Longing for a Better Place - Martin Wiles

But they were looking for a better place, a heavenly homeland. That is why God is not ashamed to be called their God. Hebrews 11:16 NLT

The color of his skin destined him to a life of misery. Mistrusted, hated, scorned, ribbed. Regardless of where John traveled, the response was the same. Life took a devastating turn when he was falsely accused of kidnapping and killing two young white girls. Instead of suspecting the newly hired white man, the father and his employer immediately accused him—he was a black man. 

The local sheriff quickly arrested him and hurried him through a mock trial. Evidence was skimpy, but the verdict had been decided before the trial began: death by electrocution. Yet John was a godly man. 

Even though he knew he was innocent, he accepted his lot with a pleasant smile. When the day came for him to walk the “mile” to the electric chair, he went willingly, showing nothing but love and appreciation toward the guards who had no choice but to carry out their duties. John knew his race was against him and that there was no hope, but he could smile. What he longed for—and would soon experience, was a better place. 

Chapter 11 is known as “Faith’s Hall of Fame”—and for good reason. The writer catalogues numerous people from the Bible’s pages who willingly endured hardships because they had faith there was a better place ahead. Sickness, doubt, persecution, death, fear, rejection. All faced through the lenses of faith.  

Though there are many things about this present world I enjoy—technological marvels, family, grandchildren, job, material possessions, and friends among them—I still long for a better place. Life’s pleasures are tainted by the destructive forces of sin which always places a bitter taste in my mouth and dampens my full enjoyment. 

John didn’t fear death because he longed for a better place. I try desperately to parrot his faith. I enjoy what God gives me, but I long for the better place he has prepared. 

As I await that day, I keep trudging along with a smile on my face as I accomplish what God gives me to do. 

Prayer: Father, we praise You for creating an eternal home for Your children. 

Maggie is a teenager who chooses love over a dream. Nominate my book for a Kindle Scout contract. Click to preview & vote. http://ow.ly/Qc3UP   

Encouraging Tweet: Life’s pleasures are tainted by the destructive forces of sin.

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God’s Provision in Tough Times – 25 True Stories of God’s Provision. Use coupon MWiles for 20% off on ebook. http://ow.ly/Q0hnX

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