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Upgraded by Grace – Cokiesha Robinson
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But grow in grace… 2 Peter 3:18

For while the Law was given through Moses, grace (unearned, undeserved favor and spiritual blessing) and truth came through Jesus Christ. John 1:17

Traveling is a great passion of ours. The problem used to be that my taste often exceeded our budget. My husband reminded me about the old saying, “You can’t have champagne taste on a beer budget.”

We laugh as we recall an incident that bonded us as a young couple. Looking for a place to enjoy a nice weekend getaway, we visited an online site that would allow you to name your own price. How exciting! A 5-star hotel could be purchased for half the price. We couldn’t resist.

So we began to bid. After several attempts bidding for 5… then 4… then 3 star hotels at a price that we could afford, we found no success.
                                                                                                                                                                                                   “We’ll have to change our plan…two star hotel, here we come!”said my husband.

“Oh no!” I cringed. We were exhausted and still in the newlywed season. I wanted to stay in a hotel that would be perfectly filled with pampering and relaxation.

He clicked the button to choose the two star hotel the site recommended based upon our desired price. I held my breath wondering where in the world it would be. To our surprise, the site sent us a message that said, “You have been upgraded. We found a room at a 5-star hotel at the price that you bid for.” We were astonished. We had the opportunity to enjoy an elegant room, exquisite food, and rare amenities at a beautiful hotel that was more expensive than our budget would allow.

This was a grace gift. We’d been bumped up — able to experience what we desired but could not attain. Have you ever been upgraded by grace? On the cross, Christ upgraded each of us by dying the death we should have died. He could have denied us entrance into His family, but He blessed us with unmerited favor and pardoned our sins. It doesn’t matter what your pedigree, past, or plans are made of. Jesus came to bump us up so that we may gain what we could never attain without Him. Embrace the grace today. You’ve been upgraded!

Cokiesha Bailey Robinson is a graduate of Fisk University where she earned a B.A. degree and a graduate of Samford University, where she obtained a M.Div. degree. She worked in the field of radio before becoming involved in full-time ministry work. She has served as a missionary to a number of countries and studied in Izmir, Turkey. Her greatest passions are encouraging others through oral and written expressions. She writes for several devotional sites and has contributed to 3 books one of which she co-authored: Farther In and Deeper Down (written by the Bailey family), This is My Story (written by Dr. Cleo Larue), and Planting Trust, Knowing Peace (written by Mrs. Denise George). A native of Dallas, Texas, she and her husband Timothy enjoy being students of the Word and of the world. They serve together on the leadership committee for laity at Princeton Theological Seminary and serve in ministry in NY, NY.

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I Need Thee – Cokiesha B. Robinson
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Draw near unto Him and He will draw near unto you. James 4:8

“I need thee, O I need thee.” Thirty-seven-year-old Annie Sherwood Hawkins stood before her pastor and quoted her poem. “Every hour I need thee; O bless me now, my Savior, I come to thee.”

Dr. Lowery must have blotted his eyes, sighed with deep conviction and smiled with inner peace. The poem impacted him so much that he sat at the organ and added a chorus making one of the greatest and most popular hymns ever penned.

Years later, I Need Thee is still published and sung in congregations across the world. Its words stated so simply, are poignant and prolific.

Life has been so busy lately; this favorite song should become my personal mission statement. Just reciting the words brings tears to my eyes. When we are feeling worn out, there is only one solution–spiritual rejuvenation found in God’s presence.

I am deeply moved when I think of my four-year-old niece, who lifts her arms toward her mother in the sweetest way requesting a big hug. “Momma, I want you.” She desires the presence of her mother, longs for her comfort, and needs her help–just like we need the help of our Father in heaven.

Christ is an active part of our daily lives, but how many times do we overlook planning time with the One that we need the most? In a world where we’re encouraged to be self-sufficient, we often lose sight of the Father who provides fully for us. We don’t have to be sufficient. We can rely on our all-sufficient Savior. We don’t have to be independent; we can be interdependent upon Him.

Are you vulnerable and desperate for Him? Perhaps we need to become like the deer panting for the water brook.

When I find myself searching for spiritual fuel, more strength for the journey, and more peace, I find it at His feet…I need Him, Oh I need Him.

Cokiesha Bailey Robinson is a graduate of Fisk University where she earned a B.A. degree, and a graduate of Samford University, where she obtained a M.Div. degree. She worked in the field of radio before becoming involved in full-time ministry work. She has served as a missionary to a number of countries and studied in Izmir, Turkey. Her greatest passions are encouraging others through oral and written expressions. She writes for several devotional sites and has contributed to 3 books, one of which she co-authored: Farther In and Deeper Down (written by the Bailey family), This is My Story (written by Dr. Cleo Larue), and Planting Trust, Knowing Peace (written by Mrs. Denise George). A native of Dallas, Texas, she and her husband Timothy enjoy being students of the Word and of the world. They serve together on the leadership committee for laity at Princeton Theological Seminary and serve in ministry in NY, NY. Read Cokeisha’s devotions

I Am a Friend of God – Cokiesha B. Robinson
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God is faithful (reliable, trustworthy, and therefore ever true to His promise, and He can be depended on); by Him you were called into companionship and participation with His Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. I Corinthians 1:9 (Amplified Bible)

In a recent visit to my hometown, I sat in the car at the airport preparing to say goodbye to my family.

My mother, sister, brother, and three-year-old niece got out of the car to hug and say our “I love you’s. I looked at my niece and said, “You are my best friend.” She smiled and replied, “I am? Then, tell me a secret.” She giggled. She understood the depth of true friendship.

I have an array of friends, but for a quick second I thought about the sweet friend that I have in my own three-year-old niece.

When I look into her eyes I know she doesn’t see a working woman, a wife, or one who has an ever-changing life. She doesn’t see me juggling blessings and burdens, faith and frustrations. She only sees a fellow playmate who enjoys having child-like fun with her. She sees her “mommy’s sister” whom she named, “Too-Too.”

On the plane ride home I couldn’t help but thank God for the reminder of His sweet friendship. Here in the purity of one of the most precious moments of my life, my niece showed me that having a best friend means you have someone to tell your secrets to.

Surely, if our family members relish in our companionship and we get lost in moments of pure joy with them, we can imagine what God desires from us.

Take a moment to relish in your eternal companionship. We have relationship with the One who is ever-present and true. He is a promise-keeping God who allows us to cry and cheer with Him. We stand in awe of Him in worship and He invites us to enjoy his everlasting friendship. Before you look for another bff (best friend forever), rejoice in the friend you have in God. Share your secrets today.

Cokiesha Bailey Robinson is a graduate of Fisk University where she earned a B.A. degree, and a graduate of Samford University, where she obtained a M.Div. degree. She worked in the field of radio before becoming involved in full-time ministry. She has served as a missionary to a number of countries and studied in Izmir, Turkey. Her greatest passions are encouraging others through oral and written expressions. She writes for several devotional sites and has contributed to 3 books, one of which she co-authored: Farther In and Deeper Down (written by the Bailey family), This is My Story (written by Dr. Cleo Larue), and Planting Trust, Knowing Peace (written by Mrs. Denise George). A native of Dallas, Texas, she and her husband Timothy enjoy being students of the Word and of the world. They serve together on the leadership committee for laity at Princeton Theological Seminary and serve in ministry in NY, NY.Read Cokeisha’s devotions

Blessing in a Name – Cokiesha Robinson
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A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches. Proverbs 22:1

Have you ever thought about the significance of your name? Some believe there is a vital connection between the names that we are given at birth and our destiny. In giving a child a name in biblical times, the parents would reflect the circumstances of the child, the features of the child, and/or their commitment of the child to God.

Abraham means “father of a multitude.” Eve’s name means “mother.” Hannah means “grace of God.” Isaac means “laughter.” Joseph means “God will increase,” and Josiah means “fire of the Lord.” What a blessing to see, in the pages of God’s infallible word, each of these people and others living up to their name.

Names are not only significant in the Bible but in our rich history and also in modern day society. We see their significance in family and historical names. Cleopatra means “father’s fame.” George means “a tiller of the soil.” Timothy means “honored by God.” Our names often mirror our dreams and future.

What does your name mean? Does it mean joy, peace, champion or gift? Does it mean beautiful/handsome one or dreamer/visionary?

Better yet, do we find that we live up to our names? Our name makes us unique. Yet, there is a name above all, more special because it is sacred. It evokes power and supersedes all fads, trends, cultures, and time. This name is the name of Jesus! His name is holy, hallowed, and to be praised!

Take a moment and thank God for the uniqueness in your own name. It was not given to you by accident. Thank God for the power that we experience in His name. You shall call His name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins. Since we wear the name “Christian,” may we wear the name of Christ as a badge of honor each day.

Heavenly Father, we reverence your holy name. Thank you for saving us and adopting us into your family. Teach us to live up to our names in Christ so that the world may encounter your personality.

Cokiesha Bailey Robinson is a graduate of Fisk University where she earned a B.A. degree, and a graduate of Samford University, where she obtained a M.Div. degree. She worked in the field of radio before becoming involved in full-time ministry. She has served as a missionary to a number of countries and studied in Izmir, Turkey. Her greatest passion is encouraging others through oral and written expressions. She writes for several devotional sites and has contributed to 3 books; one of which she co-authored: Farther In and Deeper Down (written by the Bailey family), This is My Story (written by Dr. Cleo Larue), and Planting Trust, Knowing Peace (written by Mrs. Denise George). A native of Dallas, Texas, she and her husband Timothy enjoy being students of the Word and of the world. They serve together on the leadership committee for laity at Princeton Theological Seminary and serve in ministry in NY, NY.Read Cokeisha’s devotions

Hush! Somebody’s Calling My Name – Cokiesha Robinson
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“Jesus said to her, “Mary.” She turned toward him and cried out in Aramaic, “Rabboni!” (which means Teacher).” John 20:16 NIV

Grandmother loved the old songs. She loved the classic song, “Hush! Somebody’s Calling My Name.” I must admit, I thought the song was a bit sad and old fashioned. Little did I know my grandmother saw what I couldn’t see as an immature and naïve girl who had not developed in her own faith.

I had not had enough life experiences to mature me. I saw an unpopular tune in our pop culture society. She saw a song that reminded her of the day Jesus would call her name to eternal rest. I saw a song with a slow beat and a depressing tune. She heard beyond the beat and rejoiced in the message of the lyrics. To “Mama Lucy,” the value in having her named called by others was grand, but she anticipated her name being called by her Savior.

It’s special to hear our name being called by those we love. We feel significant and special. Their calling grabs our attention and validates us.

Jesus took the time to call the name of one of His children. He saw Mary Magdalene at the tomb, distraught. She was horrified after watching her Lord crucified—she was weeping and worried.

Jesus responded to her, gently speaking her name. “Mary.” By calling her name, He changed Mary’s perspective and her perception. He desires to do the same for us.

Sometimes problems or pain causes us to become spiritually deaf. We miss words of hope we should hear. Jesus came to change our perspective. Mary thought she heard the gardener. Little did she know the risen Savior was calling her name.

Problems, pain, our current economic condition, or emotional recession may have distorted our perception, but today, we can see Him more clearly if we recognize his voice.

Allow Jesus to do much more in your life. Listen for His voice. Hush. Somebody’s calling your name.

Cokiesha Bailey Robinson is a graduate of Fisk University where she earned a B.A. degree, and a graduate of Samford University, where she obtained a M.Div. degree. She worked in the field of radio before becoming involved in full-time ministry work. She has served as a missionary to a number of countries and studied in Izmir, Turkey. Her greatest passions are encouraging others through oral and written expressions. She writes for several devotional sites and has contributed to 3 books one of which she co-authored: Farther In and Deeper Down (written by the Bailey family), This is My Story (written by Dr. Cleo Larue), and Planting Trust, Knowing Peace (written by Mrs. Denise George). A native of Dallas, Texas, she and her husband Timothy enjoy being students of the Word and of the world. They serve together on the leadership committee for laity at Princeton Theological Seminary and serve in ministry in NY, NY.Read Cokeisha’s devotions

Lord Help Us to Be Content – Cokeisha Robinson
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“For I have learned to be content, whatever the circumstances may be. I know now how to live when things are difficult and I know how to live when things are prosperous. I am ready for anything through the strength of the One who lives within me.” Phil 4:11-13

It appears so many friends of mine are being stretched and stressed. Daily, I receive countless emails and phone calls seeking encouragement because jobs are no longer secure, pay has been decreased, insurance plans have changed and marriages are strained – all because of financial crisis. At some point, we all can identify. At times, I find myself in God’s presence asking, “Is this what I get for submitting to your will? I had life so much easier when I did things my own way.”

When I become consumed with thoughts like that, I am reminded that none of us are exempt from tests or the process of learning true contentment. God seems not as concerned with our comfort as much as He is with our character development.

We live in one of the most expensive cities in the world—the “Big Apple.” I loved it when we were having a grand time on Broadway or enjoying star-studded date nights, but I think if our bank account could speak up at times like this, it would be called the “Sour Apple.” The cost of living, the cost of groceries and gas are horrendous. More money goes to essentials than luxuries these days and planning for our financial future is scary at times.

It would be easy for us to move back to our hometown in order to be more “comfortable” and to feel more “secure,” but then, we’d be abandoning our current assignment given to us by God. Not only that, but “jumping ship,” would be submitting to a theology we do not believe—one driven by money and comfort verses what is guided by the divine direction of God. We have decided to stay as long as it’s God’s will. Perhaps He wants to show us what it means to rest in Him.

God is in control of all things and we’re confident He will never leave us. He has proven that He will supply all of our needs. At the end of each day, we can smile because we know that even though our nation is in a recession, we serve a recession-proof Savior. We choose to trust Him at all costs.

Cokiesha B. Robinson is a graduate of Fisk University where she earned a B.A. degree and a graduate of Samford University, where she obtained a M.Div. degree. She worked in the field of radio before becoming involved in full time ministry work. She has served as a missionary to a number of countries and her greatest passions are encouraging others through oral and written expressions. She has contributed to 3 books, one of which she co-authored: Farther In and Deeper Down, This is My Story, and Planting Trust, Knowing Peace, She is a native Texan and currently resides in Yonkers, NY with her husband, Tim. <Read Cokeisha’s devotions

It’s Raining – On the Inside! – Cokiesha Robinson
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“Cast all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you.” 1Peter 5:7

Not long ago, I came home from a busy workday. As soon as I opened the front door, I heard a thunderous sound of water. Exhausted and startled, I dropped my purse. Where was the water sound coming from? I knew I hadn’t left the shower on and I prayed the water pump hadn’t burst. What could that noise be? I walked from room to room searching for the culprit.

Then, water dripped on my head and face. I felt it every time I walked into the living room, down the hallway and into our home office. I soon discovered the sound increased when I walked into the closet in our guest room. To my amazement, water from a neighbor’s condominium upstairs poured into ours on the first floor. I couldn’t stop it! It looked like an indoor waterfall. The more I mopped, the more the water rained down. Water was everywhere. I pulled out every trash can and bucket that we had and placed them throughout the house. I even called my husband who was traveling, as if he could help.

It seemed never ending and I just wanted the problem to go away. Who has ever heard of it raining on the inside? Every drop of water that fell onto our pictures, books, clothes and carpet, represented little drops of trouble.

Do you ever feel that way? Have you ever had a long day only to get home and be confronted with problems? Do you ever feel as though the inside of your life has rain pouring in?

Later in the week, everything dried and we had little damage. What once seemed overwhelming and hopeless was not so bad after all. Who knows why some things happen? The blessing is that God doesn’t allow us to walk alone. In the middle of life’s storms, when the rain pelts us relentlessly, remember Jesus’ command to the storm—“Peace, be still!”

Cokiesha B. Robinson is a graduate of Fisk University where she earned a B.A. degree, and a graduate of Samford University, where she obtained a M.Div. degree. She worked in the field of radio before becoming involved in full-time ministry work. She has served as a missionary to a number of countries and her greatest passions are encouraging others through oral and written expressions. She has contributed to 3 books, one of which she co-authored: Farther In and Deeper Down, This is My Story, and Planting Trust, Knowing Peace, She is a native Texan and currently resides in Yonkers, NY with her husband, Tim. Read Cokeisha’s devotions

God Owns Everything! – Cokeisha B. Robinson
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“The earth is the Lord’s, and the fullness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein.” Psalm 24:1

I am a proud collector. No, not of crystal or porcelain dolls; I collect quotes. I find inspiration by drawing from the words of others—mothers, fathers, children, poets, ministers, presidents, teachers, etc. I gain encouragement from their timeless truths and experiences.

One of my favorite quotes is, “Never ‘Own’ Anything—Get Rid of the Sense of Possessing!”

A.W. Tozer penned those words many years ago, yet they continue to speak volumes today. We live in a world that encourages us to own everything—our homes, cars, our businesses, etc. As profitable and rewarding as it is to make wise investments, I wonder if our desire to own everything has given us a false sense of entitlement. Perhaps seeing our names on paychecks, business cards and personalized desk or door plates has convinced us we’re responsible for our existence, possessions and the maintenance of the things that we “own.”

God owns everything. Yes, everything from our homes to our hearts. How dare we be possessive over things that are not ours. Children who are learning to share are seen at the toy chest and on the playground shouting, “Mine, it’s mine!” They think everything belongs to them. I wonder where they learned that? We certainly reflect that when it comes to giving back to God.

When it is time to tithe, do we give joyfully or do we think of excuses that prevent us from giving sacrificially?

He wants us to loosen our grip on “His things.” He desires that we remember He is Creator and sustainer of all things. In the words of Dr. Warren Wiersbe, “God is the manufacturer and we are the manger.”

Today, denounce the attitudes of entitlement and develop attitudes of appreciation. Praise God for the blessings of the things He shares.

Father, thank you for being so gracious to us. You have given continuously and freely. Forgive us for taking ownership of your resources and gifts. As you have given us the best in your son, Jesus Christ, please help us to give back to you all that we have, simply because it is yours. Our hands are open. In your name we pray, Amen.

Cokiesha B. Robinson is a graduate of Fisk University where she earned a B.A. degree and a graduate of Samford University, where she obtained a M.Div. degree. She worked in the field of radio before becoming involved in full time ministry work. She has served as a missionary to a number of countries and her greatest passions are encouraging others through oral and written expressions. She has contributed to 3 books, one of which she co-authored: Farther In and Deeper Down, This is My Story, and Planting Trust, Knowing Peace.

She is a native Texan and currently resides in Yonkers, NY with her husband, Tim.
Read Cokeisha’s devotions

How to Handle a Crisis — Cokiesha B. Robinson
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“…then came one of the rulers of the synagogue, Jairus by name, and seeing him, he fell at his feet.” Mark 5:22 (ESV)

How do you typically handle bad news? Do you go to the mall to over spend? Do you find the nearest buffet to over eat? Do you hide in the house and refuse to get out of bed—call your closest friend to vent?

Everyone has received bad news. Life is comprised of both mountains and valleys. Sometimes it’s easier to isolate ourselves when various crisis knock on our door. Other times we find ourselves worrying and placing matters into our own hands. Why? Because in the words of one of my best friends, we decide to “blow up the balloons at our own pity parties.”

Today, we must remember that the problems we are faced with may seem all- consuming to us, but they are very manageable to Jesus.

Jairus’ daughter was sick. She was at the point of death. Jairus was the local problem solver. He was the local teacher. Yet one day he could not keep his faith in himself or his own abilities. He had to find the one who had all power and place his trust and belief system in His hands. He publicly humiliated himself in order to get the attention of Jesus. As Jesus got out of the boat, Jairus ran and fell at His feet and invited Him to his house.

What makes you and I just like Jairus, the synagogue leader? We also find ourselves desperate for deliverance.

As we are faced with receiving bad news in life may we follow the example of Jairus. He had to swallow his pride—transfer the faith that he had in his own knowledge, his pedigree, his education and his own status and place it in the hands of Jesus. Jesus not only agreed to come to his house, but He restored His daughter as well.

God desires for us to cast our cares on Him through prayer. Before we call our close friend or our parents, He wants us to call on Him. Instead of having an anxiety attack or acting impulsively, let us find Jesus and tell him about our problems in faith.

He wants to come to your house today…find Him and fall at His feet.

Cokiesha B. Robinson is a graduate of Fisk University where she earned a B.A. degree and a graduate of Samford University, where she obtained a M.Div. degree. She worked in the field of radio before becoming involved in full time ministry work. She has served as a missionary to a number of countries and her greatest passions are encouraging others through oral and written expressions. She has contributed to 3 books, one of which she co-authored: Farther In and Deeper Down, This is My Story, and Planting Trust, Knowing Peace, She is a native Texan and currently resides in Yonkers, NY with her husband.
Read Cokeisha’s devotions

When It Doesn’t Make Cents – Cokiesha B. Robinson
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“The word of the LORD came to Jonah…but Jonah ran away from the LORD and headed for Tarshish.” Jonah 1:1-3

Years ago there was a popular song that went, “If it don’t make money, it don’t make sense.” You could hear it blasting from boom boxes as kids washed their cars, moving to its soulful beat. In time the song faded from the charts but the lyrics remained etched into the psyche of our youth. Now, it seems, the goal of financial prosperity has become for some a social entitlement.

Yes, it’s true, sometimes God does bless us financially, but other times He blesses us in ways that have nothing to do with economic prosperity. When Jonah heard God’s call he “went“, but in the wrong direction. He ran toward safety, ease and convenient circumstances. Are we any different?

Some time ago my husband and I were offered jobs in a city we love. The job offered a pay increase, a closer commute to our families and a region with a lower cost of living. It seemed like a perfect fit for our situation.

After much prayer, however, we sensed the Lord leading us to remain where we are. We felt the opportunity was God’s way of testing us to see if we were committed to serving Him rather than serving money. In the end we said “no” to the job and I confess to thinking to myself, “now God will reward us for our faithfulness.”

Instead, we were met with spiritual warfare. We learned that when circumstances don’t make “cents” you can bet God’s hand is in it, taking control and helping us fight the battles.

Within days we found ourselves asking, “How could this be? Lord, we did what you told us to? Can’t you relent just a little?” For a while He was silent and then, in that still small voice we heard him ask, “Will you trust me? Will you be faithful even when it doesn’t seem logical? Will you allow me to be the Lord of your heart and of your day-to-day decisions, regardless of the circumstances?”

“Yes, Lord, you know we will.”

Soon we were covered with peace. We knew, even though our decision hadn’t made financial sense, that we were in the will of God-that He understood His plan even if we didn’t.

Jonah got a second chance at saying “yes” to God. He turned and obeyed by going to a country that hated God. And when he did a revival broke out.

Will you trust God with your finances, even when it doesn’t make “cents?” Will you say, “Lord, help me to trust your heart when I can’t trace your hand?” I pray that you will.

Cokiesha B. Robinson is a graduate of Fisk University where she earned a B.A. degree and a graduate of Samford University, where she obtained a M.Div. degree. She worked in the field of radio before becoming involved in full time ministry work. She has served as a missionary to a number of countries and her greatest passions are encouraging others through oral and written expressions. She has contributed to 3 books, one of which she co-authored: Farther In and Deeper Down, This is My Story, and Planting Trust, Knowing Peace, She is a native Texan and currently resides in Yonkers, NY with her husband.Read Cokeisha’s devotions