Control or Controlled by Martin Wiles

Series: Living the Good Life

When I saw the “Hot Now” neon sign, all sense of self-control vanished. I had to have one. The heck with calories and sugar levels.

My wife and I were ushering Mom to a Christmas concert. As our car crept up to the parking lot and we prepared to park, I couldn’t help but notice what lay lit up across the street. A Krispy Kreme doughnut shop…freshly built…with the all-important neon sign shouting an essential message for lovers of dough, sugar and fillings. We immediately made plans to visit as soon as the concert concluded. I enjoyed the music, but my mouth watered for what followed. And I wasn’t disappointed. One dozen was just enough for the ride home and breakfast the following two mornings. A classic picture of self-control’s absence.

Living the good life begins by accepting the forgiveness offered through a relationship with Jesus Christ but is followed by self-control. And we are instructed to turn from godless living and sinful pleasures. We should live in this evil world with self-control, righteousness, and devotion to God (Titus 2:12 NLT).

Self-control makes it possible for us to live in a sinful world without constantly succumbing to its temptations. Without it, my life runs out of control when I see flashy signs illuminated, smell luscious aromas prancing around my nose, and sample what initially tantalizes my taste buds but quickly turns bitter in my stomach. Self-control isn’t instantly learned, but through experience and dependence on God’s power we can discover how to leave alone what’s better left alone. Discover God’s will in his Word, and then ask him for the power to avoid any unhealthy and sinful habits that attract you. Sin can’t control us when our lives are controlled by Christ.

Prayer: All-powerful God, fill us with the strength we need to live above sin through a life controlled by Your Spirit.

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Serving With Sincerity by Martin Wiles

Series: Living With a Clear Conscience

I was serving, but deep inside my motives were tainted.

Fresh out of college and pastoring my very first church, I was eager to impress…someone…anyone. So began my journey for recognition. In addition to pastoring and teaching full time, I directed a department in our local church association, worked on my Master’s, and volunteered with local literary associations. To say my plate was full is an understatement. 

My efforts were cloaked under the disguise of living out my faith, but I was mostly serving self. I craved advancement in my denomination along with name recognition. To a degree, I accomplished my purpose, but “praying on the street corner” retrieved recognition only from others, not God. 

Serving God with a clear conscience involves motives. He is the God I serve with a clear conscience (II Timothy 1:3 NLT). Jesus warned, When you pray, don’t be like the hypocrites who love to pray publicly on street corners…where everyone can see them (Matthew 6:5 NLT).

Jesus was hounded and surrounded by religious elite who bragged about their accolades and reveled in their righteousness. But their motives for serving God and others were corrupted by a self seeking attitude. They fancied acknowledgement, praise, and rewards from others. And others gave it, but God didn’t.

Why we do something is as important as what we do. Our acts of service may benefit others, but God peeks beneath the veneer, examines our motives, and judges accordingly. Amount given doesn’t necessarily equal credit received in God’s book of records. Our giving and service should emerge from appreciation over what God has done for us. When it does, our service will be more enjoyable, the inner turmoil will vanish, and God will say, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” Are you serving with sincerity?

Prayer: Blessed Lord, we acknowledge we’re all we are because of Your grace. Paint our service to others with sincerity so that we might enjoy Your earthly and heavenly rewards and accurately reflect Your love to others.

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Answering Why by Martin Wiles

He rose from his seat and scampered to the door to answer an unexpected call. What he heard next would change his life forever: “Mom’s not breathing.”

Our small church wasn’t prepared for the tragedy. Nor was her spouse, child, or parents. Kelley was in the prime of life-soon to reach the 40 milestone, and from all outward appearances healthy. She was an only child and the mother of an only grandchild soon to celebrate his eleventh birthday. She was a wife celebrating sixteen years of marriage to the man she loved. But everything changed that Sunday night when Kelley died of a massive heart attack. Crowds of mourners packed the mortuary’s chapel and waited in line for hours to express sympathy…and perhaps to consider their own mortality.

Tragedies are difficult to prepare for…some more so than others, but God’s assures, I will never fail you. I will never abandon you (Hebrews 13:5-6 NLT).

Disease, death, and tragedy remind me I live in a sin-tainted world and experience the far-reaching consequences of the first couple’s rebellion. Yet bad things aren’t evidence of the absence of God’s love. Though I’m unsure why he doesn’t rectify every wrong, by faith I trust that he isn’t a capricious, unloving God. 

Asking why is typical in tragic occurrences. Jesus himself did when hanging on the cross paying for the world’s sins: My God, my God, why have you abandoned me? (Matthew 27:46 NLT). I’ve done it when walking through spiritual, physical, and emotional valleys. Unfortunately, God doesn’t normally answer the why question, but he will show us how to convert our loss, learn from it, and grow through it. We can redeem our losses by reminding ourselves that he’s always present with us and that his strength is more than sufficient to carry us through any difficulty life shoves our way. While beneficial to lean on others, the ultimate unmovable wall is our faith in God.

Prayer: Sovereign God, we confess our failure to understand the senseless tragedies that sometimes come into our lives, but we trust Your wisdom and by faith rely on You to carry us through the dark valleys.

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Giving That Hurts by Martin Wiles

Series: Living With a Clear Conscience

Finances going south and a pressing question: should I keep giving to God, cut back, or cut it out entirely.

I was always taught you couldn’t outgive God, but what about when giving means an unpaid bill, a missed meal, an empty gas tank, or insufficient funds for the children’s lunches? Can I hold back then?

These were situations I dealt with when employment was lost and two incomes suddenly contracted into one. And the one was less than half of the previous. Something or someone was going to miss out if I gave…or gave as much as I knew I should. Doubt and anxiety reigned, and I chose to skimp on God. Not completely but enough for him to demonstrate what lack of trust can do…dry up what little I kept back.

Cheating God out of what belongs to him clouds the conscience. Paul taught liberal giving and said, He is the God I serve with a clear conscience (II Timothy 1:3 NLT). Malachi challenged God’s people to do the same. “Bring all the tithes into the storehouse,” says the LORD of Heaven’s Armies…, I will pour out a blessing so great you won’t have enough room to take it in! (Malachi 3:10 NLT)

Giving liberally, regularly, and joyfully of my time, money and talents recognizes God’s ownership of everything I have. He’s made it possible for me to collect every possession I own in trust. Giving with these attitudes recognizes his authority over every area of my life. Rebellion against authority is common, but rebelling against God’s authority is foolish. Through my giving-in whatever form it takes, I submit to Christ’s lordship and enjoy his blessings. If life’s curves have caused you to give up on giving to God, recommit to returning a portion to him and watch him open the floodgates of heaven.

Prayer: Eternal God, we acknowledge that everything we have comes from You. Equip us with the faith to trust You with everything we have and to give to You and others accordingly.

Disciplined to Discipline by Martin Wiles

Series: Living With a Clear Conscience

Dad was a master disciplinarian with a large repertoire of maneuvers. Among them, his favorite…a haircut.

I was a baldheaded child, and as I surpass mid-life I am reliving my childhood. But there was a time when I could grow hair…more than my father was comfortable with. If I wanted to fit in, I had little choice. I was a child of the seventies and the hippie generation. Though my hair never crept below my shoulders, it snuggled near them…until I infringed upon one of Dad’s critical rules. Then I was conveyed to the place I despised-the barbershop.

Dad disciplined because I needed discipline. His discipline also helped clear my conscience. He is the God I serve with a clear conscience (II Timothy 1:3 NLT). According to the writer of Hebrews, his audience was also undisciplined. You have been believers so long now that you ought to be teaching others. Instead, you need someone to teach you again the basic things about God’s word (Hebrews 5:12 NLT).

Our sinful nature makes God’s discipline critical. Effective spiritual disciplines help reign in our bent to be bad like the threat of a haircut made me consider unwise behavior before I engaged it. Communion with God disciplines us toward obedience. Had Adam and Eve waited until evening to consult with God before eating the forbidden fruit, life would have changed for them and us. The story is old, but there’s nothing better to replace it with. Healthy spiritual disciplines include regular prayer, consistent Bible study, active listening to God’s Spirit, collective worship, and regular association with others who share our faith. These disciplines won’t make us perfect, but forays into rebellion are less likely when they’re a customary part of our day. Are there disciplines you need more discipline in?

Prayer: Merciful Lord Jesus, may the spiritual disciplines of our life discipline us to walk in a closer relationship with You and foster more consistent obedience to You.

Putting First Things First by Martin Wiles

Series: Living With a Clear Conscience

Perhaps she wasn’t my first case of puppy love, but she’s the first I remember fawning over and daydreaming about.

Dad was preaching at a small town church in Low Country South Carolina. I was approaching my teen years…not particularly looking for love but not running from it either. As normal, he stayed just long enough for me to make a few friends...Cathy among them. I didn’t pay her much attention while living there, but once we moved…Ouch…the love bug nibbled. Before long, I was writing her endearing letters and driving twenty-five miles to court her. Our romance didn’t last long, but at the time she had my attention and my heart.

Serving God with a clear conscience gives God the same. He is the God I serve with a clear conscience (II Timothy 1:3 NLT). Jesus replied, “You must love the LORD your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind” (Matthew 22:37 NLT). When an expert in religious law questioned Jesus about which was God’s most important commandment, he informed him that loving God supremely and others accordingly topped the list.

I’ve discovered putting first things first spiritually often conflicts with my pre-arranged priority list and involves rearranging my schedule to fit God’s. Left to myself, I will…although unconsciously…leave God completely out of my agenda. Or if I include him, put him somewhere in the evening hours after the most pressing and urgent matters are attended to. Living the good life entails operating according to God’s standards not mine-although hopefully they’re similar. Loving God immeasurably will alter my attitudes, actions, and priorities. God’s goals for me will come first, and when I pursue them the needs of others will become important to me as well. Let God help you put first things first.

Prayer: Father God, we confess how easily we often jumble our priorities and leave You out. Motivate us to put You first in every endeavor and to love others with the same love that You love us.

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I Forgive by Martin Wiles

Series: Living With a Clear Conscience

“No! I don’t want to forgive ______!” he seethed. Sure, he believed in forgiving, but not this person…never.

Craig Groeschel was bitter after learning a family friend had molested his sister. He had been his sister’s sixth-grade teacher, but behind the façade was a sick man who abused numerous girls. Groeschel wanted him to die and burn in hell. But the preacher’s message and God’s Word convicted him otherwise.

Groeschel began the road to forgiveness by praying for the offender. Eventually, he asked God to help him forgive. By the time he wrote a letter expressing his forgiveness, the man was dying and under hospice care. Months later, a nurse contacted Groeschel and told of how she read the letter to the dying man and listened as he asked God’s forgiveness.

Forgiveness isn’t easy-and I’ve struggled with it more than once, but it’s necessary for a clear conscience. He is the God I serve with a clear conscience (II Timothy 1:3 NLT). And forgive us our sins, just as we have forgiven those who have sinned against us (Matthew 6:12 NLT).

Unforgiveness breeds bitterness and anger and can birth emotional and physical illness. It also divides our mind. God is perched on one shoulder shouting “Forgive” while Satan is crouched on the opposite roaring, “Hate.”

Forgiveness is releasing someone from a debt they owe us for an offense they’ve committed. It should be immediate and continuous. Some offenses slice so deep, we have to forgive more than once. Forgiving doesn’t necessarily mean we have to re-establish ties with the offender, but we let go of the anger, bitterness, and hate. More importantly, forgiving heals our relationship with God. Unforgiveness creates static that prevents us from hearing God clearly and him from using us fully. Who do you need to release?

Prayer: Thank You Father for Your continual and perfect forgiveness regardless of how often we fail You. Equip us to be as forgiving toward others as You are toward us.
(Groeschel, Craig. The Christian Atheist, 113-121.)

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Fessed Up by Martin Wiles

Series: Living With a Clear Conscience

He couldn’t believe it, but they were staring him in the face…A’s. He’d never seen anything like it.

As his father’s car crawled into the driveway, he could hardly contain himself. With a smile the size of Texas, he proudly shoved it into his father’s hand. Dad bragged to everyone about his son and even rewarded him with a brand new bicycle.

But the young boy wouldn’t ride his bike. Guilt over the farce he was living kept him grounded. His teacher had mistakenly recorded all A’s on his report card, but he hadn’t told his dad. He was embarrassed and assumed his father would be ashamed of him. Running away was his only conceivable outlet. When his dad finally caught him, the confession was mutual…Dad for making him feel he must be perfect to be loved and son for not acknowledging the mistake.

Confession is necessary for clear consciences as Paul notes and the psalmist affirms. Timothy, I thank God for you. He is the God I serve with a clear conscience (II Timothy 1:3 NLT). If I had not confessed the sin in my heart, the Lord would not have listened (Psalm 66:18 NLT).

Confession of sin is good for the soul but yields different results for believers and unbelievers. Failure to ever repent is unpardonable and leads to eternal separation from God. Daily confession follows repentance and is a lifelong exercise since repentance doesn’t perfect us. Living in a sinful world soils us with known and unknown sins. Confession eliminates the dirt these produce and restores an open line of communication with God. It’s an expression of our desire to live as God desires and a recognition that sin affronts the holy God we serve. As the little boy and his dad’s relationship was affected by the lie he was living, so sin hinders the spiritual progress God desires we make. Are you “fessed up?”

Prayer: Father of grace and love, we confess our periodical infractions and thank You for forgiving all our sins through Your Son’s sacrifice on Calvary’s cross. Enable us to live holy and pure lives for Your glory and to rejoice in the freedom of forgiveness.

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Fair and Square by Martin Wiles

Series: Passing the Ethics Test

Spotless, clean, immaculate, pristine…words that had described my credit record for the past thirty years. But not now.

What I carefully guarded was spoiled by another’s decision and made painfully transparent when I attempted to purchase my next vehicle. Purchasing a two-year-old automobile with 60,000 miles required financing it for five years to obtain an affordable payment. The reason? An excessive interest rate due to my credit rating. I thought it was extremely unfair…even criminal.

Under God’s Old Testament economy, Jews could charge foreigners interest (Deuteronomy 23:20), and interest-as long as it wasn’t exorbitant, was also allowable for business purposes (Leviticus 25:35-37). Evidently, I wasn’t even of foreigner caliber. But profit on loans to their kinsmen was forbidden (Exodus 22:25).

Ethics and interest go together and affect our relationship with God. Who may worship in your sanctuary, LORD…Those who do not charge interest on the money they lend (Psalm 15:1, 5 NLT).

Interest free is rare and even then only available to those with spotless credit histories. And no one expects all businesses to operate non-profit. Profit is necessary for investments which are beneficial to the economy. The key involves fairness and our attitude. Making three percent profit is reasonable; collecting $15,000 in interest on a five year loan is criminal.

Obsession with money…greed…is a main ingredient in unfair business dealings. An accurate perspective on money is vital. Everything we possess comes from God, belongs to him, and is to be used in a way that honors him and passes his love to the needy. Business transactions should be fair and honest, and a portion of our money should be given to God and shared with others. How is your attitude about money affecting your dealings with others? How can you better use your possessions to assist the needy?

Prayer: Almighty God, we acknowledge Your ownership of all things. May we use what You entrust to us in ways that recognize Your control and assist our neighbors in their times of need.

Keeping Your Word by Martin Wiles

Series: Passing the Ethics Test

Bundles of paperwork…bucoodles of signatures…all necessities of modern-day purchases...all compulsory items to ensure I honor my word.

My wife and I were down to our last pennies. We had one part-time job between us, and it wasn’t paying the bills. Creditors were calling, and debts were mounting. So we did the only thing we knew to do…prayed and ferried the title to the one thing we actually owned to a loan agency.

We nestled helplessly before the lending agent and told him our dilemma. He entered the facts into his computer, hit print, and retrieved a manuscript requiring our signatures. All to ensure we kept our promise-even though they obviously had the money and we evidently had the truck.

Living in a sinful society often makes promises necessary, but ultimately we should be as good as our word. Who may worship in your sanctuary, LORD…Those who…keep their promises even when it hurts (Psalm 15:1, 4 NLT).

Keeping our word eliminates the necessity of saying “I promise.” Jesus warned his peers against flippant use of sacred language and careless vows. A simple “Yes, I will,” or “No, I won’t” is sufficient (Matthew 5:37 NLT). No signature. Not even a handshake.

Keeping our word honors God who also keeps his word to us. How gravely uncertain our lives would be if God’s word was untrustworthy. Being true to our word paints an accurate picture of him to others. No one enjoys fraternizing with unreliable individuals-or deities.

Faithfulness to our word also builds trust which ensures healthy relationships. Associations with little or no trust are doomed to fail. Trust is the building block for stability and endurance in our relationship with God and others.

Are you a person of your word or someone others question whether they can trust? Be as good as your word.

Prayer: Thank You Father for being as good as Your word. We trust Your promises and build our relationship with You on the foundation of Your faithfulness.

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The Power of Influence

Series: Passing the Ethics Test

I met Mickey* shortly after graduating high school when I began working at a local metal fabrication plant. He wasn’t a Christian but acted more like one than I did…and I was.

Coming off several years of rebellious living, I needed a positive influence. Mickey provided that-and even more so after he became a believer. He didn’t judge me because of my questionable ways but quietly followed most of my ungodly speech or actions with “You ain’t right”…then kindly pointed out the correct manner by his personal example. Mickey lent a helping hand even when it wasn’t a part of his “job description.” Over the years, his encouraging influence directed my life’s course back toward righteous living.

Passing the ethics test entails guarding ourselves against the influence of bad company while simultaneously making sure we aren’t the bad company. Who may worship in your sanctuary, LORD...Those who despise flagrant sinners (Psalm 15:1, 4 NLT). Bad company can corrupt good morals-and often does, but a positive influence may enhance the character of one’s bad associations.

We have an influence on those we encounter even if it’s not intentional. Since my influence on others is inescapable, I’ve established some goals. My example should lead people closer to God. Regardless of whether they ever enter a relationship with him or not, they should behave better when they’re around me…just as people once did when “the preacher was coming.” My example should also encourage rather than discourage. The world layers enough disappointment without me adding to it. I should also demonstrate godliness in my actions, words and attitudes. And occasionally, I may have to maintain separateness from those who might negatively influence me. Some acquaintances…and friends…are better left alone. Influence is essential. Ask God what you can do to improve yours.

Prayer: Eternal God, may we be the salt that flavors other’s lives and the light that illuminates Your love.
*Name changed to protect privacy.

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Watching the Tongue by Martin Wiles

Series: Passing the Ethics Test

He was a prior police officer and a current fellow pastor and good friend, but idle tongues cost him his present position and almost ruined his reputation.

I pastored on one end of town and he on the other. Riding past his church one day, I observed an adage on the marquee denigrating gossip. A red flag shot up. My friend was counseling a woman with marital trouble, and some in the church assumed the worse. Talk continued in spite of his discretion, and he soon felt it best to resign. Fortunately, he had another career to fall back on, but the church suffered needlessly-and so did his reputation.

According to Wikipedia, gossip is “idle talk or rumor about the personal or private affairs of others.” The psalmist declares it leads to failing the ethics test. Who may worship in your sanctuary, LORD...Those who refuse to gossip (Psalm 15:3 NLT).

One of my father’s famous sayings was, “An idle mind is the devil’s workshop.” So are idle hands. When I don’t have enough to do-or enough of the proper things to do, I tend to let my eyes, nose and mouth wander in areas that don’t concern me. I become a “spiritual policeman” looking for religious crimes others are committing-or rumored to be committing. Instead of letting God tend to the judging, I ignore the beam in my eye and tend to the speck in someone else’s. 

Gossip destroys friendships, divides churches, damages work atmospheres, and dents other significant relationships. Not everything must be said, and a great deal of what I say would probably be better left unsaid. Let God teach you to think before you speak and when you speak to use language that builds up, encourages and shares truth not rumors. Learn to look for the good in others instead of the questionable.

Prayer: God of mercy and grace, motivate us to use our speech to build others up instead of tear them down.

Passing the Ethics Test-Speaking Truth by Martin Wiles

Series: Passing the Ethics Test

She was in a precarious situation. Was it acceptable to lie?

The battle commander assembled his troops and made plans to defeat his quarry. Little did Rahab know she was part of the strategy but would be faced with an ethical dilemma in the process. The army’s incursion was delayed until a report from two spies was received…two spies who happened upon Rahab’s house. When the king sent sentries to capture them, Rahab hid them beneath piles of flax and said, They left the city at dusk, as the city gates were about to close, and I don’t know where they went (Joshua 2:5 NLT).

Rahab’s predicament is one which believers don’t unanimously agree on…Is it ever permissible to lie? Those hiding innocent Jewish families and questioned during Hitler’s Holocaust faced a similar quandary. While there may be extenuating circumstances when lying is permissible, passing the ethic’s test normally requires truth. Speaking the truth from sincere hearts (Psalm 15:2 NLT).

Believing the lie of Satan got Adam and Eve in trouble in the Garden of Eden (Genesis 3). God considered truth vital enough to include a commandment against lying (Exodus 20:16), and Jesus also deemed it important and donated it to his disciples (John 17:8).

I’ve been the recipient of lies from family, friends, and work associates. And if I think long enough, I’ll have to confess that I’ve told my share as well. Truth restores; lies divide and conquer. Relationships are ripped apart, businesses collapse, classes are failed, and God’s honor is tainted any time truth is compromised. When Ebenezer Scrooge attempted to use a giant candle snuffer to snuff out the ghost of Christmas past’s pictures, the ghost repeatedly shouted, “Truth lives.” And it does. Pass the ethic’s test by committing to tell the truth on every occasion.

Prayer: Holy Father, may the words of our mouths and the meditations of our hearts be always adorned with truth.

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Passing the Ethics Test-Doing What’s Right by Martin Wiles

Series: Passing the Ethics Test

She entered the classroom and dropped into her desk. Shaundra* had a quiz, but her hurried entrance, speedy trip to her desk, rapid unpacking of her books, and worried look on her face made it obvious she wasn’t prepared. And out of the corner of my eye, I noticed the ultimate evidence…a small cheat sheet.

As the test began, she positioned her long flowing hair over her left shoulder and turned her head sideways so I couldn’t observe the paper neatly lying in her jacket sleeve. But I knew…and she did too. I waited until later to confront her, and she awkwardly admitted her sin and apologized. Though I accepted her apology and didn’t assign her a zero, a high ethical standard would have motivated Shaundra to do the right thing even though I wasn’t looking.

In considering the qualifications for worshipping God, David concludes right living is indispensable. Who may worship in your sanctuary, LORD...Those who lead blameless lives and do what is right (Psalm 15:1-2 NLT).

Inviting Christ into our life as Savior brings with it God’s declaration of righteousness. The position takes diligent work if it’s to work itself out in proper life application. In plain language, God’s pronouncement doesn’t mean I’m always going to behave as I should. Like Shaundra, it’s easier to act right when people are watching than when I’m out of sight. My influence seems more significant when it affects others…my spouse, children, siblings, parents…than when it’s just myself at stake. But doing right is…well…just right whether in secret or in public view. God expects it and through the relationship gives us the power to accomplish ethical living. Make it your life goal to do the right thing when no one is watching and when everyone is gawking.

Prayer: Eternal God, You give us the grace and strength to make choices that honor You and assist others. May we depend on You for that strength when we’re alone and when we’re in the public’s eye.
*Name changed to protect the privacy of the individual.

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The Den of Iniquity by Martin Wiles

Though cute snuggled in his “den,” approaching too closely will uncover bared teeth, a bark, and-if necessary, a sharp crunch on the finger.

Our Chihuahua demonstrates perfectly the traits of the breed-possessive, selfish, habitual, loving to friends but vicious toward anyone intervening in his cozy world. Burrowing is also one of his habits. Whether underneath the bed covers, beneath his favorite blanket, or buried in a throw, he loves to snuggle and be covered while doing it. But his den quickly becomes iniquitous when invaded.

I’m similar. I burrow by dismissing unkind thoughts as normal, by performing charitable acts with ulterior motives, and by pretending to love everyone when I struggle even to like some folks. When confronted about the true strands of my nature, I bare my angry teeth, lash out, and often deny the accusations.

John states the problem and the solution. If we claim we have no sin, we are only fooling ourselves….But if we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us (I John 1:8-9 NLT). Some imagine God as a grandfatherly type who enjoys watching his children blunder through life while overlooking their foibles as normal behavior. When they finally reach the pearly gates, he’ll growl, “We’ll just forget your intentional groveling in the den of iniquity. Come on in.”

Confession exposes our dens and admits we’ve failed God-who by the way doesn’t overlook sin. Denying our sin allows the true traits of our nature to surface while confession gives them to God who alone can heal and show us a better way. Initial confession brings the forgiveness Christ purchased on Calvary; continual confession keeps us in a healthy relationship with our Heavenly Father and out of the dens of iniquity. Confession is good for the soul. What’s concealed in your den that needs uncovering?

Prayer: Motivate us merciful Lord to confess our sins rather than attempt to conceal them from You and others so that we can live in a way that pleases You and shines the light of forgiveness and righteousness to others.

Thinking God’s Thoughts by Martin Wiles

At nine years of age, my father took me into his office and explained a better way. After all, I was a sinner who needed saving. “Have you ever lied to your mom or me?” Or his infamous one, “You know when you sass (his favorite word) us? That’s a sin too.”

From a sordid introduction, he scurried to a respectable solution…“God sent his Son to die for your sins…” then to the sinner’s prayer. The prayer worked well until the cringing fingers of peer pressure began clawing at my otherwise moral fiber. For nine years, lying and sassing were among my tamer sins. Questions penetrated the hard shell of my rebellion. Was I an alcoholic, or just someone who drank? An addict or merely someone who used occasionally? A criminal or simply someone who sporadically broke a few laws? More importantly, a rebellious child of God or not one at all? Was I defined by what I did or whose I was?

I chose to believe what God whispered instead of what I felt. This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun! (II Corinthians 5:17 NLT)

Defining ourselves by past failures and mistakes, by filthy and unkind words spoken by or about us, or even by our failed attempts to live up to other’s expectations ensures misery. Freedom grows when we think God’s thoughts about us. Yes, I was only nine when I accepted Christ-and sure I’ve made numerous blunders, but Christ’s payment on the cross was enough to cover past, present, and future sins. Faith in him makes us his children and ensures complete redemption. We no longer suffocate under condemnation but breathe under forgiveness’ freedom. Don’t let other’s thoughts about you because of your present or past mistakes define your identity. Think God’s thoughts.

Prayer: Thank You merciful Father for covering all our sins by the blood of Your Son. Enable us to live in the freedom of forgiveness rather than in the chains of other’s opinions of us.

Big Dog Itis by Martin Wiles

He’s a diminutive Deer head Chihuahua, but he has big dog itis.

Chihuahuas are the smallest breed of dogs and are named for the state of Chihuahua in Mexico. Archaeological finds and folklore disclose that the breed originated in Mexico and probably descended from the Techichi, a dog favored by the Toltec civilization.

We inherited our Chihuahua, Twix, from our daughter-so named because his colors are similar to the Twix candy bar. While walking him recently, I encountered a gentleman visiting a relative for the holidays and walking his dog-somewhat larger than mine. As our dogs yapped at one another, the gentleman remarked, “They’re both the same size on the inside.” Both imagined they were enormously large in statue, and they definitely were in attitude.

The same is true for believers as Paul notes. There is one Lord, one faith, one baptism, and one God and Father, who is over all and in all and living through all (Ephesians 4:5-6 NLT).

God didn’t create us as carbon copies of each other-we have various hair colors, body shapes, eye tints, skin tones, and nose sizes along with unique opportunities and different personalities, but in our relationship with him we’re all the same size. God’s grace is responsible for our salvation, his sovereignty for our opportunities, his strength for our perseverance through trials and tribulations, and his wisdom for the unique gifts we possess. Our abilities may appear large or small, but each is essential for strengthening the body of Christ. There is a single way to heaven-through the one Lord, and only faith makes the connection. Since we’re identical on the inside, we can be unified in our outer efforts to share this same Lord with everyone. Don’t let big dog itis divide you from your kin in Christ.

Prayer: Thank You Lord Jesus for the special gifts You give. Unify us in our efforts to work together as we share Your love with others and build up Your body the Church.

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Bondage Breakers by Martin Wiles

Except for a few who were owned by compassionate masters, it was a wretched existence.

Around 12 million Africans were shipped to the Americas between the 16th and 19th centuries-the majority going to sugar plantations in the West Indies or Brazil and the remainder to what is presently the United States. The 1860 United States Census shows the slave population at four million with roughly one in four families in the slave states owning slaves.

House servants were in demand in the North and in southern cities, but the majority of slaves worked on large plantations and farms. Under chattel slavery, a person and his or descendants were owned. Life was miserable and freedom only attainable by running away-which was difficult and dangerous, or by manumission wherein the owner freed the slave.

God’s people knew a little about bondage. Disobedience put them in Egyptian, Assyrian, and Babylonian captivity, but in all cases God reminded them why they were there and what was required for freedom. Therefore, say to the people of Israel: “I am the LORD. I will free you from your oppression and will rescue you from your slavery in Egypt. I will redeem you with a powerful arm” (Exodus 6:6 NLT).

Though slavery has been almost universally abolished, bondage hasn’t. Addictions to substances, power, possessions, pornography, abuse, and popularity still abound, but the key to freedom remains the same. A relationship with God through faith in Jesus Christ is still the bondage breaker. In itself, it won’t make all enslaving habits immediately disappear, but it will set us on a course toward healing. Disobedience-in whatever area, always enslaves, but obedience results in the greatest Emancipation Proclamation of all time. Let God free you from enslaving actions and attitudes. Admit your helplessness, and turn to him in faith.

Prayer: Father of liberty, we admit our frequent forays into areas that later enslave us to actions and attitudes better left alone. But we rejoice in the bondage breaking You offer upon our request for freedom.

A year's worth of devotions to start or finish your day on an encouraging note. Click the picture for ordering information.

The Side Effects of Suffering-Sensitized to Suffering by Martin Wiles

Series: The Side Effects of Suffering

Johnny was born with Down Syndrome, but his own suffering didn’t prevent him from being sensitive to other’s needs.

Johnny was 19 and working as a bag boy when his company conducted a customer service training program. Their goal was that customers remember the service as outstanding…beyond the norm…service that stood out. Though merely a bag boy, Johnny invented a plan he thought might work. As a lover of inspirational quotes, he decided he’d deposit one in each customer’s bag and say, “Thanks for shopping with us today. I’ve placed an inspirational thought in your bag that I hope you’ll enjoy.”

And it worked. Imagine the store manager’s surprise when he entered one day to find all the customers in one line when three were open. Once a week customers patronized more frequently just to see Johnny-a 19-year-old bag boy who transformed the store with his sensitivity.

As an early missionary traveling in regions where the gospel wasn’t always received enthusiastically, Paul was accustomed to suffering. But it sensitized him to others who were enduring similar circumstances. Even when we are weighed down with troubles, it is for your comfort and salvation! For when we ourselves are comforted, we will certainly comfort you (II Corinthians 1:6 NLT).

Suffering is a side effect of sin’s presence in our world. Famine, disease, crime, abuse, broken relationships, economic breakdown, homelessness, addictions, loneliness-all symptoms of a sick world. All conditions evidencing people’s need of a Savior. Personal suffering allows us first-hand experience that when entered into properly triggers us to focus less on ourselves and more on others. Christians know the ultimate healer who brings comfort regardless of how severe the suffering is. Let God help you redeem personal suffering by turning your attention to others who are suffering also.

Prayer: God of all comfort, encourage us in our times of suffering so that we might share that consolation and encouragement with others who are suffering as well.

A year's worth of devotions to start or finish your day on an encouraging note. Click the picture for ordering information.

The Side Effects of Suffering-Identifying With Christ by Martin Wiles

Series: The Side Effects of Suffering

Dietrich Bonhoeffer, in The Cost of Discipleship, said, “When Christ calls a man, he bids him come and die.” And he did.

Bonhoeffer was a Lutheran pastor and theologian who resisted Nazi dictatorship, opposed Hitler’s euthanasia program and his persecution of the Jewish people, and even joined the German Military Intelligence Office in their plans to assassinate Hitler. The Gestapo arrested him in April of 1943 and hung him two years later, just 23 days before Hitler surrendered. Bonhoeffer stood for his faith, suffered for his faith, and ultimately died for his faith.

No one enjoys suffering, but it does put us in good company. Instead, be very glad—for these trials make you partners with Christ in his suffering (I Peter 4:13 NLT).

Jesus’ suffering began soon after his birth when Herod attempted to murder him for fear he would eventually wrestle the kingdom from his control and extended to the very end when the religious leaders eventually persuaded Pilate to kill him for fear he would lead a rebellion against Rome. Add to this the in between episodes when he was criticized, misunderstood by friends and family, and followed for the wrong reasons, and his entire life was one long stream of anguish.

Jesus says his followers will suffer as he did (John 15:20). When we walk in his shoes by exposing evil, by uncovering injustice, by confronting hatred and unforgiveness, and by shining the light of righteousness of all forms of sin, we’ll suffer. Even if we don’t die physically as Jesus and Bonhoeffer did, we may experience deaths of friendships, relationships, finances, and even employment because we were willing to identify with Christ. But in the midst of the pain, be glad. You’re partnered with Christ and will enjoy rich eternal rewards for your stand.

Prayer: Merciful Lord, who suffered so much for us, give us strength to stand for You even when it means we will be maligned, misunderstood and persecuted.

A year's worth of devotions to start or finish your day on an encouraging note. Click the picture for ordering information.

RED HOT BUFFALO CHICKEN DIP

8 OZ. CREAM CHEESE
½ C. RANCH SALAD DRESSING
½ C. FRANK’S RED HOT BUFFALO WING SAUCE
½ C. SHREDDED MOZERELLA CHEESE
2 C. SHREDDED COOKED CHICKEN

PLACE CREAM CHEESE IN A SMALL ROUND DISH.

MICROWAVE FOR 1 MIN. TO SOFTEN.

MIX SALAD DRESSING, WING SAUCE, CREAM CHEESE, AND MOZERELLA CHEESE UNTIL SMOOTH.

ADD CHICKEN AND MIX WELL.

BAKE AT 350 FOR 20 MINS.

The Side Effects of Suffering-Teachable Spirits by Martin Wiles

Series: The Side Effects of Suffering

Having once been a student, I can relate to those who share the same disdain toward learning I once did. “How is this going to help me?” “Why do I need to know this?” “Are we going to do something fun today…” as if traditional learning isn’t.

Prior to college, I despised school. Elementary, middle, high…I hated them all. Didn’t like any teachers and saw nothing beneficial in learning history, math, English or science. I studied just enough to get by and learned very little in the process. Homework was a bore and just the teacher’s way of inflicting further punishment.

Maturity settled in by the time I entered college. I was eager to learn everything I’d missed out on because of my laziness and unconcern. Although I couldn’t recapture all I had neglected, I absorbed all I possibly could. Like the psalmist, I now had a teachable spirit. Teach me your decrees, O LORD; I will keep them to the end (Psalm 119:33 NLT).

Many students equate the learning process with suffering-and some teachers make it easy to do. But knowledge is imparted through the process. It can also be absorbed through physical and emotional struggles when we respond appropriately. When things are cadillacing smoothly, I tend to think, “God, I’ve got this. No help required.” Yet when illness, tragedy or other various setbacks arrive and lay me on my back, I quickly change my mind. “God, need a little help here.”

Fortunately, God overlooks my stubbornness and selfishness and comes to my rescue…although not always in the way I had hoped. If we’ll allow him, God will create teachable spirits in us through episodes of suffering. Instead of responding with anger, bitterness, rage, disappointment, and discouragement when suffering knocks, let God teach you life-changing lessons.

Prayer: Almighty God who never leaves or forsakes us even in our most trying times, teach us life-changing lessons through our sufferings even when we want to run and hide.

BROWN RICE

1 C. RICE (UNCOOKED)
1 CAN BEEF CONSOMME (CAMPBELL'S)
1 CAN BEEF BROTH (CAMPBELL'S)
1/2 STICK BUTTER

MIX ALL INGREDIENTS TOGETHER AND PLACE IN A GLASS CASSEROLE DISH.

BAKE AT 375 FOR 45 MINS.

Bacon, Cheese, and Hashbrown Casserole - Michelle Wiles

Ingredients

1 Bag of Shredded Hashbrowns 

2 Cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese

1 Can Cream of Mushroom Soup

1 Bag of Real Bacon Bits

Salt/Pepper

2 Tablespoons Butter

Directions

Mix all ingredients and place in a casserole dish.

Bake on 350 degrees for 20-30 minutes or until golden brown.
(Photo courtesy of allrecipes.com)

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BLACK BEAN SPIRALS

4 OZ. CREAM CHEESE
¼ C. SOUR CREAM
½ C. MONTEREY JACK CHEESE
¼ TSP. ONION SALT
1 CAN BLACK BEANS (DRAINED AND RINSED)
3 10” FLOUR TORTILLA SHELLS
SALSA

BEAT CREAM CHEESE, SOUR CREAM, AND SALT UNTIL WELL BLENDED.

PLACE BEANS IN CHOPPER (CHOP UNTIL SMOOTH).

SPREAD CHEESE MIXTURE OVER BEANS. ROLL UP TIGHTLY.

WRAP IN PLASTIC WRAP AND CHILL FOR 30 MINS.

SLICE AND SERVE WITH SALSA.

The Side Effects of Suffering-Comforting Others by Martin Wiles

Series: The Side Effects of Suffering

She developed as a tropical wave on October 22, 2012 in the western Caribbean Sea and quickly swirled into a tropical storm named Sandy. Seven short days later, she stepped ashore as a hurricane near Atlantic City, New Jersey. Hurricane Sandy devastated parts of the Caribbean along with the Mid-Atlantic and Northeastern portions of the United States, killing 253 people along her seven country strut and inflicting 65.6 billion dollars in damage.

Yet in the midst of suffering came hope and comfort. Disaster relief units descended on New Jersey bringing shower/laundry units, mud out crews, counseling teams, chain saw crews, and feeding units. Churches responded with “Buckets of Care for New Jersey,” providing tools, first aid, and safety item supplies for storm victims. Comforters in South Carolina alone filled 466 buckets.

While the cause of our sufferings may escape us, one result never should. He (God) comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us (II Corinthians 1:4 NLT).

I’m certainly not an enthusiast of afflictions, but I’ve also learned the truth of the statement. Responding with “What are you teaching me God” instead of “God why are you allowing this” yields radically different responses. The first increases my sensitivity to what others are experiencing and sensitizes me to ways I can assist them. The second only makes me bitter, drives me farther from God, and causes me to waste unique opportunities to intervene in someone’s life. God’s comfort involves strength, encouragement, and hope to deal with our situations. Our comfort provides the same to others. Instead of blaming God and getting angry, learn from troubles so you can comfort others who are facing similar circumstances.

Prayer: God of all comfort, thank You for never leaving us in our times of trouble. May we be as near to others in their grueling times as You are to us.

The Side Effects of Suffering-Asking the Right Questions by Martin Wiles

Series: The Side Effects of Suffering

We three brothers crouched snugly in a booth at a local restaurant rehashing old memories and considering life’s complexities and our current situations. We were doing what we hadn’t done in years-spending alone time together in the same place at the same time. 

Though we were all younger than middle age, our list of sufferings seemed quite lengthy. Parkinson’s. Diabetic neuropathy. Heart malfunctions. Disability. Financial struggles. Several divorces. Rebellious daughters and angry sons. And we could identify with rebellious children. We had shared in a few uprisings ourselves. Growing up as preacher’s kids wasn’t easy. Pious parishioners and unrealistic expectations often pummeled us into areas better left alone-and the consequences were normally unpleasant. But we had mended our ways, so why the frequent anguish?

The psalmist clashed with the age old question of suffering but then comforted himself. Be still in the presence of the Lord, and wait patiently for him to act. Don’t worry about evil people who prosper or fret about their wicked schemes (Psalm 37:7 NLT).

Why is the typical question when suffering has us in its sights or when things aren’t going our way. And while the why may be important, the what is usually more essential. What is my relationship with God? Unpleasant circumstances can be God’s way of illustrating our need for a faith experience with him. What are my priorities? I’ve had a relationship with Jesus Christ since I was nine, but there have been periods when he wasn’t first...or even close. Jumbled priorities can creep up unexpectedly and be challenging to untangle. What is my plan for spiritual growth? God can stretch our faith with distasteful situations, and these often drive us to prayer, his Word, and wise counsel-all good growth sources. Let God help you redeem your suffering by asking the right questions.

Prayer: God of all comfort, we acknowledge our distaste for suffering but realize Your power to redeem it for Your glory and our benefit. In our times of suffering, drive us to ask You the proper questions, the answers to which will firm our faith. 

The Side Effects of Suffering-The Search for Understanding by Martin Wiles

Series: The Side Effects of Suffering

After shooting his mother in the head four times while she lay asleep, Adam Lanza dressed himself in black, armed himself with a military-style assault rifle loaded with ammunition designed to inflict maximum damage, and shot his way into Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut. Moments later, 20 children and six adults lay dead. Shortly thereafter, Lanza ended his life as well.

One week later, on December 21, 2012, chiming bells reverberated through this and many other cities nationwide to commemorate the 26 victims of Lanza. Some rang 28 times to honor the total number of deaths in the massacre.

The psalmist asked; Did I keep my heart pure for nothing? Did I keep myself innocent for no reason?  I get nothing but trouble all day long; every morning brings me pain (Psalm 73:13-14 NLT).

In response to the why of this senseless tragedy, Rev. Lou Hays, of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Mount Lebanon, PA, said, “It’s the toughest question we have as people of faith.” Others recognize suffering as one result of free will. Bishop David Zubik of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Pittsburgh remarked, “God only wants what’s good. But it’s the personal freedom, how people use it is how that evil really comes into the world.”

While suffering is ultimately outside the realm of God’s will, it becomes beneficial when we turn to him for understanding, for liberation, and for the strength to persevere. Assigning blame only intensifies our anger, fuels unforgiveness, impedes the healing process, and results in endless speculations-the answers to which God doesn’t always provide. Trusting God in the absence of full understanding increases our faith in his promise to somehow produce good out of the most evil situations and often brings out the “better angels” of our natures. Let suffering drive you closer to God instead of turn you against him.  

Prayer: Assist us, O God of peace, in trusting You through quiet confidence that You are in control and will one day eliminate all evil and suffering from our world. Enable our present afflictions to draw us in childlike faith to You.

Soul Food by Martin Wiles

Rice smothered (yes on top) with green beans, lima beans, collard greens, turnip greens, blackeye peas or gravy. But where they sit is not as important as how they’re prepared. These healthy vegetables must be transformed with sugar, salt, and cooking oil.

And the meat? Coated with flour and fried to create a crunchy outside which incarcerates the grease making the meat tender and moist. And not in olive or canola oil but lard. Grease that hardens for future reuse. Grease that also can be combined with water and flour for gravy. Of course, any good soul food meal must be accompanied by banana pudding, pound cake, pecan pie, etc.

Having lived in the Deep South most of my life, I’m very accustomed to “soul food” even though it clogs my arteries, bulges my stomach, and may eventually lead to high cholesterol, diabetes and elevated blood pressure. God, however, encourages a healthier variety of soul food; Let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think (Romans 12:2 NLT).

What nourishes the soul (mind, will and emotions) isn’t greasy food but spiritual practices that change our thinking. Genuine soul food requires time alone with God so we can hear his Spirit speak to ours and involves prayer, reading his Word and meditating on various verses of Scripture. To this, we add dollops of time with other believers who encourage us and hold us accountable. Laying the above foundation allows God to prompt us to apply what we’ve learned. Sacrificing for others as well as sharing God’s love with them will follow. Anytime our minds are fed the proper soul food, it affects our actions in positive ways. Instead of clogging arteries and raising cholesterol levels, it lengthens our life…all the way into eternity.

Prayer: All sufficient God, thank You for providing the necessary soul food that will form us more into Your image by changing the way we think, feel, and act. Motivate us to feast on what possesses eternal value rather than temporary pleasure.