I Can’t Believe I…by Martin Wiles

“I can’t believe I said that!” An unkind word. A boisterous boast. In a moment of anger, a curse word. A tidbit of gossip. A flirtatious quip.

“I can’t believe I actually did that.” Went to a bar. Got drunk. Used drugs. Was unfaithful to my spouse. Ratted out a friend. Took the promotion a fellow worker deserved. Called in sick when I wasn’t. Told a lie.

“I can’t believe I thought that.” So filled with anger I wished him dead. So filled with unforgiveness, I wished her harm. So filled with lust, I wanted someone who belonged to another. So consumed with selfishness….

As I look back on my “sin list” since becoming a Christian, I sometimes shout the above statements. But I’m in good company… One of the greatest believers to ever live did too. I don’t really understand myself, for I want to do what is right, but I don’t do it. Instead, I do what I hate (Romans 7:15 NLT).

Peter probably screamed one of them as well after denying three times he knew Jesus. Jesus told him he would; he denied the possibility but then did the very thing he thought he was robust enough to resist (Mark 14:66-72).

God sooths my disappointment over failures by reminding me that being his child doesn’t stamp out all temptation and sin from my life. Receiving his forgiveness only takes a moment, but learning to think, speak and act Christ-like takes a lifetime. It’s comforting to know God always accepts my confession of failure and to know that in Christ all my sins are forgiven-even the ones I haven’t spoken, thought or acted. When you behave in ways that don’t reflect your position in Christ, take comfort in his perpetual forgiveness.

Prayer: Merciful Father, we acknowledge our frequent failure to conduct ourselves as we should, but we thank You for continuous forgiveness and for the repeated second chances You provide when we fail.

Lifelong Productivity by Martin Wiles

Spring. Trees budding. Flowers blooming. Freshly plowed fields embedded with fruit-bearing seed. Youthful vigor. The sun’s warming rays. Life at its finest. Invincibility. 

Summer. Unbearable heat. Incipient fruit dangling from trees awaiting fall. Busyness. Too much to do and too little time to do it in. Misplaced priorities. Mislaid focus. Life is good.

Fall. Harvest. Leaves showing their true colors, falling and littering the ground, leaving behind bountiful fruit dangling on cringing limbs. Life slows. Priorities are reconsidered. Children are grown and gone. Aches and pains. 

Winter. Barrenness. Empty fields and gardens. Bare trees. Brown grass. Ominous winds and diving temperatures. Snow and ice. Glowing fireplaces. Sickness. Disease. Dying spouses. Dying friends. Dying relatives. Life grinds to a halt.

The seasons of life come and go with rapid haste and a mind of their own, but the psalmist proposes the possibility of fruit at each stage. They are like trees planted along the riverbank, bearing fruit each season (Psalm 1:3 NLT).

Lifelong productivity is attainable by engaging in what produces fruit initially-God’s Word. Sinking our roots into its life-giving principles yields fruit from youth until death. They remind us about what’s spiritually healthy and unhealthy. Wisdom that guides us through the changing seasons and their accompanying challenges is uncovered. As winter approaches, poor health may prevent us from doing all we once did, but even then we can still produce fruit for God’s kingdom through intercessory prayer and by using technology’s advancements.  A press of the “enter” key allows us to touch the world. No matter what season you’re living in, bear fruit for God.

Max Lucado said; If we live our lives this way, then we can…enter into our final years with the assurance of knowing that life was well spent and that heaven is but a wink away. (On the Anvil p. 163)

Prayer: Lord, You have created us to bear fruit throughout every season of life. Infiltrate our roots, branches and leaves with the required nutrients that will yield glorious fruit for Your kingdom and magnify Your name across the world.

Hearing God’s Will by Martin Wiles

“I think you should be a preacher,” a fellow parishioner kindly remarked. But how would he know? 

I heard the same thing from God when I was about twelve years old, but years of running had clouded his voice. After all, can a middle schooler really discern God’s plan? When a co-worker made the same statement, I began to wonder if God was telling others what I wasn’t hearing. After all, this particular person didn’t know my present situation or past history. Eventually, I determined they were right, but had I not listened I may have missed God’s plan.

Naaman-commander of an Aramean army, encountered a similar situation. Though he held an important position, he was a leper. It took a young captive girl from the land of Israel to inform him of God’s plan. To his credit, he listened and visited the prophet she mentioned, but when Elisha told him to go wash in the dirty Jordan River to be cleansed, he became enraged and stalked away. Fortunately, some of his friends intervened. But his officers tried to reason with him and said, “Sir, if the prophet had told you to do something very difficult, wouldn’t you have done it...‘Go and wash and be cured!’” (II Kings 5:13 NLT)

God speaks primarily through his Word and the accompanying guidance of the Holy Spirit, but he also uses people. Had I not listened, I may have never been a preacher. Had Naaman not listened, he may have died a leper. We also might be the one God desires to use as a mouthpiece to someone else. Being used this way requires involvement in other’s lives so we can observe God’s workings. An idle instrument is of little value. Don’t discount spiritual advice from others, and let God use you to assist others in discovering his will.

Prayer: Thank You eternal God for having an individual plan for our lives and for using us in Your service. Help us listen when You speak Your will through others, and use us as Your megaphone to assist others in discovering what we already have.

Friendship’s Power by Martin Wiles

U-Hauls, moving vans, pick-ups, loaded cars, and farm trucks. All familiar items. My father’s profession-along with his uncertainty over whether God wanted him to be a pastor or full-time evangelist, made frequent moves a normal and unpleasant element of my childhood.

One recent morning, I lay in bed struggling with how many friends’ full names I could recall from my pre-high school graduation years. Finally, I managed to construct the names of five friends from high school but came up empty-handed when I reflected on the prior years.

Along with the brief periods my father remained in any one place, I cultivated an aversion to developing too many relationships. Leaving two friends was easier than saying goodbye to twenty. Following in my father’s footsteps has perpetrated the pattern. Though I have assembled numerous acquaintances, my lasting friendships are severely limited.

Wise King Solomon nailed the essence of good friendships when he wrote, There are “friends” who destroy each other, but a real friend sticks closer than a brother (Proverbs 18:24 NLT).

As with healthy marital and sibling relationships, assembling lasting friendships requires time. Friendships must be nurtured regardless of whether our friends live in close proximity or we’re separated by thousands of miles. Thankfully, technology has made distant friendships easier to maintain. Hand-written letters, emails, social media outlets, telephone calls, and personal time together are all ways to deepen our friendship bonds. Friends also respect the importance of trust. The trust element is developed with time and common experiences but can be destroyed by thoughtless words and actions. Never take a friend’s confidence in you for granted. Fortunate is the person who has three people they can classify loyal friends. What can you do to nurture your friendships?

Prayer: Merciful Lord, You call us Your friends, and we ask You to instill in us the friendship traits that will make us the type of friend to others that You are to us.

Good Advice-Avoiding Evil by Martin Wiles

Series: Good Advice

Centralia, Pennsylvania, a borough located in Columbia County, Pennsylvania, is a ghost town by association.

In 1981, Centralia boasted a population of one thousand, but by 2010 only ten survivors remained. All property was claimed under eminent domain in 1992 and the town buildings condemned.  The Postal Service revoked the town’s zip code in 2002, and the governor ordered formal evictions in 2009. Why this sad story? A 50-year-old fire beneath the town makes it dangerous to live there-a fire that has now extended to nearby Byrnesville causing its inhabitants to leave as well.

Centralia died because of its association with underground coal mines, and Byrnesville followed suit because of its close proximity. Guilty-or rather abandoned, by association. Perhaps this is why Paul warns us to avoid the very appearance of evil. Stay away from every kind of evil (I Thessalonians 5:22 NLT). There have been periods in my life when I was known by who I associated with. And they weren’t the type of friends who enhanced my reputation. Companionship says a lot about our values and principles.

Focusing on obeying God helps us avoid evil. Instead of seeing how close we can get to sin without indulging, we’ll concentrate on staying as far away as possible. Obedience makes sin look less appealing which in turn motivates us to stay away from enticing circumstances. God won’t permit temptation to overwhelm us, but he expects us to scurry from situations that touch our weak spots and entice us to sin. Avoiding evil goes a step farther. Obedience encourages us to evade questionable activities. Some things may not be wrong but are unwise and can tarnish our delicate reputations. Let God give you the wisdom to avoid every appearance of evil.

Prayer: Loving Heavenly Father, we admit we’re easily tempted by things better left alone. Focus our attention on loving and obeying You so we’ll not be attracted to what harms our spiritual journey.
 

God’s Mighty Act by Martin Wiles

The old prophet foretold it, the shepherds witnessed it, and Mary lived it.

“In case you haven’t heard, God, I’m just a young unmarried virgin.”

“Don’t worry, I will A.C.T.”

“And by the way, the last time I checked sex was required to conceive a child.”

“I told you. I will A.C.T.”

“But God, haven’t you heard…The penalty for unfaithfulness is death.”

“Mary, I said I will A.C.T.”

“What about my finance’ Joseph? He’ll never believe You made me pregnant. That’s a tall tale for anyone to believe regardless of how much they love you.”

“I’ll take care of Joseph. Remember, I’ll A.C.T.”

And God did. For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, The mighty God (Isaiah 9:6 KJV). And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people (Luke 2:10 KJV).

God Acted by accomplishing what we couldn’t for ourselves. Not in the way many were anticipating…he didn’t send his Son on a white horse to set up an earthly kingdom. Rather he delivered him by way of a poor young peasant woman. But then again, God often acts outside the boxes we attempt to house him in.

God Comforts assuring us he has everything under control. Mary couldn’t fathom it-and sometimes we can’t either, but his plan is masterful and eternal.

God Takes us to the end. He saves and preserves; he finishes what he starts. We act by faith in trusting him, and he acts in faith by remaining true to his Word. The shepherds rejoiced when they heard the good news, and so did Mary…eventually. Has God’s mighty ACT changed your life?

Prayer: Almighty God, we rejoice over Your Mighty acts and thank You this Advent season for acting in our behalf by allowing Your Son to take on human flesh and give His life as a ransom for our sins.

Good Advice-Don’t Stifle God’s Power by Martin Wiles

Series: Good Advice

I marveled as the salesman stuffed the six foot bulk of material into a sack half its size, thinking I’d never be able to repeat his artful action.

Stuffing a sleeping bag isn’t as effortless as it may appear when done by an experienced salesman or camper as my first attempt divulged. The more I stuffed, the more it expunged itself like a jack in the box springing for freedom. But I eventually mastered the art. Successful stuffing is accomplished a little at a time, slowly stuffing small sections and packing them tightly until you reach the end of the bag. Now what was long and bulky was compact and ready to leash to my pack until I was ready to use it.

Paul warns against trying to do with God’s Spirit what we do with sleeping bags. Do not stifle the Holy Spirit. Do not scoff at prophecies, but test everything that is said. Hold on to what is good (I Thessalonians 5:19-21 NLT).

God’s Spirit is compacted in the body of every believer. We release him in the form of fruit, gifts, and special callings. Keeping him stuffed encumbers God’s work in the world when his desire is that we unhitch the tie cord and liberate the fruits of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness, faithfulness, and self-control into a world that desperately needs to experience them (Galatians 5:22-23). He also gives at least one spiritual gift-and often more, to each of his children to combine with the fruit and thereby accomplish his work.

Neglecting our gifts-or declining to discover what they are in the first place, and refusing to bear fruit stuffs God’s Spirit. Don’t stow what God has given you in a bag. Set it free so our world can be a better place.

Prayer: Eternal God, giver of all good and perfect gifts, prompt us to free what we so often conceal. Use our lives in small and large ways to impact our world as we serve You by serving others.

No Room for Christ by Martin Wiles

“No Vacancy.” I’ve seen the glaring red sign silhouetted against a pitch dark mountain sky as my wife and I experienced the consequences of “We’ll just wait until we get there and make reservations” thinking. How were we supposed to know a special event was occurring and every motel and hotel in town would be gorged?

Mary and Joseph felt our pain. And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn (Luke 2:7 KJV). Hundreds mauled the streets because of a military conscription or tax collection census ordered by August Caesar-the first Roman emperor. For Mary and Joseph, it meant leaving their hometown of Nazareth and traveling 70 long miles to the Judean village of Bethlehem. With her time of delivery at hand, it was a very taxing ride for Mary. Imagine their disappointment when all they saw were “No Vacancy” signs. The innkeeper offered them the only thing he had: a dark and dirty stable with a feeding trough for a cradle.

I too can unknowingly and unintentionally crowd Jesus out. Misplaced priorities will do it. Rather than choosing activities that nourish my mind and spirit, I choose those that bring only temporary satisfaction. “Stuff” clutters my 24 hours leading me to lay in dirty mangers instead of a king size bed in a spacious hotel suite. Too much of a good thing can even be bad, and less is often more. Overwork, addictions, jumbled finances, unhealthy relationships, obsessions with the latest tech gadgets, and busyness can all crowd Jesus out if I’m not careful. The Christmas season is a time for celebrating the birth of our Savior as well as giving and receiving. Don’t let the urgent in your life crowd out what’s important.   

Prayer: Eternal God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, may we celebrate Christmas daily in our hearts, being careful to remove or reprioritize those things that attempt to crowd You out of our lives.

Good Advice-Thankful Always by Martin Wiles

Series: Good Advice

Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus (I Thessalonians 5:18 NLT).

“Seriously God? Be thankful in all circumstances?”

“Yes.”

“Even when my children are rebelling and making poor choices?”

“Yes I want you to be thankful.”

“And when my wife walks in, tells me she doesn’t love me anymore and that she’s leaving for another man?”

“Yes, then too.”

“What about when my boss informs me sales have been down, that they’re going have to cut back, and my position is one of the cutbacks?”

“Yes, even then.”

“Or when my financial manager says my investments didn’t do as well as he expected and that my losses for the year are quite significant?”

“I’m afraid even then.”

“I don’t know God. Seems like a pretty tall order. Not sure I can handle the thanking thing….”

Misreading the verse sets us up for failure and produces a gross misunderstanding of God’s expectation. There’s a vast difference between thanking God in all circumstances and thanking him for all situations. Amazing how one little word can change an entire meaning.

God doesn’t expect us to thank him for evil things, but he does expect us to thank him continually or in everything. Doing so recognizes his control over every situation and also fosters dependence on him. Our lives and the physical world both suffer the ravaging effects of sin creating many unpleasant circumstances. Believing God can overrule distasteful side effects and bring good from them-as he promises for his children, along with experiencing the cleansing effect of forgiveness, makes it possible to thank God regardless of what objectionable things are presently occurring. Let God teach you the art of thanking him in all circumstances.

Prayer: Lord, we confess our distaste for unpleasant circumstances, but they remind us of our dependence on You. Give us faith to believe You’re in total control and the ability to thank You in all things regardless of whether we enjoy the circumstances or not.

Joy to the World by Martin Wiles

He complained to his father one Sunday after church of how dreadful the singing was. “Why don’t you give us something better, young man!” his father replied. And he did.

Isaac Watts was born July 17, 1674, in Southampton, England, and soon developed a love for learning. By the age of five he had learned Latin. Greek, French, and Hebrew followed. Watts accepted his father’s challenge, and by the evening service had written a song which the congregation enthusiastically received. Others followed. Though not written as a Christmas song, “Joy to the World” has become a seasonal favorite.

Joy was abundant when the angel of the Lord appeared to shepherds watching their flocks in the field and announced Messiah’s birth. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people (Luke 2:10 KJV).

Sadly, the Christmas season is not joyful for everyone. Many will mourn this season (2012) because of the mass shooting of children and school officials by Adam Lanza in Newtown, Connecticut. Death by disease and natural causes has taken some who were present last year. Others are financially bound and can’t give the type of gifts they desire. Still more are affected by Seasonal Affective Disorder (SADD) and are battling depression.

But in the midst of pain and emotional struggles, we can still experience joy by remembering the miracle God has performed. In the person of the infant Jesus, he burst into our world to meet our ultimate need-spiritual restoration. While he didn’t appear in the expected manner or form, his coming ultimately resulted in sin’s payment and potential peace with God. Though your present state may be undesirable, learn to find ultimate joy in your relationship with Christ, not your temporary circumstances.

Prayer: We thank You merciful Father that ultimate joy is not tied to temporary relationships or abundant possessions but rather to our connection with You through faith in the infant Babe You delivered into our world.

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Good Advice-Persevering in Prayer by Martin Wiles

Series: Good Advice

My knees are bad, and if I lay on the floor to do it, I probably couldn’t get up. But when I try my comfortable bed, I often fail too. There are days when I simply don’t feel like doing it. Sometimes God feels near when I’m doing it and at other times he seems distant. I’ve been told it changes everything, but occasionally I wonder if it changes anything.

One thing’s for sure-I can’t do what Paul suggests. Never stop praying (I Thessalonians 5:17 NLT)….Or can I? In spite of the prayer giants who reportedly spent hours every day praying, the average person can’t stay on their knees continuously nor do they own several unoccupied hours they can devote to praying. Though it’s important to have designated appointments with our prayer closets, attitude is essential too.

Prayer acknowledges God’s presence in my life. Just as I can teach, read, write, and shower while simultaneously thinking about my wife, so I can with God. A continual attitude of prayer allows me to involve him in everything I do by being constantly aware of his presence.

Prayer recognizes God’s power. Jesus once told his disciples they could move mountains with prayer if they had faith (Mark 11:22-23). Prayer does change things-mostly me, by aligning my actions and attitudes with Christ’s mind.

Prayer also acknowledges God’s ownership. He created me, purchased my salvation, and gives me daily guidance and sustenance. I can claim his promises, and my faith will increase as I experience answers to my prayers.

When, where, and how long aren’t the most critical questions as it relates to effective prayer. Believing in its efficacy, having a daily appointment with God, and being in a continuous prayerful attitude are the essentials. What can you do to spruce up your prayer life?

Prayer: Heavenly Father, we thank You for the privilege of approaching Your throne of grace with boldness and the confidence that You hear, care, and will answer. May we never take the practice of prayer for granted but rather revel in Your desire to be involved in every detail of our lives.

At Just the Right Time by Martin Wiles

“It wasn’t worth it,” screeched the commanding officer. But it was.

Combat was ferocious, and many soldiers were dying. They were friends in the thick of it. When one of them was injured and couldn’t return to the trenches, the other violated his commander’s orders and searched for his buddy. He was mortally wounded in the process and the friend he carried back dead. His commander questioned the worth of his mission, but the young man smiled and quietly said, “It was worth it, sir, because when I got to him he said, ‘Jim, I knew you’d come.’”

Advent happened at just the right time. But when the right time came, God sent his Son, born of a woman, subject to the law (Galatians 4:4 NLT). Alexander the Great perpetrated the Greek language universally, and the ingenuous Romans constructed a magnificent array of roads. The Jews received and held securely God’s law and prophecies of the coming Messiah. When Messiah arrived, the news of his birth was heralded over paved roads in a tongue understandable to most.

Just as the soldier saw his friend as worth saving and dying for, so God saw us as worth rescuing as well. God created us to love him, commune with him, and serve him, but sin broke the bond. The Advent of the Messiah and his resulting death was God’s attempt to restore what the enemy stole-a successful attempt.

God always responds to human need in his time not ours. Our duty is to trust his judgment, wait on his timing, and believe he has our best interests at heart. This duty is called faith and is our belief that we need him to come for us. With our dying breath, we like Jim say, “We knew You’d come.”

Prayer: Merciful Father who looked down from heaven on our present and eternal need, we pause during this Christmas season to thank You for coming for us at just the right time. May we always herald the message of Your love to a hurting world.

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Accepting God’s Plan by Martin Wiles

He was walking to church when he was seized and carted off to jail by communist government officials. Accepting God’s plan isn’t always easy.

Richard Wurmbrand was a pastor serving in communist Romania in 1948. His first arrest lasted eight and one half years. When he was finally released, he and his wife resumed their underground work, but Richard was soon arrested again. His endured another eight years until Western churches paid a ransom for his release in 1965.

As Jesus’ future mother, Mary’s situation wasn’t much brighter, yet when presented with God’s plan she said, I am the Lord’s servant. May everything you have said about me come true (Luke 1:38 NLT).

As a young unmarried pregnant woman, Mary risked disaster. If the father refused to marry her, she could remain unmarried for life. In a male dominated world, the financial challenges would be immense. If her father put her out, she might be forced into prostitution to support herself. And her story about becoming pregnant by the Holy Spirit probably made some question her sanity. Additionally, unfaithfulness during her betrothal period could lead to her being stoned to death.

God has a plan for each of us, but it often involves hardships of some type. They may come in the form of persecution, financial challenge, employment adjustment, family misunderstanding, emotional strain, or even family break-up. Jesus’ life is a perfect example. Nor is God’s plan always as clear as it was to Mary, but he will willingly reveal it when we seek it out through prayer. Great faith is essential in following God’s will, but he faithfully provides all that’s required for us to accomplish what he wants us to do in this world. Have you discovered and accepted God’s plan?

Prayer: Thank You Almighty God for choosing to use us in Your work in this world. Reveal Your plan to us, and give us the faith to courageously move forward in accomplishing it.

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Good Advice-The Root of Joy by Martin Wiles

Series: Good Advice

My wife and I didn’t have the means to purchase, but we thought we’d watch those who did.

Hours before sales began, hordes of people in our relatively small town stood up from bulging tables of Thanksgiving delights and converged on Wal-Mart’s parking lot. The spaces filled quickly and spilled over into other retailers’ lots. When a bomb threat led to the store’s evacuation, hundreds headed to nearby K-Mart and consumed that lot as well. It was Black Friday, but this year many sales were beginning on Thanksgiving Thursday.
 
Black ________ was typically assigned to days of poor performance at the stock market. Retailers later coined the name Black Friday and made it synonymous with the shopping madness that occurs on the day after Thanksgiving in the United States-the day they step into the black financially.

Though some are out to buy gifts for others and enjoy the experience, Black Friday often exposes selfishness, greed, and misplaced priorities. Much of the grabbing, fighting and cursing is over what I want versus what someone else thinks they need and reveals the continuing dilemma of connecting joy with possessions. Paul didn’t say “Go buy so you’ll be happy” but Always be joyful (I Thessalonians 5:16 NLT).

God wants us to enjoy the good things he provides, but lasting joy isn’t tied to possessions. It’s experienced in relationships-the most important being the one we have with him. Seeking his will daily, thinking of him throughout the day, and being confident of his promises leads to a happiness we can’t experience through ownership. Resting in who we are because of who he is brings a peaceful repose televisions, I Pads, I Phones, video games, computers, and other electronic gadgets can’t muster. Are you searching in the wrong place for lasting joy?

Prayer: Merciful Father and supplier of all our needs, prompt us to find our joy and peace in serving You rather than in things that will be here today but outdated or destroyed tomorrow.

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The Best Gift by Martin Wiles

Small gifts can be life-changing.

One of my favorite Christmas movies is The Christmas Shoes-the story of a busy attorney climbing the corporate ladder and a terminally ill mom celebrating her final Christmas. After revealing her condition, her son begins the search for the best Christmas gift and unearths it in a pair of red dancing shoes which he sells cans to purchase. As his mom robs her final breaths, he rushes to the store only to discover he’s several dollars short. By chance, the overworked attorney is there frantically searching for last minute gifts and deals the difference.

With shoes in hand, young Nathan arrives just before his mom dies, and the attorney finds himself singing Christmas carols with his family outside the very home where the mother is dying-but with her feet now wrapped in the perfect Christmas gift.

God’s best gift also came in a small package. You know the generous grace of our Lord Jesus Christ. Though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, so that by his poverty he could make you rich (II Corinthians 8:9 NLT).

The best Christmas gift was undeserved. Our sinfulness made God’s gift of his Son unmerited, but he wasn’t concerned with our worth. Unconditional love moved him to act in our behalf starting with the birth of his Son in a manger.

Superlative gifts perpetuate. God gives his Son to all who ask. Once we receive him through faith, we have the privilege of sharing him. Life’s most excellent gift deserves to be shared, not hoarded selfishly. God laid down his best for us in a small manger baby who would grow up and give his life on a cross to purchase our forgiveness. Have you received the best Christmas gift? If so, who do you need to share it with?

Prayer: Father, we praise You for demonstrating Your matchless love by sending Your Son from the bounty of heaven to a lowly earthly manger to purchase our salvation. Thank You for giving us the best Christmas gift of all and for demonstrating that expensive gifts often come wrapped in small packages.

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Good Advice-Revenge’s Dead End by Martin Wiles

Series: Good Advice

He and I were good friends, but now I was getting the cold shoulder.

In spite of our age difference, Ray* and I clicked. He planted my garden, helped me pick up trash along the road, visited with me, and was an all-around good friend. Until I made my cardinal mistake. His sister died, and I wasn’t there for him. I had no excuse; I was busy, stressed, and in selfish mode. My apology was met with a scowl and a gruff, “It’s a little late now.” Not, “It’s okay. I forgive you. We all make mistakes.” Just, “It’s too late.” As a result of his stubbornness, I had a few vengeful thoughts toward him.

Paul’s advice challenges us to adopt an unnatural response when wronged. See that no one pays back evil for evil, but always try to do good to each other and to all people (I Thessalonians 5:15 NLT).

All our actions result from thoughts, but not all thoughts lead to action. Some we choose to process differently or dismiss entirely. Vengeful thoughts against others may never make it farther than our mind, but when we choose to let them reside there they become sin.

Forgiveness is the only proper course to deal with vengeful thinking. I was willing to forgive Ray for the way he acted toward me, but he wasn’t willing to forget my infraction or accept my apology. Unforgiveness dealt the death blow to our friendship. Immediately releasing people from wrongs they’ve committed against us is always appropriate.

Revenge sours our inside and will in turn curdle our attitudes and actions. Vengeful thoughts that we refuse to release to God’s grace harm us physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Who are you plotting against that you need to forgive and love instead?

Prayer: God of grace and mercy, we admit our tendency to plot revenge against those who hurt us. Remind us of Your forgiveness that we in turn might release those we’re tempted to harm.
*Name changed to protect privacy of individual.
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The Richest Poorest Christmas by Martin Wiles

While I don’t remember my first few Christmases, the pictures tell stories of abundance.

For four years, I reveled in the privilege of being the first grandchild on my father’s side. This meant spoiling to the hilt, and my grandmother and parents did a wonderful job. Presents poured from underneath the tree, and many stood around it. Even after the other grandchildren arrived, my grandmother made sure we had rich Christmases.

My grandmother’s retirement ended her lush shopping sprees, but my mother took over. Presents once again spilled from under the tree and into the middle of the floor. Mom loved presents in multiples and enjoyed watching the children and grandchildren squander hours opening them. 

Since Mom’s retired, Christmases are poorer. No one else in the family has the funds to spend for fleeting moments of cheesy grins and roaring laughter. Now we enjoy the simple wealth of gathering for a meal, catching up, and opening a few presents.

My grandmother and mother sacrificed to make us richer. So did Christ. You know the generous grace of our Lord Jesus Christ. Though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, so that by his poverty he could make you rich (II Corinthians 8:9 NLT).

Christmas is about celebrating the one true gift with an incalculable price tag. There’s no evidence Jesus lived in poverty, but he became poor by setting aside all he enjoyed in heaven to enter time and space. He took on human limitations which he’d never experienced. And all this so we might become rich by accepting his offer of salvation. Having all our sins forgiven-along with the hope of eternal life, makes every Christmas rich even if the gifts under the tree are meager. Are you celebrating the richness of Christ’s gift this Christmas?

Prayer: Eternal God, giver of great gifts, this Christmas season we celebrate receiving the presents of forgiveness and eternal life that began when You birthed Your Son in a manger and ended when You raised Him from the grave.  

 

 

Good Advice-Be Patient by Martin Wiles

Series: Good Advice

As a teacher, I admit I’m not always as patient as I should be.

A teacher’s day can be bombarded with many patient-robbing episodes. Six questioning hands raised before I’ve finished my first sentence-most have nothing to do with the lesson. A few appear stuck in the up position. Test scores reflect the majority of the class doesn’t comprehend a particular subject matter even though we’ve spent twelve weeks dissecting it. And the muddled chatter keeps me continuously mouthing “Shhhh.”

Paul’s simple instruction doesn’t make illustrating patience any easier. Be patient with everyone (I Thessalonians 5:14 NLT). Patience is a virtue, but it’s also an art.

Patience is learned through our relationship with a tolerant God. He has to be. Otherwise we’d all wind up in the hot place instead of heaven. He doesn’t want anyone to perish but all to repent (II Peter 3:9). Even after entering his family, God patiently endures with us as we grow into spiritual adults reflecting his attributes. Thankfully, he doesn’t hold us back when we fail or throw us out when we raise our hands too many times.

Patience is developed over time. With more miles behind me than in front, I’m still learning to paint patience in my action and attitude class. Time heals all wounds; it also teaches patience.

Patience is also vital in reaching life goals. God has plans for his children, but time is required for those plans to develop and this necessitates patience. I knew at a young age God wanted me to preach and teach, but endurance was necessary as I lived out the intervening years before coming of age and also as I endured the educational process.

What areas do you need more patience in? Ask God to intervene, but don’t be surprised if the methods he uses require patience.

Prayer: Thank You merciful Lord for Your patience with us through our blunders, missteps, foibles, and sins. Teach us to be as patient with others as You are with us.

*Christmas Sale Now through January 1*
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Good Advice-The Power of Encouragement by Martin Wiles

Series: Good Advice

“God isn’t through with you yet,” he calmly muttered. “He has something else in store.”

My friend’s statement was mounted on top of three years of discouragement and disappointment that were quickly converting into depression. I knew what God wanted me to do-and I had been doing it, but someone else’s distasteful decision had put me where I presently was. I craved obedience to God’s call, but no one was currently calling me to do it. I was thankful for my friend and others like him who flung encouraging words my way during this dry spell in my life’s journey. Had it not been for the encouragement, I may have surrendered to the devastating effects of depression.

Paul recognized encouragement’s power. Encourage those who are timid. Take tender care of those who are weak (I Thessalonians 5:14 NLT).

Life events-many of which are uncontrollable, can send us pummeling into valleys of discouragement, disappointment, loneliness and depression. Nor does life always proceed in the direction we hoped or planned for. Bad decisions by us or others, diseases, sour economies and a host of other ill winds can blow discouragement our way, but encouraging words from others can lift our spirits and strengthen our emotions.

Encouragement can also build self-esteem in those who’ve had theirs torn apart by damaging messages from parents, abusive spouses, obnoxious bosses or holier-than-thou faith partners. Encouragement can restore what the enemy has stolen.

Additionally, encouragement can create a thankful spirit. As we dive into other’s lives by taking part in their trials and sorrows, we grow more thankful for God’s guidance in our own lives and for his faithfulness in meeting all our needs. Walking in other’s shoes gives us a greater appreciation for our own situation. Who do you know that needs a word of encouragement?

Prayer: God in whose comforting continual presence we revel, turn our eyes toward those who need a spirit lift, and give us wisdom and courage to encourage them even as You do us.

*Christmas Sale Now through January 1*

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Good Advice-Sloppy Christians by Martin Wiles

Series: Good Advice

I’ve tried it a few times but quickly realized it wasn’t for me.

Sloppiness isn’t my forte’. My first attempt was as a teenager. Most of my male friends were sloppy, so I assumed it must be the “in” trait. I heaved dirty clothes onto the floor and bed, and instead of keeping items on my desk neatly arranged, I jumbled them up. For a neat freak Type A teenager, this defined sloppiness. In less than a week, I cleaned up.

I tried sloppiness again as a young adult. As before, it didn’t last long. I still have the occasional “sloppy day.” Days when I take “piggy baths” instead of full showers, days when I don’t shave, days when I wear the same clothes twice, days when I let my shirttail hang out, and days when I only brush my teeth once. But my desire to clean up quickly conquers my clutter.

Paul introduces another form of sloppiness-spiritual sloppiness, and warns against it. Brothers and sisters, we urge you to warn those who are lazy (I Thessalonians 5:14 NLT).

Unfortunately what I rebuke physically, I often allow spiritually. There are times when I’m a sloppy Christian. Bad attitudes get the best of me. Cutting remarks spill out faster than kind regards. Opportunities to help are avoided because I don’t have time or because they’re not my kind of person. Judgment and hate are offered instead of love. Occasions when I neglect time with the One who gave his life to forgive my sins and thereby miss his best for me. But I’m learning that loving God supremely and family and others second go a long way in tidying up my untidiness. If you’re leaving behind spiritual messes, let God show you how to clean them up.

Prayer: God of grace and forgiveness, when sloppy spiritual living overtakes us through harmful actions, corrosive attitudes, and destructive emotions, tidy us up so we can be effective vessels of honor for You.
*Christmas Sale Now through January 1*

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Good Advice-Work for Peace by Martin Wiles

Series: Good Advice

Caressing a plate of freshly baked cinnamon rolls, I plopped into my favorite recliner and turned on the local news channel. Story after story unfolded, each illustrating that peace was absent.

Story one. Israel and Hamas are fighting. Again. Both sides are injecting rockets on each other’s buildings, military personnel and civilians. Other countries are gathering officials in an attempt to broker a truce.

Story two. World renown retail giant Wal-Mart is gearing up for Black Friday (the Super Bowl shopping event that follows Thanksgiving Day in the United States) but also wrangling with disgruntled employees protesting having to work on Thanksgiving Day as well as with a national union goading them on.

Story three. A woman visiting the Tomb of the Unknown at Arlington National Cemetery has a picture taken of herself shouting by the sign that reads: “Silence and Respect.” A co-worker posts the picture on Facebook, it goes viral, and thousands are outraged. Her father apologizes for his daughter’s actions.

I could go on, but you get the picture. Paul lived in a time of political and religious unrest but wrote; And live peacefully with each other (I Thessalonians 5:13 NLT). He also penned, Do all that you can to live in peace with everyone (Romans 12:18 NLT). Paul’s desire was for believers to live at peace with one another, with unbelievers, and even with cruel government authorities.

Peace with others is only remotely possible when we’re at peace with God through the act of forgiveness. When we fully comprehend how far God reached to intervene in our sinful situation, we’ll be able to combat unbelief, cruelty, abuse, irrationality, criminal acts, atheism, agnosticism, and a host of other peace-threatening rockets with kindness, goodness, graciousness, and self-control. Where does God want you to inject peace?

Prayer: God of perfect peace and quiet, in whose eternal Kingdom no war or cruelty will exist, enable us to spread Your message of peace under the banner of the Prince of Peace.

*Christmas Sale Now through January 1*

Purchase my new ebook at 20% off the regular price with coupon code GN38Q. Click the title-Authentic Christianity, for downloading information.

Good Advice-Honoring Our Leaders by Martin Wiles

Series: Good Advice

At 80 years of age, he sits at the helm of a world renowned ministry, has authored 40 books, and has pastored the same church-First Baptist Church of Atlanta, Georgia, United States, for 40 years. But his ascent to the top wasn’t without pain.

Charles Stanley initially arrived at First Baptist as Associate Pastor. When the senior pastor left, the church divided over whether he should assume the Senior Pastor position. Nasty battles ensued, including one where a member cursed aloud and slugged him on the jaw.

In 1993, Stanley faced what could have been a career altering crisis: his wife filed for divorce. Fellow pastors shunned him, and some recommended he resign. A number of parishioners attempted a coup d'état, and even his own son suggested he resign. But Stanley believed God brought him there, and he wouldn’t step down unless God instructed.

Leaders have a tremendous responsibility and so do those they lead. Dear brothers and sisters, honor those who are your leaders in the Lord’s work. They work hard among you and give you spiritual guidance (I Thessalonians 5:12-13 NLT).

Paul probably references deacons and elders, but other biblical citations expand this to include pastors, missionaries and even government authorities. Whether we have a choice in who rules over us religiously or politically-or even whether we agree with their philosophies, isn’t the heart of the matter. As long as God allows them to occupy their position, we’re to respect, honor, love, and pray for them. If your leaders don’t have a personal relationship with Christ, pray that they would submit to his authority. If your spiritual leaders are making decisions you feel are unbiblical, pray for the ability to be patient and loving and to know how to approach them with godly wisdom. There’s normally some wiggle room in our search for common ground.  

Prayer: O Lord our Great Governor, grant to those who lead us a love for You and a love for others. Motivate us to pray for them that they would do Your will and learn to love truth and righteousness.

Uniquely Constructed Treasure by Martin Wiles

Alfred ambled along the beaches of Curacao Island and was distressed by the numerous bottles littering the beach and the meager living conditions of the island’s lower class. With no economic means to return them from whence they came, the island’s inhabitants allowed the bottles to rest where they were tossed. 

Alfred’s distress led to action. He asked a Dutch architect to design “a brick that holds beer,” and the Heineken WOBO (World Bottle) was born. Bottles were laid horizontally and interlocked, then secured by mortar and a silicon additive. Around 1,000 bottles were required to build a 10 ft. by 10 ft. shack. Only two of the structures still exist, and they are located on the Heineken estate in Noordwijk near Amsterdam. But Alfred’s dream brought treasure from trash.

It took a dream and money to materialize the WOBO; it takes an awesome God to do the same for sinful people-and we have one. “Who is like you among the gods, O LORD—glorious in holiness, awesome in splendor, performing great wonders” (Exodus 15:11 NLT)?

Our lives are often littered like the beaches of Curacao. Bottles emptied by broken relationships, shattered dreams, financial meltdowns, unmet goals, frustrations, abusive parents, rebellious children and a hundred other disappointments clutter our minds and emotions. We may be powerless to pick them up and compose anything majestic, but God isn’t. Regardless of how petite our life’s pieces have shattered into, our merciful Father can reconstruct them into something beautiful called “us” and then use us to impact our world in a positive way. All that’s required is trust and faith. When totally committed to the One who has done so much for us, God will form our emptiness into a house sturdy enough to weather any storm.

Prayer: Lord Christ, constructor of all things good, we give ourselves in total surrender to You that You might build of us an enduring structure that will overcome every storm life sends and cause us to persevere with the confidence that You are a mighty God who is able to sustain us in every situation.

Full in Christ by Martin Wiles

Seventy five miles to empty. Fifty five miles to empty. Then a light and message: “Low Fuel.” Sounds and messages I’ve never heard or witnessed in more than thirty five years of driving but ones that are common now.

My gas needle hasn’t tickled the “Full” mark in months. Rising fuels costs and lower than average wages are the culprits that have forced me to drive with the message section of the odometer glaring continuously in my face. Riding on fumes bottles me in a state of anxiety, and wondering where the next twenty dollars will come from-or if it will, rattles my nerves.

Fortunately the level of my spiritual tank isn’t determined by rising fuel costs or my dearth of funds. Depth is determined by what Jesus did on my behalf and my response to it. For you know that God paid a ransom to save you from the empty life you inherited from your ancestors. And the ransom he paid was not mere gold or silver (I Peter 1:18 NLT).

While I can’t keep my gas tank full continuously (unless I fill it and park the car), I can maintain a satiated spiritual level even though the bank account may be a little dusty. I’m filled with forgiveness by accepting through faith the act of mercy Christ performed on my behalf. Living in a sinful world consumes my fuel, but there’s no monetary issue involved in spiritual refilling. All that’s required is a daily trip to God’s Word for a fueling of comfort, encouragement, and direction along with regular visits to my prayer room. Coupling these with sharing my faith and hobnobbing with other believers keeps my tank full and my faith strong. Christ provides our spiritual fuel; we simply have to “fill her up.”

Prayer: Thank You merciful Lord Jesus for paying the ransom that we might be set free from the emptiness of sinful living. We relish in Your forgiveness and the fullness it brings.

Squash Casserole by Michelle Wiles

2 C. SQUASH (YELLOW)

2 C. CRUMBLED CORNBREAD

1 STICK MARGARINE (MELTED)

2 T. SAGE

1 CAN CREAM OF MUSHROOM SOUP

1 EGG (SLIGHTLY BEATEN)

I ONION (CHOPPED)

1 T. SUGAR

SALT/PEPPER

1/4 C. MILK

MIX THE SQUASH, ONION, SALT/PEPPER, AND SUGAR.

 

COOK UNTIL TENDER.

IN A BOWL, MIX THE COOKED SQUASH AND ALL OTHER INGREDIENTS.

PLACE IN A CASSEROLE DISH AND BAKE AT 350 FOR 30 MINS.

Sausage Tarts by Michelle Wiles

1 lb Hot Sausage (Cooked and Drained)

1 Sm Bottle Ranch Dressing

2 C. Taco Cheese with Seasoning

4 pkgs. Aztec shells (freezer section)

Mix the three ingredients together and spoon into shells.

Bake 350 for 10-12 Mins or until golden brown.

 

*Christmas Sale Now through January 1*
Purchase my new ebook at 20% off the regular price with coupon code GN38Q. Click the title-Authentic Christianity, for downloading information.

Peace in Life’s Storms by Martin Wiles

I lay in my tent caressed by darkness’ fingers, listening and shivering as the rain pelted my canvas covering. Thunder pounded against the darkened mountains and rolled through the valley while lightning and wind raged against the sky. Sleep escaped me, and fear crept through my tent flap as I cringed behind my only shield: a vinyl wall.

I’ve slept through numerous storms but been awakened by many more. Nighttime storms petrify me. I’d rather see the ominous clouds, pealing lightning, and fuming winds. Not that seeing will eliminate the effects, but in some strange way it’s more comforting to observe what can eradicate my possessions or steal my life.

The geographical construction near the Sea of Galilee ripened it for sudden and frightening storms, and the disciples and Jesus were in the throes of one. But while the disciples frantically rowed and feared for their lives, Jesus slept. Suddenly, a fierce storm struck the lake, with waves breaking into the boat. But Jesus was sleeping (Matthew 8:24 NLT). His secret can be ours.

Because of Jesus’ keen eyesight and unique perspective, he was able to catnap while his disciples panicked. He saw what the disciples’ faith wasn’t strong enough to perceive-God had the situation in hand, and his perspective resulted in peaceful rest. They weren’t going to die. Rather the Father was using this to form their faith. Our relational, financial, emotional, and spiritual storms can be more crusty, sudden and fierce than the literal storms we encounter. But looking through Jesus’ lenses and adopting his perspective allows the storms to expose our frailties. Then we can examine our priorities which in turn gives God the opportunity to fortify our faith. Instead of running from life’s storms, just go wake Jesus.

Prayer: God of all comfort, we acknowledge that life’s storms often frighten us and threaten our faith. When they do, awaken our faith and draw us closer into Your arms of comfort.

Snickerdoodle Cookies by Michelle Wiles

1 large bag of Betty Crocker Sugar Cookie Mix
1 container of Cinnamon Sugar

Mix cookies according to package.

Roll into small balls and dip in cinnamon sugar mixture.

Place on ungreased cookie sheet and mash slightly with a fork.

Bake on 350 for 10-12 Minutes.

 

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