James 2:14-17
Dear friends, do you think you'll get anywhere in this if you learn all the right words but never do anything? Does merely talking about faith indicate that a person really has it? For instance, you come upon an old friend dressed in rags and half-starved and say, "Good morning, friend! Be clothed in Christ! Be filled with the Holy Spirit!" and walk off without providing so much as a coat or a cup of soup—where does that get you? Isn't it obvious that God-talk without God-acts is outrageous nonsense?
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
One day last fall, I promised Timothy I would come and get him on Sunday morning at his grandparents’ house. We had a commitment on Saturday night, so he stayed with my sister and her husband. My sister let me know that there was really no need for me to come after Timothy on Sunday. She was working, but she assured me that Timothy’s grandfather could watch him while she was away. However, I had promised to come after him. A few people said, “He won’t remember”… and maybe he wouldn’t. But I made a promise… and I wasn’t about to break it - unless circumstances were beyond my control.
If you know me very well, you know that I am something of a stickler for people keeping their word. If you say you are going to do something, do it. If you promise to call or stop by… you should call or stop by! If you can’t follow through on a promise, don’t make it. And in my opinion, this starts with small children. It really shouldn’t matter whether the person will remember or not… GOD remembers! He has called us to a life of words and deeds… and the two should match!
So think carefully – and prayerfully – about what you say and do. Look for ways to offer words of encouragement… but back them up with action! The old adage “Don’t make promises you can’t keep” applies… even to phone calls, visits, and commitments to show up in life. By the same token, don’t be a person who is “all talk and no action.” A fully committed disciple of Christ is ready to serve with words and deeds! I promise you… the times you get out of your comfort zone and get off your duff to serve will be your best moments as a Christian.
A couple of weekends ago, the husband of one of my dad’s cousins died. His visitation was in Searcy, some thirty miles away. I had a prior commitment on the day of the funeral and knew I could not attend. So I decided to drive over for the visitation. I really didn’t want to spend my Friday evening this way. I had a lot going on already, and this was not in my plans. But I did it, because I felt that it was the right thing to do… to go and support my cousin and his family in the loss of his dad. I have to tell you, I am so glad I went. I visited with a half-dozen or more cousins I have not seen in a while… some for decades. We reconnected and exchanged Facebook info so we could keep up… and we reminisced about fun times spent at our grandmothers’ houses.
Had I blown off the visitation, I could have sent my cousin a condolence note and said, “I’m sorry I couldn’t attend the visitation.” That would have been a true statement, and he would have understood. But I would not have been obedient to God’s command to be a disciple of words and actions! And the look on my cousin’s face when I reached him in the receiving line told me that I had done the right thing.
Before you go adding stars to my crown, be assured that there have been plenty of times that I have failed miserably in this department. I’ve skipped funerals I should have attended, put off phone calls, substituted a note for a visit, and made promises I couldn’t keep. But I am reminded in this scripture that these are not the behaviors of a true Disciple of Christ! This is not how faith-filled Christians behave. Dr. Seuss’s character, Horton the Elephant, says, “I meant what I said and I said what I meant… an elephant’s faithful, one hundred percent!” I want to be a “Horton” kind of Christian… don’t you? Will you join me today and renew your commitment to put your words… and deeds… into action each and every day? Will your God-talk be followed up with God-acts? Shouldn’t it?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for May 8, 2012
Philippians 2:12-13
What I'm getting at, friends, is that you should simply keep on doing what you've done from the beginning. When I was living among you, you lived in responsive obedience. Now that I'm separated from you, keep it up. Better yet, redouble your efforts. Be energetic in your life of salvation, reverent and sensitive before God. That energy is God's energy, an energy deep within you, God himself willing and working at what will give him the most pleasure.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
Every single one of us knows someone who is on his/her best behavior around other people… but acts like a stinker the rest of the time. I’ve heard people say of a young child… “He/she doesn’t ever act like that when his dad is around,” or “So-and-so is a pretty nice guy to your face, but when you’re not around, she says awful things,” or “What’s-his-name is all about ministry when people are watching. But if there’s nothing in it for him, he won’t even show up.” Sadly, some rendition of these type of comments may fit even you and me!
We’ve all got excuses… “I was tired or stressed out”… “Everybody has an “off day”… “The devil made me do it!”… or even “I don’t know what came over me!” But the simple fact is that when we do not live in responsive obedience to God, our witness becomes miserably ineffective. And let’s be honest… if even one person sees us on an “off day,” and that is all he/she gets, our demonstration to that person of God at work in our lives was an “epic fail.”
Our constant prayer needs to be for God’s energy… that energy deep within you that permeates your very being and works for His pleasure even when you are exhausted. I have found myself repeating over and again lately, “I can do all things through Christ, Who strengthens me.” When you think you can’t be nice… when you are so tired you can’t put one foot in front of another… when the task seems incredibly daunting… remember WHO is giving you strength and energy.
Keep on doing what you’ve done from the beginning. Live in responsive obedience. Redouble your efforts to be energetic, reverent, and sensitive. Allow God to give you energy beyond anything you could ever imagine… and work at what gives Him pleasure. God will energize you and bless your efforts… and that’s the essence of a disciple’s life. Are you an energized disciple today?
©2012 Debbie Robus
What I'm getting at, friends, is that you should simply keep on doing what you've done from the beginning. When I was living among you, you lived in responsive obedience. Now that I'm separated from you, keep it up. Better yet, redouble your efforts. Be energetic in your life of salvation, reverent and sensitive before God. That energy is God's energy, an energy deep within you, God himself willing and working at what will give him the most pleasure.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
Every single one of us knows someone who is on his/her best behavior around other people… but acts like a stinker the rest of the time. I’ve heard people say of a young child… “He/she doesn’t ever act like that when his dad is around,” or “So-and-so is a pretty nice guy to your face, but when you’re not around, she says awful things,” or “What’s-his-name is all about ministry when people are watching. But if there’s nothing in it for him, he won’t even show up.” Sadly, some rendition of these type of comments may fit even you and me!
We’ve all got excuses… “I was tired or stressed out”… “Everybody has an “off day”… “The devil made me do it!”… or even “I don’t know what came over me!” But the simple fact is that when we do not live in responsive obedience to God, our witness becomes miserably ineffective. And let’s be honest… if even one person sees us on an “off day,” and that is all he/she gets, our demonstration to that person of God at work in our lives was an “epic fail.”
Our constant prayer needs to be for God’s energy… that energy deep within you that permeates your very being and works for His pleasure even when you are exhausted. I have found myself repeating over and again lately, “I can do all things through Christ, Who strengthens me.” When you think you can’t be nice… when you are so tired you can’t put one foot in front of another… when the task seems incredibly daunting… remember WHO is giving you strength and energy.
Keep on doing what you’ve done from the beginning. Live in responsive obedience. Redouble your efforts to be energetic, reverent, and sensitive. Allow God to give you energy beyond anything you could ever imagine… and work at what gives Him pleasure. God will energize you and bless your efforts… and that’s the essence of a disciple’s life. Are you an energized disciple today?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for May 7, 2012
May 7 ~ 2 Corinthians 1:4-7
He comforts us when we are in trouble, so that we can share that same comfort with others in trouble. We share in the terrible sufferings of Christ, but also in the wonderful comfort he gives. We suffer in the hope that you will be comforted and saved. And because we are comforted, you will also be comforted, as you patiently endure suffering like ours. You never disappoint us. You suffered as much as we did, and we know that you will be comforted as we were.
James 1:12
God will bless you, if you don’t give up when your faith is being tested. He will reward you with a glorious life, just as he rewards everyone who loves him.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Anyone who has ever spent time “hospital sitting” will understand me when I say that my faith has been tested, and I we’ve been in trouble more than once this week. Last night, my grandmother muttered, “I’m worried about you.” I reminded her of the scripture from Galatians 6 and Isaiah 41 in yesterday’s devotional… how God has his arms around us – and as long as I am doing what I am supposed to in caring for her and helping her, He will help me. “You believe that, don’t you?” I asked. “Yes,” she nodded.
We wonder why suffering is allowed… why such challenges are given to us… but truly, we just don’t see what God is doing behind the scenes. As I think back to the nurse’s aide who gleaned information from my sister about getting a Health Information Services degree… to the R.N. who shared her concern over rearing her grandson while also taking her mother for a scan today to see if she is cancer-free following surgery and treatment… to the friends we met who also had loved ones hospitalized, I realize that God used us to help others even as others helped us! So many people were blessed by my grandmother’s smile and gentle spirit. Housekeepers stopped by just to hold her hand for a few minutes. Doctors marveled at her long life and how so many people love and care for her.
My grandmother has been blessed with a glorious life. There have been challenges… and times when I’m sure her faith has been tested. She has suffered terribly at times. But she has been comforted, and she has not given up. Now, at nearly 100 years of age, she asks why it is taking so long to get to heaven, and I tell her that maybe God is still working on a mega-mansion for her!
I know that many of you are facing enormous challenges. As nurses and medical staff have passed through my grandmother’s room, I’ve picked up little snippets of information – enough to know that EVERYBODY has issues and struggles… some of them pretty huge! My prayer is that your faith is as big as your challenges… that even when you struggle, you do not give up. Remember Jesus and His sufferings… and that He is with you in your own trials. Hold fast to the promise of better days and the wonderful comfort of One who counts each of your tears and stores them in a bottle (Psalm 56:8). Remember to “Praise God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! The Father is a merciful God, who always gives us comfort.” May He give you comfort and renew your faith today… and always.
©2012 Debbie Robus
He comforts us when we are in trouble, so that we can share that same comfort with others in trouble. We share in the terrible sufferings of Christ, but also in the wonderful comfort he gives. We suffer in the hope that you will be comforted and saved. And because we are comforted, you will also be comforted, as you patiently endure suffering like ours. You never disappoint us. You suffered as much as we did, and we know that you will be comforted as we were.
James 1:12
God will bless you, if you don’t give up when your faith is being tested. He will reward you with a glorious life, just as he rewards everyone who loves him.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Anyone who has ever spent time “hospital sitting” will understand me when I say that my faith has been tested, and I we’ve been in trouble more than once this week. Last night, my grandmother muttered, “I’m worried about you.” I reminded her of the scripture from Galatians 6 and Isaiah 41 in yesterday’s devotional… how God has his arms around us – and as long as I am doing what I am supposed to in caring for her and helping her, He will help me. “You believe that, don’t you?” I asked. “Yes,” she nodded.
We wonder why suffering is allowed… why such challenges are given to us… but truly, we just don’t see what God is doing behind the scenes. As I think back to the nurse’s aide who gleaned information from my sister about getting a Health Information Services degree… to the R.N. who shared her concern over rearing her grandson while also taking her mother for a scan today to see if she is cancer-free following surgery and treatment… to the friends we met who also had loved ones hospitalized, I realize that God used us to help others even as others helped us! So many people were blessed by my grandmother’s smile and gentle spirit. Housekeepers stopped by just to hold her hand for a few minutes. Doctors marveled at her long life and how so many people love and care for her.
My grandmother has been blessed with a glorious life. There have been challenges… and times when I’m sure her faith has been tested. She has suffered terribly at times. But she has been comforted, and she has not given up. Now, at nearly 100 years of age, she asks why it is taking so long to get to heaven, and I tell her that maybe God is still working on a mega-mansion for her!
I know that many of you are facing enormous challenges. As nurses and medical staff have passed through my grandmother’s room, I’ve picked up little snippets of information – enough to know that EVERYBODY has issues and struggles… some of them pretty huge! My prayer is that your faith is as big as your challenges… that even when you struggle, you do not give up. Remember Jesus and His sufferings… and that He is with you in your own trials. Hold fast to the promise of better days and the wonderful comfort of One who counts each of your tears and stores them in a bottle (Psalm 56:8). Remember to “Praise God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! The Father is a merciful God, who always gives us comfort.” May He give you comfort and renew your faith today… and always.
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for May 6, 2012
Galatians 6:9
Don’t get tired of helping others. You will be rewarded when the time is right, if you don’t give up.
Isaiah 41:10
Don’t be afraid. I am with you. Don’t tremble with fear. I am your God. I will make you strong, as I protect you with my arm and give you victories.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
This is Day Six of my grandmother’s hospital stay. She still requires help with virtually everything… from being lifted and set in a chair to feeding and bathing. Countless people have worked continually to help her. This woman who has done so much for so many others now needs almost 100% care. She is being “rewarded when the time is right.” I am learning firsthand what Paul is teaching in Galatians 6:9… don’t grow weary… don’t give up… keep helping others in Jesus’ name. What goes around comes around… and while the reward is not our goal (or shouldn’t be), I can already see evidence of the blessings God gives to those who serve.
I turned on the television for my grandmother to distract her and give her something else on which to focus. She said she wanted to watch “church,” so I found Bro. Charles Stanley delivering a sermon. He’s one of her favorites. Bro. Stanley was preaching about fear and how it cripples us – how when we walk in fear, we aren’t truly exercising our faith and trusting God. He reminded us to picture God’s arms wrapped around us… strong arms that offer protection and fight our battles for us. Whatever we endure, we don’t have to fear - because God is handling things.
Again, I have seen incredible evidence of this in recent days. I have felt a calm and peace at every turn… even if those closest to me felt I was anything but serene! I have truly felt God’s hand in every detail… and I have been quite content to let Him guide me and protect my grandmother and the rest of us.
I may be a slow learner, but I am seeing the promises of God… and learning to walk in them! And in my weariness, I am restored and renewed by these promises… and by those who are serving us tirelessly. I am continually strengthened by God’s loving arms… and the angels He sends to serve in His name. I pray that whatever you are facing today – or may face in days to come – you feel this same strength and protection… that angels come to minister to your every need… and that you are inspired to serve as God directs you.
©2012 Debbie Robus
Don’t get tired of helping others. You will be rewarded when the time is right, if you don’t give up.
Isaiah 41:10
Don’t be afraid. I am with you. Don’t tremble with fear. I am your God. I will make you strong, as I protect you with my arm and give you victories.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
This is Day Six of my grandmother’s hospital stay. She still requires help with virtually everything… from being lifted and set in a chair to feeding and bathing. Countless people have worked continually to help her. This woman who has done so much for so many others now needs almost 100% care. She is being “rewarded when the time is right.” I am learning firsthand what Paul is teaching in Galatians 6:9… don’t grow weary… don’t give up… keep helping others in Jesus’ name. What goes around comes around… and while the reward is not our goal (or shouldn’t be), I can already see evidence of the blessings God gives to those who serve.
I turned on the television for my grandmother to distract her and give her something else on which to focus. She said she wanted to watch “church,” so I found Bro. Charles Stanley delivering a sermon. He’s one of her favorites. Bro. Stanley was preaching about fear and how it cripples us – how when we walk in fear, we aren’t truly exercising our faith and trusting God. He reminded us to picture God’s arms wrapped around us… strong arms that offer protection and fight our battles for us. Whatever we endure, we don’t have to fear - because God is handling things.
Again, I have seen incredible evidence of this in recent days. I have felt a calm and peace at every turn… even if those closest to me felt I was anything but serene! I have truly felt God’s hand in every detail… and I have been quite content to let Him guide me and protect my grandmother and the rest of us.
I may be a slow learner, but I am seeing the promises of God… and learning to walk in them! And in my weariness, I am restored and renewed by these promises… and by those who are serving us tirelessly. I am continually strengthened by God’s loving arms… and the angels He sends to serve in His name. I pray that whatever you are facing today – or may face in days to come – you feel this same strength and protection… that angels come to minister to your every need… and that you are inspired to serve as God directs you.
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for May 5, 2012
May 5 ~ Matthew 4:1-11
Next Jesus was taken into the wild by the Spirit for the Test. The Devil was ready to give it. Jesus prepared for the Test by fasting forty days and forty nights. That left him, of course, in a state of extreme hunger, which the Devil took advantage of in the first test: "Since you are God's Son, speak the word that will turn these stones into loaves of bread." Jesus answered by quoting Deuteronomy: "It takes more than bread to stay alive. It takes a steady stream of words from God's mouth."
For the second test the Devil took him to the Holy City. He sat him on top of the Temple and said, "Since you are God's Son, jump." The Devil goaded him by quoting Psalm 91: "He has placed you in the care of angels. They will catch you so that you won't so much as stub your toe on a stone." Jesus countered with another citation from Deuteronomy: "Don't you dare test the Lord your God."
For the third test, the Devil took him to the peak of a huge mountain. He gestured expansively, pointing out all the earth's kingdoms, how glorious they all were. Then he said, "They're yours—lock, stock, and barrel. Just go down on your knees and worship me, and they're yours." Jesus' refusal was curt: "Beat it, Satan!" He backed his rebuke with a third quotation from Deuteronomy: "Worship the Lord your God, and only him. Serve him with absolute single-heartedness."
The Test was over. The Devil left. And in his place, angels! Angels came and took care of Jesus' needs.
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.
Do you know anyone who doesn’t like to be pampered? Everyone likes a little TLC… and when you are sick or injured, the care and “ministry” of others is even more important. I have watched my grandmother’s whole demeanor change after a bath. I’ve seen her relax and even smile after she was put back into a clean bed. The difference in her entire appearance and reactions when she is pain-free is striking. Surely angels have been surrounding her and giving her care in these last few days.
Just as importantly, angels have surrounded my grandmother and my family mentally, emotionally, and Spiritually… and protected us from as much as a stubbed toe. There have been moments when the devil tried to slip in… a sense of doubt here… little mis-steps there… but each time, I’ve felt God saying, “Beat it, Satan!” And I have to tell you, I’ve even said this out loud myself a time or two! Each time, I’ve felt like God’s angels came and took care of us… and drove the devil away in the process.
Wherever you are today… whatever Satan is trying to do to you… however you are tempted to give in to challenges and the devil’s little voice that pokes at you and fills you with doubt… stay close to God and trust His word. Continue to worship Him and rest in His care and protection. Serve God with absolute single-heartedness and tell Satan to “take a hike!”
I am a strong believer in angels and their power. I have seen evidence of God’s protection… and I’ve met several of His “angels” along the way. You may even be one of them! Have faith in God… let a steady stream of His words guide and comfort you. Believe with all your heart that He will keep you safe from even as much as a stubbed toe… and do your part by trusting and believing His promises.
May 4th was National Star Wars Day, and I saw more than one Facebook post that said, “May the Fourth be with you!”… a cute play on words, of course. Today is Cinco de Mayo… a celebration of freedom and democracy… and I am saying, “May God’s angels be with you. May you feel the freedom of a life in His care surround you today – and always.” Have a blessed, angel-filled day!
©2012 Debbie Robus
Next Jesus was taken into the wild by the Spirit for the Test. The Devil was ready to give it. Jesus prepared for the Test by fasting forty days and forty nights. That left him, of course, in a state of extreme hunger, which the Devil took advantage of in the first test: "Since you are God's Son, speak the word that will turn these stones into loaves of bread." Jesus answered by quoting Deuteronomy: "It takes more than bread to stay alive. It takes a steady stream of words from God's mouth."
For the second test the Devil took him to the Holy City. He sat him on top of the Temple and said, "Since you are God's Son, jump." The Devil goaded him by quoting Psalm 91: "He has placed you in the care of angels. They will catch you so that you won't so much as stub your toe on a stone." Jesus countered with another citation from Deuteronomy: "Don't you dare test the Lord your God."
For the third test, the Devil took him to the peak of a huge mountain. He gestured expansively, pointing out all the earth's kingdoms, how glorious they all were. Then he said, "They're yours—lock, stock, and barrel. Just go down on your knees and worship me, and they're yours." Jesus' refusal was curt: "Beat it, Satan!" He backed his rebuke with a third quotation from Deuteronomy: "Worship the Lord your God, and only him. Serve him with absolute single-heartedness."
The Test was over. The Devil left. And in his place, angels! Angels came and took care of Jesus' needs.
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.
Do you know anyone who doesn’t like to be pampered? Everyone likes a little TLC… and when you are sick or injured, the care and “ministry” of others is even more important. I have watched my grandmother’s whole demeanor change after a bath. I’ve seen her relax and even smile after she was put back into a clean bed. The difference in her entire appearance and reactions when she is pain-free is striking. Surely angels have been surrounding her and giving her care in these last few days.
Just as importantly, angels have surrounded my grandmother and my family mentally, emotionally, and Spiritually… and protected us from as much as a stubbed toe. There have been moments when the devil tried to slip in… a sense of doubt here… little mis-steps there… but each time, I’ve felt God saying, “Beat it, Satan!” And I have to tell you, I’ve even said this out loud myself a time or two! Each time, I’ve felt like God’s angels came and took care of us… and drove the devil away in the process.
Wherever you are today… whatever Satan is trying to do to you… however you are tempted to give in to challenges and the devil’s little voice that pokes at you and fills you with doubt… stay close to God and trust His word. Continue to worship Him and rest in His care and protection. Serve God with absolute single-heartedness and tell Satan to “take a hike!”
I am a strong believer in angels and their power. I have seen evidence of God’s protection… and I’ve met several of His “angels” along the way. You may even be one of them! Have faith in God… let a steady stream of His words guide and comfort you. Believe with all your heart that He will keep you safe from even as much as a stubbed toe… and do your part by trusting and believing His promises.
May 4th was National Star Wars Day, and I saw more than one Facebook post that said, “May the Fourth be with you!”… a cute play on words, of course. Today is Cinco de Mayo… a celebration of freedom and democracy… and I am saying, “May God’s angels be with you. May you feel the freedom of a life in His care surround you today – and always.” Have a blessed, angel-filled day!
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for May 4, 2012
Job1:6-12
One day, when the angels had gathered around the Lord, and Satan was there with them, the Lord asked, “Satan, where have you been?” Satan replied, “I have been going all over the earth.” Then the Lord asked, “What do you think of my servant Job? No one on earth is like him—he is a truly good person, who respects me and refuses to do evil.”
“Why shouldn’t he respect you?” Satan remarked. “You are like a wall protecting not only him, but his entire family and all his property. You make him successful in whatever he does, and his flocks and herds are everywhere. Try taking away everything he owns, and he will curse you to your face.”
The Lord replied, “All right, Satan, do what you want with anything that belongs to him, but don’t harm Job.” Then Satan left.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
This has been a challenging week. But as many have pointed out, God is in control. All I have to do is rest in Him. And I really am trying to do that… hopefully pretty well! I know that God has a wall of protection around me, my grandmother, and my family. He has shown me this over and again. He can take away lots of material things. He can allow challenges and temporary setbacks. But ultimately, I believe He has said to Satan, “Do what you want with anything that belongs to her, but do not harm HER or her family!”
I believe that Satan knows who he can and cannot touch. And when God tells the devil to leave someone alone, I believe there is a covenant in place between them for this to happen. So I want to be extra certain that I operate within the wall of protection that God offers. I want to respect God and refuse to do evil. I want to serve Him – and serve well!
I’m not being arrogant when I say that I believe the devil can’t touch me! If you trust God, serve Him and respect Him - and seek His will - I think you can say the very same thing. I find this incredibly comforting… and I am at peace with so many decisions and outcomes that I have experienced – especially in the last few days. God has my back! Does He have yours?
©2012 Debbie Robus
One day, when the angels had gathered around the Lord, and Satan was there with them, the Lord asked, “Satan, where have you been?” Satan replied, “I have been going all over the earth.” Then the Lord asked, “What do you think of my servant Job? No one on earth is like him—he is a truly good person, who respects me and refuses to do evil.”
“Why shouldn’t he respect you?” Satan remarked. “You are like a wall protecting not only him, but his entire family and all his property. You make him successful in whatever he does, and his flocks and herds are everywhere. Try taking away everything he owns, and he will curse you to your face.”
The Lord replied, “All right, Satan, do what you want with anything that belongs to him, but don’t harm Job.” Then Satan left.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
This has been a challenging week. But as many have pointed out, God is in control. All I have to do is rest in Him. And I really am trying to do that… hopefully pretty well! I know that God has a wall of protection around me, my grandmother, and my family. He has shown me this over and again. He can take away lots of material things. He can allow challenges and temporary setbacks. But ultimately, I believe He has said to Satan, “Do what you want with anything that belongs to her, but do not harm HER or her family!”
I believe that Satan knows who he can and cannot touch. And when God tells the devil to leave someone alone, I believe there is a covenant in place between them for this to happen. So I want to be extra certain that I operate within the wall of protection that God offers. I want to respect God and refuse to do evil. I want to serve Him – and serve well!
I’m not being arrogant when I say that I believe the devil can’t touch me! If you trust God, serve Him and respect Him - and seek His will - I think you can say the very same thing. I find this incredibly comforting… and I am at peace with so many decisions and outcomes that I have experienced – especially in the last few days. God has my back! Does He have yours?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for May 3, 2012
Hosea 6:1-3
Let’s return to the Lord. He has torn us to shreds, but he will bandage our wounds and make us well. In two or three days he will heal us and restore our strength that we may live with him. Let’s do our best to know the Lord. His coming is as certain as the morning sun; he will refresh us like rain renewing the earth in the springtime.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I am sitting in the hospital with my grandmother, and she is crying out in pain. It is a hard thing to endure…watching her suffer. The natural instinct would be to cry out to God and ask WHY this little faithful servant of His must go through such an ordeal. Why, at almost 100 years old, must her life include such a miserable challenge.
I opened my Kindle this morning to read from God Calling – a daily devotional book. With all of this “excitement,” I had not read from this book in a few days, so my first “devo” was for April 28 – Hosea 6:1-3. Isn’t that just like God to give me exactly what I need today? I can’t begin to tell you how comforted I was to read that what God has allowed to be “torn to shreds,” He will bandage and make well. He will restore strength as sure as morning sun or refreshing rain.
So as much as it breaks my heart to hear my grandmother cry out in pain, I am at peace… knowing that God is holding her in the palm of His hand. He is using this experience for His good… as He has worked in and through her for almost a century. I don’t know who my grandmother is touching in God’s name… or how He is at work. But I know that He is not wasting a minute of this… and one way or another, my Mam-ma Polly will be ultimately refreshed and restored.
I don’t know what challenges you today… what pain and suffering you may experience… or how God will work in and through you. But I know that He will… and I pray that you find His peace and comfort…and rest in His promises for complete healing. To God be the glory for His amazing grace and mercy, now and forever. Amen.
©2012 Debbie Robus
Let’s return to the Lord. He has torn us to shreds, but he will bandage our wounds and make us well. In two or three days he will heal us and restore our strength that we may live with him. Let’s do our best to know the Lord. His coming is as certain as the morning sun; he will refresh us like rain renewing the earth in the springtime.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I am sitting in the hospital with my grandmother, and she is crying out in pain. It is a hard thing to endure…watching her suffer. The natural instinct would be to cry out to God and ask WHY this little faithful servant of His must go through such an ordeal. Why, at almost 100 years old, must her life include such a miserable challenge.
I opened my Kindle this morning to read from God Calling – a daily devotional book. With all of this “excitement,” I had not read from this book in a few days, so my first “devo” was for April 28 – Hosea 6:1-3. Isn’t that just like God to give me exactly what I need today? I can’t begin to tell you how comforted I was to read that what God has allowed to be “torn to shreds,” He will bandage and make well. He will restore strength as sure as morning sun or refreshing rain.
So as much as it breaks my heart to hear my grandmother cry out in pain, I am at peace… knowing that God is holding her in the palm of His hand. He is using this experience for His good… as He has worked in and through her for almost a century. I don’t know who my grandmother is touching in God’s name… or how He is at work. But I know that He is not wasting a minute of this… and one way or another, my Mam-ma Polly will be ultimately refreshed and restored.
I don’t know what challenges you today… what pain and suffering you may experience… or how God will work in and through you. But I know that He will… and I pray that you find His peace and comfort…and rest in His promises for complete healing. To God be the glory for His amazing grace and mercy, now and forever. Amen.
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for May 2, 2012
May 2 ~ Ephesians 4:14
We must stop acting like children. We must not let deceitful people trick us by their false teachings, which are like winds that toss us around from place to place.
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.
Please pardon my rather gross analogy today, but when I was teaching kindergarten, a fellow teacher used to tell our 5-year-olds, “Stop picking your nose… you’ll poke out your eye!” Apparently, many of the children believed she was telling the truth. Of course, as they grew older, I’m sure more than a few figured out that this truly would not happen. But the young students, eager to trust their teacher, took her admonishment to heart!
So many of us are like children when it comes to our faith… but not always in a good way. We trust others to tell us God’s truth instead of discovering Him for ourselves. We take the word of men and women – often well-meaning souls – who have decided that “this is what it says in the Bible,” which translates into… “this is what you ought to believe!” So some of us grow up in our faith believing certain interpretations created by man are actually literal scripture references. Sometimes we discover the true word of God in these situations and change our way of thinking… and sometimes we cling to these falsehoods and make them part of our own witness.
We can’t put words in God’s mouth… and we cannot merely accept the word of other “teachers” about what He says. We have to dig deeply on our own and discover God’s message for us. We can stay children who fear poking our eye out, or we can grow up and get to truly know God and what He desires for us.
It’s up to each one of us to decide whether we will stand in confidence that we have heard from God… or whether we will let others toss us about like the wind. Where do you stand today?
©2012 Debbie Robus
We must stop acting like children. We must not let deceitful people trick us by their false teachings, which are like winds that toss us around from place to place.
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.
Please pardon my rather gross analogy today, but when I was teaching kindergarten, a fellow teacher used to tell our 5-year-olds, “Stop picking your nose… you’ll poke out your eye!” Apparently, many of the children believed she was telling the truth. Of course, as they grew older, I’m sure more than a few figured out that this truly would not happen. But the young students, eager to trust their teacher, took her admonishment to heart!
So many of us are like children when it comes to our faith… but not always in a good way. We trust others to tell us God’s truth instead of discovering Him for ourselves. We take the word of men and women – often well-meaning souls – who have decided that “this is what it says in the Bible,” which translates into… “this is what you ought to believe!” So some of us grow up in our faith believing certain interpretations created by man are actually literal scripture references. Sometimes we discover the true word of God in these situations and change our way of thinking… and sometimes we cling to these falsehoods and make them part of our own witness.
We can’t put words in God’s mouth… and we cannot merely accept the word of other “teachers” about what He says. We have to dig deeply on our own and discover God’s message for us. We can stay children who fear poking our eye out, or we can grow up and get to truly know God and what He desires for us.
It’s up to each one of us to decide whether we will stand in confidence that we have heard from God… or whether we will let others toss us about like the wind. Where do you stand today?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for May 1, 2012
May 1 ~ 1 Peter 5:7
God cares for you, so turn all your worries over to him.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Last night around 11:15, I got a call I have dreaded (but expected) for some time. The nurse at my grandmother’s Assisted Living Facility was calling to tell me that my Mam-ma Polly got out of bed and fell. She was sitting in the floor when her nurse found her, and she said, “I think my hip is broken.” The x-rays in the ER showed that the hip was indeed broken… badly. Several hours later, we got Mam-ma admitted to a room to rest and await the surgeon’s visit today.
The ER doctor was not sure that surgery was even an option for my grandmother, who will be 100 in November. But after discussing all possible outcomes, we agreed that we had to try to repair the hip and hope that she will recover. The doctors have cautioned us that there is as much as a 50% fatality rate within the three years following hip surgery. We know that nothing is certain at this point.
As I entered the hospital this morning, I read a scripture passage that hangs above the cafeteria door… 1 Peter 5:7. Of course, this was exactly what I needed – and I know that God knew this! His promise to handle my worries has enabled me to make the necessary decisions today… and to be at peace with them. I don’t know what lies ahead for my grandmother, but I have put it all at the feet of Jesus, and I know that He will care for us perfectly.
Turning our worries over to God is not always easy – we so want to pick them up and try to handle things on our own. But I can tell you that this is wasted energy and pretty much never works out well. Cast all your cares on God… He cares for you… He can handle anything… and He is willing and waiting to do exactly that!
©2012 Debbie Robus
God cares for you, so turn all your worries over to him.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Last night around 11:15, I got a call I have dreaded (but expected) for some time. The nurse at my grandmother’s Assisted Living Facility was calling to tell me that my Mam-ma Polly got out of bed and fell. She was sitting in the floor when her nurse found her, and she said, “I think my hip is broken.” The x-rays in the ER showed that the hip was indeed broken… badly. Several hours later, we got Mam-ma admitted to a room to rest and await the surgeon’s visit today.
The ER doctor was not sure that surgery was even an option for my grandmother, who will be 100 in November. But after discussing all possible outcomes, we agreed that we had to try to repair the hip and hope that she will recover. The doctors have cautioned us that there is as much as a 50% fatality rate within the three years following hip surgery. We know that nothing is certain at this point.
As I entered the hospital this morning, I read a scripture passage that hangs above the cafeteria door… 1 Peter 5:7. Of course, this was exactly what I needed – and I know that God knew this! His promise to handle my worries has enabled me to make the necessary decisions today… and to be at peace with them. I don’t know what lies ahead for my grandmother, but I have put it all at the feet of Jesus, and I know that He will care for us perfectly.
Turning our worries over to God is not always easy – we so want to pick them up and try to handle things on our own. But I can tell you that this is wasted energy and pretty much never works out well. Cast all your cares on God… He cares for you… He can handle anything… and He is willing and waiting to do exactly that!
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for April 30, 2012
Galatians 4:1-3
Let me show you the implications of this. As long as the heir is a minor, he has no advantage over the slave. Though legally he owns the entire inheritance, he is subject to tutors and administrators until whatever date the father has set for emancipation. That is the way it is with us: When we were minors, we were just like slaves ordered around by simple instructions (the tutors and administrators of this world), with no say in the conduct of our own lives.
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.
Like many people, I have family heirlooms that I plan to pass on to my nieces and nephews someday. However, many times, the heirs are too young to fully appreciate the inheritance – or to properly care for the items. For example nobody would give a three-year-old boy his Grandpa’s gun or expect a 12-year-old girl to be trusted with an expensive piece of diamond jewelry. Young children have neither the maturity nor the capacity for housing Grandma’s china or a piece of furniture that has been handed down for generations. So the benefactor often holds onto these things – or places them in a “trust” - until the heirs mature.
What does this have to do with our Christian faith? God has so much that He wants to give us. We are truly the “heirs to His kingdom.” But most of us are not spiritually mature enough to handle this gift… at least not all of it. So we must be tutored and guided until we reach a level of Christian maturity. As we get to certain points in our “faith walk,” God grants us more gifts and blessings.
My grandparents and other relatives taught me about many of the heirlooms that I treasure today… who made them, how they were used, and more. I am trying to do the same for my nieces and nephews… teaching them to appreciate these pieces and why they are significant. I am not saving everything to be dispensed when I die. As they grow and mature enough to care for these heirlooms, I am sharing some of them. I get a kick out of watching these “children” enjoy my gifts. And it’s the same with God. He loves to see us reach a level of maturity that enables us to enjoy and fully appreciate His gifts and blessings.
Some of us want to resist God’s teaching. We think we already know far more than we truly do. Don’t be like this. Get over yourself, and accept God’s instruction and guidance. The sooner you grow and mature in your faith, the sooner you can receive more of the blessings of your inheritance. Listen to God… learn from Him… and get ready to be rewarded with His good gifts!
©2012 Debbie Robus
Let me show you the implications of this. As long as the heir is a minor, he has no advantage over the slave. Though legally he owns the entire inheritance, he is subject to tutors and administrators until whatever date the father has set for emancipation. That is the way it is with us: When we were minors, we were just like slaves ordered around by simple instructions (the tutors and administrators of this world), with no say in the conduct of our own lives.
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.
Like many people, I have family heirlooms that I plan to pass on to my nieces and nephews someday. However, many times, the heirs are too young to fully appreciate the inheritance – or to properly care for the items. For example nobody would give a three-year-old boy his Grandpa’s gun or expect a 12-year-old girl to be trusted with an expensive piece of diamond jewelry. Young children have neither the maturity nor the capacity for housing Grandma’s china or a piece of furniture that has been handed down for generations. So the benefactor often holds onto these things – or places them in a “trust” - until the heirs mature.
What does this have to do with our Christian faith? God has so much that He wants to give us. We are truly the “heirs to His kingdom.” But most of us are not spiritually mature enough to handle this gift… at least not all of it. So we must be tutored and guided until we reach a level of Christian maturity. As we get to certain points in our “faith walk,” God grants us more gifts and blessings.
My grandparents and other relatives taught me about many of the heirlooms that I treasure today… who made them, how they were used, and more. I am trying to do the same for my nieces and nephews… teaching them to appreciate these pieces and why they are significant. I am not saving everything to be dispensed when I die. As they grow and mature enough to care for these heirlooms, I am sharing some of them. I get a kick out of watching these “children” enjoy my gifts. And it’s the same with God. He loves to see us reach a level of maturity that enables us to enjoy and fully appreciate His gifts and blessings.
Some of us want to resist God’s teaching. We think we already know far more than we truly do. Don’t be like this. Get over yourself, and accept God’s instruction and guidance. The sooner you grow and mature in your faith, the sooner you can receive more of the blessings of your inheritance. Listen to God… learn from Him… and get ready to be rewarded with His good gifts!
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for April 29, 2012
1 Corinthians 3:1-4
My friends, you are acting like the people of this world. That’s why I could not speak to you as spiritual people. You are like babies as far as your faith in Christ is concerned. So I had to treat you like babies and feed you milk. You could not take solid food, and you still cannot, because you are not yet spiritual. You are jealous and argue with each other. This proves that you are not spiritual and that you are acting like the people of this world.
Some of you say that you follow me, and others claim to follow Apollos. Isn’t that how ordinary people behave?
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
This morning, our church “confirmed” several sixth graders. They vowed to love Jesus and serve Him… and the church. We (the church members) vowed to love and nurture these children, meet their needs, and serve alongside them. The “confirmands” have been spending time together for several weeks as a group – learning about God, the church, and what it means to be a Disciple of Christ. I daresay that some of these children may know more about this now than many adults! But one thing I can say for sure is that no matter how much these children know – or think they know – about God, there is so much more to learn!
More than a few of us are stuck in a rut as Christians. We’ve been content with the “Spiritual milk” of knowing the basics about Jesus and how He died on the cross for our sins. We’ve acknowledged that we want to be Christians… that yes, we love Jesus and want His forgiveness… we want to go to heaven someday. But we have not taken any further steps to affirm our faith. We’ve not given up old habits and interests and sought the will of God for our lives. We have not asked, “What do I do now? How do I serve and share this GOOD NEWS with others? Where – and how – do You want me to serve You, LORD?” Honestly, I think some of us are afraid of His answers!
In order to build our faith and grow in our knowledge of the LORD… and service to Him… we will have to grow up. We will have to stop acting like everyone else and be who God has called us to be. We will have to be willing to stop being coddled like babies and instead, be treated like mature Christians - which is a huge commitment! If God gave us everything all at once as new Christians, we couldn’t handle it. Spiritual growth and maturity is a slow process for most of us. But the results are so worth the effort.
Are you ready to park your old ways and pick up the new ones that God has laid before you? Are you hungry for His word and will… and eager to learn more each day about how God operates? Are you ready to grow in your faith and experience more of God’s blessings? Will you graduate from “milk” to “solid food”? Are you content to be “ordinary,” or are you ready to take your faith to the next level?
©2012 Debbie Robus
My friends, you are acting like the people of this world. That’s why I could not speak to you as spiritual people. You are like babies as far as your faith in Christ is concerned. So I had to treat you like babies and feed you milk. You could not take solid food, and you still cannot, because you are not yet spiritual. You are jealous and argue with each other. This proves that you are not spiritual and that you are acting like the people of this world.
Some of you say that you follow me, and others claim to follow Apollos. Isn’t that how ordinary people behave?
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
This morning, our church “confirmed” several sixth graders. They vowed to love Jesus and serve Him… and the church. We (the church members) vowed to love and nurture these children, meet their needs, and serve alongside them. The “confirmands” have been spending time together for several weeks as a group – learning about God, the church, and what it means to be a Disciple of Christ. I daresay that some of these children may know more about this now than many adults! But one thing I can say for sure is that no matter how much these children know – or think they know – about God, there is so much more to learn!
More than a few of us are stuck in a rut as Christians. We’ve been content with the “Spiritual milk” of knowing the basics about Jesus and how He died on the cross for our sins. We’ve acknowledged that we want to be Christians… that yes, we love Jesus and want His forgiveness… we want to go to heaven someday. But we have not taken any further steps to affirm our faith. We’ve not given up old habits and interests and sought the will of God for our lives. We have not asked, “What do I do now? How do I serve and share this GOOD NEWS with others? Where – and how – do You want me to serve You, LORD?” Honestly, I think some of us are afraid of His answers!
In order to build our faith and grow in our knowledge of the LORD… and service to Him… we will have to grow up. We will have to stop acting like everyone else and be who God has called us to be. We will have to be willing to stop being coddled like babies and instead, be treated like mature Christians - which is a huge commitment! If God gave us everything all at once as new Christians, we couldn’t handle it. Spiritual growth and maturity is a slow process for most of us. But the results are so worth the effort.
Are you ready to park your old ways and pick up the new ones that God has laid before you? Are you hungry for His word and will… and eager to learn more each day about how God operates? Are you ready to grow in your faith and experience more of God’s blessings? Will you graduate from “milk” to “solid food”? Are you content to be “ordinary,” or are you ready to take your faith to the next level?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for April 28, 2012
April 28 ~ Psalm 34:7-9
God's angel sets up a circle of protection around us while we pray.
Open your mouth and taste, open your eyes and see - how good God is. Blessed are you who run to him.
Worship God if you want the best; worship opens doors to all his goodness.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
My husband and I have been watching Discovery Channel’s “Frozen Planet” about life in the Arctic and Antarctica. On one episode, hungry wolves approached a herd of bison, hoping to capture a slower, weaker yearling for dinner. The older bison encircled the young calf and protected it. The wolves were intimidated and retreated. I was reminded that, even in nature, God offers His circle of protection. I am comforted to think that when I pray to Him, His angels encircle me and protect me. I am grateful to think that I am ministered to by these agents of God as I pour out my heart to Him.
A few weeks ago, we went to a local steak house for dinner. We had eaten at this restaurant years ago, but they recently re-opened after being out of business for several years. We ordered our favorite – filet mignon – and when the food arrived and we tasted the first bite, we were both transported back in time. We savored the flavorful, tender beef and smiled at how delicious it tasted. We felt blessed!
Do you think of angels surrounding you… encircling you with protection when you pray? Do you savor God’s goodness like a well-cooked steak? Do you run to Him and seek His very best for you… worship Him and praise His blessings over your life? What do you suppose would change in your life if you did this? Are you ready and willing to find out?
©2012 Debbie Robus
God's angel sets up a circle of protection around us while we pray.
Open your mouth and taste, open your eyes and see - how good God is. Blessed are you who run to him.
Worship God if you want the best; worship opens doors to all his goodness.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
My husband and I have been watching Discovery Channel’s “Frozen Planet” about life in the Arctic and Antarctica. On one episode, hungry wolves approached a herd of bison, hoping to capture a slower, weaker yearling for dinner. The older bison encircled the young calf and protected it. The wolves were intimidated and retreated. I was reminded that, even in nature, God offers His circle of protection. I am comforted to think that when I pray to Him, His angels encircle me and protect me. I am grateful to think that I am ministered to by these agents of God as I pour out my heart to Him.
A few weeks ago, we went to a local steak house for dinner. We had eaten at this restaurant years ago, but they recently re-opened after being out of business for several years. We ordered our favorite – filet mignon – and when the food arrived and we tasted the first bite, we were both transported back in time. We savored the flavorful, tender beef and smiled at how delicious it tasted. We felt blessed!
Do you think of angels surrounding you… encircling you with protection when you pray? Do you savor God’s goodness like a well-cooked steak? Do you run to Him and seek His very best for you… worship Him and praise His blessings over your life? What do you suppose would change in your life if you did this? Are you ready and willing to find out?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for April 27, 2012
Proverbs 3:5-12
Trust God from the bottom of your heart; don't try to figure out everything on your own. Listen for God's voice in everything you do, everywhere you go; he's the one who will keep you on track. Don't assume that you know it all. Run to God! Run from evil! Your body will glow with health… your very bones will vibrate with life! Honor God with everything you own; give him the first and the best. Your barns will burst, your wine vats will brim over. But don't, dear friend, resent God's discipline; don't sulk under his loving correction. It's the child he loves that God corrects; a father's delight is behind all this.
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.
This morning, I downloaded the pattern for making a crochet button necklace. I saw my friend wearing one, and I liked it enough to want to make some with my old buttons. I can already tell from reading the instructions that I will probably have to start over more than once before I get the hang of it, but I will keep trying, and the end result will be really cool.
As with many things that don’t work out on the first try, I will probably grow a little frustrated. And I will have to be careful not to race ahead, assuming that I already know how to do the next stitch. I looked my friend’s necklace over carefully, but I have enough sense to realize that I need instructions in order to make a decent replica on my own! So I will be happy for the free instructions I found online, and I will welcome the “corrections” that will come as I attempt to create my own fashion accessory.
We often trust our own instincts and try to figure things out on our own… frequently with less than stellar results. We resent instruction, and we ignore even some of the most glaring signs that we are headed in the wrong direction. Worse yet, we listen to people who are not helpful at best – and sometimes those who may be downright evil in one way or another. If we are going to “walk in the fear of the LORD,” we have to humble ourselves and detach from evil ways. We cannot hang out with evil people… or do things we did before we committed to Christ.
This is not a bad thing… or a “death sentence!” When we walk in the “fear” (respect and honor) of the LORD and seek His guidance in all things, He will elevate us to heights we have never known… and the end result will be beautiful, healthy, and glowing! I find that learning new things is beneficial in so many ways… even if it is how to make a crochet button necklace! Learning more about the LORD and His desires for me is even better - and draws me closer to walking in His purpose for my life.
In my prayer journal notes, I have written… “Whether or not the world is ever impressed with you doesn’t ever matter to God. You don’t ever have to “kiss up” to get ahead. Walking in the fear of the LORD will get you where you need to be – to your one true root purpose.” Are you seeking God’s direction and respectfully trusting Him from the bottom of your heart? Are you healthy and glowing… do your bones “vibrate with life” in Him? Are you still learning from God… or are you stubbornly clinging to your old life and its evil pull?
God wants to do beautiful things in and through you. He wants to reveal His purpose and help you to grow in its fullness. What is holding you back today? Isn’t it time to listen to God’s instruction for your life? Are you ready to start learning again?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Trust God from the bottom of your heart; don't try to figure out everything on your own. Listen for God's voice in everything you do, everywhere you go; he's the one who will keep you on track. Don't assume that you know it all. Run to God! Run from evil! Your body will glow with health… your very bones will vibrate with life! Honor God with everything you own; give him the first and the best. Your barns will burst, your wine vats will brim over. But don't, dear friend, resent God's discipline; don't sulk under his loving correction. It's the child he loves that God corrects; a father's delight is behind all this.
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.
This morning, I downloaded the pattern for making a crochet button necklace. I saw my friend wearing one, and I liked it enough to want to make some with my old buttons. I can already tell from reading the instructions that I will probably have to start over more than once before I get the hang of it, but I will keep trying, and the end result will be really cool.
As with many things that don’t work out on the first try, I will probably grow a little frustrated. And I will have to be careful not to race ahead, assuming that I already know how to do the next stitch. I looked my friend’s necklace over carefully, but I have enough sense to realize that I need instructions in order to make a decent replica on my own! So I will be happy for the free instructions I found online, and I will welcome the “corrections” that will come as I attempt to create my own fashion accessory.
We often trust our own instincts and try to figure things out on our own… frequently with less than stellar results. We resent instruction, and we ignore even some of the most glaring signs that we are headed in the wrong direction. Worse yet, we listen to people who are not helpful at best – and sometimes those who may be downright evil in one way or another. If we are going to “walk in the fear of the LORD,” we have to humble ourselves and detach from evil ways. We cannot hang out with evil people… or do things we did before we committed to Christ.
This is not a bad thing… or a “death sentence!” When we walk in the “fear” (respect and honor) of the LORD and seek His guidance in all things, He will elevate us to heights we have never known… and the end result will be beautiful, healthy, and glowing! I find that learning new things is beneficial in so many ways… even if it is how to make a crochet button necklace! Learning more about the LORD and His desires for me is even better - and draws me closer to walking in His purpose for my life.
In my prayer journal notes, I have written… “Whether or not the world is ever impressed with you doesn’t ever matter to God. You don’t ever have to “kiss up” to get ahead. Walking in the fear of the LORD will get you where you need to be – to your one true root purpose.” Are you seeking God’s direction and respectfully trusting Him from the bottom of your heart? Are you healthy and glowing… do your bones “vibrate with life” in Him? Are you still learning from God… or are you stubbornly clinging to your old life and its evil pull?
God wants to do beautiful things in and through you. He wants to reveal His purpose and help you to grow in its fullness. What is holding you back today? Isn’t it time to listen to God’s instruction for your life? Are you ready to start learning again?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for April 26, 2012
Psalm 111:5-10
He gives food to his worshipers and always keeps his agreement with them. He has shown his mighty power to his people and has given them the lands of other nations.
God is always honest and fair, and his laws can be trusted. They are true and right and will stand forever. God rescued his people, and he will never break his agreement with them. He is fearsome and holy.
Respect and obey the Lord! This is the first step to wisdom and good sense. God will always be respected.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When we take out a loan to buy a house or a car, we sign a contract that says we agree to make the payments. When a couple marries, they exchange vows and then sign a document that says they are legally bound to one another. Many people take an “oath of office” and “solemnly swear” to uphold certain principles. In our lifetime, most of us will sign dozens of contracts of one kind or another, make promises, and agree to all sorts of things. And more than a few of us will fail to keep at least some of these agreements. If everyone kept every agreement, we would have no divorces, defaulted loans, “scandals,” or disappointments. And the devil would be even more miserable!
The only covenant we can truly count on is our agreement with God. HE will never let us down. God will never break his agreement with us or back out on His promises. God sealed His covenant with the blood of Jesus. Satan wants us to fear that God’s word won’t work, but we know better! If God said it, He will do it. If he spoke it, He will bring it to pass.
When we read the Bible or pray, we must remember to keep God’s covenant in mind. Just to refresh your memory, God’s covenant says that He loved us enough to send His only Son to die on the cross, so that everyone who believes in Him will have Eternal Life with Him in Heaven. Beyond this, God has promised many things… that all things are possible with Him… that He is always with us and will never leave… that He is always ready to rescue and restore us… and so much more.
I don’t know about you, but I am so glad we serve a God who keeps His word. I can’t imagine His grace and mercy and how He puts up with all of us, but I’m surely glad He does! And I am truly grateful that to know that I can count on His promises… aren’t you? Isn’t this a great day to stop taking so much for granted and being more aware of just how blessed we are to serve such an honorable God? Isn’t this a good time to stop and thank Him for honoring His covenant? Won’t you take a moment with me now and do exactly that?
©2012 Debbie Robus
He gives food to his worshipers and always keeps his agreement with them. He has shown his mighty power to his people and has given them the lands of other nations.
God is always honest and fair, and his laws can be trusted. They are true and right and will stand forever. God rescued his people, and he will never break his agreement with them. He is fearsome and holy.
Respect and obey the Lord! This is the first step to wisdom and good sense. God will always be respected.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When we take out a loan to buy a house or a car, we sign a contract that says we agree to make the payments. When a couple marries, they exchange vows and then sign a document that says they are legally bound to one another. Many people take an “oath of office” and “solemnly swear” to uphold certain principles. In our lifetime, most of us will sign dozens of contracts of one kind or another, make promises, and agree to all sorts of things. And more than a few of us will fail to keep at least some of these agreements. If everyone kept every agreement, we would have no divorces, defaulted loans, “scandals,” or disappointments. And the devil would be even more miserable!
The only covenant we can truly count on is our agreement with God. HE will never let us down. God will never break his agreement with us or back out on His promises. God sealed His covenant with the blood of Jesus. Satan wants us to fear that God’s word won’t work, but we know better! If God said it, He will do it. If he spoke it, He will bring it to pass.
When we read the Bible or pray, we must remember to keep God’s covenant in mind. Just to refresh your memory, God’s covenant says that He loved us enough to send His only Son to die on the cross, so that everyone who believes in Him will have Eternal Life with Him in Heaven. Beyond this, God has promised many things… that all things are possible with Him… that He is always with us and will never leave… that He is always ready to rescue and restore us… and so much more.
I don’t know about you, but I am so glad we serve a God who keeps His word. I can’t imagine His grace and mercy and how He puts up with all of us, but I’m surely glad He does! And I am truly grateful that to know that I can count on His promises… aren’t you? Isn’t this a great day to stop taking so much for granted and being more aware of just how blessed we are to serve such an honorable God? Isn’t this a good time to stop and thank Him for honoring His covenant? Won’t you take a moment with me now and do exactly that?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for April 25, 2012
Matthew 14:15-21
That evening the disciples came to Jesus and said, “This place is like a desert, and it is already late. Let the crowds leave, so they can go to the villages and buy some food.”
Jesus replied, “They don’t have to leave. Why don’t you give them something to eat?”
But they said, “We have only five small loaves of bread[c] and two fish.” 18 Jesus asked his disciples to bring the food to him, 19 and he told the crowd to sit down on the grass. Jesus took the five loaves and the two fish. He looked up toward heaven and blessed the food. Then he broke the bread and handed it to his disciples, and they gave it to the people.
After everyone had eaten all they wanted, Jesus' disciples picked up twelve large baskets of leftovers.
There were about five thousand men who ate, not counting the women and children.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version ©1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
A childhood friend of mine is facing a heartbreaking situation. This will be the last night she gets to spend with two children she has fostered for several months. Tomorrow they will return to their mother. The now-4-year-old boy and his 7-month-old sister have been with my friend since the little girl was seven weeks old. As my friend puts it, “they feel safe.” She also wrote lately, “This is not what I prayed for, Lord! I asked for children of my own!” Yet God gave her foster children instead. Understandably, my friend has grown attached to her “children” these last few months. She worries about the environment they will return to, and she is trying to mentally and emotionally prepare herself for their departure. I’m sure my friends who are involved in fostering children in our community will totally understand this.
One day this week, my friend wrote on Facebook about a conversation she heard on television between Oprah Winfrey and Bishop T.D. Jakes. Bishop Jakes mentioned this passage from Matthew 14 and said (speaking of Jesus)…” We are certain that He had 2 fish and 5 loaves of bread when He blessed it. As he broke it - that's where we lose count. You understand then, that the blessing is at the breaking. That which refuses to be broken, refuses to be blessed. It is the breaking of life that produces the blessing of life. I have noticed in my life that the most blessed people I have ever met have gone through something that broke them."
Really think about this and let it soak in for a while. Have you had “broken” experiences that produced growth? Have you lost a loved one – and grown in your faith and dependence on God to sustain you? Have you been sick or injured and seen God work through others to heal and comfort you? Have you suffered a broken relationship or a personal loss of some sort that made you more aware of others’ feelings and caused you to be more aware of how you treat them?
I am sad for my friend… I understand her pain. And because of this, I have been able to offer her words of encouragement that she knows are sincere and heartfelt. She knows that I speak firsthand when I tell her, “I don’t know how God will get you through this… I only know that He will.” Whatever you have experienced… or whatever may happen to you in the future… can be the catalyst for your next blessing. My friend concluded her Facebook post by saying… ”I am so very thankful, and I bless these little children who brought - and bring - challenges, laughter, and joy to my life. I will always be grateful for the opportunity to have loved them. And so I surrender to fully embrace and bless this experience… and look to God for even greater, unimagined blessings.”
I had never considered these verses from Matthew 14 in this context. I had never thought of the broken bread that multiplied as an illustration of how God uses our brokenness to create growth and blessings. But I have learned that God’s word is new every day – and always timely – so I should not be surprised that He would use this familiar passage to teach me another lesson. And I don’t plan to miss the message! I hope you won’t, either.
Whatever God is doing in your life… whatever seems to be breaking or falling apart… God will use this to create blessings and growth. The question we must as is not “LORD, why?” but rather, “Lord, what next?” Are you seeking blessings in your brokenness? Are you asking the right questions?
©2012 Debbie Robus
That evening the disciples came to Jesus and said, “This place is like a desert, and it is already late. Let the crowds leave, so they can go to the villages and buy some food.”
Jesus replied, “They don’t have to leave. Why don’t you give them something to eat?”
But they said, “We have only five small loaves of bread[c] and two fish.” 18 Jesus asked his disciples to bring the food to him, 19 and he told the crowd to sit down on the grass. Jesus took the five loaves and the two fish. He looked up toward heaven and blessed the food. Then he broke the bread and handed it to his disciples, and they gave it to the people.
After everyone had eaten all they wanted, Jesus' disciples picked up twelve large baskets of leftovers.
There were about five thousand men who ate, not counting the women and children.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version ©1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
A childhood friend of mine is facing a heartbreaking situation. This will be the last night she gets to spend with two children she has fostered for several months. Tomorrow they will return to their mother. The now-4-year-old boy and his 7-month-old sister have been with my friend since the little girl was seven weeks old. As my friend puts it, “they feel safe.” She also wrote lately, “This is not what I prayed for, Lord! I asked for children of my own!” Yet God gave her foster children instead. Understandably, my friend has grown attached to her “children” these last few months. She worries about the environment they will return to, and she is trying to mentally and emotionally prepare herself for their departure. I’m sure my friends who are involved in fostering children in our community will totally understand this.
One day this week, my friend wrote on Facebook about a conversation she heard on television between Oprah Winfrey and Bishop T.D. Jakes. Bishop Jakes mentioned this passage from Matthew 14 and said (speaking of Jesus)…” We are certain that He had 2 fish and 5 loaves of bread when He blessed it. As he broke it - that's where we lose count. You understand then, that the blessing is at the breaking. That which refuses to be broken, refuses to be blessed. It is the breaking of life that produces the blessing of life. I have noticed in my life that the most blessed people I have ever met have gone through something that broke them."
Really think about this and let it soak in for a while. Have you had “broken” experiences that produced growth? Have you lost a loved one – and grown in your faith and dependence on God to sustain you? Have you been sick or injured and seen God work through others to heal and comfort you? Have you suffered a broken relationship or a personal loss of some sort that made you more aware of others’ feelings and caused you to be more aware of how you treat them?
I am sad for my friend… I understand her pain. And because of this, I have been able to offer her words of encouragement that she knows are sincere and heartfelt. She knows that I speak firsthand when I tell her, “I don’t know how God will get you through this… I only know that He will.” Whatever you have experienced… or whatever may happen to you in the future… can be the catalyst for your next blessing. My friend concluded her Facebook post by saying… ”I am so very thankful, and I bless these little children who brought - and bring - challenges, laughter, and joy to my life. I will always be grateful for the opportunity to have loved them. And so I surrender to fully embrace and bless this experience… and look to God for even greater, unimagined blessings.”
I had never considered these verses from Matthew 14 in this context. I had never thought of the broken bread that multiplied as an illustration of how God uses our brokenness to create growth and blessings. But I have learned that God’s word is new every day – and always timely – so I should not be surprised that He would use this familiar passage to teach me another lesson. And I don’t plan to miss the message! I hope you won’t, either.
Whatever God is doing in your life… whatever seems to be breaking or falling apart… God will use this to create blessings and growth. The question we must as is not “LORD, why?” but rather, “Lord, what next?” Are you seeking blessings in your brokenness? Are you asking the right questions?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for April 24, 2012
Deuteronomy 10:12
People of Israel, what does the Lord your God want from you? The Lord wants you to respect and follow him, to love and serve him with all your heart and soul…
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version ©1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Today is the birthday of my cousin Natalie. I remember when she was born… my husband and I had been married less than a year, and my parents would place this darling baby in my lap and say, “When you finish college, maybe you will have one of these.” When Natalie’s brother Franklin came along four years later, they would hand him to me and say, “Doesn’t this make you want a baby?” As much as I love Natalie and Franklin, babies were not in the plans for us… at least not at that stage in our lives! But oh, how I loved my cousins. They were adorable… and easy to love – and they still are today! I am so proud of who they have become as adults… and parents themselves!
While it is easy to love some people… others are what I would describe as “unlovable” – or at the very least, “unlovely.” Yet, as Disciples of Christ and people who “walk in the fear of the LORD” (meaning we love and respect God and His commandments), we are called to “love one another.” We must recognize that the “unlovely” and “unlovable” are just as important, precious, and adorable to God as we are!
I totally understand how hard this is for us. When the telemarketer calls and interrupts my dinner or an evening movie, I find it hard to be kind and loving. When someone mistreats me - or worse…when I learn of the abuse of a child or watch news reports about the horrors of war or the mistreatment of an animal, I find it hard to love the perpetrator. And while we are right to be outraged and/or insulted… the ultimate judgment and justice resides with God. Trusting Him to handle these things is tantamount to operating in Christian faith.
Today, think of someone that you consider “unlovable” or “unlovely.” I bet you won’t have to look very far – we’re a pretty judgmental lot! Now imagine God wrapping His arms around them and loving them as much as you love your most dear child, cousin, or friend. Consider that this person is just as important to God as we are… and He expects us to treat them fairly. This doesn’t mean we have to go out of our way to be nice to a criminal or bully – but we must love them in our hearts… and genuinely pray for their soul.
We can’t have it both ways. We can’t say we “walk in the fear of the LORD” and also claim we find it impossible to love – or even tolerate – some people. I don’t know about you, but I’ve got a lot of work to do in this area. But it could be some of the most important work of my life, and I’m more than ready to begin. To “walk in the fear of the LORD” – keeping God’s commandments – is the foundation of all happiness. This means I’m going to have to work harder at loving those who make it so difficult… and I’m willing to do this. Are you?
©2012 Debbie Robus
People of Israel, what does the Lord your God want from you? The Lord wants you to respect and follow him, to love and serve him with all your heart and soul…
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version ©1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Today is the birthday of my cousin Natalie. I remember when she was born… my husband and I had been married less than a year, and my parents would place this darling baby in my lap and say, “When you finish college, maybe you will have one of these.” When Natalie’s brother Franklin came along four years later, they would hand him to me and say, “Doesn’t this make you want a baby?” As much as I love Natalie and Franklin, babies were not in the plans for us… at least not at that stage in our lives! But oh, how I loved my cousins. They were adorable… and easy to love – and they still are today! I am so proud of who they have become as adults… and parents themselves!
While it is easy to love some people… others are what I would describe as “unlovable” – or at the very least, “unlovely.” Yet, as Disciples of Christ and people who “walk in the fear of the LORD” (meaning we love and respect God and His commandments), we are called to “love one another.” We must recognize that the “unlovely” and “unlovable” are just as important, precious, and adorable to God as we are!
I totally understand how hard this is for us. When the telemarketer calls and interrupts my dinner or an evening movie, I find it hard to be kind and loving. When someone mistreats me - or worse…when I learn of the abuse of a child or watch news reports about the horrors of war or the mistreatment of an animal, I find it hard to love the perpetrator. And while we are right to be outraged and/or insulted… the ultimate judgment and justice resides with God. Trusting Him to handle these things is tantamount to operating in Christian faith.
Today, think of someone that you consider “unlovable” or “unlovely.” I bet you won’t have to look very far – we’re a pretty judgmental lot! Now imagine God wrapping His arms around them and loving them as much as you love your most dear child, cousin, or friend. Consider that this person is just as important to God as we are… and He expects us to treat them fairly. This doesn’t mean we have to go out of our way to be nice to a criminal or bully – but we must love them in our hearts… and genuinely pray for their soul.
We can’t have it both ways. We can’t say we “walk in the fear of the LORD” and also claim we find it impossible to love – or even tolerate – some people. I don’t know about you, but I’ve got a lot of work to do in this area. But it could be some of the most important work of my life, and I’m more than ready to begin. To “walk in the fear of the LORD” – keeping God’s commandments – is the foundation of all happiness. This means I’m going to have to work harder at loving those who make it so difficult… and I’m willing to do this. Are you?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for April 23, 2012
Ecclesiastes 12:13-14
Everything you were taught can be put into a few words:
Respect and obey God! This is what life is all about. God will judge everything we do, even what is done in secret, whether good or bad.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
If someone asked you what your sole purpose in life is, what would you tell them? Why do you suppose you are here? What has God placed you on this earth to accomplish? There is a “short answer” to this question… and it is the same for all Christians – or should be. Our sole purpose in life is to walk in the fear of the LORD and keep His commandments.
Let this soak in for a minute. If our primary purpose in life is to respect and revere God and keep His commandments, won’t this affect every aspect of our lives? If God has called you to be a great physician, and you spend your life working to keep others healthy, you have fulfilled God’s desires for you… if you have kept His commandments at the same time. If God calls you to be a teacher, lawyer, builder, laborer, mother, father, pastor, policeman, coach, salesman, farmer… or whatever… and you do this to the best of your ability and keep His commandments, you have fulfilled your purpose in life.
When we try to do anything on our own… or when we ignore God’s commandments and do things the way we want, we are fulfilling our own purposes – not God’s. If we try to minister to others while we are not walking in the fear of the LORD and His commandments, we can really mess things up. I know that God wants me to share this message with you today, because He has revealed it to me twice in the last two hours. My daily devotional from the book God Calling spoke of learning to “be” for God rather than “speak” for Him. In other words, we are far more effective witnesses for God when we live in a manner that exhibits respect, reverence and obedience for His commandments than when we try to tell someone else how to live for God. Sometimes, we need to be quiet and let the actions of our life speak for us rather than try to “win someone to the LORD” with our words.
Show others what your sole purpose is by showing them your “soul purpose.” Live in such a way that it is evident to all who know you that your primary purpose is to serve God and obey His commands. Show God how much you love Him by following His commandments and operating within His will for your life. In doing so, you will say to everyone you meet that the fear of the LORD is the foundation of all happiness. Keeping God’s commandments will open the door for God to reveal His will for your life… and bless you and others in your path.
What is your “sole purpose” today… and what is your “soul purpose?” Are they the same thing? Shouldn’t they be?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Everything you were taught can be put into a few words:
Respect and obey God! This is what life is all about. God will judge everything we do, even what is done in secret, whether good or bad.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
If someone asked you what your sole purpose in life is, what would you tell them? Why do you suppose you are here? What has God placed you on this earth to accomplish? There is a “short answer” to this question… and it is the same for all Christians – or should be. Our sole purpose in life is to walk in the fear of the LORD and keep His commandments.
Let this soak in for a minute. If our primary purpose in life is to respect and revere God and keep His commandments, won’t this affect every aspect of our lives? If God has called you to be a great physician, and you spend your life working to keep others healthy, you have fulfilled God’s desires for you… if you have kept His commandments at the same time. If God calls you to be a teacher, lawyer, builder, laborer, mother, father, pastor, policeman, coach, salesman, farmer… or whatever… and you do this to the best of your ability and keep His commandments, you have fulfilled your purpose in life.
When we try to do anything on our own… or when we ignore God’s commandments and do things the way we want, we are fulfilling our own purposes – not God’s. If we try to minister to others while we are not walking in the fear of the LORD and His commandments, we can really mess things up. I know that God wants me to share this message with you today, because He has revealed it to me twice in the last two hours. My daily devotional from the book God Calling spoke of learning to “be” for God rather than “speak” for Him. In other words, we are far more effective witnesses for God when we live in a manner that exhibits respect, reverence and obedience for His commandments than when we try to tell someone else how to live for God. Sometimes, we need to be quiet and let the actions of our life speak for us rather than try to “win someone to the LORD” with our words.
Show others what your sole purpose is by showing them your “soul purpose.” Live in such a way that it is evident to all who know you that your primary purpose is to serve God and obey His commands. Show God how much you love Him by following His commandments and operating within His will for your life. In doing so, you will say to everyone you meet that the fear of the LORD is the foundation of all happiness. Keeping God’s commandments will open the door for God to reveal His will for your life… and bless you and others in your path.
What is your “sole purpose” today… and what is your “soul purpose?” Are they the same thing? Shouldn’t they be?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for April 22, 2012
Psalm 128:1
The Lord will bless you if you respect him and obey his laws.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version ©1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Recently I saw a news report on a documentary film that has been made about drug dealers in Mexico… except the actors were all children instead of adults. The four-minute film is a commentary on the upcoming presidential elections in our neighboring country to the south. Deemed a “wake-up” call, this “mocumentary” has gone viral on YouTube and ends with a little girl saying, “If this is the future that awaits me, I don't want it. Enough of working for your political parties instead of for us. Enough of cosmetic changes.”
As I watched the video, I was struck by the thought that every adult is someone’s child. And in that context, I would hope we find it a little more difficult to be so harsh and judgmental toward others. At the very least, when we think about the person who commits a heinous crime and see his/her grieving parents on the news, we should have compassion… for them AND – to some degree - for the culprit. Somewhere along the line, this person lost his/her respect for – and obedience to – God’s laws. And in many ways, we have all done the same thing as we choose to follow our own desires – or the will of man – rather than God’s.
We are all familiar with the “Ten Commandments” as given to Moses by God. We probably all know them pretty well by heart. But in the New Testament, Jesus gave us two basic “laws”… “Love the LORD your God with all your heart, mind and soul,” and “Love one another as He has loved us.” If/when we do these things, everything else falls into place. All you have to do is stop and ask yourself if your words and actions reflect a love for God with all your heart, mind and soul… and whether they show a love for others. It’s truly that simple… and that complicated all at once!
If we consider Jesus’ commands, we cannot be judgmental, immoral, unkind, indecent, or perverse. We cannot be arrogant, pious, or proud. We cannot murder, steal, lie or cheat. To love God on this level means we must fully surrender our “program” for God’s… and walk in respect and reverence of Him at all times.
I don’t know what man-made “laws” - or interpretations of God’s law - are governing (and/or burdening) you today. But I do know that the only laws that matter are God’s… and it’s up to us to determine which are which! If we operate in the fear (respect and reverence) of the LORD and walk in His ways… obey His laws… our choices and decisions become fairly simple – and the blessings are sure to be evident. Ask yourself simply and prayerfully, “Does this line up with the word and will of God?” Your answer will determine how you proceed… and inevitably control the outcome.
To paraphrase the little girl in the movie…“Enough of living according to man’s law and his interpretation of the word of God. Enough of pretending to serve God while serving our own interests.” It’s time to make sure we are in step with God’s will at all times. Are you asking the right questions? Whose laws are you following these days?
©2012 Debbie Robus
The Lord will bless you if you respect him and obey his laws.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version ©1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Recently I saw a news report on a documentary film that has been made about drug dealers in Mexico… except the actors were all children instead of adults. The four-minute film is a commentary on the upcoming presidential elections in our neighboring country to the south. Deemed a “wake-up” call, this “mocumentary” has gone viral on YouTube and ends with a little girl saying, “If this is the future that awaits me, I don't want it. Enough of working for your political parties instead of for us. Enough of cosmetic changes.”
As I watched the video, I was struck by the thought that every adult is someone’s child. And in that context, I would hope we find it a little more difficult to be so harsh and judgmental toward others. At the very least, when we think about the person who commits a heinous crime and see his/her grieving parents on the news, we should have compassion… for them AND – to some degree - for the culprit. Somewhere along the line, this person lost his/her respect for – and obedience to – God’s laws. And in many ways, we have all done the same thing as we choose to follow our own desires – or the will of man – rather than God’s.
We are all familiar with the “Ten Commandments” as given to Moses by God. We probably all know them pretty well by heart. But in the New Testament, Jesus gave us two basic “laws”… “Love the LORD your God with all your heart, mind and soul,” and “Love one another as He has loved us.” If/when we do these things, everything else falls into place. All you have to do is stop and ask yourself if your words and actions reflect a love for God with all your heart, mind and soul… and whether they show a love for others. It’s truly that simple… and that complicated all at once!
If we consider Jesus’ commands, we cannot be judgmental, immoral, unkind, indecent, or perverse. We cannot be arrogant, pious, or proud. We cannot murder, steal, lie or cheat. To love God on this level means we must fully surrender our “program” for God’s… and walk in respect and reverence of Him at all times.
I don’t know what man-made “laws” - or interpretations of God’s law - are governing (and/or burdening) you today. But I do know that the only laws that matter are God’s… and it’s up to us to determine which are which! If we operate in the fear (respect and reverence) of the LORD and walk in His ways… obey His laws… our choices and decisions become fairly simple – and the blessings are sure to be evident. Ask yourself simply and prayerfully, “Does this line up with the word and will of God?” Your answer will determine how you proceed… and inevitably control the outcome.
To paraphrase the little girl in the movie…“Enough of living according to man’s law and his interpretation of the word of God. Enough of pretending to serve God while serving our own interests.” It’s time to make sure we are in step with God’s will at all times. Are you asking the right questions? Whose laws are you following these days?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for April 21, 2012
2 Chronicles 16:7-9
Just after that, Hanani the seer came to Asa king of Judah and said, "Because you went for help to the king of Aram and didn't ask God for help, you've lost a victory over the army of the king of Aram. Didn't the Ethiopians and Libyans come against you with superior forces, completely outclassing you with their chariots and cavalry? But you asked God for help and he gave you the victory. God is always on the alert, constantly on the lookout for people who are totally committed to him. You were foolish to go for human help when you could have had God's help. Now you're in trouble—one round of war after another."
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 has a book that we must have read a thousand times or more, entitled I Can Do It Myself. The book features Sesame Street characters that tie their own shoes, make their own bed, button their own buttons, and much more. Even though Timothy could not do many of these things himself, he loved reading about his friends like Bert, Ernie, Cookie Monster, Bettie Lou and Elmo who could do many things for themselves and enjoyed exerting their independence.
Learning to do things for themselves marks monumental milestones in the life of a toddler or small child. We want our children to function independently. But I can tell you firsthand that watching your little ones learn to depend less on you for certain things is bittersweet. I liked that Timmy needed me to read bedtime stories to him. I know the day will come all too quickly when he will outgrow this. I liked pushing him in the stroller… and when he began to balk at riding in it, I was a little sad. Even though I’m glad he can walk and run and is growing in his abilities, the day he learned to crawl – then walk – changed the entire game around our house! And as he gets older and “outgrows” us, he will listen less and less to our advice and try more and more to do things his own way… with mixed results.
Imagine how God must feel as He sits and watches us flounder and try to do things on our own that we are in no way equipped to accomplish. Whether we physically voice it or not, we tell Him all the time that “I can do it myself.” And quite often, nothing could be farther from the truth. Then we have the nerve to question why we’re in such a pickle.
Things don’t have to be this way. Your pride is at stake here… but not in the way you imagine. By asking God for His help, acknowledging His will and listening to His answers, you are assuring victory and success. Trying to do things by yourself will result in a wounded pride at best… and the potential for disaster.
Don’t place yourself in a position to fail. Wouldn’t you rather go to God in the beginning than have to crawl to Him later after you’ve made a royal mess of things? God wants to open up and show His strength on our behalf. In order to do this, we have to operate in His kingdom and do His will. Yes, I can do it myself in many instances… but I must let God show me how and when this applies. Do you respect His decisions and guidance… are you really listening?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Just after that, Hanani the seer came to Asa king of Judah and said, "Because you went for help to the king of Aram and didn't ask God for help, you've lost a victory over the army of the king of Aram. Didn't the Ethiopians and Libyans come against you with superior forces, completely outclassing you with their chariots and cavalry? But you asked God for help and he gave you the victory. God is always on the alert, constantly on the lookout for people who are totally committed to him. You were foolish to go for human help when you could have had God's help. Now you're in trouble—one round of war after another."
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 has a book that we must have read a thousand times or more, entitled I Can Do It Myself. The book features Sesame Street characters that tie their own shoes, make their own bed, button their own buttons, and much more. Even though Timothy could not do many of these things himself, he loved reading about his friends like Bert, Ernie, Cookie Monster, Bettie Lou and Elmo who could do many things for themselves and enjoyed exerting their independence.
Learning to do things for themselves marks monumental milestones in the life of a toddler or small child. We want our children to function independently. But I can tell you firsthand that watching your little ones learn to depend less on you for certain things is bittersweet. I liked that Timmy needed me to read bedtime stories to him. I know the day will come all too quickly when he will outgrow this. I liked pushing him in the stroller… and when he began to balk at riding in it, I was a little sad. Even though I’m glad he can walk and run and is growing in his abilities, the day he learned to crawl – then walk – changed the entire game around our house! And as he gets older and “outgrows” us, he will listen less and less to our advice and try more and more to do things his own way… with mixed results.
Imagine how God must feel as He sits and watches us flounder and try to do things on our own that we are in no way equipped to accomplish. Whether we physically voice it or not, we tell Him all the time that “I can do it myself.” And quite often, nothing could be farther from the truth. Then we have the nerve to question why we’re in such a pickle.
Things don’t have to be this way. Your pride is at stake here… but not in the way you imagine. By asking God for His help, acknowledging His will and listening to His answers, you are assuring victory and success. Trying to do things by yourself will result in a wounded pride at best… and the potential for disaster.
Don’t place yourself in a position to fail. Wouldn’t you rather go to God in the beginning than have to crawl to Him later after you’ve made a royal mess of things? God wants to open up and show His strength on our behalf. In order to do this, we have to operate in His kingdom and do His will. Yes, I can do it myself in many instances… but I must let God show me how and when this applies. Do you respect His decisions and guidance… are you really listening?
©2012 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for April 20, 2012
Psalm 34:9
Honor the Lord! You are his special people. No one who honors the Lord will ever be in need.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version ©1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Twenty-five years ago, my husband and I launched Workamper News… a business that assists people in finding work while traveling and living in an RV (recreational vehicle). The world of RVing is like a lot of other things – the difference between the level of “need” and the level of “want” is vast. Some RVers are content to travel the country and Workamp, while living in a tent or a pop-up camper. Others would never consider taking a job of any sort and must have a top-of-the-line motorhome or fifth-wheel with granite counter tops, leather upholstery, and all of the latest electronic bells and whistles. You can find wonderful people in both categories – and all of the levels in between.
Some of the Workampers who sold their home and almost all of their belongings to move into a small RV and travel the country are among the happiest people I’ve ever met. They truly enjoy doing a great job for their employer in any situation… from taking tickets at an amusement park to packing orders for shipment at Amazon.com, working in a sugar beet harvest operation in the Midwest or volunteering in a federal or state park or wildlife preserve, or scrubbing shower houses in a campground, and MUCH more. These folks recognize that serving others and doing fair work for fair compensation… then enjoying the area in which they live and all of God’s creations and blessings… is more valuable than owning a lot of “stuff” and feeling “prestigious.”
The problem many of us have is discerning whether we are in “want” or honestly in need. And more than a few of us don’t realize how or when we are truly blessed. We think we have to have lots and lots of “stuff” to be happy. We have to be recognized by our peers as “successful”… and we aspire to be monetarily and materially “rich.” I always look to my grandmother, who lived modestly on an income that would have been a challenge for many of us to stretch each month. Her first payment was always to the church… and somehow, she always had money left over at the end of the month… if only a few dollars. God blessed her – and continues to bless her – by meeting all of her needs. Surely, SHE is one of the richest people I know.
I have seen firsthand how God blesses those who honor Him. I’ve watched God more than meet the needs of those who put Him first and sought to serve Him at every turn. I’ve also watched some pretty “rich” people suffer and struggle because of where they placed God in their list of priorities. And I know a LOT of people who are totally confused about what constitutes true needs and what are mere wants in their lives.
I challenge you to examine your life and discover your true needs. Make sure that you put God first… that everything you do honors Him. See for yourself how this ensures that God will meet your needs…and probably bless you far beyond this measure. Figure out what “needs” you have that are truly more in the “want” category, and ask yourself how critical these really are to you. Are they honestly worth pursuing at the cost of your relationship with God? I am quite certain that when we honor God in all things and put Him first, we will have more than enough of everything else.
©2012 Debbie Robus
Honor the Lord! You are his special people. No one who honors the Lord will ever be in need.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version ©1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Twenty-five years ago, my husband and I launched Workamper News… a business that assists people in finding work while traveling and living in an RV (recreational vehicle). The world of RVing is like a lot of other things – the difference between the level of “need” and the level of “want” is vast. Some RVers are content to travel the country and Workamp, while living in a tent or a pop-up camper. Others would never consider taking a job of any sort and must have a top-of-the-line motorhome or fifth-wheel with granite counter tops, leather upholstery, and all of the latest electronic bells and whistles. You can find wonderful people in both categories – and all of the levels in between.
Some of the Workampers who sold their home and almost all of their belongings to move into a small RV and travel the country are among the happiest people I’ve ever met. They truly enjoy doing a great job for their employer in any situation… from taking tickets at an amusement park to packing orders for shipment at Amazon.com, working in a sugar beet harvest operation in the Midwest or volunteering in a federal or state park or wildlife preserve, or scrubbing shower houses in a campground, and MUCH more. These folks recognize that serving others and doing fair work for fair compensation… then enjoying the area in which they live and all of God’s creations and blessings… is more valuable than owning a lot of “stuff” and feeling “prestigious.”
The problem many of us have is discerning whether we are in “want” or honestly in need. And more than a few of us don’t realize how or when we are truly blessed. We think we have to have lots and lots of “stuff” to be happy. We have to be recognized by our peers as “successful”… and we aspire to be monetarily and materially “rich.” I always look to my grandmother, who lived modestly on an income that would have been a challenge for many of us to stretch each month. Her first payment was always to the church… and somehow, she always had money left over at the end of the month… if only a few dollars. God blessed her – and continues to bless her – by meeting all of her needs. Surely, SHE is one of the richest people I know.
I have seen firsthand how God blesses those who honor Him. I’ve watched God more than meet the needs of those who put Him first and sought to serve Him at every turn. I’ve also watched some pretty “rich” people suffer and struggle because of where they placed God in their list of priorities. And I know a LOT of people who are totally confused about what constitutes true needs and what are mere wants in their lives.
I challenge you to examine your life and discover your true needs. Make sure that you put God first… that everything you do honors Him. See for yourself how this ensures that God will meet your needs…and probably bless you far beyond this measure. Figure out what “needs” you have that are truly more in the “want” category, and ask yourself how critical these really are to you. Are they honestly worth pursuing at the cost of your relationship with God? I am quite certain that when we honor God in all things and put Him first, we will have more than enough of everything else.
©2012 Debbie Robus
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)