to be busy doing what we are supposed to do as faithful Christian servants. We need to be glorifying God with every choice we make. And we need to be minding our own business when it comes to how our fellow believers are serving. Ask yourself how well you are doing… then ask God to help you line up your priorities with His. And let’s keep our opinions about others to ourselves.

©2011 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for September 27, 2011

Psalm 115:12-18
O God, remember us and bless us, bless the families of Israel and Aaron. And let God bless all  who fear God—bless the small, bless the great. Oh, let God enlarge your families—giving growth to you, growth to your children. May you be blessed by God, by God, who made heaven and earth. The heaven of heavens is for God, but he put us in charge of the earth.

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.

Lately I have found myself torn in a dozen directions… hurrying here and there… spending time with Timothy… checking on my grandmother… taking care of my husband and our household… checking in with friends and other family members… grocery shopping, cleaning, and squeezing in a writing project or two here and there. The days are full… just like yours, perhaps! It’s easy to get caught up in the hectic bustle of daily living and forget to stop and count our blessings. But that is exactly what we need to do!

So today, while I bake banana bread, I will thank God for providing me with plenty to eat – and a beautiful, cozy kitchen in which to prepare our meals. While I drive to my grandmother’s apartment to visit her, I will thank God for blessing me with such faithful, Christian parents and grandparents. When I pick up Timothy at daycare, I will thank God for the loving teachers who care for him and help him grow and learn…and I will thank Him for the joy and laughter of children and how they enrich our lives.

All through the day, I will be thanking God for my wonderful husband and the abundance we share in our lives together. As I look around at the beauty of this glorious fall day, I will thank Him for blessing us with gorgeousautumn weather, bright sunshine, and cool, crisp mornings. I will praise God for blessing us with the gift of His Son – and the promise of eternity in Heaven.

Tomorrow, the world may seem to fall apart. There may be illnesses, death, disappointment, and certainly plenty of “busyness” to fill the day… all a part of life. But even then, I am going to make time to praise God for His blessings… because there will always be more blessings than challenges. What about you? Are you remembering to count your blessings… and to thank God for each of them? Isn’t today a good time to begin?

©2011 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for September 26, 2011

Psalm 115:1-8
Not for our sake, GOD, no, not for our sake, but for your name's sake, show your glory. Do it on account of your merciful love, do it on account of your faithful ways. Do it so none of the nations can say, "Where now, oh where is their God?"

Our God is in heaven doing whatever he wants to do. Their gods are metal and wood, handmade in a basement shop: Carved mouths that can't talk, painted eyes that can't see, tin ears that can't hear, molded noses that can't smell, hands that can't grasp, feet that can't walk or run, throats that never utter a sound. Those who make them have become just like them, have become just like the gods they trust.

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 known someone who had a collection of things… coins, stamps, memorabilia, and more… and the items in the collection became so important to the collector that he/she talked about them as if they were precious children? Whatever the person focused on became an obsession… and the objects of his/her affection became almost like a god. It is very hard to talk to someone who is so focused on such things, and a lot of people would say this fixation made this person strange at best… and downright frustrating to try to relate with for certain!

Yet we do the very same thing, in a lot of ways. We become so obsessed with a sport, video games, hobbies, and more - or even another person - and we make this our god and devote all of our time and attention toward cultivating this relationship. If we were half as devoted to God as we are some of the people and things that consume us, we would accomplish unbelievable things in His name and for His glory. And we can’t begin to imagine the blessings that would flow in our direction!

I don’t know about you, but I want to serve a God who can talk to me – and hear me when I speak to Him! I want to serve the God of Heaven who loves me faithfully and mercifully… and holds me in the palm of His hand. I want to serve a God who I can trust to always have perfect plans for my life… answers to my problems… and protection for me 24/7. Do you serve the God of Heaven… or a god (or gods) you have made for yourself? Have you seen the glory of the One True God in your own life and the lives of those around you lately? Isn’t it time you did?

©2011 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for September 25, 2011

John 10:1-6
Jesus said: I tell you for certain that only thieves and robbers climb over the fence instead of going in through the gate to the sheep pen. But the gatekeeper opens the gate for the shepherd, and he goes in through it. The sheep know their shepherd's voice. He calls each of them by name and leads them out.

When he has led out all of his sheep, he walks in front of them, and they follow, because they know his voice. The sheep will not follow strangers. They don't recognize a stranger's voice, and they run away.

Jesus told the people this story. But they did not understand what he was talking about.

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

We were sharing a nice backyard fire with friends one evening, and the conversation turned to our cats. Our friends said they merely have to call, “Breakfast!” and their cat comes running from wherever he is to be fed. He knows the tone and structure of that word… he knows his master’s voice. I seriously doubt that I could get their cat to come if I uttered the same word.

Our cats hear the tinkling of a spoon on a dish in the kitchen, and they come running. They will often come to us when we call them. But let a stranger come to our house, and they run as fast as they can to a familiar hiding place and snuggle in there. They will not follow strangers… they run away and hide.

When I talk to my mom, sister, grandmother, niece, cousin, and a few of my best friends, I never have to identify myself on the telephone. They know instantly they are talking to me… they recognize my voice… and I recognize theirs. I know my husband’s voice and the voices of several others so well I can “hear” them just by calling them to mind. And you can probably do the same thing.

The question is…do we know God’s voice as well as that of our significant other, parents, family and friends? Do we recognize God when He speaks to us – and follow Him… or do we turn and run away? Are we so attuned to God’s voice that we can “hear” it by merely thinking of Him? I cannot stress enough how important it is that we recognize God when He speaks to us. We must trust Him to be our “Good Shepherd” and lead us in the right direction… and we must get in line behind Him and go along – wherever He leads.

Spend as much time as it takes getting to really know God. Get so comfortable and familiar with His voice that you know when He speaks to you. Ask Him to always lead you in the right direction… and trust Him to do so. Follow the Good Shepherd... never run away… and always answer when He calls your name.

©2011 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for September 24, 2011

Psalm 112:9-10

They lavish gifts on the poor— a generosity that goes on, and on, and on. An honored life! A beautiful life! Someone wicked takes one look and rages, blusters away but ends up speechless. There's nothing to the dreams of the wicked. Nothing.

 

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.

 

The other day I was talking with a friend who said, “I just walked into the kitchen to get aluminum foil, and I opened the refrigerator.  Do you ever do things like that?”  Do I ever!  I do silly, dumb things all the time… and no, I am not losing my mind.  I may be spreading myself a bit too thin at times, but I think that much of this is the devil’s work… just when I think I have it somewhat together, he throws a monkey wrench in everything!

 

The devil will never stop trying to trip us up and dole out grief and troubles. He will never stop blustering and raging and telling us that we are wasting our time to help the needy… that we should focus more on ourselves than on that guy with his hand out.  The devil will tell us that we’re not good enough, smart enough, or physically and mentally capable of handling the challenges he throws our way… and he will work every day to prove it!

 

But God will have none of this.  If we stay close to Him… if we call on God in prayer and constant conversation and fully allow Him to have control of our lives… nothing can defeat us.  The devil’s dreams and aspirations of taking us down will crumble.

 

We must gladly serve others in God’s name.  We must face each day with confidence that whatever comes our way, God can give us the strength, courage, and whatever other “tools” we need to handle it.  We must strive to live an honored life – a beautiful life – in spite of the dreams of the wicked.  With God, all things ARE possible… they really are.  I'm not saying we won't ever open our refrigerators again to look for aluminum foil... or do other things absentmindly or make mistakes and blunder around for awhile. But at the end of the day, we can know that God will tap us on the shoulder and say, "Hey, the foil is in the drawer!" and help us get back on track.

 

Where are you putting your faith and trust today?  Are you listening to the wicked bluster of Satan… or are you honoring God with a faithful generosityand a genuine effort to listen to HIS words above all others?  Who truly has your heart – and your attention? 

 

©2011 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for September 23, 2011

Psalm 112:5-8
Life will go well for those who freely lend and are honest in business. They won't ever be troubled, and the kind things they do will never be forgotten. Bad news won't bother them; they have decided to trust the LORD. They are dependable and not afraid, and they will live to see their enemies defeated.

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

When I read this passage, I immediately thought of my husband. He is a generous, honest person – and a savvy businessman. He doesn’t lose his cool in a crisis or when a problem arises. He calmly faces things head-on and rationally. And he is successful in all areas of life.

I can tell you, in our 40+ years together, I have often wondered how he did it. But more than once he has said to me, “If you really have the faith in God that you say you have, you can handle this.” And he is right! When we trust the LORD, we have nothing to fear. Sure, we may have troubles and crises. Yes, we may receive bad news. But we will never face anything that God can’t help us handle.

God wants us to be faithful. He wants us to be honest and fair, loyal to others… and to Him. And I’ll be honest… I’ve needed this scripture reminder several times lately. Have you? Sometimes I need to be reminded that God will defeat my enemies and solve my problems…if I will surrender them to Him. He will handle my troubles… and bad news may still come, but it won’t defeat me.

I hope you have good examples of faithful people to inspire you. I am thankful that I have a Godly, faith-filled husband who reminds me of Who is in charge when necessary… and helps me to adjust my “stinkin’ thinkin’” and get back on track. I pray that you will take this scripture passage to heart and think about it often. Trust the LORD in all things… live an honest and kind life that glorifies Him… and kick your fears to the curb once and for all.

©2011 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for September 22, 2011

Psalm 112:1-4
Shout praises to the LORD! The LORD blesses everyone who worships him and gladly obeys his teachings. Their descendants will have great power in the land, because the LORD blesses all who do right. They will get rich and prosper and will always be remembered for their fairness. They will be so kind and merciful and good, that they will be a light in the dark for others who do the right thing.

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

Recently I sold an item on eBay that was going down the road to another city in Arkansas. I had charged $6.00 for Priority Mail shipping, but when I saw that the buyer lived so close by, I messaged her and suggested she pay about half that amount for First Class shipping, which will be just as fast and far less expensive. I didn’t have to do this… the buyer had seen the shipping price when she bid, and she was apparently more than willing to pay $6. In fact, I could have easily shipped the package for $3.25 and pocketed the extra money. And I will have to drive to the Post Office to purchase the First Class postage instead of printing a Priority Mail label at home. But this would have been neither fair nor right. I have to stop and ask myself, “How would I feel if someone did this to me?” (You can insert my selfrighteous pat on the back here!)

In the scheme of things, this may seem rather insignificant. But when we are less than fair and honest in small things, we have taken the first step into the darkness of dishonesty and bigger transgressions. I have seen the promises of this scripture passage play out over and again. When people take the high road and do what they know is right, honest, and fair, it matters… and God notices. When we honor God – even in the smallest of things – He blesses us and remembers our “good deeds.” Some call this the “favor of God” – and believe me, I want all I can get!

So I gladly shout praises to the LORD. I try my best to be honest and fair… to do the right thing, take the high road, and be kind and merciful toward others. I know that God will bless my efforts. He will show me favor and shower me with riches (not necessarily money – but wealth in many forms) and abundance I can’t even imagine. He will grant me mercy and kindness… and He will use me to shine His light for others to see. The best part of all of this is that what God does for me, He will gladly do for you, also. But you must do your part. You must operate in honesty and fairness, kindness and mercy, and do the right thing.

How are you operating these days? Are you honest, fair, and striving to do the right thing… even in small matters? Do you feel the favor of God on your life? Have you praised Him lately for blessing you and keeping you on course? Isn’t today a good day to do just that?!

©2011 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for September 21, 2011

1 Kings 11:9-13
The LORD God of Israel had appeared to Solomon two times and warned him not to worship foreign gods. But Solomon disobeyed and did it anyway. This made the LORD very angry, and he said to Solomon:

You did what you wanted and not what I told you to do. Now I'm going to take your kingdom from you and give it to one of your officials. But because David was your father, you will remain king as long as you live. I will wait until your son becomes king, then I will take the kingdom from him. When I do, I will still let him rule one tribe, because I have not forgotten that David was my servant and Jerusalem is my city.

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

A young friend of ours recently injured his ankle in a football game. The injury does not appear to be as bad as everyone thought initially, but there is still injury and stress on the ankle that has to heal. The young man is anxious to get back on the football field as conference play begins. Like many other adults, we have cautioned him to be patient and make sure he is fully healed. I have especially tried to share my own experience with a broken ankle and torn ligaments… encouraging him to do all of the recommended therapies and take the needed time to repair this damage. I’ve told him, “When you are my age, you will be glad you listened!”

In my twenties, a doctor told me, “Today’s runners are tomorrow’s arthritics!” I laughed as I looked at this overweight physician who was counseling a slender, healthy woman who ran as much as six miles a day. Now, when I walk up and down our stairs on a rainy day, my knees remind me of this doctor’s words! I am not saying that running is bad for you, but I should have paced myself more and paid attention. I have found other ways to exercise and stay in shape, but I listen to my body now and treat my joints with respect and care!

When I read this scripture passage, I was immediately struck by two things… 1) God loves us, no matter what… and He will never go back on His promises; and 2) sometimes our consequences are not immediate… but that doesn’t mean we got a free pass! God loved David passionately – and the feeling was mutual. David was not perfect, but he never loved anyone but God. David’s son, Solomon, on the other hand, was dazzled by wealth and fame… women and power… and he made them the focus of his devotion. While God did not blast Solomon with great and immediate punishment for this, He did promise to strip him of everything by taking the kingdom from Solomon’s heirs. Solomon’s legacy was everything to him… so losing it to another lineage was huge! This reminds me of the adage, “Pay now, or pay later.”

Know this… God will never turn His back on you completely, if you have confessed your sins and asked Him to save you. He will never change His mind about loving you.  But He will have consequences if you disobey and turn your back on Him. You may not see it for years to come. You may play fast and loose with alcohol and drugs, overeating, gambling, flitting from one job to another and getting in and out of all kinds of relationships with seemingly minor consequences or adjustments in your daily living. You may treat others poorly and live by the philosophy, “What’s in it for me?” But some day, this will all change. God will remind you of your indiscretions and poor choices, and He will mete out His justice for your disobedience and disloyal actions.

So how do you stop this? How do you turn things around now before “the shoe falls?” Turn back to God. Stop what you are doing and humbly confess that you have not been obedient and loyal. You have worshipped other things… people, money, alcohol, drugs and more. You have allowed Satan to present you with false idols, and you have worshipped them. You think more of yourself than you should and have elevated yourself to a status that you do not deserve… one that God did not give you. Tell God you are sorry, and that you are making significant changes. Kick your false idols to the curb, and ask God to help you make a fresh start. He will gladly do this!

If I had listened to the doctor in my twenties, I might have still been able to run a few miles without pain in my thirties and forties. My knees might not be a better barometer than the local weatherman. If Solomon had just taken a step back and looked at what he was doing, he could have returned to God’s favor. Don’t be stubborn. Don’t be blinded by the glitz and lure of sins and vices. Recognize these tools of the devil… turn around and walk the other way- toward God - and enjoy His blessings and protection... now and always.

©2011 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for September 20, 2011

Psalm 111:5-9
The LORD God is famous for his wonderful deeds, and he is kind and merciful. He gives food to his worshipers and always keeps his agreement with them. He has shown his mighty power to his people and has given them the lands of other nations. God is always honest and fair, and his laws can be trusted. They are true and right and will stand forever.

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

We recently decided our two twelve-year-old cats, Mabel and Lucy, could use a little boost to their digestive systems, so we started giving them a small saucer of skim milk each night, and just a couple of teaspoons of moist cat food in the morning to supplement the dry chow they have eaten all their lives. Lucy turned up her nose at the milk, but Mabel laps it up each night. However, in the mornings, Lucy has become obsessed with her canned food. She starts a “dance” about an hour before we arise, as if to say, “Hey, you! Remember my breakfast!” Then she stands under my feet while I prepare the bowls… sometimes quite literally causing me to stumble to the mat where they are fed.

If I go into the kitchen during the day, Lucy comes right away and begs for more food. We have stuck to our guns and only fed them this moist treat in the mornings… but that doesn’t stop Lucy from begging. She stands up on the back of my legs and does a dance. She cries and whines and glares at me. She hopes I will be merciful and relent. But I’m sticking to the rules and doing what I know is right and fair – and in her best interest!

So often, we are the “Mabel and Lucy”. We stand at God’s feet and beg and plead… just get us out of one more mess, LORD. Just look the other way this once and pretend we didn’t commit this sin. Let us have our way and make it right for us. We want the mercy and kindness of God… but we also want Him to bend the rules in our favor.

Our cats cannot truly comprehend that we have their best interests at heart. But we humans know better about God. We know that He is right and fair… kind and merciful… and still we beg, plead and try to “fudge” – or outright cheat – and hope God will rule as we wish.

We need to start recognizing God’s sovereignty. We must fully acknowledge that He knows best… that His laws are perfect for us… fully trustworthy… and right on target. We must operate in the assurance that God will show us kindness and mercy… but He will also do what is fair and right – and at times we may not totally like His response.

The mark of spiritual maturity is developing a trust in God for His answers and plans… and accepting them, whether we like them or not. Are you trusting God completely and operating under His laws? Or are you dancing at His feet, whining and complaining… hoping He will bend to your will instead? How mature are you in your faith these days? God will never stumble in His steadfast devotion to you… can you say the same in return?

©2011 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for September 19, 2011

Proverbs 22:1-2
A sterling reputation is better than striking it rich; a gracious spirit is better than money in the bank.

The rich and the poor shake hands as equals— GOD made them both!

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 admit it… I watch a lot of reality TV. But my excuse is that I do it “for research.” The truth is that I do learn a lot about human nature from these programs… particularly how ridiculous some people are willing to appear in order to have a few minutes of “fame” and recognition.

At the end of the day, many celebrities and celebrity wannabes come off looking so bad that nobody in their right mind would ever want to imitate them… and few would even want to associate with them – if even casually. Money does not translate into true wealth… and many who would be deemed poor by the standards of our present-day society are some of the richest people on the planet.

I won’t name any names here, but if you and I picture someone who is “rich,” there are a handful of people who come to mind. Their faces are plastered all over the headlines and magazine covers, and many aspire to be just like them. They want the wealth, fame, and recognition… and all of the trappings that go along with it. And “trappings” is a good description, because often, these poor people are trapped by the very things to which they aspired. Their money and notoriety are the things that bring them down, cause troubles and embarrassment, and in some cases… ruin their lives.

Money can be a blessing… but it can also be a curse. If money in your pocket causes you to overspend… become arrogant and ruthless… engage in things you wouldn’t otherwise do, like drinking, drugs, gambling and more… then you are truly anything but rich. If having to pinch pennies causes you to think carefully about how you live… to work hard to pay your bills and take care of your obligations to yourself, your family, and your church… and to focus more on building intangible wealth – relationships, reputation, service… then you are far richer than the man or woman who is at the top of the Forbes list!

My grandmother is one of the richest people I know. She has never had much money… for most of her “senior years,” she has lived on a meager monthly Social Security check – an amount that is probably less than many of you spend each month on clothes and fun activities! Yet she has more people who love her and care about her than anyone else I know. Her needs are always met… and then some. Because she always shared whatever she had with others… time, talents, food, clothing, shelter… and yes, money when she could… she is continually showered with blessings and gifts from those who adore her.

My grandmother’s bank account may be nearly empty, but her “spirit tank” is brimming full. One of her favorite sayings is, “The LORD will take care of me.” She has lived this day in and out… and she has truly trusted Him to do just that. And because of her faith, He has carried her through nearly 99 years. There have been bumps in the road… and there have been days when she wondered how she would pay her bills and put food on the table… but her faith never wavered. And neither should ours. I would stand my grandmother up beside the richest man in the world any day… and in God’s eyes, their value would be the same. Somehow, I think my grandmother’s “net worth” might even be higher, but in the presence of God, all believers are precious and valuable.

Where are you storing your treasure these days? What do you value? Is money and material wealth more important to you than building personal relationships and treating others as God would have you treat them? How are you honoring your responsibility to Him? Are you working hard to pay your bills and live in God’s will… and serving Him out of the abundance and blessings He sends your way? Isn’t it time you began? How rich are you in the eyes of others… and in the eyes of God?

©2011 Debbie Robus

Daily Devotional for September 18, 2011

Proverbs 21:31
Do your best, prepare for the worst— then trust GOD to bring victory.

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.

When my husband and I built our house four years ago, we created a “safe room” – a concrete block-enclosed structure built into the ground where we can retreat if a tornado or severe storm is approaching. We’ve visited that “safe room” a few times in the last four years. We’ve also seen the devastation that tornadoes and strong winds have brought to others in our area… the complete destruction of homes… and even loss of human life. So we have made sure that we are prepared to the best of our ability to escape physical harm, should a storm come our way.

In truth, we could someday emerge from our “safe room” to find that all above us is gone… that our house has been torn from its foundation, and everything we belong is gone. And yes, we could fail to get to the refuge in time and perish or be injured. But we’ve made the best preparations possible to guard against this, and we are trusting God to do the rest.

In so many areas of life, we don’t do the necessary preparation. We don’t do our best to prepare for the worst… and then we are totally devastated by what results. We don’t have a proper handle on trusting God to bring us victory… much less to see us through what we deem as “total destruction”. We don’t save any money in case an emergency arises. We don’t study like we should, and we drop out of school and have to take a job that, at best, is less than what we hoped for – and may be nothing more than a dead end that leaves us barely making ends meet. We don’t prayerfully consider our relationships with others, and we end up hanging out with people who are going nowhere and drag us down in the process. We don’t build a strong relationship with our Heavenly Father, and when crises come our way, we fall apart with no clue how to pick ourselves up and move forward.

Some who do make preparations fail to follow through on the most important key… trusting God to do what humans cannot. At the end of the day, when you have saved, studied, prayed and prepared, you still must allow God to have the final say. We must always trust that He will orchestrate the final outcomes according to His perfect will… and that we will be able to handle whatever comes our way because of this.

I don’t know what your “storms” are today. I don’t know what preparations you have – or have not – made. But I know that your worst day with God is better than your best day without Him. If you prayerfully plan for the best… and trust God to manage the details and the final outcome… you will be able handle anything. What plans have you made today?

©2011 Debbie Robus