Psalm 127:1-2
If God doesn't build the house, the builders only build shacks. If God doesn't guard the city, the night watchman might as well nap. It's useless to rise early and go to bed late, and work your worried fingers to the bone. Don't you know he enjoys giving rest to those he loves?
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
I don’t know about you, but plop me in front of the television after dinner, and unless the show or movie is really compelling – or I have something to do with my hands, like folding clothes – I will often be asleep before the first sitcom ends! Yet when I go to bed, I toss and turn and am wide awake! My mind races and I think of all sorts of things… what I need to do the next day, what I must buy at the grocery store, wondering why I ate that ice cream and/or didn’t work out, and more. If something happens to be weighing on my mind – a concern or a problem – I find drifting off to sleep even more challenging.
For some, going to sleep is not the issue – it’s staying asleep! Some people wake up too early in the mornings – others wake in the middle of the night. But many find going back to sleep to be difficult, if not impossible.
If you are one of those who cannot fall asleep because your “worries of the day” are weighing you down, this passage is for you. If you wake in the night, and your mind starts to race and keep you up, this passage is also for you. The bottom line is that God wants us to rest. He wants to take our worries, cares, mental lists and the “video loop of our day” and handle all of these things for us… and we need to let Him.
“Oh, if it were only that simple!” you may say. It actually can be. The next time you find yourself wide awake, pray. Ask God to take whatever is on your mind and keeping you up and handle it for you. Then simply start to talk to God… to pray for others… to express your cares and your burdens. I find that often I am talking to God one minute, and the next thing I know, I’ve “prayed myself to sleep!” The worst that can happen is that you make good use of your awake time by communicating with God. And often, as you share your thoughts with Him, He gathers them up and handles them so that you can rest.
You might think this passage is telling you not to work so hard. There is nothing wrong with hard work. But this passage is about a healthy balance… and rest… and resting in the LORD. The latter is something we all need to do more often. God is better than Ambien, Lunesta or Tylenol P.M.! If you are trying to handle life without Him, you’re bound to be in for some sleepless nights.
How much have you made God a part of things in your life? Do you have a good balance of work and rest? Is He handling things for you on a regular basis? How well have you been sleeping lately?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for November 3, 2011
Psalm 125:2
Just as Jerusalem is protected by mountains on every side, the LORD protects his people by holding them in his arms now and forever.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Everybody loves a hug. From the time we are babies, we are snuggled in the arms of others (hopefully). We learn from our earliest days that a hug can be a safe, comforting respite from the cares of the world. At some point in our lives, we have all probably said (or at least thought), “I could really use a hug!”
One of my favorite images is snuggling in the arms of Jesus. When I need a little “boost” in my day, I imagine sinking into the soft, silky folds of Jesus’ robe as His arms engulf me. I rest in His lap, snuggled against His chest, hearing the steady beat of His heart and the rhythmic in-and-out of his breathing. I am immediately comforted. I feel safe, protected, and greatly loved.
Lately, I’ve been picturing others there, too. It comforts me to envision my family and friends safely wrapped in Jesus’ arms. Each of us can have this “hug” from Jesus at any time. His arms are wide and strong… His lap can hold all of us! We will each receive personal attention… He is able to make all of us feel like we are His special, chosen children – because we are!
Whatever you need from Jesus today, He is waiting to provide. If you just need to sit in His lap for a while and rest against His heart, He has his arms open to receive you. Start to see yourself – and others – there. Feel the safety and security of snuggling with your Heavenly Father. Leave your cares and burdens with Him and go about the rest of your day restored and lightened.
Could you really use a hug right now? Why not ask Jesus to give you one.
©2011 Debbie Robus
Just as Jerusalem is protected by mountains on every side, the LORD protects his people by holding them in his arms now and forever.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Everybody loves a hug. From the time we are babies, we are snuggled in the arms of others (hopefully). We learn from our earliest days that a hug can be a safe, comforting respite from the cares of the world. At some point in our lives, we have all probably said (or at least thought), “I could really use a hug!”
One of my favorite images is snuggling in the arms of Jesus. When I need a little “boost” in my day, I imagine sinking into the soft, silky folds of Jesus’ robe as His arms engulf me. I rest in His lap, snuggled against His chest, hearing the steady beat of His heart and the rhythmic in-and-out of his breathing. I am immediately comforted. I feel safe, protected, and greatly loved.
Lately, I’ve been picturing others there, too. It comforts me to envision my family and friends safely wrapped in Jesus’ arms. Each of us can have this “hug” from Jesus at any time. His arms are wide and strong… His lap can hold all of us! We will each receive personal attention… He is able to make all of us feel like we are His special, chosen children – because we are!
Whatever you need from Jesus today, He is waiting to provide. If you just need to sit in His lap for a while and rest against His heart, He has his arms open to receive you. Start to see yourself – and others – there. Feel the safety and security of snuggling with your Heavenly Father. Leave your cares and burdens with Him and go about the rest of your day restored and lightened.
Could you really use a hug right now? Why not ask Jesus to give you one.
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for November 2, 2011
Psalm 123
Our LORD and our God, I turn my eyes to you, on your throne in heaven. Servants look to their master, but we will look to you, until you have mercy on us. Please have mercy, LORD! We have been insulted more than we can stand, and we can't take more abuse from those proud, conceited people.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When was the last time you were insulted? I bet it wasn’t that long ago! It seems like the whole world deals in insults these days. It may have been something as seemingly small as a “dig” from a “friend” on Facebook about your political leanings. Or your “friend” may have hacked into your account and posted a dumb (and insulting) status about you… like “Mike plays with dolls” or “Susan is my favorite daughter. I love her the most.”
Or you may have been insulted on a larger scale… embarrassed by a coworker or boss in front of your peers, or by a spouse in front of friends and family. Someone may have been critical of your weight or appearance – or how you dress – someone may have tried to put you down and make you feel dumb. The media insults us several times a day. We’re not smart enough to make good decisions, so the advertisers want to make them for us. The reason you can’t sleep at night is because you don’t take XYZ pill. And if you will only eat a carton or two of ABC yogurt each day, you’ll be fit and trim and never have to diet again. What were we thinking?!
Still others want us to feel inferior because of our faith… or how we worship. Maybe you are ridiculed or made to feel badly by those who attend another church or belong to another denomination… or a different political party. Perhaps others are assuming all sorts of things about you without checking their facts… then making accusations and judgments that really sting, based on these inaccuracies. At the end of the day, we all have times when we are fed up and frustrated by the insults of others… and we are ready for mercy. Sadly, we may be the ones hurling some of those insults… and for that, we need mercy, also.
Thankfully, we serve a God who can rescue us. He stands ready to comfort us when we are hurting… and to correct us and guide our steps when we need that, as well! All we have to do is turn to God… look up and ask for His help… and trust Him to deliver. We must be open – and honest – and hear what God has to say (and listen with an obedient heart). But God will never leave us to fend for ourselves.
When was the last time you turned to God? Are you wallowing in self-pity from the insults of this world… or are you trusting Him to make things better - to shower you with grace, mercy, and unconditional love? Have you asked God to guide your steps and help you avoid insults toward others? Have you asked Him to rescue you from the slings and arrows that may come your way? We can stop the abuse… both the getting and the giving. Turn your eyes toward the heavens and say, “Lord, help me!” He can… and He will. Are you looking upward?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Our LORD and our God, I turn my eyes to you, on your throne in heaven. Servants look to their master, but we will look to you, until you have mercy on us. Please have mercy, LORD! We have been insulted more than we can stand, and we can't take more abuse from those proud, conceited people.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When was the last time you were insulted? I bet it wasn’t that long ago! It seems like the whole world deals in insults these days. It may have been something as seemingly small as a “dig” from a “friend” on Facebook about your political leanings. Or your “friend” may have hacked into your account and posted a dumb (and insulting) status about you… like “Mike plays with dolls” or “Susan is my favorite daughter. I love her the most.”
Or you may have been insulted on a larger scale… embarrassed by a coworker or boss in front of your peers, or by a spouse in front of friends and family. Someone may have been critical of your weight or appearance – or how you dress – someone may have tried to put you down and make you feel dumb. The media insults us several times a day. We’re not smart enough to make good decisions, so the advertisers want to make them for us. The reason you can’t sleep at night is because you don’t take XYZ pill. And if you will only eat a carton or two of ABC yogurt each day, you’ll be fit and trim and never have to diet again. What were we thinking?!
Still others want us to feel inferior because of our faith… or how we worship. Maybe you are ridiculed or made to feel badly by those who attend another church or belong to another denomination… or a different political party. Perhaps others are assuming all sorts of things about you without checking their facts… then making accusations and judgments that really sting, based on these inaccuracies. At the end of the day, we all have times when we are fed up and frustrated by the insults of others… and we are ready for mercy. Sadly, we may be the ones hurling some of those insults… and for that, we need mercy, also.
Thankfully, we serve a God who can rescue us. He stands ready to comfort us when we are hurting… and to correct us and guide our steps when we need that, as well! All we have to do is turn to God… look up and ask for His help… and trust Him to deliver. We must be open – and honest – and hear what God has to say (and listen with an obedient heart). But God will never leave us to fend for ourselves.
When was the last time you turned to God? Are you wallowing in self-pity from the insults of this world… or are you trusting Him to make things better - to shower you with grace, mercy, and unconditional love? Have you asked God to guide your steps and help you avoid insults toward others? Have you asked Him to rescue you from the slings and arrows that may come your way? We can stop the abuse… both the getting and the giving. Turn your eyes toward the heavens and say, “Lord, help me!” He can… and He will. Are you looking upward?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for November 1, 2011
John 15:18-22
If the people of this world hate you, just remember that they hated me first. If you belonged to the world, its people would love you. But you don't belong to the world. I have chosen you to leave the world behind, and that is why its people hate you. Remember how I told you that servants are not greater than their master.
So if people mistreat me, they will mistreat you. If they do what I say, they will do what you say. People will do to you exactly what they did to me. They will do it because you belong to me, and they don't know the one who sent me. If I had not come and spoken to them, they would not be guilty of sin. But now they have no excuse for their sin.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When I was a little girl and someone picked on me or teased me, my mother would say, “That’s because they like you.” Her “take” was that people wouldn’t bother to take the time to tease someone or pick on them if they didn’t like them. I think she was probably just trying to make me feel better.
The truth is that people are uncomfortable, unkind, and sometimes abusive toward people over things they do not understand – or fear. And those who do not have a personal relationship with Jesus… along with those who know Him but are not behaving like His Disciples… compensate by distancing themselves from those who are Jesus’ Disciples. So when Jesus says that people of this world hate you, they are acting out of fear, guilt and shame… and a lack of understanding.
Does this make it easier to forgive the abuser… the person who teases you unmercifully or tries to separate you from your friends… the bully and the tyrant? Probably not… but we can try to understand a couple of things:
1) We must understand that in many ways, these people want what we have… a relationship with Jesus Christ and all of the blessings that are ours… and they may not know how to get it. It is up to us to be sure that we are living in a way the models faithful Christian behavior, and that we serve in a way that witnesses to others of the grace, mercy and love Jesus offers each of us.
2) We must never stoop to their level.
Nobody ever said being a Christian would be easy. But as Jesus reminds us, in order to be with Him, we have to be like Him… and that means we will have to endure some challenges – and some challenging people – along the way. The rewards and blessings far outweigh any imposition or unpleasantness we may experience, and the promise of Eternity spent with Jesus is more than enough incentive to do what it takes to be as much like Him as possible.
How do you handle adversity and challenge? Who are you standing with… and is it time to move?
©2011 Debbie Robus
If the people of this world hate you, just remember that they hated me first. If you belonged to the world, its people would love you. But you don't belong to the world. I have chosen you to leave the world behind, and that is why its people hate you. Remember how I told you that servants are not greater than their master.
So if people mistreat me, they will mistreat you. If they do what I say, they will do what you say. People will do to you exactly what they did to me. They will do it because you belong to me, and they don't know the one who sent me. If I had not come and spoken to them, they would not be guilty of sin. But now they have no excuse for their sin.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When I was a little girl and someone picked on me or teased me, my mother would say, “That’s because they like you.” Her “take” was that people wouldn’t bother to take the time to tease someone or pick on them if they didn’t like them. I think she was probably just trying to make me feel better.
The truth is that people are uncomfortable, unkind, and sometimes abusive toward people over things they do not understand – or fear. And those who do not have a personal relationship with Jesus… along with those who know Him but are not behaving like His Disciples… compensate by distancing themselves from those who are Jesus’ Disciples. So when Jesus says that people of this world hate you, they are acting out of fear, guilt and shame… and a lack of understanding.
Does this make it easier to forgive the abuser… the person who teases you unmercifully or tries to separate you from your friends… the bully and the tyrant? Probably not… but we can try to understand a couple of things:
1) We must understand that in many ways, these people want what we have… a relationship with Jesus Christ and all of the blessings that are ours… and they may not know how to get it. It is up to us to be sure that we are living in a way the models faithful Christian behavior, and that we serve in a way that witnesses to others of the grace, mercy and love Jesus offers each of us.
2) We must never stoop to their level.
Nobody ever said being a Christian would be easy. But as Jesus reminds us, in order to be with Him, we have to be like Him… and that means we will have to endure some challenges – and some challenging people – along the way. The rewards and blessings far outweigh any imposition or unpleasantness we may experience, and the promise of Eternity spent with Jesus is more than enough incentive to do what it takes to be as much like Him as possible.
How do you handle adversity and challenge? Who are you standing with… and is it time to move?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for October 31, 2011
John 15:11-17
I have told you this to make you as completely happy as I am. Now I tell you to love each other, as I have loved you. The greatest way to show love for friends is to die for them. And you are my friends, if you obey me. Servants don't know what their master is doing, and so I don't speak to you as my servants. I speak to you as my friends, and I have told you everything that my Father has told me.
You did not choose me. I chose you and sent you out to produce fruit, the kind of fruit that will last. Then my Father will give you whatever you ask for in my name. So I command you to love each other.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Do you remember when you were in elementary school – or maybe even older – and you played games that involved choosing teams? Were you ever the last person chosen… or somewhere near the bottom? Do you remember how that felt? It was as if nobody wanted you, yet someone had to take you for their team, and the feeling of being unwanted was uncomfortable at best – and possibly quite miserable.
I hate to tell you, but we do this all the time as Christians. We say we love everyone… but then we treat some people well – and others like dirt under our feet. We are quite eager to minister to one family who is in need, sick, or hurting… but another in our immediate “circle of friends” is completely ignored. It even happens in families… we treat those we like kindly, but those we find hard to love or who don’t agree with all of our viewpoints are given the cold shoulder – or even treated rudely and with disdain. I’m afraid on any given day, a lot of us who claim to be Disciples of Christ are anything but a friend to many in our midst!
I hope you will read this passage several times. Let it soak in that Jesus is a friend to all of us. Yes, He is our master, but He does not lord that over us… He clearly says that He considers us more than servants... we are friends! We are so undeserving of this love and kindness… yet Jesus showers us with His friendship. Doesn’t it make sense that we should offer this to others? If we are to truly serve Jesus… be His Disciples… bear good fruit… shouldn’t we follow His example?
Think about the people in your path today… and those on the outskirts. Think about choosing “Team Jesus” and how you make those feel as you make your selections. Does the last person chosen feel just as loved and valued as the first? Isn’t this how it should be? Where do you need to make adjustments in your attitude and the way you treat others today? Ask God to show you how to do this… and love others as Jesus loves us. Bear good fruit in His name… and trust God to bless you with friends who love you unconditionally, as well.
©2011 Debbie Robus
I have told you this to make you as completely happy as I am. Now I tell you to love each other, as I have loved you. The greatest way to show love for friends is to die for them. And you are my friends, if you obey me. Servants don't know what their master is doing, and so I don't speak to you as my servants. I speak to you as my friends, and I have told you everything that my Father has told me.
You did not choose me. I chose you and sent you out to produce fruit, the kind of fruit that will last. Then my Father will give you whatever you ask for in my name. So I command you to love each other.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Do you remember when you were in elementary school – or maybe even older – and you played games that involved choosing teams? Were you ever the last person chosen… or somewhere near the bottom? Do you remember how that felt? It was as if nobody wanted you, yet someone had to take you for their team, and the feeling of being unwanted was uncomfortable at best – and possibly quite miserable.
I hate to tell you, but we do this all the time as Christians. We say we love everyone… but then we treat some people well – and others like dirt under our feet. We are quite eager to minister to one family who is in need, sick, or hurting… but another in our immediate “circle of friends” is completely ignored. It even happens in families… we treat those we like kindly, but those we find hard to love or who don’t agree with all of our viewpoints are given the cold shoulder – or even treated rudely and with disdain. I’m afraid on any given day, a lot of us who claim to be Disciples of Christ are anything but a friend to many in our midst!
I hope you will read this passage several times. Let it soak in that Jesus is a friend to all of us. Yes, He is our master, but He does not lord that over us… He clearly says that He considers us more than servants... we are friends! We are so undeserving of this love and kindness… yet Jesus showers us with His friendship. Doesn’t it make sense that we should offer this to others? If we are to truly serve Jesus… be His Disciples… bear good fruit… shouldn’t we follow His example?
Think about the people in your path today… and those on the outskirts. Think about choosing “Team Jesus” and how you make those feel as you make your selections. Does the last person chosen feel just as loved and valued as the first? Isn’t this how it should be? Where do you need to make adjustments in your attitude and the way you treat others today? Ask God to show you how to do this… and love others as Jesus loves us. Bear good fruit in His name… and trust God to bless you with friends who love you unconditionally, as well.
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for October 30, 2011
John 15:7-10
Stay joined to me and let my teachings become part of you. Then you can pray for whatever you want, and your prayer will be answered. When you become fruitful disciples of mine, my Father will be honored. I have loved you, just as my Father has loved me. So remain faithful to my love for you. If you obey me, I will keep loving you, just as my Father keeps loving me, because I have obeyed him.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Twenty-six years ago, I was in my eighth year of teaching kindergarten/first grade. My principal was retiring, and his assistant was slated to become his replacement. This woman had once been a fellow teacher… now she was a tyrant who abused all of her former “friends” on a daily basis. I needed a change in more ways than one… and I started seeking an exit strategy. I interviewed in another building for a position as a fifth grade teacher. The principal had asked me in my interview, “What makes you think you can transition from 5-and-six-year-olds to fifth graders?” I assured him I could do it. Everyone who was “in the know” told me the job was mine, and I eagerly anticipated the call from the principal to welcome me… and the subsequent move to another school on the opposite end of town.
One morning the secretary called over the intercom to tell me I had a phone call, and I hurried to the library next door to my classroom. The principal from the other school informed me he had hired someone else. My heart sank, and a huge lump formed in my throat as I thanked him for calling. I phoned my husband, and through tears, I delivered my news. My husband said his first instinct was to drive straight to the school, collect me, and tell everyone that I was quitting – then and there! But in retrospect, we both realized this solved nothing.
After lots of discussion, careful planning, and a lot of prayer, we both decided I should teach for one more year. At that time, I could not see how on earth I would survive it, but I stuck it out… and I think knowing that I was checking the weeks off the calendar (and an exceptionally great class of kiddos!) helped me to persevere. Looking back, that was one of my best years of teaching, in many ways. And because I hung in there and made the most of it, I was blessed more than I can express.
Teaching one more year added more savings to our “nest egg” so that we could both leave our jobs, move back home, and start our own business. Teaching one more year taught me countless lessons in honoring commitments, fighting through hard times, and making the most of even a really stressful situation. By staying that last year, I developed lifelong relationships with some great people and actually had many truly happy experiences. And I learned a lot about trusting God to see me through the rough patches… and use me in spite of the circumstances.
I am sharing this because you may be going through your own rough patch. Things may not be working out like you had hoped or desired… or you may be struggling right now and wondering if your situation will ever improve. I am here to tell you it can – and it will – if you will stay faithful to God. Let Him nurture you and feed you. Allow Him to sustain you in the darkest hours… and to teach you in ways you can’t begin to imagine. Ask God, “Which direction should I take, and how should I get where you want me to go?” Let Him guide your steps and strengthen you throughout the journey.
If someone had been able to show me my life as it is today when I was so frustrated in 1985, I would have found it very hard to believe them, at best. But I know what God can do. I have seen how He can bless. I am learning more every day about how He rewards faithful servants who stick with Him and allow Him to guide them… even through the roughest patches. Our God is so powerful and all-encompassing. What He does for me, He will most certainly do for you, too.
As I share this message of hope with you today, I am reminding myself of the same things. We all need a reminder once in a while that God can handle anything and give us all of the desires of our heart – according to His perfect will. We just have to stick closely to Him and believe in His promises. I’m in… are you?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Stay joined to me and let my teachings become part of you. Then you can pray for whatever you want, and your prayer will be answered. When you become fruitful disciples of mine, my Father will be honored. I have loved you, just as my Father has loved me. So remain faithful to my love for you. If you obey me, I will keep loving you, just as my Father keeps loving me, because I have obeyed him.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Twenty-six years ago, I was in my eighth year of teaching kindergarten/first grade. My principal was retiring, and his assistant was slated to become his replacement. This woman had once been a fellow teacher… now she was a tyrant who abused all of her former “friends” on a daily basis. I needed a change in more ways than one… and I started seeking an exit strategy. I interviewed in another building for a position as a fifth grade teacher. The principal had asked me in my interview, “What makes you think you can transition from 5-and-six-year-olds to fifth graders?” I assured him I could do it. Everyone who was “in the know” told me the job was mine, and I eagerly anticipated the call from the principal to welcome me… and the subsequent move to another school on the opposite end of town.
One morning the secretary called over the intercom to tell me I had a phone call, and I hurried to the library next door to my classroom. The principal from the other school informed me he had hired someone else. My heart sank, and a huge lump formed in my throat as I thanked him for calling. I phoned my husband, and through tears, I delivered my news. My husband said his first instinct was to drive straight to the school, collect me, and tell everyone that I was quitting – then and there! But in retrospect, we both realized this solved nothing.
After lots of discussion, careful planning, and a lot of prayer, we both decided I should teach for one more year. At that time, I could not see how on earth I would survive it, but I stuck it out… and I think knowing that I was checking the weeks off the calendar (and an exceptionally great class of kiddos!) helped me to persevere. Looking back, that was one of my best years of teaching, in many ways. And because I hung in there and made the most of it, I was blessed more than I can express.
Teaching one more year added more savings to our “nest egg” so that we could both leave our jobs, move back home, and start our own business. Teaching one more year taught me countless lessons in honoring commitments, fighting through hard times, and making the most of even a really stressful situation. By staying that last year, I developed lifelong relationships with some great people and actually had many truly happy experiences. And I learned a lot about trusting God to see me through the rough patches… and use me in spite of the circumstances.
I am sharing this because you may be going through your own rough patch. Things may not be working out like you had hoped or desired… or you may be struggling right now and wondering if your situation will ever improve. I am here to tell you it can – and it will – if you will stay faithful to God. Let Him nurture you and feed you. Allow Him to sustain you in the darkest hours… and to teach you in ways you can’t begin to imagine. Ask God, “Which direction should I take, and how should I get where you want me to go?” Let Him guide your steps and strengthen you throughout the journey.
If someone had been able to show me my life as it is today when I was so frustrated in 1985, I would have found it very hard to believe them, at best. But I know what God can do. I have seen how He can bless. I am learning more every day about how He rewards faithful servants who stick with Him and allow Him to guide them… even through the roughest patches. Our God is so powerful and all-encompassing. What He does for me, He will most certainly do for you, too.
As I share this message of hope with you today, I am reminding myself of the same things. We all need a reminder once in a while that God can handle anything and give us all of the desires of our heart – according to His perfect will. We just have to stick closely to Him and believe in His promises. I’m in… are you?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for October 29, 2011
John 15:4-7
Stay joined to me, and I will stay joined to you. Just as a branch cannot produce fruit unless it stays joined to the vine, you cannot produce fruit unless you stay joined to me. I am the vine, and you are the branches. If you stay joined to me, and I stay joined to you, then you will produce lots of fruit. But you cannot do anything without me. If you don't stay joined to me, you will be thrown away. You will be like dry branches that are gathered up and burned in a fire.
Stay joined to me and let my teachings become part of you. Then you can pray for whatever you want, and your prayer will be answered.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
If you have ever lost one piece to something in a set, you know how incomplete the rest becomes. Take earrings, for instance. Once in a while, it happens… you lose one of your favorite earrings. You don’t know where or how it happened, but now the other one is pretty much tossed to the back of the jewelry box and forgotten… rendered useless. Or maybe you throw away the odd piece altogether.
Another is buttons. We need buttons on our shirts and other items of clothing. But often, when we lose a button, a suitable replacement just cannot be found. So we toss the shirt into the trash or rag bin… or at best, we stick it in the back of the closet and wear it when we are doing odd jobs around the house.
Of course, we all know that leaves and fruit that fall from a tree or vine quickly wither and die without the strength and sustenance of the plant itself. And this may be exactly why Jesus chose this illustration. Apart from Him, we will wither and die… and ultimately be tossed away to join Satan in the depths of hell. I’m not saying this to scare anyone… but the fires of hell are like the fires that burn dead, dry branches – only worse – and the idea of Satan’s misery and darkness for all eternity does not interest me in the least!
The bottom line is that we must stay connected to God. We must be continually joined to Him in communication and prayer, faith and trust, service to Him and to others, and fellowship with other believers. We must never pull away or get so arrogant as to think we don’t need God… even for the smallest task or for even one minute from your day.
You wouldn’t think of wearing only one earring just because you lost the other. You probably would be uncomfortable wearing a shirt with missing buttons. Shouldn’t you be uncomfortable even thinking about spending any time apart from God? Are you attached to the Vine today?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Stay joined to me, and I will stay joined to you. Just as a branch cannot produce fruit unless it stays joined to the vine, you cannot produce fruit unless you stay joined to me. I am the vine, and you are the branches. If you stay joined to me, and I stay joined to you, then you will produce lots of fruit. But you cannot do anything without me. If you don't stay joined to me, you will be thrown away. You will be like dry branches that are gathered up and burned in a fire.
Stay joined to me and let my teachings become part of you. Then you can pray for whatever you want, and your prayer will be answered.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
If you have ever lost one piece to something in a set, you know how incomplete the rest becomes. Take earrings, for instance. Once in a while, it happens… you lose one of your favorite earrings. You don’t know where or how it happened, but now the other one is pretty much tossed to the back of the jewelry box and forgotten… rendered useless. Or maybe you throw away the odd piece altogether.
Another is buttons. We need buttons on our shirts and other items of clothing. But often, when we lose a button, a suitable replacement just cannot be found. So we toss the shirt into the trash or rag bin… or at best, we stick it in the back of the closet and wear it when we are doing odd jobs around the house.
Of course, we all know that leaves and fruit that fall from a tree or vine quickly wither and die without the strength and sustenance of the plant itself. And this may be exactly why Jesus chose this illustration. Apart from Him, we will wither and die… and ultimately be tossed away to join Satan in the depths of hell. I’m not saying this to scare anyone… but the fires of hell are like the fires that burn dead, dry branches – only worse – and the idea of Satan’s misery and darkness for all eternity does not interest me in the least!
The bottom line is that we must stay connected to God. We must be continually joined to Him in communication and prayer, faith and trust, service to Him and to others, and fellowship with other believers. We must never pull away or get so arrogant as to think we don’t need God… even for the smallest task or for even one minute from your day.
You wouldn’t think of wearing only one earring just because you lost the other. You probably would be uncomfortable wearing a shirt with missing buttons. Shouldn’t you be uncomfortable even thinking about spending any time apart from God? Are you attached to the Vine today?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for October 28, 2011
John 15:1-3
Jesus said to his disciples: I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts away every branch of mine that doesn't produce fruit. But he trims clean every branch that does produce fruit, so that it will produce even more fruit. You are already clean because of what I have said to you.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Last week, I brought home an African violet that belonged to my grandmother. The plant was root bound, and she wanted me to “divide” it and repot. So I took a sharp knife and sliced through the tender violet that overflowed from the tiny flower pot. As I tugged the 2 sections from the soil, several weak stems and leaves fell away… and I discovered there were at least five full-fledged violet plants all clumped together as one.
I carefully separated these plants, found some more planters and potting soil, and created five nice planters filled with violets. As I dug in the soil, I found dozens of mushy remnants of plant fertilizer stakes. It’s no wonder this plant was so prolific and healthy… my grandmother had carefully tended and nurtured the delicate flower each and every day and fertilized it to the nth degree!
My grandmother is a tough critic – and gardener extraordinaire – so I knew I had to return two really nice violets to her after the repotting. I carefully tended the two largest plants… trimming broken and weak looking leaves and stems… watering just the right amount… and making sure the soil supported the plants themselves. My husband delivered these pots to my grandmother, and she later telephone me and told me to bring her some more fertilizer stakes!
I’ll be the first to tell you that I did not inherit my grandmother’s green thumb. I get little to no pleasure out of digging in dirt and planting things. I do well to water the hardy house plants we own. But I have seen more than a half century of evidence of her love and care for botanicals of all kinds… fruits, vegetables, and especially flowers. The attention she pays to the tiny details makes the difference. And it’s the same way with God.
We are the “vine” – God is the “Vinedresser.” In other words, we are the plants and He is the gardener… and He carefully loves and nurtures each of us. Yes… when necessary, God snips and prunes… cuts away the “dead wood”. I like to think that as much as this could mean that God cuts away those who turn away from Him… it also means that when we sin and fall short, He prunes us back… clips our wings a little and reins us in, saying, “Hey there… you need to think about this!” Often we have to repot… prune… fertilize… in order to obtain maximum growth, in life and in our gardening.
My grandmother would rather cut off her right arm than give up on a plant… and I have to believe it is very much the same for God and His children. He doesn’t want to give up on a single one of us, so He continues to nurture, prune, and fertilize us with His love, grace, mercy, and constant care. And in the end - like my grandmother’s violet with its beautiful lilac blossoms - God expects “good fruit” from us.
What sort of “vine” are you these days? Are you producing good fruit for God? Are you allowing His nurture and care of you to take effect? Are there areas of your life that could use a good cleaning and pruning? Ask God to do what is necessary to make you the perfect “plant” in His garden. Thank Him for the amazing care He gives you every single day… then go and BLOOM for Him wherever He plants you!
©2011 Debbie Robus
Jesus said to his disciples: I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts away every branch of mine that doesn't produce fruit. But he trims clean every branch that does produce fruit, so that it will produce even more fruit. You are already clean because of what I have said to you.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Last week, I brought home an African violet that belonged to my grandmother. The plant was root bound, and she wanted me to “divide” it and repot. So I took a sharp knife and sliced through the tender violet that overflowed from the tiny flower pot. As I tugged the 2 sections from the soil, several weak stems and leaves fell away… and I discovered there were at least five full-fledged violet plants all clumped together as one.
I carefully separated these plants, found some more planters and potting soil, and created five nice planters filled with violets. As I dug in the soil, I found dozens of mushy remnants of plant fertilizer stakes. It’s no wonder this plant was so prolific and healthy… my grandmother had carefully tended and nurtured the delicate flower each and every day and fertilized it to the nth degree!
My grandmother is a tough critic – and gardener extraordinaire – so I knew I had to return two really nice violets to her after the repotting. I carefully tended the two largest plants… trimming broken and weak looking leaves and stems… watering just the right amount… and making sure the soil supported the plants themselves. My husband delivered these pots to my grandmother, and she later telephone me and told me to bring her some more fertilizer stakes!
I’ll be the first to tell you that I did not inherit my grandmother’s green thumb. I get little to no pleasure out of digging in dirt and planting things. I do well to water the hardy house plants we own. But I have seen more than a half century of evidence of her love and care for botanicals of all kinds… fruits, vegetables, and especially flowers. The attention she pays to the tiny details makes the difference. And it’s the same way with God.
We are the “vine” – God is the “Vinedresser.” In other words, we are the plants and He is the gardener… and He carefully loves and nurtures each of us. Yes… when necessary, God snips and prunes… cuts away the “dead wood”. I like to think that as much as this could mean that God cuts away those who turn away from Him… it also means that when we sin and fall short, He prunes us back… clips our wings a little and reins us in, saying, “Hey there… you need to think about this!” Often we have to repot… prune… fertilize… in order to obtain maximum growth, in life and in our gardening.
My grandmother would rather cut off her right arm than give up on a plant… and I have to believe it is very much the same for God and His children. He doesn’t want to give up on a single one of us, so He continues to nurture, prune, and fertilize us with His love, grace, mercy, and constant care. And in the end - like my grandmother’s violet with its beautiful lilac blossoms - God expects “good fruit” from us.
What sort of “vine” are you these days? Are you producing good fruit for God? Are you allowing His nurture and care of you to take effect? Are there areas of your life that could use a good cleaning and pruning? Ask God to do what is necessary to make you the perfect “plant” in His garden. Thank Him for the amazing care He gives you every single day… then go and BLOOM for Him wherever He plants you!
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for October 27, 2011
Psalm 121:5-8
The LORD is your protector, there at your right side to shade you from the sun. You won't be harmed by the sun during the day or by the moon at night. The LORD will protect you and keep you safe from all dangers. The LORD will protect you now and always wherever you go.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I have very pale skin… so pale that in certain clothing and colors, people have actually asked me if I was feeling well! So I enjoyed many years of having a nice tan… until the day I found a spot on my collarbone. The doctor assured me it was probably nothing, as he sliced it off and sent it to a lab for evaluation. He called a few days later to say, “You were right to come see me. That was pre-cancerous… we got it just in time.” My deliberate tanning days were over.
This summer, my husband and I took a day trip to Mtn. View on the July 4th weekend. We walked through the craft village at the Ozark Folk Center on a very hot, sunny afternoon. I would say we spent less than 2 hours dashing from one air conditioned building to another to observe the crafters. That night when we got home, I noticed I was sporting a little sunburn that outlined where my shirt had hung. Just stepping out unprotected into the bright sunlight for a few minutes between buildings had exposed me to the dangers of the harmful rays and burned my skin.
Think about this for a minute… imagine venturing out into the world without the protection of God. If we try to make it on our own… away from God’s amazing grace and care, we are leaving room for the devil to make all sorts of inroads. And just as a few minutes in the sun left me vulnerable to a burn… even a few minutes without God’s protection leaves you wide open for all sorts of trouble.
God wants to be our shield night and day. He loves us and wants to care for us like an SPF50 sunscreen. But we have to invite Him to do so. We have to want His protection. He will not force Himself upon us.
I know we don’t want to hear this, but avoiding direct sunlight on our skin (i.e. tanning) is a good idea. I have to remember to apply sunscreen when I think I will be outside… and frankly, as we lose more and more ozone, a daily dose – just in case - is a good idea. It’s the same with God… don’t leave home without His protection. Better yet, wear it all the time! And remember to thank Him for his around-the-clock care and vigilance on your behalf. Are you protected today?
©2011 Debbie Robus
The LORD is your protector, there at your right side to shade you from the sun. You won't be harmed by the sun during the day or by the moon at night. The LORD will protect you and keep you safe from all dangers. The LORD will protect you now and always wherever you go.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I have very pale skin… so pale that in certain clothing and colors, people have actually asked me if I was feeling well! So I enjoyed many years of having a nice tan… until the day I found a spot on my collarbone. The doctor assured me it was probably nothing, as he sliced it off and sent it to a lab for evaluation. He called a few days later to say, “You were right to come see me. That was pre-cancerous… we got it just in time.” My deliberate tanning days were over.
This summer, my husband and I took a day trip to Mtn. View on the July 4th weekend. We walked through the craft village at the Ozark Folk Center on a very hot, sunny afternoon. I would say we spent less than 2 hours dashing from one air conditioned building to another to observe the crafters. That night when we got home, I noticed I was sporting a little sunburn that outlined where my shirt had hung. Just stepping out unprotected into the bright sunlight for a few minutes between buildings had exposed me to the dangers of the harmful rays and burned my skin.
Think about this for a minute… imagine venturing out into the world without the protection of God. If we try to make it on our own… away from God’s amazing grace and care, we are leaving room for the devil to make all sorts of inroads. And just as a few minutes in the sun left me vulnerable to a burn… even a few minutes without God’s protection leaves you wide open for all sorts of trouble.
God wants to be our shield night and day. He loves us and wants to care for us like an SPF50 sunscreen. But we have to invite Him to do so. We have to want His protection. He will not force Himself upon us.
I know we don’t want to hear this, but avoiding direct sunlight on our skin (i.e. tanning) is a good idea. I have to remember to apply sunscreen when I think I will be outside… and frankly, as we lose more and more ozone, a daily dose – just in case - is a good idea. It’s the same with God… don’t leave home without His protection. Better yet, wear it all the time! And remember to thank Him for his around-the-clock care and vigilance on your behalf. Are you protected today?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for October 26, 2011
Psalm 121:1-4
I look to the hills! Where will I find help? It will come from the LORD, who created the heavens and the earth. The LORD is your protector, and he won't go to sleep or let you stumble. The protector of Israel doesn't doze or ever get drowsy.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When I was a little girl, one of my favorite stories was The Elves and the Shoemaker by the Brothers Grimm. In this story, elves visited the shop of a very poor shoemaker and his wife each night and created beautiful shoes for them to sell. In return, the shoemaker and his wife made beautiful clothes for the little elves.
Haven’t we all wished we had elves to come in at night and do our work for us and make everything beautiful by morning? When I awoke today and looked across the fiery hillside below our house, I thought, “God was surely up all night!” It was as if He spent the entire evening with a brush and a palette of oranges, reds, yellows and more… painting away on the trees outside our back door!
But God is no magical elf! While He often works in the background…making things better for us as the elves did for the shoemaker and his wife… the wonderful gifts and blessings that God bestows on us create riches far beyond money and material things. And the power and might of our Heavenly Father are far above and beyond mere magic!
As I looked at the hillside and valley this morning, I thought of the first verse of this passage… I considered the strength and protection God bestows on me every day… and how He never sleeps (which reminded me of the little Grimm fairy tale!). I was humbled, and blessed, to see that God not only blesses us and cares for our every need… He does it with astounding beauty and finesse!
Today, I hope your “take away” from this passage is that God cares for us beyond what we could ever imagine. I hope you remember that He never sleeps. And one more thing… as the shoemakers gave the elves new clothing, we should give back to God as much as we can - to the best of our abilities. We should be so grateful for His abundance that we are eager to do all we can for Him in return. We can never repay God – and that’s not the point! But we can do our best to show Him how much we appreciate His amazing generosity.
Look around today – look “to the hills” and up at the beautiful trees and the colors of fall – and remember Who is up all night and day caring for each of us. Take time to thank God for His love and care… go about your day with confidence that He is in complete control… and know that all will be well.
©2011 Debbie Robus
I look to the hills! Where will I find help? It will come from the LORD, who created the heavens and the earth. The LORD is your protector, and he won't go to sleep or let you stumble. The protector of Israel doesn't doze or ever get drowsy.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When I was a little girl, one of my favorite stories was The Elves and the Shoemaker by the Brothers Grimm. In this story, elves visited the shop of a very poor shoemaker and his wife each night and created beautiful shoes for them to sell. In return, the shoemaker and his wife made beautiful clothes for the little elves.
Haven’t we all wished we had elves to come in at night and do our work for us and make everything beautiful by morning? When I awoke today and looked across the fiery hillside below our house, I thought, “God was surely up all night!” It was as if He spent the entire evening with a brush and a palette of oranges, reds, yellows and more… painting away on the trees outside our back door!
But God is no magical elf! While He often works in the background…making things better for us as the elves did for the shoemaker and his wife… the wonderful gifts and blessings that God bestows on us create riches far beyond money and material things. And the power and might of our Heavenly Father are far above and beyond mere magic!
As I looked at the hillside and valley this morning, I thought of the first verse of this passage… I considered the strength and protection God bestows on me every day… and how He never sleeps (which reminded me of the little Grimm fairy tale!). I was humbled, and blessed, to see that God not only blesses us and cares for our every need… He does it with astounding beauty and finesse!
Today, I hope your “take away” from this passage is that God cares for us beyond what we could ever imagine. I hope you remember that He never sleeps. And one more thing… as the shoemakers gave the elves new clothing, we should give back to God as much as we can - to the best of our abilities. We should be so grateful for His abundance that we are eager to do all we can for Him in return. We can never repay God – and that’s not the point! But we can do our best to show Him how much we appreciate His amazing generosity.
Look around today – look “to the hills” and up at the beautiful trees and the colors of fall – and remember Who is up all night and day caring for each of us. Take time to thank God for His love and care… go about your day with confidence that He is in complete control… and know that all will be well.
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for October 25, 2011
Psalm 119:57
You, LORD, are my choice, and I will obey you.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Think quickly… what was the last choice you had to make? Was it what to wear to school/work this morning? Was it whether or not to get up early and work out? Or maybe you had to choose what you would eat for breakfast… or at least which cereal you wanted. We make choices each and every day… often several times an hour! Some of our choices really don’t matter. The decision to eat Cheerios© vs Kelloggs Corn Flakes© is not critical. It really won’t affect our lives so much if we have orange juice or tomato juice… or no juice!
But there is one choice that does matter… and that is whether we choose to make God the LORD of our life and follow His rules. In fact, of all the choices we make in our lives, THIS is the biggest… the most important… the most crucial.
You may be saying, “I have plenty of time… I’ll do that later!” Pick up a newspaper and read the obituaries. Kids in their teens and twenties face challenges – and even die - every day. And the Bible is filled with examples of young people who served well and made a huge difference for the Kingdom of Heaven at an early age! God doesn’t want you to wait until you are 30, 40, or older to serve Him and submit to Him. If you are past this age, it’s not too late… but if you are a young person and think you will “play now” and serve God later… this choice will be a huge mistake!
I promise you… everything gets better when serving the LORD is your choice! The struggles and hardships don’t seem so difficult… the good times seem even better… and yes, you still have fun! Choosing God is not a surrender of freedom… you are choosing to be free – from sin, guilt, shame, and the burdens of living without the Holy Spirit!
Maybe you have chosen God, but you’ve sort of slipped Him to the corner for a while… pushed Him to the back burner and decided to try things your way and see how it goes. Again, this is a poor decision… and you’re risking disaster! It really doesn’t matter if you mix plaids with stripes, choose tater tots instead of fries, or decide to cheer for the underdog. But whether you choose to follow God and obey His laws or not matters greatly. What will you decide…Who will you choose to serve?
©2011 Debbie Robus
You, LORD, are my choice, and I will obey you.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Think quickly… what was the last choice you had to make? Was it what to wear to school/work this morning? Was it whether or not to get up early and work out? Or maybe you had to choose what you would eat for breakfast… or at least which cereal you wanted. We make choices each and every day… often several times an hour! Some of our choices really don’t matter. The decision to eat Cheerios© vs Kelloggs Corn Flakes© is not critical. It really won’t affect our lives so much if we have orange juice or tomato juice… or no juice!
But there is one choice that does matter… and that is whether we choose to make God the LORD of our life and follow His rules. In fact, of all the choices we make in our lives, THIS is the biggest… the most important… the most crucial.
You may be saying, “I have plenty of time… I’ll do that later!” Pick up a newspaper and read the obituaries. Kids in their teens and twenties face challenges – and even die - every day. And the Bible is filled with examples of young people who served well and made a huge difference for the Kingdom of Heaven at an early age! God doesn’t want you to wait until you are 30, 40, or older to serve Him and submit to Him. If you are past this age, it’s not too late… but if you are a young person and think you will “play now” and serve God later… this choice will be a huge mistake!
I promise you… everything gets better when serving the LORD is your choice! The struggles and hardships don’t seem so difficult… the good times seem even better… and yes, you still have fun! Choosing God is not a surrender of freedom… you are choosing to be free – from sin, guilt, shame, and the burdens of living without the Holy Spirit!
Maybe you have chosen God, but you’ve sort of slipped Him to the corner for a while… pushed Him to the back burner and decided to try things your way and see how it goes. Again, this is a poor decision… and you’re risking disaster! It really doesn’t matter if you mix plaids with stripes, choose tater tots instead of fries, or decide to cheer for the underdog. But whether you choose to follow God and obey His laws or not matters greatly. What will you decide…Who will you choose to serve?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for October 24, 2011
Psalm 119:32
I am eager to learn all that you want me to do; help me to understand more and more.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Our little nephew, Timothy, spent the weekend with us, and he was sick with an upset stomach. He did not understand what was happening, and as he threw up, he would whimper and say, “DebDeb?” I tried to assure him that everything was okay… but I’m not sure he was convinced! Afterward, he asked for milk, and I could not explain why this was not a good beverage choice. I gave him a sippy cup with 7-Up instead, and he seemed satisfied. But the next morning, he awoke and asked for pizza! If you want a good lesson in “understanding,” try reasoning with a two-year-old. I managed to distract him… but the following morning, when he was feeling better and asked for ice cream, I had no good argument!
A lot of times, we are frightened, and we call out to God. We don’t understand what is happening to us, but He assures us that everything will be okay, and we trust this! I will admit, I trust Him more now than I did a few years ago… or even last week. It’s a learning process… and for some of us, the going is pretty slow!
As Timothy learns more words and phrases… as he grows in experience and using his imagination to understand things he cannot physically see and touch… he understands more and more… and he trusts us to tell him the truth and give him good instruction. And he is eager to learn.
Wouldn’t it be great if we had the hunger and eagerness of a toddler for the things of God?! What if we approached God with the attitude that anything was possible… even ice cream at 6:30 a.m.! What if we allowed Him to show us what we could and could not do… and why… and trusted His choices and rules! Why aren’t we hungrier for the things of God? Isn’t it time we looked at this passage and made it our prayer for the day… a sincere desire to learn all that God wants us to do… and a request for help to do exactly that?
What are you waiting for? What is keeping you from becoming all that you can be in your walk with God? Are you growing daily in His knowledge and wisdom… eager to learn more about Him and His plan for your life? Isn’t it time you began?
©2011 Debbie Robus
I am eager to learn all that you want me to do; help me to understand more and more.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Our little nephew, Timothy, spent the weekend with us, and he was sick with an upset stomach. He did not understand what was happening, and as he threw up, he would whimper and say, “DebDeb?” I tried to assure him that everything was okay… but I’m not sure he was convinced! Afterward, he asked for milk, and I could not explain why this was not a good beverage choice. I gave him a sippy cup with 7-Up instead, and he seemed satisfied. But the next morning, he awoke and asked for pizza! If you want a good lesson in “understanding,” try reasoning with a two-year-old. I managed to distract him… but the following morning, when he was feeling better and asked for ice cream, I had no good argument!
A lot of times, we are frightened, and we call out to God. We don’t understand what is happening to us, but He assures us that everything will be okay, and we trust this! I will admit, I trust Him more now than I did a few years ago… or even last week. It’s a learning process… and for some of us, the going is pretty slow!
As Timothy learns more words and phrases… as he grows in experience and using his imagination to understand things he cannot physically see and touch… he understands more and more… and he trusts us to tell him the truth and give him good instruction. And he is eager to learn.
Wouldn’t it be great if we had the hunger and eagerness of a toddler for the things of God?! What if we approached God with the attitude that anything was possible… even ice cream at 6:30 a.m.! What if we allowed Him to show us what we could and could not do… and why… and trusted His choices and rules! Why aren’t we hungrier for the things of God? Isn’t it time we looked at this passage and made it our prayer for the day… a sincere desire to learn all that God wants us to do… and a request for help to do exactly that?
What are you waiting for? What is keeping you from becoming all that you can be in your walk with God? Are you growing daily in His knowledge and wisdom… eager to learn more about Him and His plan for your life? Isn’t it time you began?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for October 23, 2011
John 14:15-17
Jesus said to his disciples: If you love me, you will do as I command. Then I will ask the Father to send you the Holy Spirit who will help you and always be with you. The Spirit will show you what is true. The people of this world cannot accept the Spirit, because they don't see or know him. But you know the Spirit, who is with you and will keep on living in you.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
My sister recently started a new job. Because she began in the middle of a pay period, she had to work three weeks before she got her first paycheck. When I was teaching, payday was the 20th of each month, which meant we taught part of August and almost all of September before we received a paycheck. We did our jobs in good faith that on the appointed day, the checks would be there. And sure enough, when payday came, we got our money. But we operated in faith until that day that we would be paid for our work.
Operating in the faith that the Holy Spirit will always be with us is a far cry from believing we will get a paycheck, but you get the picture. We have a whole lot more trouble trusting Jesus to send His Holy Spirit than we do believing that we will be paid for the work we have already done in an earthly job! The irony is that Jesus is the only One we can truly trust to deliver on any and all promises! Let’s be honest, companies have gone under… and employees have been left without all of the pay they earned. Family members, friends, and acquaintances have promised all sorts of things and failed to deliver. Human promises are not always a sure thing.
When Jesus tells us He is sending His Holy Spirit, we can count on this! And once you develop a close relationship with Jesus and strive to do what He asks of you… stay in communication with Him and seek ways to honor and serve Him… you will begin to feel the presence of the Holy Spirit more strongly than ever. It won’t matter what others say or who questions your faith, strength, and courage… YOU will know Who is living within you and “driving the car” in your daily living.
Once we acknowledge the Holy Spirit and let Him guide us, everything in our lives becomes better. It took me a long, long time to understand the Holy Spirit and how He works in me. Don’t let it take that long for you. Ask Jesus what you need to do to feel His presence… invite Him to come and live in your heart. Just say, “Come Holy Spirit!” Be still and listen for Him… feel His presence and the peace and calm that He brings to every situation. Get to know the Holy Spirit for yourself and see how much better He can make every single day!
©2011 Debbie Robus
Jesus said to his disciples: If you love me, you will do as I command. Then I will ask the Father to send you the Holy Spirit who will help you and always be with you. The Spirit will show you what is true. The people of this world cannot accept the Spirit, because they don't see or know him. But you know the Spirit, who is with you and will keep on living in you.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
My sister recently started a new job. Because she began in the middle of a pay period, she had to work three weeks before she got her first paycheck. When I was teaching, payday was the 20th of each month, which meant we taught part of August and almost all of September before we received a paycheck. We did our jobs in good faith that on the appointed day, the checks would be there. And sure enough, when payday came, we got our money. But we operated in faith until that day that we would be paid for our work.
Operating in the faith that the Holy Spirit will always be with us is a far cry from believing we will get a paycheck, but you get the picture. We have a whole lot more trouble trusting Jesus to send His Holy Spirit than we do believing that we will be paid for the work we have already done in an earthly job! The irony is that Jesus is the only One we can truly trust to deliver on any and all promises! Let’s be honest, companies have gone under… and employees have been left without all of the pay they earned. Family members, friends, and acquaintances have promised all sorts of things and failed to deliver. Human promises are not always a sure thing.
When Jesus tells us He is sending His Holy Spirit, we can count on this! And once you develop a close relationship with Jesus and strive to do what He asks of you… stay in communication with Him and seek ways to honor and serve Him… you will begin to feel the presence of the Holy Spirit more strongly than ever. It won’t matter what others say or who questions your faith, strength, and courage… YOU will know Who is living within you and “driving the car” in your daily living.
Once we acknowledge the Holy Spirit and let Him guide us, everything in our lives becomes better. It took me a long, long time to understand the Holy Spirit and how He works in me. Don’t let it take that long for you. Ask Jesus what you need to do to feel His presence… invite Him to come and live in your heart. Just say, “Come Holy Spirit!” Be still and listen for Him… feel His presence and the peace and calm that He brings to every situation. Get to know the Holy Spirit for yourself and see how much better He can make every single day!
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for October 22, 2011
October 22 ~ John 14:8-14
Philip said, "Lord, show us the Father. That is all we need." Jesus replied: Philip, I have been with you for a long time. Don't you know who I am? If you have seen me, you have seen the Father. How can you ask me to show you the Father? Don't you believe that I am one with the Father and that the Father is one with me? What I say isn't said on my own. The Father who lives in me does these things.
Have faith in me when I say that the Father is one with me and that I am one with the Father. Or else have faith in me simply because of the things I do. I tell you for certain that if you have faith in me, you will do the same things that I am doing. You will do even greater things, now that I am going back to the Father. Ask me, and I will do whatever you ask. This way the Son will bring honor to the Father. I will do whatever you ask me to do.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Time means nothing to a toddler. Explaining to Timothy that “I will come and get you in two ‘night-nights’” doesn’t mean a thing to him. He now recognizes our voices on the telephone, but the nebulous concept that we are at our own home and not physically in his presence is almost too much for him. But take him out for a ride and drive past certain intersections, and he knows that this corner is where you turn to go to our house… or that building is where his great-great grandmother lives… or this is the street on which we turn to go to his daycare! He has seen those places… he is familiar with them. And I assure you, if you turn left when he wants to turn right, he will let you know about it!
Gosh… getting the concept of WHO Jesus really is boggles our minds, doesn’t it? For so many, the pervading question is… “But how do you KNOW He is real?” What makes us so sure that Jesus is doing all of the wonderful things in our lives, rescuing us when we are in need, healing us and keeping us steeped in blessings? Couldn’t it simply be good luck or “fate?” And I will admit… this has been a hard question for me to answer at times… at least in a manner I felt was convincing.
I will have to say, by allowing me to go through some pretty big challenges, Jesus has shown me WHO He really is. By allowing my faith to be tested… and delivering BIG TIME on His promises, I have become one of His major cheerleaders! I won’t say that I don’t ever get down or feel overwhelmed, because I do… more often than I care to admit! But I know Who has my back. I know what God can do… because I have seen Him do it! I know that more times than I can count, I have crept back with my head down in embarrassment that I allowed my faith to waver so much… and God delivered and blessed me anyway.
I’ve seen God use “little ole me” in ways I didn’t think were possible. I’ve felt the blessings of showing up at the right time with the right message… and knowing beyond a doubt that I had absolutely nothing to do with it!
Look around. Evidence of just how real God is can be seen in abundance! If you don’t see Jesus in people and places everywhere you look, you’re probably hanging with the wrong crowd… and your communication with God could use a little spit and polish! Ask Jesus to forgive your doubts and fill you with courage and confidence. Take everything to Him… your joys, sorrows, trials, and triumphs… and let Him sort them and work in and through you. Then step back and be amazed at how much He can do with the least of us. I know I am!
©2011 Debbie Robus
Philip said, "Lord, show us the Father. That is all we need." Jesus replied: Philip, I have been with you for a long time. Don't you know who I am? If you have seen me, you have seen the Father. How can you ask me to show you the Father? Don't you believe that I am one with the Father and that the Father is one with me? What I say isn't said on my own. The Father who lives in me does these things.
Have faith in me when I say that the Father is one with me and that I am one with the Father. Or else have faith in me simply because of the things I do. I tell you for certain that if you have faith in me, you will do the same things that I am doing. You will do even greater things, now that I am going back to the Father. Ask me, and I will do whatever you ask. This way the Son will bring honor to the Father. I will do whatever you ask me to do.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Time means nothing to a toddler. Explaining to Timothy that “I will come and get you in two ‘night-nights’” doesn’t mean a thing to him. He now recognizes our voices on the telephone, but the nebulous concept that we are at our own home and not physically in his presence is almost too much for him. But take him out for a ride and drive past certain intersections, and he knows that this corner is where you turn to go to our house… or that building is where his great-great grandmother lives… or this is the street on which we turn to go to his daycare! He has seen those places… he is familiar with them. And I assure you, if you turn left when he wants to turn right, he will let you know about it!
Gosh… getting the concept of WHO Jesus really is boggles our minds, doesn’t it? For so many, the pervading question is… “But how do you KNOW He is real?” What makes us so sure that Jesus is doing all of the wonderful things in our lives, rescuing us when we are in need, healing us and keeping us steeped in blessings? Couldn’t it simply be good luck or “fate?” And I will admit… this has been a hard question for me to answer at times… at least in a manner I felt was convincing.
I will have to say, by allowing me to go through some pretty big challenges, Jesus has shown me WHO He really is. By allowing my faith to be tested… and delivering BIG TIME on His promises, I have become one of His major cheerleaders! I won’t say that I don’t ever get down or feel overwhelmed, because I do… more often than I care to admit! But I know Who has my back. I know what God can do… because I have seen Him do it! I know that more times than I can count, I have crept back with my head down in embarrassment that I allowed my faith to waver so much… and God delivered and blessed me anyway.
I’ve seen God use “little ole me” in ways I didn’t think were possible. I’ve felt the blessings of showing up at the right time with the right message… and knowing beyond a doubt that I had absolutely nothing to do with it!
Look around. Evidence of just how real God is can be seen in abundance! If you don’t see Jesus in people and places everywhere you look, you’re probably hanging with the wrong crowd… and your communication with God could use a little spit and polish! Ask Jesus to forgive your doubts and fill you with courage and confidence. Take everything to Him… your joys, sorrows, trials, and triumphs… and let Him sort them and work in and through you. Then step back and be amazed at how much He can do with the least of us. I know I am!
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for October 21, 2011
John 14:1-7
Jesus said to his disciples, "Don't be worried! Have faith in God and have faith in me. There are many rooms in my Father's house. I wouldn't tell you this, unless it was true. I am going there to prepare a place for each of you. After I have done this, I will come back and take you with me. Then we will be together. You know the way to where I am going." Thomas said, "Lord, we don't even know where you are going! How can we know the way?"
"I am the way, the truth, and the life!" Jesus answered. "Without me, no one can go to the Father. If you had known me, you would have known the Father. But from now on, you do know him, and you have seen him."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
A few years ago, a major shift in my life occurred. It seemed like as many – or more – people in my immediate “circle” were in heaven than here on earth. If I stop and list all of the close family members and friends who died within a span of five years or so, I’m overwhelmed… and it may be much the same for you and your circle of loved ones. When I was in my teens or twenties, this would have probably been incredibly devastating for me. In my mid-to-late thirties and forties, the “shock” was easier to absorb.
What shifted, besides my age – and possibly my maturity level? The answer for me is this… I had gotten to know the Father better. All of my life, I heard others quote the first part of this passage. I knew that Jesus returned to heaven to “get my mansion ready.” But this really didn’t comfort me much. That sounded great – when I was ninety! But I was young, full of life… and not ready to die… and I didn’t want to “lose” anyone dear to me, either.
Now I understand so much more about how God’s plans for us are supposed to work. I didn’t get this by lightning strike or a bump on the head… this understanding came to me through prayer, Bible study, meditation on God’s word, and fellowship with other believers… and lots of all of it! When we become Christians, we don’t instantly “get it” – we have to cultivate our relationship with God – and our understanding of His plans for us. And we must continue to work on this every day!
A few years ago I attended the funeral of a man who had died at a fairly young age after a tortuous battle with cancer. The pastor who conducted his funeral said that people talk about those they have “lost”. We say, “I’m sorry for your loss” when we console those who are grieving. The pastor reminded us that we didn’t truly lose these loved ones – if they are Christians, we know exactly where they are… and quite frankly, they are living the high life!
Do not misunderstand me. This doesn’t give you license to console others with trite phrases like, “It’s God’s will,” or “They are in a better place” … or “He/she is better off than we are!” God wants us to comfort others with His love and peace… but to temper it with grace and mercy. Grieving people are hurting. Yes, we do feel a sense of loss… the person we loved and cared about is no longer with us. But somehow, knowing that they have relocated to Jesus’ heavenly home… and a room is being prepared for us there, also… is incredibly meaningful to me these days.
My grandmother will celebrate her 99th birthday on November 5th. She told me recently that she has been asking God to take her home. She is tired and weary, feeling poorly… and ready for her heavenly mansion and the company of Jesus and those she has missed so dearly. Others have told me that they encourage her to “Keep going!”… “Hang in there!”… “Don’t give up!” I have simply told her that I promise to be happy for her when God has her room ready. I know that she knows the Father… and so do I… and this makes all the difference in my perspective.
My question for you is, “How well do YOU know the Father? Do you have His peace and comfort in all situations? Are you fearful of your ‘next home’ – or excited about the move someday?” I am not asking if you have a death wish… I’m asking if you know the “peace that passes all understanding.” Do YOU know Jesus…The Way to your heavenly home? May I introduce you?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Jesus said to his disciples, "Don't be worried! Have faith in God and have faith in me. There are many rooms in my Father's house. I wouldn't tell you this, unless it was true. I am going there to prepare a place for each of you. After I have done this, I will come back and take you with me. Then we will be together. You know the way to where I am going." Thomas said, "Lord, we don't even know where you are going! How can we know the way?"
"I am the way, the truth, and the life!" Jesus answered. "Without me, no one can go to the Father. If you had known me, you would have known the Father. But from now on, you do know him, and you have seen him."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
A few years ago, a major shift in my life occurred. It seemed like as many – or more – people in my immediate “circle” were in heaven than here on earth. If I stop and list all of the close family members and friends who died within a span of five years or so, I’m overwhelmed… and it may be much the same for you and your circle of loved ones. When I was in my teens or twenties, this would have probably been incredibly devastating for me. In my mid-to-late thirties and forties, the “shock” was easier to absorb.
What shifted, besides my age – and possibly my maturity level? The answer for me is this… I had gotten to know the Father better. All of my life, I heard others quote the first part of this passage. I knew that Jesus returned to heaven to “get my mansion ready.” But this really didn’t comfort me much. That sounded great – when I was ninety! But I was young, full of life… and not ready to die… and I didn’t want to “lose” anyone dear to me, either.
Now I understand so much more about how God’s plans for us are supposed to work. I didn’t get this by lightning strike or a bump on the head… this understanding came to me through prayer, Bible study, meditation on God’s word, and fellowship with other believers… and lots of all of it! When we become Christians, we don’t instantly “get it” – we have to cultivate our relationship with God – and our understanding of His plans for us. And we must continue to work on this every day!
A few years ago I attended the funeral of a man who had died at a fairly young age after a tortuous battle with cancer. The pastor who conducted his funeral said that people talk about those they have “lost”. We say, “I’m sorry for your loss” when we console those who are grieving. The pastor reminded us that we didn’t truly lose these loved ones – if they are Christians, we know exactly where they are… and quite frankly, they are living the high life!
Do not misunderstand me. This doesn’t give you license to console others with trite phrases like, “It’s God’s will,” or “They are in a better place” … or “He/she is better off than we are!” God wants us to comfort others with His love and peace… but to temper it with grace and mercy. Grieving people are hurting. Yes, we do feel a sense of loss… the person we loved and cared about is no longer with us. But somehow, knowing that they have relocated to Jesus’ heavenly home… and a room is being prepared for us there, also… is incredibly meaningful to me these days.
My grandmother will celebrate her 99th birthday on November 5th. She told me recently that she has been asking God to take her home. She is tired and weary, feeling poorly… and ready for her heavenly mansion and the company of Jesus and those she has missed so dearly. Others have told me that they encourage her to “Keep going!”… “Hang in there!”… “Don’t give up!” I have simply told her that I promise to be happy for her when God has her room ready. I know that she knows the Father… and so do I… and this makes all the difference in my perspective.
My question for you is, “How well do YOU know the Father? Do you have His peace and comfort in all situations? Are you fearful of your ‘next home’ – or excited about the move someday?” I am not asking if you have a death wish… I’m asking if you know the “peace that passes all understanding.” Do YOU know Jesus…The Way to your heavenly home? May I introduce you?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for October 20, 2011
John 13:36-38
Simon Peter asked, "Lord, where are you going?" Jesus answered, "You can't go with me now, but later on you will." Peter asked, "Lord, why can't I go with you now? I would die for you!" "Would you really die for me?" Jesus asked. "I tell you for certain that before a rooster crows, you will say three times that you don't even know me."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
If an emergency arises on an airplane, adult passengers traveling with a child are told to put on their oxygen masks first before they mask their children. This is to ensure that they have the capability to assist their little ones. In other words, they have to save themselves first in order to be able to save anyone else.
Sometimes there is a progression that must be followed in certain situations in order to obtain the desired outcome. Peter had to go through some things to strengthen his faith. Jesus knew this. He knew that Peter would ultimately be an amazing Apostle… and He referred to him as “the rock” in Matthew 16. That’s a pretty strong endorsement in my book! Yet Peter denied Jesus – three times!! - despite his insistence that this would never happen. And we often behave in much the same manner.
Who among us has not affirmed that we were faith-filled Christians who trust God to meet our every need… then whined, cried and wrung our hands over all sorts of issues both great and small? How many of us have claimed that God is our fortress… mighty and strong… then fallen apart and said, “I just can’t take this!”? Someone said to me recently, “I just want to be happy.” My response was that sometimes we have to be unhappy for a while in order to get to “happy!” And I think this is illustrated beautifully in this scripture passage. Jesus knew that Peter was going to have to suffer and go through some things in order to come out strong and truly dependent on Him for His strength and power.
None of us thinks we would blatantly deny Jesus Christ… yet we do this every day in many ways by wavering in our faith and wallowing in fear, self-pity, and impatience. We need to take a deep breath, say a heart-felt prayer, ask God to help us with whatever is challenging us in any way… then thank Him for answering according to His will. The GOOD NEWS is that Jesus is still with us when we emerge from our trials and tribulations… He never deserts us… and for this we should be incredibly grateful.
We may never be “rock star” Apostles for Jesus… but we can become the most humble, devoted servants possible and witness for Him in every circumstance. We may have to go through some things and be unhappy or uncomfortable in order to become the Disciple of Christ that God desires. Or, we can continue to deny Jesus… whether we realize we are doing so or not… and wallow in the misery of the pit that Satan has designed for us. The choice is ours… how will you decide?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Simon Peter asked, "Lord, where are you going?" Jesus answered, "You can't go with me now, but later on you will." Peter asked, "Lord, why can't I go with you now? I would die for you!" "Would you really die for me?" Jesus asked. "I tell you for certain that before a rooster crows, you will say three times that you don't even know me."
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
If an emergency arises on an airplane, adult passengers traveling with a child are told to put on their oxygen masks first before they mask their children. This is to ensure that they have the capability to assist their little ones. In other words, they have to save themselves first in order to be able to save anyone else.
Sometimes there is a progression that must be followed in certain situations in order to obtain the desired outcome. Peter had to go through some things to strengthen his faith. Jesus knew this. He knew that Peter would ultimately be an amazing Apostle… and He referred to him as “the rock” in Matthew 16. That’s a pretty strong endorsement in my book! Yet Peter denied Jesus – three times!! - despite his insistence that this would never happen. And we often behave in much the same manner.
Who among us has not affirmed that we were faith-filled Christians who trust God to meet our every need… then whined, cried and wrung our hands over all sorts of issues both great and small? How many of us have claimed that God is our fortress… mighty and strong… then fallen apart and said, “I just can’t take this!”? Someone said to me recently, “I just want to be happy.” My response was that sometimes we have to be unhappy for a while in order to get to “happy!” And I think this is illustrated beautifully in this scripture passage. Jesus knew that Peter was going to have to suffer and go through some things in order to come out strong and truly dependent on Him for His strength and power.
None of us thinks we would blatantly deny Jesus Christ… yet we do this every day in many ways by wavering in our faith and wallowing in fear, self-pity, and impatience. We need to take a deep breath, say a heart-felt prayer, ask God to help us with whatever is challenging us in any way… then thank Him for answering according to His will. The GOOD NEWS is that Jesus is still with us when we emerge from our trials and tribulations… He never deserts us… and for this we should be incredibly grateful.
We may never be “rock star” Apostles for Jesus… but we can become the most humble, devoted servants possible and witness for Him in every circumstance. We may have to go through some things and be unhappy or uncomfortable in order to become the Disciple of Christ that God desires. Or, we can continue to deny Jesus… whether we realize we are doing so or not… and wallow in the misery of the pit that Satan has designed for us. The choice is ours… how will you decide?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for October 19, 2011
Proverbs 22:4
Respect and serve the LORD! Your reward will be wealth, a long life, and honor.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
A friend of mine recently shared an amazing story with me. She said that on the morning of her aunt’s funeral, she awoke to a clear voice from the LORD saying, “Get up and make two pecan pies and TWO batches of chicken salad. Leave one salad at home… take the other to the church to be served for lunch.” She said the instructions were crystal clear. She told her sister about this and said, “I’ve made a grocery list, and we have to get busy.” Her sister trusted this word and helped make the pies and chicken salad.
When the family arrived at the church for the pre-funeral luncheon, my friend told one of the condolence committee volunteers, “I know you will think I’m crazy, but the LORD told me to bring this salad, so I did.” As it turned out, as many as twenty-five extra people showed up for lunch. Without the salad, there would not have been enough food. And as people returned to my friend’s house after the service, she served thin slices of the pecan pie and the second bowl of chicken salad to hungry guests. She told me, “I’m trying to pay attention when the LORD speaks… and I’m glad I did.”
My friend respects and serves the LORD. And while she may not be what some would consider wealthy or rich, all of her needs are met, and she lives in abundance. She is honorable… and on track to live a long, blessed life. I am taking a page from her book and listening to the LORD. I told her that I have really been trying to pay closer attention – and to do what God tells me to do. But her example has given me added inspiration to do this!
God is more than worthy of our respect and our obedience. So often we hear His voice and turn a deaf ear… or fail to pay close attention. And we miss out on so many blessings and opportunities to bless others in His name. It’s time to fine tune our listening skills. We need to open our hearts and minds to the voice of the LORD… to show Him our utmost respect… and to serve Him with everything we have. I’m in… are you?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Respect and serve the LORD! Your reward will be wealth, a long life, and honor.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
A friend of mine recently shared an amazing story with me. She said that on the morning of her aunt’s funeral, she awoke to a clear voice from the LORD saying, “Get up and make two pecan pies and TWO batches of chicken salad. Leave one salad at home… take the other to the church to be served for lunch.” She said the instructions were crystal clear. She told her sister about this and said, “I’ve made a grocery list, and we have to get busy.” Her sister trusted this word and helped make the pies and chicken salad.
When the family arrived at the church for the pre-funeral luncheon, my friend told one of the condolence committee volunteers, “I know you will think I’m crazy, but the LORD told me to bring this salad, so I did.” As it turned out, as many as twenty-five extra people showed up for lunch. Without the salad, there would not have been enough food. And as people returned to my friend’s house after the service, she served thin slices of the pecan pie and the second bowl of chicken salad to hungry guests. She told me, “I’m trying to pay attention when the LORD speaks… and I’m glad I did.”
My friend respects and serves the LORD. And while she may not be what some would consider wealthy or rich, all of her needs are met, and she lives in abundance. She is honorable… and on track to live a long, blessed life. I am taking a page from her book and listening to the LORD. I told her that I have really been trying to pay closer attention – and to do what God tells me to do. But her example has given me added inspiration to do this!
God is more than worthy of our respect and our obedience. So often we hear His voice and turn a deaf ear… or fail to pay close attention. And we miss out on so many blessings and opportunities to bless others in His name. It’s time to fine tune our listening skills. We need to open our hearts and minds to the voice of the LORD… to show Him our utmost respect… and to serve Him with everything we have. I’m in… are you?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for October 18, 2011
Proverbs 22:3
A prudent person sees trouble coming and ducks; a simpleton walks in blindly and is clobbered.
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.
Timothy is tall for his age… nearly three feet in height at just 29 months. So when he started learning to walk and run, he would often pass near my piano or sofa table and wince. Sometimes he would actually bump into them, but he would make that “this is gonna hurt” face before he actually made contact. It was as if he knew he should duck or move away, but the circuit to complete that message from brain to body was not yet fully developed.
Even though most of us are a long way past two years of age, we still do this in so many ways. We get ourselves into some pretty big messes, knowing full well that we’re gonna get clobbered… yet we forge ahead anyway. We know we shouldn’t go to a party where there will be drinking and drugs. We understand on many levels the foolishness of speeding and/or drinking when driving. We often know we that we shouldn’t open our mouths and spark World War III. We are totally aware that we “don’t have a dog in the hunt,” but we stick our noses in where they don’t belong, say things that are hurtful or inappropriate… or fail to act when we know we should.
I will be the first to admit that I “open mouth, insert foot” more times than I care to count. I am often impulsive and reactionary. And yes, I often get clobbered! But I’m learning to stop and consult God first… to take a breath… count to ten… say a quick prayer… and let God lead me. Is it easy? Not always. Often I want to say, “But, God…” Yes, I am the “Burger King Christian” sometimes… I want to have things MY way. But I do get that trying to tell God how to run things is nothing short of ridiculous and absurd… and I’m working on this. Are you?
©2011 Debbie Robus
A prudent person sees trouble coming and ducks; a simpleton walks in blindly and is clobbered.
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.
Timothy is tall for his age… nearly three feet in height at just 29 months. So when he started learning to walk and run, he would often pass near my piano or sofa table and wince. Sometimes he would actually bump into them, but he would make that “this is gonna hurt” face before he actually made contact. It was as if he knew he should duck or move away, but the circuit to complete that message from brain to body was not yet fully developed.
Even though most of us are a long way past two years of age, we still do this in so many ways. We get ourselves into some pretty big messes, knowing full well that we’re gonna get clobbered… yet we forge ahead anyway. We know we shouldn’t go to a party where there will be drinking and drugs. We understand on many levels the foolishness of speeding and/or drinking when driving. We often know we that we shouldn’t open our mouths and spark World War III. We are totally aware that we “don’t have a dog in the hunt,” but we stick our noses in where they don’t belong, say things that are hurtful or inappropriate… or fail to act when we know we should.
I will be the first to admit that I “open mouth, insert foot” more times than I care to count. I am often impulsive and reactionary. And yes, I often get clobbered! But I’m learning to stop and consult God first… to take a breath… count to ten… say a quick prayer… and let God lead me. Is it easy? Not always. Often I want to say, “But, God…” Yes, I am the “Burger King Christian” sometimes… I want to have things MY way. But I do get that trying to tell God how to run things is nothing short of ridiculous and absurd… and I’m working on this. Are you?
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for October 17, 2011
John 13:21-30
After Jesus had said these things, he was deeply troubled and told his disciples, "I tell you for certain that one of you will betray me." They were confused about what he meant. And they just stared at each other.
Jesus' favorite disciple was sitting next to him at the meal, and Simon motioned for that disciple to find out which one Jesus meant. So the disciple leaned toward Jesus and asked, "Lord, which one of us are you talking about?" Jesus answered, "I will dip this piece of bread in the sauce and give it to the one I was talking about."
Then Jesus dipped the bread and gave it to Judas, the son of Simon Iscariot. Right then Satan took control of Judas. Jesus said, "Judas, go quickly and do what you have to do." No one at the meal understood what Jesus meant. But because Judas was in charge of the money, some of them thought that Jesus had told him to buy something they needed for the festival. Others thought that Jesus had told him to give some money to the poor. Judas took the piece of bread and went out. It was already night.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
One of my high school classmates lost her mother in 1994 in a tragic shooting. My friend’s parents had divorced when we were young, and her mother later married a man who had become widowed when his wife (and her best friend) died unexpectedly in an “accident.” When my friend’s mother died, her husband insisted that she committed suicide. But things did not add up, and it wasn’t until he tried to kill his next wife that he was finally convicted of murder and sentenced to prison.
For nearly two decades, my friend and her sisters have lived in fear of this man, who threatened to kill them as soon as he was paroled. They have made countless appearances before the prison parole board to beg and plead against his release… the most recent appearance happened just a few months ago. Now in his early eighties, the man had developed cancer and wanted to go home to spend his last days with his family. The parole board denied his appeal, and my friend just received word that this man has died.
My friend says they now can live free of fear and the burdens of worrying about their safety. They can have closure. And as much as they probably wanted to impart some revenge on this man for what he did to their mother, the three sisters sought solace in God instead. They let the judicial system and their Heavenly Father mete out justice. It wasn’t easy for them, but they did the right thing. And this is what Jesus did with Judas. I find his comment to “go quickly and do what you have to do” so interesting… complicated, yet so simple.
Jesus showed us that revenge is not the answer. Betrayal is a tool of the devil, and it will always be with us. Jesus had the power to stop Judas. We do not have such control over those who betray us. But we can choose how we handle things when we are betrayed. We can allow the devil to have control over our emotions and our actions and try to dole out justice ourselves – and make a big mess in the process… or we can put our trust in God and let HIM control the consequences and the outcome.
There’s one more thing… pray for your “enemies.” Jesus did… and so should we. These people are God’s children, too, and He loves them just as He loves us. Ask God to work in their hearts and lives… to help you to forgive them… and to show them grace and mercy - as He does to us each and every day.
It takes a lot of courage and faith to say, “go and do what you have to do”… especially when we know how much the other person’s actions are going to hurt. But revenge is never appropriate… and almost always backfires. Give your fears, your burdens, and your betrayals to God. Allow Him to work things out according to His will... which is always perfect. Share your hurts and disappointments with God and allow Him to heal you. Trust God to provide you with comfort, closure, and complete peace… and thank Him when He does exactly that!
©2011 Debbie Robus
After Jesus had said these things, he was deeply troubled and told his disciples, "I tell you for certain that one of you will betray me." They were confused about what he meant. And they just stared at each other.
Jesus' favorite disciple was sitting next to him at the meal, and Simon motioned for that disciple to find out which one Jesus meant. So the disciple leaned toward Jesus and asked, "Lord, which one of us are you talking about?" Jesus answered, "I will dip this piece of bread in the sauce and give it to the one I was talking about."
Then Jesus dipped the bread and gave it to Judas, the son of Simon Iscariot. Right then Satan took control of Judas. Jesus said, "Judas, go quickly and do what you have to do." No one at the meal understood what Jesus meant. But because Judas was in charge of the money, some of them thought that Jesus had told him to buy something they needed for the festival. Others thought that Jesus had told him to give some money to the poor. Judas took the piece of bread and went out. It was already night.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
One of my high school classmates lost her mother in 1994 in a tragic shooting. My friend’s parents had divorced when we were young, and her mother later married a man who had become widowed when his wife (and her best friend) died unexpectedly in an “accident.” When my friend’s mother died, her husband insisted that she committed suicide. But things did not add up, and it wasn’t until he tried to kill his next wife that he was finally convicted of murder and sentenced to prison.
For nearly two decades, my friend and her sisters have lived in fear of this man, who threatened to kill them as soon as he was paroled. They have made countless appearances before the prison parole board to beg and plead against his release… the most recent appearance happened just a few months ago. Now in his early eighties, the man had developed cancer and wanted to go home to spend his last days with his family. The parole board denied his appeal, and my friend just received word that this man has died.
My friend says they now can live free of fear and the burdens of worrying about their safety. They can have closure. And as much as they probably wanted to impart some revenge on this man for what he did to their mother, the three sisters sought solace in God instead. They let the judicial system and their Heavenly Father mete out justice. It wasn’t easy for them, but they did the right thing. And this is what Jesus did with Judas. I find his comment to “go quickly and do what you have to do” so interesting… complicated, yet so simple.
Jesus showed us that revenge is not the answer. Betrayal is a tool of the devil, and it will always be with us. Jesus had the power to stop Judas. We do not have such control over those who betray us. But we can choose how we handle things when we are betrayed. We can allow the devil to have control over our emotions and our actions and try to dole out justice ourselves – and make a big mess in the process… or we can put our trust in God and let HIM control the consequences and the outcome.
There’s one more thing… pray for your “enemies.” Jesus did… and so should we. These people are God’s children, too, and He loves them just as He loves us. Ask God to work in their hearts and lives… to help you to forgive them… and to show them grace and mercy - as He does to us each and every day.
It takes a lot of courage and faith to say, “go and do what you have to do”… especially when we know how much the other person’s actions are going to hurt. But revenge is never appropriate… and almost always backfires. Give your fears, your burdens, and your betrayals to God. Allow Him to work things out according to His will... which is always perfect. Share your hurts and disappointments with God and allow Him to heal you. Trust God to provide you with comfort, closure, and complete peace… and thank Him when He does exactly that!
©2011 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for October 16, 2011
Psalm 119:1-8
Our LORD, you bless everyone who lives right and obeys your Law. You bless all of those who follow your commands from deep in their hearts and who never do wrong or turn from you. You have ordered us always to obey your teachings; I don't ever want to stray from your laws. Thinking about your commands will keep me from doing some foolish thing. I will do right and praise you by learning to respect your perfect laws. I will obey all of them! Don't turn your back on me.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When I was teaching kindergarten, I had three basic rules - or “laws”:
1. Be kind to others.
2. Work and play quietly.
3. Obey promptly.
I was very clear about these rules – and the consequences of breaking them. We spent the first week of school learning the rules and reviewing them in fun ways. These rules were simple… yet comprehensive… and we all knew from the beginning where we each stood.
If you drill it down, this is how it is for Christians, too. We know the rules…
1. Accept Jesus as your LORD and Savior.
2. Love God with all your heart.
3. Love your neighbor as you love yourself.
4. Serve God by serving others and sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
When you understand the rules – and the consequences of disobeying them (or simply choosing not to follow them) – you realize that life can be fairly simple and straightforward. When we surrender to God and obey His laws, He takes care of the rest.
Does this mean our life is always perfect? Does this mean we don’t have trials, tests, problems and hard times? Absolutely NOT! But it does mean that we never have anything that we cannot handle with God’s help. He never turns away from us and always stands right beside us to meet the day head-on!
My kindergarten students were not perfect… and more than a handful tested the waters to see if the consequences for breaking rules would be as promised. And we do this with God sometimes. The answer in both situations is “YES!” We know what will happen when we obey and serve – and when we don’t. So the choice seems pretty obvious, doesn’t it?!
Trust God… serve Him obediently and follow His laws. Praise Him for guiding your steps and blessing you every single day. And rest in the confidence that He will do exactly that!
©2011 Debbie Robus
Our LORD, you bless everyone who lives right and obeys your Law. You bless all of those who follow your commands from deep in their hearts and who never do wrong or turn from you. You have ordered us always to obey your teachings; I don't ever want to stray from your laws. Thinking about your commands will keep me from doing some foolish thing. I will do right and praise you by learning to respect your perfect laws. I will obey all of them! Don't turn your back on me.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When I was teaching kindergarten, I had three basic rules - or “laws”:
1. Be kind to others.
2. Work and play quietly.
3. Obey promptly.
I was very clear about these rules – and the consequences of breaking them. We spent the first week of school learning the rules and reviewing them in fun ways. These rules were simple… yet comprehensive… and we all knew from the beginning where we each stood.
If you drill it down, this is how it is for Christians, too. We know the rules…
1. Accept Jesus as your LORD and Savior.
2. Love God with all your heart.
3. Love your neighbor as you love yourself.
4. Serve God by serving others and sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
When you understand the rules – and the consequences of disobeying them (or simply choosing not to follow them) – you realize that life can be fairly simple and straightforward. When we surrender to God and obey His laws, He takes care of the rest.
Does this mean our life is always perfect? Does this mean we don’t have trials, tests, problems and hard times? Absolutely NOT! But it does mean that we never have anything that we cannot handle with God’s help. He never turns away from us and always stands right beside us to meet the day head-on!
My kindergarten students were not perfect… and more than a handful tested the waters to see if the consequences for breaking rules would be as promised. And we do this with God sometimes. The answer in both situations is “YES!” We know what will happen when we obey and serve – and when we don’t. So the choice seems pretty obvious, doesn’t it?!
Trust God… serve Him obediently and follow His laws. Praise Him for guiding your steps and blessing you every single day. And rest in the confidence that He will do exactly that!
©2011 Debbie Robus
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