Free At Last by Martin Wiles

I hated the way it tasted and more so the way I felt the following morning, but it helped me fit in and made me temporarily forget my teenage struggles.

They say preacher’s kids get in trouble by hanging around with the deacon’s kids, and in my case it was true. My best buddy was a deacon’s son, and he introduced me to alcohol. Drinking became more than just a weekend endeavor with my peers. I wanted to be “badder” so I drank almost daily. And since current rules and regulations weren’t in effect, it was easy to get. 

I stayed in my prison until I was a young adult when God convinced me I didn’t need it and it didn’t fit who I was in Christ. So I put it away and never touched it again. 

Peter’s prison wasn’t alcohol but was taxing just the same-and perhaps life threatening. Only God could deliver him. Suddenly an angel of the Lord appeared and a light shone in the cell. He struck Peter on the side and woke him up. “Quick, get up!” he said, and the chains fell off Peter’s wrists (Acts 12:7).

Literal prisons are repulsive, but there are other prisons that are just as filthy and dangerous. Addictive substances, obsessive thoughts, abusive relationships, uncontrollable spending, rejection, pornography and immoral lifestyles are all prisons of the mind and soul only God can deliver us from. One touch from an angel freed Peter. Some prisons take longer to escape and require hard work, but the starting point is the same-God’s touch and our willingness to change the circumstances confining us.

What mindsets, relationships or actions are imprisoning you? Let God free you from what only he can.

Prayer: Magnificent God who controls our thoughts and actions, we trust You to make us free at last.

Life’s In The Blood by Martin Wiles

I saw her lying on the road as I took my morning walk; the victim of a hit and run. The next morning Ms. Mockingbird’s body remained in the same place but was a little more deteriorated. Had scavengers left it alone, heat and insects would have shortly turned it into a pile of bones.

When the heart stops or too much blood is lost, life ceases. God told his people not to eat blood. You must not eat the blood of any creature, because the life of every creature is its blood (Leviticus 17:14). Several reasons explain the prohibition: eating blood was a pagan practice, it destroyed the symbolism of sacrifice wherein an animal’s blood was substituted for a human’s and consuming blood was dangerous since many deadly diseases were transported through it.

But there’s a more important aspect of blood. Not only does it give physical life, it also provides spiritual life. Though his listeners were confused and upset when hearing it, Jesus alluded to this principle when he told them they must eat his body and drink his blood (John 6:41-58). He wasn’t suggesting something the Law forbade and didn’t expect them to literally drink his blood. He referenced a spiritual participation.

We can be physically alive but spiritually dead and it all pertains to our blood. I’ve been physically alive since August 31, 1960, but I wasn’t spiritually alive until 1969. Our first birth is important; the second is essential. Jesus’ life giving blood is received when we ask him to allow it to remove our sins. When his blood enters us we live abundantly, freely and eternally. Whose blood is running through your veins? Yours or Christ’s? 

Prayer: Thank You Lord for the eternal forgiveness and life Your blood provides.

Us And Them by Martin Wiles

Psychologists call it groupthink-a phenomenon that happens when people in a particular group are so overly concerned with harmony that they won’t listen to alternative ideas, and their desire to minimize conflict overrides their ability to think outside the box.

Bigotry runs in a similar vein. Bigots are undyingly devoted to their opinions and prejudices and aren’t open to challenges. We often associate bigotry with racism but it can also extend to gender, political issues, church affiliation, age, economic status, language or nationality.  

One of Jesus’ disciples may have struggled with one or both mentalities. “Teacher,” said John, “we saw someone driving out demons in your name and we told him to stop, because he was not one of us” (Mark 9:38). John appeared to have an “us and them” religious mentality. You were either in Jesus’ group or you weren’t. But Jesus reminded him the team was larger than 12 disciples. Anyone not on an opposing team was on theirs by default.

History records periods when Protestants detested Catholics and Catholics returned the favor, when Jews were hated so fiercely they were almost exterminated, when slaves and free blacks were forced to sit in the balconies of white churches and when Protestant groups divided among themselves over issues they couldn’t agree on.

Jesus isn’t proposing unity at all costs; some things are worth standing for and dividing over. He’s merely reminding us we accomplish more together than apart. Groupthink and bigotry divides and prevents the measure of success we could otherwise enjoy. What attitudes keep you focused on the little things and prevent you from working on the big picture with all believers? 

Prayer: God of all creation, unify us in love for each other so our work for You can reach its greatest potential.

Bad Decisions by Martin Wiles

She sat at the airport crying-waiting for the bus that would carry her back to base where she would be discharged ASAP.

Sarah* was an unmarried young woman who left a stressful job and joined the National Guard. After four weeks at basic training, stress fractures sent her home on convalescence leave. During the recuperation, she learned she was pregnant by a young man she had only been dating three months. Now she was back to be chaptered out of her dream. Sarah’s emotions ran wild as she thought about the drastic changes in store. She had sinned and consequences would follow.

Moses warned two Israeli tribes about sin’s consequences. But if you fail to do this, you will be sinning against the LORD; and you may be sure that your sin will find you out (Numbers 32:23). They and half of another tribe wanted to settle on the eastern side of the Jordan River rather than in the Promised Land proper. Initially angry, Moses accepted their request but warned them about the dangers of reneging on their promise to help their comrades fight for their inheritance.

Sin may be an unpopular term for forbidden acts, but it’s God’s term nevertheless. Bad decisions aren’t necessarily sinful but when they are consequences follow. I’ve endured painful consequences resulting from other’s bad decisions, but the worst are the ones experienced because of bad choices I made.

Fortunately, consequences have nothing to do with forgiveness or future chances. The only unpardonable sin is refusing God; all others are forgivable. And God always gives another chance when we express sorrow and a desire to begin anew. Bad decisions only define us when we choose to live in the prison of regret. God may not remove the consequences, but he’ll give strength to face each new day.

Prayer: Thank You merciful Lord for Your continual forgiveness and fresh starts. 
*Name changed to protect privacy.
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Limited Sight Distance by Martin Wiles

I looked at the sign and immediately knew what it meant.

I don’t recall having to learn its meaning for my driver’s test, but then again it’s just one of those no-brainer signs.

Limited Sight Distance signs are usually found in the mountains where sharp curves and protruding rocks keep one from seeing what’s around the next corner. These signs warn us to slow down lest we encounter oncoming vehicles unexpectedly. 

Saul (later named Paul) had limited sight distance. What he thought he saw he didn’t, and it took a blinding light from God to clear things up. While on his way to Damascus to arrest Jesus’ followers, he suddenly encountered the risen Christ. God’s headlight blinded him causing his traveling companions to have to lead him by the hand to the city. God enlisted Ananias to restore Paul’s sight. When he laid his hands on Saul immediately, something like scales fell from Saul’s eyes, and he could see again. He got up and was baptized (Acts 9:18).

Paul’s scales were spiritual not literal, and mine normally are too. They kept him from experiencing what God had in mind for his life, but when they fell away he saw as he never had before.

Limited sight distance can be caused by a number of things such as refusing to acknowledge our sinfulness and accept God’s solution, rebelling against God’s plan for our life, tradition, ingrained customs, misplaced priorities, or failing to follow Biblical principles. But the end is the same. We fail to enjoy God’s best and run head on into life collisions. What are the scales God needs to remove from your eyes?

Prayer: Merciful Father, we ask You for wisdom to face what’s around life’s curves and that You remove the scales so we can see Your plan clearly.

Regaling Our Reputations by Martin Wiles

Nicknamed “Charlie Hustle,” Pete Rose is a former Major League baseball player and manager.

Rose’s record is impressive. As of 2012, he leads the Major League in hits, games played, at-bats and outs. His winnings include three World Series rings, three batting titles, two Gold Gloves, Rookie of the Year Award and one Most Valuable Player Award.

But Rose is usually remembered for something else. In 2004-after years of denying it, Rose admitted to betting on baseball games. A few leaders of one of Israel’s tribes also had a reputation problem. They were famous but not faithful. They were brave warriors, famous men, and heads of their families. But they were unfaithful to the God of their ancestors (I Chronicles 5:24-25).

One poor decision can ruin a good reputation, destroy a spotless credit record or upend a family. Building good reputations takes time, diligence and hard work. Like credit ratings, they don’t just happen. Credit ratings are built by purchasing items on time, paying them off on time, and giving the lender interest in the process. But one or two foibles can destroy what it took years to build-with credit and reputations.

Nor does living in the limelight outwardly mean one is okay inwardly. Honorable reputations come from a unique relationship with God, which in turn affects our attitudes and actions. I can be known as a hard worker but be immoral or have a reputation as a dedicated father yet cheat on my wife.

Loving God and obeying his commands helps us build God-honoring reputations that are noticed by others. And God’s Spirit will always guide us to actions and decisions that preserve our reputations.

Prayer: Lord, keep us close to You in our words, thoughts and actions so our reputations will honor Your name.

Praying For Snakes by Martin Wiles

I’m a snake handler of sorts.

Snakes fascinate me. I’ve never been afraid of any snake as long as I see it first, but my wife is terrified of all snakes. She was once sitting on our front porch when I brought her a black snake I found lying in our back yard. Her high pitched screams, horrified expression and stern words convinced me it wasn’t a good present. 

Jesus mentioned snakes when teaching about prayer. We should ask, seek and knock because our heavenly Father wants to give us our heart’s desires and will when they’re in his will. But what father if his son asks for a fish, will give him a snake? (Matthew 7:10) Sometimes we pray for snakes, and when we do God doesn’t grant our requests.

Snakes are things outside God’s will for our life. While on his second missionary journey, Paul experienced two occasions when God’s Spirit forbade him to go into regions he wanted to visit (Acts 16). His desire wasn’t sinful; it just wasn’t God’s plan for him to head in that direction.

Snakes are any attitudes, actions and thoughts outside God’s will. Praying with ulterior motives and sinful attitudes or acting in ungodly ways places us in the company of poisonous snakes and we’ll be bitten by God’s discipline.

Snakes are also things outside God’s timing. David’s prayer asking God to let him construct a temple wasn’t sinful; it just wasn’t the right time. He was a warrior (I Chronicles 17). Temple building was for peace time and would happen while his son Solomon reigned.

Learn to know God’s mind better through spiritual disciplines, and when you do you’ll be less likely to pray for snakes.

Prayer: Father in heaven, teach us to ask for fish instead of snakes.

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The Final Move by Martin Wiles

“I’m getting too old for this,” I remarked. “So am I,” my wife admitted.

Moving is seldom enjoyable even when you’re going to a place you love. I once calculated my moving career and discovered the average stay at any place was less than two years. Initially, this was my dad’s fault. Then it was mine. The life of a preacher’s kid is similar to a MK (missionary kid) and an AB (army brat). Life is lived on the move.

Our most recent move took us from LowCountry to Upstate South Carolina and required stuffing our “stuff” into a 12 by 16 and 10 by 10 foot storage building. Not an easy task, even for one accustomed to packing a lot in small spaces. Sweat, aggravation, focus, contemplation, sore muscles and long days all accompanied our move.

I truly don’t care to change locations anymore-although it’s probably inevitable I will. But I am concerned about my final move which I’m banking will take me upward instead of laterally. Paul was too. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day (II Timothy 4:8).

None of us can know when we’ll make the final move, but we will make it because death is inevitable and so is Christ’s second coming. Whichever comes first is immaterial; the result is the same-endless eternity. Once there, we stay. We can’t leave hell for heaven and we wouldn’t want the reverse. Faith in Christ for forgiveness of our sins assures our final move will be in the right direction. Make sure you’re prepared for your final move.

Prayer: Precious Lord, thank You for Your forgiveness that assures our final move means an eternity with You.
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Good Grief by Martin Wiles

He wailed loudly; she sat ashen faced. He struggled and wanted to go to his heavenly home; she cried and said she wanted him at their house. She lay slumped over in the chair; he smiled and told me what a wonderful lady she was. Expressions of grief and reactions to loss.

“Good grief” is a phase used to express disappointment, but what it says is actually true. Expressing grief is good and necessary when dealing with death, tragedy and other forms of loss.

David-the psalmist and king, was no stranger to loss and tragedy but wasn’t afraid to express grief. Absalom-one his sons, led a rebellion against him. As a loving father, David gave instructions to deal gently with his son in battle, but one of the commanders disobeyed the king’s order and killed Absalom. David wept, mourned and wished he could have died in his son’s place. The king was shaken. He went up to the room over the gateway and wept (II Samuel 18:33).

“Real men don’t cry” was once taught to boys and men. Sadly, the teaching made them think crying was for sissies and a sign of weakness. But David wasn’t a sissy. As a shepherd boy, he fought lions and bears protecting his father’s sheep. While in the military, he experienced greater victories than the king himself. Real men-and women, cry. David did.

Grief not expressed is grief repressed, and grief repressed is loss not dealt with. Grieving over loss-in whatever form we choose, is accepting what has happened so we can move on. We don’t have to like death, tragedy, unfaithfulness, financial setbacks or any other foreign matter invading our territory, but we must accept and deal with them. When we don’t, depression, anger and other forms of maladaptive behavior will follow. Learn to see grief as healthy.

Prayer: Merciful Lord, teach us how to properly grieve when loss enters our life.

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When God Shows Up by Martin Wiles

Would God really alter weather patterns for an outdoor Christian event?     

Many might say he could; probably few actually believe he would. One thing’s for certain, God showed up at a recent Rick Gage GO TELL Crusade I attended.

Angry clouds and pounding rain threatened to cancel the Tuesday night rally, but just in time the rain suddenly stopped and the clouds gave way to sunny skies. One attendee remarked, “It’s like a hole in the clouds. The Lord never ceases to amaze me.” The worship leader and program director reminded us that “God commands the winds and waves.”

Speaker Adrian Despres-chaplain for the University of South Carolina football team, spoke at length and challenged those present to trust God. When he called for a response, hundreds poured from the bleachers and decorated the football field-laying, standing and kneeling in prayer. Lightning flashed around the field’s perimeter, but not a drop of rain fell. 

In a psalm filled with references of how God has rescued his people, the psalmist mentions those plying world trade routes and how they witnessed God’s power over the winds and waves. For he spoke and stirred up a tempest that lifted high the waves (Psalm 107:25).

When God shows up so does his power. Things start happening and stop happening. Storms arise or the rain ceases. I quit complaining and gossiping and start loving my spouse, kids, family, friends and neighbors in a higher manner. I stop gambling and start giving. I quit going to church out of habit and start because I love Jesus. I give up enslaving habits and adopt freeing ones. God’s power can accomplish whatever is needed in your life.

Prayer: Powerful Father, enable us to let Your power change what needs changing in our lifestyles and attitudes.

Joy In Adversity by Martin Wiles

I was twenty four years old and had never had one, but I did now.

My fiancé and I were riding bikes down a country road. Railroad tracks don’t normally concern me, but these crossed the road at an angle. When my front tire made contact, it was yanked into the track’s crevice sending my bike one way and me the other. I skidded down the asphalt on my right arm. When I stood up, I knew my arm was broken. Adversity brought pain, but I did get two weeks off from work.

Paul wasn’t a stranger to pain-nor was his traveling companions. The crowd joined in the attack against Paul and Silas, and the magistrates ordered them to be stripped and beaten with rods (Acts 16:22).

This time he cast a demon out of a woman fortune teller who was making her masters wealthy. They were angry, accused Paul and Silas of violating Roman customs and had them beaten and thrown in jail. What they didn’t figure was how God would bring good out of their evil intentions: the jailer and his entire family became followers of Christ.

No one enjoys adversity or the accompanying pain, but life is filled with both and following Christ normally intensifies them. We want others to enjoy the relationship we have with Jesus, but not everyone wants it. Some accept our message with joy while others may violently oppose us.

Paul and Silas sang while in jail. We can also have joy in the presence of adversity by remembering God controls our circumstances. He may not remove the pain or adversity, but he gives us strength to endure. Adversity is a given when lighting the world with Jesus’ love. Don’t let conflict diminish your determination to show and tell others what God has done for you.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, give us strength to face the adversity while we share Your love.

Honoring Authority by Martin Wiles

I can’t imagine having lived under his reign of terror-wondering if or when I’d hear a knock on the door, be greeted by his pawns and carted off to prison or the gas chamber.

How world leaders allowed one country’s leader to commit such enormous atrocities before intervening is an anomaly. But it happened. Under Adolf Hitler’s state sponsored reign of terror, approximately six million European Jews were systematically slaughtered. When other people groups and political and religious opponents are included, the number rises to over eleven million and possibly seventeen.

Paul tells us to pray for those in authority regardless. I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people—for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness (I Timothy 2:1-2).

Hitler wasn’t even a thought when Paul lived but Nero was reality. A notorious Roman emperor, he used Christians as scapegoats for the great fire that destroyed much of Rome by denying them certain societal privileges, having them publicly butchered, covered in pitch, set afire and used for lights in his garden and by feeding them to animals.

Patriotism appears to be a dying art, yet believers should be the most honorable and patriotic citizens of any country. Obeying our leaders-unless they require disobedience to God, enables us to live peacefully in our respective cities, states, provinces and countries. Through voting and other forms of political involvement, we can install those in office who share our moral values, have integrity and desire God’s guidance. We should thank God for all leaders who uphold good and punish evil even if they aren’t his followers.

Regardless of whom our leaders are, we’re responsible for praying for their safety, the safety of their families, their good health, wisdom, that they’d listen as God speaks to their spirit and when necessary for them to enter a faith relationship with Christ.

Are you praying for those God has placed in authority over you? We don’t have to like them, but we should pray for them.

Prayer: Thank You merciful Father for competent leaders. Encourage us to do our part in praying that they follow Your direction.

Supernatural Power by Martin Wiles

She wasn’t crazy about getting up, breaking camp, donning a backpack or walking uphill, but my secret weapon always helped her.

My daughter could out walk me during the day, but morning wasn’t her specialty. Eating breakfast, stuffing her sleeping bag, packing the tent and her backpack were accomplished in slow motion. Headache and stomachaches were also common.

Since we had time constraints on the miles we hiked to our destination, time was precious. But I had one thing that increased her energy and picked up her pace: M & M’s. One pack of these colored marvels and she’d leave me, headaches and stomachaches behind.

Power energizes, and the early church needed it to accomplish their assigned mission of telling the world about Jesus’ sacrifice on Calvary and his ensuing resurrection. But Jesus cautioned them not to attempt the task prematurely: You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth (Acts 1:8).

Jesus’ early followers probably wondered how they’d complete an apparent impossible undertaking. I’ve wondered the same with jobs God has assigned me. And none of our God given duties can be apart from the power of his Spirit. He indwells permanently and thoroughly and supplies the energy and wisdom to do whatever God asks. Teach a class. No problem. Love an unlovable co-worker. Not an issue. Give to God’s work when the bank account is low. Easily accomplished.

The list may appear endless but seeking God’s direction and depending on the power he supplies always results in success. What has God asked of you that you’ve been afraid to do?

Prayer: God, enable us to trust Your power to help us accomplish what You ask.

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Handling Prejudice by Martin Wiles

“I just want to be able to go somewhere ________ people aren’t.” I couldn’t believe what I heard or where I heard it. 

We were holding our monthly deacon’s meeting and discussing a community men’s group our church belonged to. Other partnering churches had decided to make the group multi racial, and our church would host the first meeting. Church leaders were now discussing our future involvement because of the decision.

The statement was prefaced by other racial comments. “I work with ____________ people.” “I eat lunch with ______________ people.” Then the bombshell: “But I want to be able to go somewhere they aren’t.” What made the statement so horrifying was the place they wanted to go without “these people” was church.

Prejudice also reared its ugly head in the first century church. Some of the Jewish race believed Jesus was their Messiah only. You went into the house of uncircumcised men and ate with them (Acts 11:3). Gentiles weren’t invited unless they adopted Jewish practices. Peter even had to defend eating with them. But Peter, Paul and other early apostles preached salvation for all.

The most common definition of prejudice is an irrational suspicion or hatred of a particular group, race, or religion. We all struggle with it; some more than others. But prejudice in every form is sin, offends God and interferes with his work. God loved the world, gave his Son for the world and wants the world to love him and each other.

What prejudices are you dealing with and why? Confess them to God and ask him to help you see all people as worthy of your love so your work for God won’t be jeopardized.

Prayer: God of all humankind, create in us a love for all that would break down self-erected barriers separating us.

You may be interested in my new ebook. Read Jesus' take on getting the Christian life right. Click the title-Authentic Christianity, for downloading information.

Not Guilty, Not Condemned by Martin Wiles

My day in court finally arrived. I was extremely nervous.

I can’t remember the month, but the year was 1969. I entered the courtroom and took my seat followed by the jury. Then I heard “All rise.” Everyone stood as the judge entered and took his seat. He peered over the top of his glasses and said “Be seated.”

“What’s the case number and charge,” he barked at the bailiff who quietly read both. Then he asked for my plea. When I said “Not guilty,” he instructed the prosecutor to call his first witness and the trial began.

One by one the witnesses took the stand and testified about my crimes. Gossiping, lying, cheating, unfaithfulness to God, wife and friends, stealing, illegal drug use. I was only nine years old and didn’t remember any of that. I didn’t even have a wife.

When all evidence was presented, the judge instructed the jury who left for the jury room to decide my fate. No sooner had they exited than they entered. The judge asked the customary question: “Have you reached a verdict?” They had-“Guilty.”

But instead of sentencing me, the judge said; “You’re free to go.” I didn’t’ understand, so he explained. My dear children, I write this to you so that you will not sin. But if anybody does sin, we have an advocate with the Father—Jesus Christ, the Righteous One (I John 2:1).

Jesus is the perfect defense attorney. Connecting with him through faith means hearing God the judge say: “Not guilty, not condemned.” Regardless of how many times we mess up after “hiring” him, the verdict never changes. Satan the prosecutor will accuse you, make you feel rotten, worthless and guilty, but our Advocate will always stand up and proclaim your innocence.

Prayer: Thank You merciful Lord for Your forgiveness that frees us from sin’s prison.

You may be interested in my new ebook. Read Jesus' take on getting the Christian life right. Click the title-Authentic Christianity, for downloading information.

Good Advice by Martin Wiles

“You’re gonna have to find another job that pays more or decrease your debts,” my brother said. I was trying to do the first and struggling with the second.

Some call my middle brother thrifty. Others say he’s stingy. I call him wise. I’m nine years his senior but when it comes to intelligent financial decisions his choices have been better.

My wife and I were living in a serious financial situation that was getting worse each month. We discussed options-none of which were good. I decided to ask my brother’s advice, and he gave sound counsel garnered from family, education and experience, and I took it.

King Solomon’s son Rehoboam didn’t fair as well. He took advice from his inexperienced and greedy peers instead of the older wiser counselors. The king answered them harshly. Rejecting the advice of the elders (II Chronicles 10:13).

Solomon treated his constituents harshly while building his kingdom. The older counselors advised Rehoboam to lighten the load while the younger advisors told him to make their lives even more miserable. When he did, the kingdom split.

Someone once told me opinions are like armpits-“Everyone has a couple and they usually stink.” I’ve discovered there’s a lot of smelly advice floating around too. Good advice is available but difficult to find.

When seeking advice, God’s Word should be our starting point. What the Bible suggests or commands is always timely and correct. Listening to the still small voice of God’s Spirit through prayer is also wise. These are the basics, but we can also consult other sources such as mature believers, respected counselors and trusted authors. Advice that’s workable, realistic and agrees with God’s principles is always safe.

Prayer: God, when we need advice, guide us to trustworthy sources so our decisions will be appropriate and beneficial.
You may be interested in my new ebook. Read Jesus' take on getting the Christian life right. Click the title-Authentic Christianity, for downloading information.   

Anxious Living by Martin Wiles

I opened the letter slowly, noting the return address. My employer’s name glared at me and since it was spring of the year, I imagined bad news.

Sure enough, I wasn’t offered a contract for the next school year. The economy had slowed and funds were cut from the district’s operating budget. Unnecessary help had to go. Having recently lost a career and remembering how difficult it was to find the present job, my anxiety level rose significantly. I had bills to pay and children to care for.

The next two months were consumed with filling out employment applications, undergoing interviews, making my unemployment check stretch to the limit and praying for God to act. Eventually he did, and interestingly he put me where I met my future wife.

Jesus’ friend Martha knew a little about anxious living. Jesus stopped for a visit with her and her siblings only to be questioned about his concern over her having to do everything while her sister did nothing but listen to him teach.

She came to him and asked, “Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!” (Luke 10:40). Mary discovered the only thing we should be anxious about-our spiritual focus.

Jesus tells us not to worry (Matthew 6:25) and Paul says we shouldn’t be anxious about anything (Philippians 4:6-7). Anxiety is debilitating emotionally, physically and spiritually. But believing God is in control of our life’s details, seeking his guidance through prayer and thanking him in all circumstances brings a mind altering peace that’s beyond understanding but comforting nevertheless. Let God help you handle the anxious moments.

Prayer: Merciful Lord, when our anxiety levels rise calm them with Your soothing peace.

God Of Empathy by Martin Wiles

I said it but immediately knew I shouldn’t have even though I was sincere when I said it: “I know how you feel.” How could I? I’d never experienced it, and even if I had mine was different than theirs.

Death, loss, tragedy, disease. When those close to us face it, we automatically say we know how they feel even when we don’t. The statement reflects our human need to empathize with others; to enter into their experience and show them we care. And when we undergo a troubling episode, we want others to return the favor.

God designated priests to mediate for people during the Old Testament period. If they committed a sin or disobeyed God, they confessed to the priest, brought a sacrifice and he interceded for them. But I doubt the people felt God truly identified with them. After all, he was up there and they were down below. He was perfect and they weren’t.

But God understood their predicament. And he does ours. A heavenly priest can understand what an earthly one can’t. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses (Hebrews 4:15).

God through Jesus walked in our shoes. He experienced physical limitations, struggled with temptation, suffered abuse, got stabbed in the back by friends, was misunderstood and experienced the dangers associated with popularity when it comes from misguided
followers.

God empathizes with our life experiences; the good, bad and ugly. He wants to enter into them with us, walk with us through them and empower us to grow spiritually and emotionally through them. We are never alone and never misunderstood. Are you inviting God into the details of your life?

Prayer: Father, empower us to invite You into our life journey.

Surviving Tough Times by Martin Wiles

If success meant easy living, he was a failure. If happiness required a large bank account, popularity, and trendsetting, he should be life’s most miserable man.



God called him to be a spokesperson, but when he talked nobody listened. Tough defined is telling people God isn’t pleased with them, but doing it for 40 long years and having no interested parties is the epitome of tough. He was poor and deprived, and life got even tougher when he was thrown into prison, a muddy well, and escorted to a foreign country. His family, neighbors, and folks at the local church didn’t’ really like him or appreciate his efforts.



Taking into consideration the opposition and his sacrifice, we might wonder why he didn’t walk away. An alternate course would probably have relieved at least some of his pain. When he complained, God said; If you have raced with men on foot and they have worn you out, how can you compete with horses (Jeremiah 12:5)?



Who hasn’t known a few tough times? If you’ve lived beyond childhood, you’ve experienced some. Tough times are a part of life. Money can’t prevent their appearance and normally can’t make them disappear. Nor does notoriety guarantee easy living. Tough times are tough, prevalent, and they don’t discriminate.



God’s word to Jeremiah was; “If you think it’s bad now, what are you going to do when it gets worse?” And it did. Only God’s protecting power saved him. Joy isn’t a state of being that requires unending pleasant circumstances. Joy is a state of mind created by the presence of God’s Spirit. Happiness depends on circumstances; joy is experienced in spite of them. Don’t let the tough times steal your joy. Focus on who controls them.



Prayer: God of the good and tough times, enable us to trust You in all times.

Misplaced Treasure by Martin Wiles

She attended every antique auction we did. With money to burn, she could outbid anyone present if she wanted.

Initially, we only knew her as the owner of a local antique shop we loved to frequent. Other vendors had booths in her store, but she and her husband hosted the most. Her prices were unreasonable, and we rarely purchased anything from either of them even when it was on sale.

Our resistance to paying her price solidified after attending auctions with her. What she paid for items versus what she sold them for differed by as much as one hundred percent or more. We watched her items sit, collect dust and rust because they were overpriced.

Not only was her store full of treasured items, but so was her house and several outside buildings. Furniture was stacked, crammed and suspended. Yet she continued to buy more “treasures,” smiling all the while.

Loving and enjoying a business, hobby or possession is one thing; being obsessed with it is another. Jesus knew this and warned, For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also (Luke 12:34).

I’ve struggled with prioritizing possessions as well. Since I too love antiques like my eccentric acquaintance, I must constantly caution myself lest my heart get tied up with them and I forget more pertinent matters.

A more familiar word for heart is passion. We’re passionate about what’s most important to us, but we can easily make gods out of innocent things. When this happens, the treasure transforms into trash and our passion becomes lust and greed. Both steal our focus from pursuits that take us closer to God and others. Is your heart in the right place?

Prayer: Sweet Lord, keep our focus on You and things glorifying Your name.

Unforgotten by Martin Wiles

“Where did you put it?” “I can’t believe you can’t remember.

I’ve said that a few times-as if I’m the king of remembering. Whatever “it” is, where “it” is is a mystery. If I knew, I wouldn’t have to ask myself or anyone else.

Many who study the human mind claim we never actually forget anything unless we’ve had an accident or mental event that damages our brain. Otherwise, the information is there whether we can access it or not. Most of the time, the right circumstance or sensory experience is all that’s necessary to remember what we think we’ve forgotten.

As we age, our ability to access all we’ve learned usually diminishes. Research shows mentally challenging activities are important and can even wart off the onset of such disabling diseases as Alzheimer’s. So I read, write and mentally challenge myself because some days I feel as if I’m forgetting more than I’m remembering.

Israel repeatedly forgot God-at least their actions seemed to say so. He blessed them with health, wealth and land, and they rewarded him by worshipping pagan gods and reveling in immoral activities. Though he disciplined them, he never forgot them. Can a mother forget the baby at her breast…? Though she may forget, I will not forget you! (Isaiah 49:15)

And that’s good news. God doesn’t have memory problems. Once we become his child, we stay his child. He never forgets we are nor does he ever forget our name. Like a good father or mother, he cares for our every need and always acts in our best interest. Our actions may occasionally say we’re forgetting him, but he never forgets us.

Pause to thank God that he never forgets you.

Prayer: Father, may we continually remember to act out our love for You.

Confidence Builders by Martin Wiles

She didn’t enjoy it, but it was her life. Hitting, cursing, anger, rejection.

Kelly lived in an abusive marriage and had for thirteen years. She wanted out but didn’t know how and was afraid of what might happen if she left. Her husband threatened to kill her if she did. She never loved him; he was only an avenue to leave home. His true colors appeared quickly, and a life of misery followed. Kelly wore a smile but was miserable inside.

Her outlook changed when an acquaintance began building her confidence that she could escape her living hell. When her husband left for work one morning, she packed her bags and never looked back. Leaving everything was a small price to pay for freedom from emotional and physical abuse. After her divorce, Kelly found a man who loved her and treated her with the respect she deserved. It took a while, but he finally helped her build confidence in herself. God could use her, and she was worthy of love.

Paul expressed the same confidence in Timothy. I am reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also (II Timothy 1:5).

Timothy’s mother and grandmother communicated their confident faith to Timothy. He accepted it, and Paul helped him grow it stronger. The world is filled with people who’ve been kicked around, beat up by life, abused, forgotten and emotionally crushed.

Believers carry the message they need to help restore and build their confidence: God loves everyone-always has and always will. Nothing in our past prevents him from using us in the present. Whose confidence can you help restore?

Prayer: Merciful Father, help us be confidence builders instead of confidence destroyers.

Why God Cries by Martin Wiles

Word came his good friend was sick, but he was too busy teaching and defending his cause to break away. After all, the sickness was probably minor.

Two days later and feeling guilty about neglecting his friend, he decides to go see him. But it’s too late. He’s dead. By the time he travels to his friend’s hometown, he’s been dead four days. One of his friend’s sisters meets him at the town entrance and scolds him for not coming earlier. The other encounters him near the grave site and does the same. They can’t understand how one friend could treat another so flippantly.

He wants to see his friend’s grave to pay his last respects, so he asks the sisters to take him there and they oblige. Overcome by the crowd’s grief and touched by the mourning of the dead man’s sisters, Jesus wept (John 11:35).

God the Son cried because his good friend was dead, because he sympathized with those who grieved and because death was first hand evidence of sin’s power. But his weeping led to action with results that infected everyone in the crowd. Jesus called for the stone to be removed from the grave’s entrance and then called his dead friend’s name. Everyone was shocked when he actually walked out.

God is touched by our sicknesses and heartaches. Jesus’ crying while in human form is proof. And though God is powerful enough to take them all away, he lets us experience and endure them for reasons often known only to him. But crying to him for help unleashes power strong enough to raise the dead and will comfort us no matter how difficult the trial.

Prayer: Merciful Lord, remind us You’re in control of our difficulties and walk with us through every one.

Our Little, God’s Much by Martin Wiles

She felt out of place but knew she needed to be there.

Most of the others were seated when she walked in. She felt their eyes burning into her skin as she ambled down the aisle searching for a seat. The music was magical. This was where she belonged, but she couldn’t help but feel those around her didn’t think so.

She heard someone whisper, “You know she buried her husband.” As if it was her fault he died. She tried to worship, but her mind kept imagining what people were thinking.

The priest rose for his speech and referenced Joash-an Old Testament king who took a collection to repair God’s temple. He told of how the people gave willingly and challenged his present parishioners to do the same. His message burned in her bones, but what could a poor widow do?

She pondered her predicament as the ushers picked up the offering plates and approached each pew. Perspiration slithered down her back as they inched closer. How could what she had to give compare to what others were giving?

Suddenly she knew what to do. Removing two pennies from her purse-all she had to live on, she placed them in the plate. As the plate moved by her, she heard someone remark; “Does she think God is pleased with that?”

After the ushers were seated, the priest glared at his parishioners and said; Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others (Mark 12:43).

God makes much of our gifts when they’re given with the right spirit and motives. Give your time, talents and money, and you’ll be surprised by what God does.

Prayer: God of all gifts, motivate us to honor You with ours.

When Rough Spots Blind by Martin Wiles

Newfound Gap is nestled between Cherokee, North Carolina and Gatlinburg, Tennessee and was our destination on a cold winter day. We were headed for Charlie’s Bunion-a rock edifice dangling on the edge of sheer cliffs.

In addition to my daypack, I carried pepper spray in my pants pocket. A steep iced over decline preceded our destination. Leaving the trail, we picked our way carefully through the thick forest but not before a burning sensation on my leg caused me to transfer the pepper spray to my coat pocket.

After enjoying our destination, we returned to the parking lot and visited the restroom. I splashed cold water on my face expecting refreshment but received burning and blindness instead. Stringent movements over the rough spots made the pepper spray leak. What was on my hands was now in my eyes.

Rough spots can blind us, leading us to doubt God’s presence and concern. In such times, God tells us what he told Cyrus the Persian king: I will go before you and will level the mountains (Isaiah 45:2).

Walking on life’s rough spots is never enjoyable. Watching a child or spouse board a plane headed for war, losing a job, weeping as a loved one is lowered into a cold grave, hearing the doctor say “It’s cancer.” Add the typical responses of anger, depression and resentment, and we can quickly be blinded to God’s involvement.

But God cares and travels before us on the rough spots. Faith in him levels mountains of pain that seem impossible to climb. What appears impregnable is not when God’s in control. What is blinding you to God’s presence? Wash it away in his grace.

Prayer: Merciful Lord, when the rough spots appear, wash away our doubt and fear with the water of Your grace.

Packing And Unpacking by Martin Wiles

Go to retail store, beg for boxes, buy tape, and head home. Assemble boxes; carefully taping the bottom. Insert items, making sure breakable objects are wrapped with bubble wrap or newspaper. When box is full, write contents on the outside and what room it belongs in. And if contents are fragile, note this as well. Load truck, drive to new home, unpack, break down boxes and hopefully enjoy a few years of not packing.

Packing, unpacking and moving are bedfellows of some professions; mine included. I did it by default as a preacher’s kid and have been doing it myself since entering the ministry. While unenjoyable, it goes with the territory.

Packing is similar to repression and denial. Repression is our attempt to keep sinful impulses or ones unacceptable to society out of our consciousness and actions. Denial is failing to admit we even have the impulse. Confession parallels unpacking. We admit to God and others our faults and failures. Packing affects mental, emotional and spiritual health while confession is good for the soul. James thought the same. Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed (James 5:16).

Confessing to God is easy. He knows anyway, and I can’t see the expression on his face nor can I hear him express verbal disapproval over my sinful or unwise actions. With others, it’s more difficult. They can retaliate by hating me, disowning me, firing me or inflicting pain. Confession also makes me vulnerable because I admit my imperfections.

In spite of its uncomfortableness, confession brings healing: healing through God’s forgiveness and healing in our relationships with others. Who needs to hear your confession?

Prayer: Heavenly Father, when we’re tempted to deny and repress, prompt us to confess.