Idiots for Christ by Martin Wiles

The musicians yodeled at Starbucks on 51st Street and Broadway in Manhattan, New York. The crowd rewarded them with attention and an overflowing tip basket. One lady in particular swayed and sang along. One of the musicians invited her to debut the song of her choice. She chose “His Eye is on the Sparrow” and with great enthusiasm rolled out the final lyrics: I sing because I'm happy; I sing because I'm free. For His eye is on the sparrow And I know He watches me. It was her daughter’s favorite song…her sixteen-year-old daughter…the one that died a week before from a brain tumor.

According to Miriam-Webster, an idiot is “a person affected with extreme mental retardation; a foolish or stupid person.” And some in the crowd may have labeled her as such had they known her circumstances. Praising God after he took her adolescent daughter?

Some tagged two of the early disciples as the same thing. The members of the council were amazed when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, for they could see that they were ordinary men…. They also recognized them as men who had been with Jesus (Acts 4:13 NLT). “Ordinary” comes from the Greek word idiotes and means unskilled or untrained. Noticeably so, it’s also the word we derive the English word idiot from.

One of our greatest testimonies for Christ is demonstrating how God can take “ordinary” people…idiots…and transform them into useful instruments for his Kingdom work. Our altered attitudes and converted actions illustrate what forgiveness and a relationship with Christ can accomplish. We can show joy in harrowing circumstances, steadfastness amidst rampant unfaithfulness, and love in the presence of widespread unkindness. God can empower us to be a radical kind of idiot…one for him. Be one.

Prayer: Lord God, make us different kinds of idiots…ones that in spite of conflict, unpleasant circumstances, and opposition, spread Your love across our world. Ones that others will recognize as having been with Jesus.


Get it now for 99 cents with coupon code NQ87Z. An ebook on getting the Christian life right. Click the title-Authentic Christianity, for downloading information.

Walking on the Right Side by Martin Wiles

“Walk on the left side after dark or you’ll wind up playing a harp.” So said Barney Fife in his report to the state entitled, “Safety Procedures on Country Roads.”

Walking on the wrong side of the road is dangerous and the reason for laws stating one should walk facing the traffic and wear bright colored clothing. Those who don’t obey risk getting run over.

Jesus told a story about three walkers: a Jewish priest, a Levite, and a hated half-breed Samaritan. Only the third chose to walk on the right side. Then a despised Samaritan came along, and when he saw the man, he felt compassion for him. Going over to him, the Samaritan soothed his wounds with olive oil and wine and bandaged them. (Luke 10:33-34 NLT).

Walking on the right side takes courage and involves loving those it’s easier to justify not loving. The priest and the Levite chose not to love…to walk on the wrong side, because helping a wounded man or touching a dead person would interrupt their busy schedule and defile them.

Sauntering on the right side forces me to widen my scope of who my neighbor is. Neighbors aren’t simply people close to me, similar in lifestyle, or individuals I enjoy spending time with but are anyone in need.

Strolling on the right side also keeps my focus outward instead of inward. Needs can pass me by if I’m not looking for them in the first place. When I happen to see one, inward focus will cause me to make excuses why I can’t act.

Walking on the right side places me in obedience to God, leads me to love everyone, and makes me eager to help anyone in need. If you’re staggering along on the wrong side, what can you change to switch to the right side?

Prayer: Eternal God, as You have walked on the right side to intervene in our behalf, so challenge us to do for others what You’ve done for us.
*Episode 70 “The Cow Thief”

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

Oreo Truffles by Michelle Wiles

 

1 pack Oreos crushed finely
1 8 oz. pack of Cream Cheese
1 block of white chocolate

 

Mix crushed Oreos and softened cream cheese.

Roll into balls and set aside.

Melt chocolate per package directions.

Dip each ball in chocolate.

Place on wax paper till hardened.

 

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Salvation’s Workout by Martin Wiles

With exercise, we work out to work for…stronger muscles, better overall health, an attractive physique, a longer lifespan, the possibility of attracting a mate, or just plain self-fulfillment.

Warm up prior to exercise is also important. Our muscles need to be stretched before being used. Beginning an exercise regimen without it can result in injuries such as pulled muscles and stress fractures.

Salvation is different. We work out, but we can’t work for. Work hard to show the results of your salvation, obeying God with deep reverence and fear.  For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him (Philippians 2:12-13 NLT).

While free to me, purchasing humanity’s salvation wasn’t free for Christ. It required temporarily giving up his eternal place in heaven…along with all the rights and privileges he enjoyed, to enter earth and a human body and be abused, misunderstood, and ultimately killed.

I’m secure once in God’s family, but I’m also responsible for completing spiritual workouts. Though God sees me as whole in Christ, I’m certainly not in practice. And though salvation occurs at a point in time, it doesn’t automatically give me the perfect spiritual body. Getting that is my responsibility and requires exercise.

Salvation workouts include regular participation in spiritual disciplines such as Bible study, prayer and meditation, association with other believers, reading religious books, using our spiritual gifts, sharing God’s love, and assisting those with physical, emotional, spiritual, and financial needs. In these and other ways, we store our treasures in heaven and move one step at a time closer to perfect spiritual health. The fruits of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, gentleness, goodness, faithfulness, and self-control will dangle from our lives for others to enjoy. What can you add to your spiritual workouts?

Prayer: Thank You Heavenly Father for Your love and for sending Your Son to die for our sins. Enable us to work out our salvation in practical ways that honor You and enrich the lives of others.

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In Hot Pursuit by Martin Wiles

What we don’t control will control us. And Rosco P. Coltrane was. Controlled.

The Dukes of Hazzard was an American television series aired by CBS from 1979-1985. The series followed the adventures of  cousins Bo and Luke Duke who lived in Hazzard County, Georgia, with their beautiful cousin, Daisy, and their strict uncle, Jesse. Driving their custom 1969 Dodge Charger named The General Lee, the Duke boys spent most of their time trying to outrun the county’s inept sheriff, Rosco P. Coltrane, who invested most of his time in hot pursuit.

Jesus warns against another form of hot pursuit: No one can serve two masters. For you will hate one and love the other; you will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money (Matthew 6:24 NLT).

God doesn’t say I have to relinquish all my money and possessions to follow him, but neither can I properly serve him while being in hot pursuit of them. Trying to do both puts me in a mutually exclusive quandary which cannot happen at the same time and place. Attempting to serve God and things simultaneously divides my mind. Some actions I can multitask at, but God says this isn’t one of them. It’s similar to trying to scratch my head and rub my stomach at the same time. When I hotly pursue things, I instinctively neglect God.

The solution is focusing my focus. When it’s on God and off me, I’ll use what he entrusts to enlarge his kingdom. And since I live in a world tainted by sin’s consequences, I have countless opportunities to practice. Instead of hotly pursuing things that will only disappoint you and God, ask him to help you see how to use them in his service.

Prayer: Merciful Lord, we confess that we’re easily distracted by earthly things. Focus our spiritual sight on godly things instead, and give us opportunities to use what you loan in ways that glorify You and assist others with their physical, emotional and spiritual needs

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Choose What Lasts by Martin Wiles

Flea markets. Jockey lots. Places where vendors gather to sell or barter their wares which may be high quality merchandise…or more likely cheap imitations.

Since my wife and I are always searching for personal treasures or ones to re-sell, we occasionally take a stroll down the long cement walkway and gaze at the riches idling at our local flea market. Those selling often think more of them than they should…or that they have treasures when they don’t. Out of date bread and pastries, cheaply made yard implements, and imitation collectibles abound. And though we periodically purchase items, we normally visit a local retailer when we want something that will last.

Paul wants his young son in the faith to make an equally wise choice among the many available. You should know this, Timothy, that in the last days there will be very difficult times (II Timothy 3:1-2 NLT). Selfishness, money hunger, ungratefulness, disobedience, unforgiveness, lack of self-control, betrayal, recklessness, pride, pleasure seeking, and rejection of religion will all be in the mix. His advice to Timothy is, You must stay away from people like that (v. 5 NLT).

Paul’s laundry list could be a present day directory. I’ve been known to occasionally choose what quickly deteriorates and brings disappointment to God and others, but God is teaching me to make better selections. Godly things last and satisfy: spiritual friends, uplifting books, God-led decisions, frequent prayers, selfless living, and wise counsel.

Foolish things wear out like an inexpensively made item or a beautiful imitation…misplaced priorities, selfishness, befriending those who drag me down emotionally and spiritually, neglecting time with God, and making life a mad pursuit about me. God can enable us to choose things in life that will outlast time. All he requires is that we ask.

Prayer: Father, we confess our frequent mistake of selecting things that disappoint You and us. Give us divine wisdom that we might choose attitudes, relationships, and possessions that honor You.

Get it now for 99 cents with coupon code NQ87Z. An ebook on getting the Christian life right. Click the title-Authentic Christianity, for downloading information.

Viewing Money Through Clear Lenses by Martin Wiles

Perfect vision was something I only enjoyed the first dozen years of life. Since then, my world has been blurry without glasses. Recently, it was even blurry then.

A quick squat to refill our dog’s water bowl resulted in extreme pain and muscle spasms. When both continued, I visited the doctor. Three shots, several prescriptions, and one day later, my clear world turned fuzzy. Words on the computer monitor paled and coursed together…even with my bifocals attached. Distant objects once legible became indiscernible. I checked for smudges and smears. No luck. After a few days of misery, I returned to the doctor who concluded it was a reaction to medicine. Fortunately, clarity returned the following day.

Clarity is also important when it involves our perspective on money. Sell your possessions and give to those in need. This will store up treasure for you in heaven! (Luke 12:33 NLT)

When viewed clearly, we’ll understand our treasures should be stored in heaven. Trouble is I don’t know a post office that delivers there. Ergo the connection between what we do with our earthly treasures and their transfer to heaven.  Money seen as an end in itself is capital viewed through blurry lenses. God entrusts money and possessions not so we can amass for ourselves but so we can employ them for his purposes. Arranging…or rearranging, our lifestyles and budgets often frees up money which in turn can be used for God-sent opportunities to assist others.

Turning our focus outward rather than inward doesn’t bring salvation but is evidence it’s genuine. It also sends our treasures on a heavenward trip and helps clarify life’s true purpose which is to love God by serving others. What financial goals can you establish that will allow you to contribute generously to causes assisting the needy?

Prayer: Guide us merciful Father to love You supremely and to demonstrate that love through acts of concern for others. Improve our spiritual vision so we can view our money and possessions through the clear lenses of unselfishness and correctly placed priorities.

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Temptation-Have To or Want To? by Martin Wiles

“Let’s get something to drink.” The offer disembarked from a deacon’s son who attended my church…and he wasn’t referring to a soft drink.

My consensus began a long and shameful journey into the world of alcohol. Christians debate whether alcohol is permissible or forbidden. For me it was prohibited, but my philosophy didn’t prevent me from taking the trip. 

For the next six years, I sporadically visited the bottle…sometimes in moderation, sometimes not. Although my conscience (God) bothered me, it wasn’t convincing enough to outweigh the desire to fit in with the wrong crowd I clung to. Bad company really does corrupt good morals (I Corinthians 15:33).

In teaching his disciples how to pray, Jesus addressed the problem I was fighting: yielding to temptation. And forgive us our sins, as we forgive those who sin against us. And don’t let us yield to temptation (Luke 11:4 NLT).

Many mistakenly think, “Since I’m tempted, I must not be a good Christian.” Jesus was the perfect human yet was enticed. Temptation isn’t sin…giving in is. I didn’t sin because my friend invited me to imbibe. Sin pulled in when I took the first sip…and of anything else God forbade me have, think, or do.

The good news is God gives us power over temptations. He promises he’ll never let any of them be so intense that we’ll be forced to cave in. Avenues of escape are always lurking nearby if we’ll look, but preparation beforehand is vital.

Living close to God through a healthy prayer life, time invested studying his Word, association with the right crowd, and a firm commitment to godly convictions help us meet temptations head on with a “No thanks.” Which, by the way, should have been my answer. When temptations come calling, say “No.” And if necessary, run.

Prayer: Thank You powerful Father for giving us strength to overcome temptation. Guide our steps that we might learn to stay away from situations and people who tempt us to be less than You desire.

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Decisions and Money by Martin Wiles

"The job only pays 15….” Her voice trailed off. At the moment, I was unemployed and despondent, so $15 sounded enticing. Trouble was, my excitement had clouded the remainder of her statement. When I showed up for the final interview, I discovered the pay was $15 (thousand) annually, not $15 (dollars) hourly. Quite a difference, but I seized the offer. Poverty level was better than destitute level-my current status.

But I’ve also been known to turn down jobs because of the salary and benefits they didn’t offer. Money affected my decision, but it didn’t Judah’s King Amaziah. He wasn’t pleased with his fighting force, so he increased the size by hiring soldiers from Israel’s northern kingdom…a decision unpleasing to God. When confronted, he dismissed them even though he lost money.

Amaziah asked the man of God, “But what about all that silver I paid to hire the army of Israel?” The man of God replied, “The LORD is able to give you much more than this!” So Amaziah discharged the hired troops and sent them back to Ephraim (II Chronicles 25:9-10 NLT).

Money often affects decisions we make...where we work, who we date, who we marry, where we live, where we attend school or college, how many children we have, what type of vehicle we drive.

Whether it’s taking or refusing a job…or any other decision, money shouldn’t be the sole determining factor. Yes economies are governed by money…and it’s true we must have a certain amount to survive, but God’s will, plan, and purpose are far more important. I’ve made many decisions that weren’t financially sensible, but they were God’s will. Whether others understood wasn’t important. Obeying God was.  Don’t let the amount of financial gain determine your life’s course. Listen to God…then trust him to supply your needs.

Prayer: O God our Sustainer, You have created us for relationship with You. Increase our faith so that we’ll make our decisions based on Your plans and purposes, not financial gain.

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A Tax Collector’s Attitude by Martin Wiles

I was once one so I can imagine how he felt…unappreciated, hated, scorned, threatened, and misunderstood. 

For five years, I worked at a county tax office where vehicle and property taxes were collected. And where property was sold and driver’s licenses suspended for those refusing to pay. My responsibility was suspending driver’s licenses. Most assumed the dealer paid their initial taxes…a misconception some dealers cultivated. When I attempted to collect, I was cursed at repeatedly, threatened occasionally, and hung up on regularly. It wasn’t the most fulfilling job, but someone had to do it…and the boss selected me.

The tax collector’s attitude can be encapsulated in one word: unworthy. Perhaps that’s why he stood at the back of the church with a heavy head and dangling eyes. But the tax collector stood at a distance and dared not even lift his eyes to heaven as he prayed. Instead, he beat his chest in sorrow, saying, “O God, be merciful to me, for I am a sinner” (Luke 18:13NLT).

God cast mercy to this societal outcast just as he does to anyone who shows up with a similar attitude. The good news is what materializes when we do. Jesus said he went away justified…just as if he’d never sinned. We do too when we cry out for God’s clemency.

Our forgiveness bath is complete based on Christ’s payment on the cross. He makes us worthy even though an attitude of unworthiness (humility) is still worth hanging onto afterwards. Our new status is not self attained but grace given. While we can’t be good enough for God to accept us, when we approach him with a tax collector’s attitude it doesn’t matter how bad we’ve been. He reaches out to those who reach out. Let humility be your attitude of choice.

Prayer: Merciful Father, we recognize our unworthiness to be called Your children yet rejoice that You adopt us into Your family through faith. May we continually recognize we’re who we are simply because of Your grace.

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Dressing for Success by Martin Wiles

Donned in clothes belonging to another, I could be anything I wanted…at least temporarily.

Playing dress up was a popular kid’s game when I was growing up. After all, the techies hadn’t invented the distractions that currently occupy kids’ attention and often steal their imagination. With an adult’s clothes-along with accompanying implements found around the various houses, the list of our futures was as endless as our mind’s eyes. Teachers, preachers, housewives, nurses, doctors, princesses, kings, and queens. We were dressed for success and frequently believed we could be these people when we reached adulthood.

Sometimes the dress up doesn’t stop when we become adults; we just choose alternate things to suit up in…money and possessions among them. But people who long to be rich fall into temptation and are trapped by many foolish and harmful desires that plunge them into ruin and destruction (I Timothy 6:9 NLT).

Many mistakenly quote the next verse as; “Money is the root of evil” when what it actually says is, For the love of money is at the root of all kinds of evil (v. 10). Human nature leads us to dress in what we love…what draws our time and attention.

Money is inanimate and neutral…neither good nor evil. It’s the “love of” that determines whether we dress in greed or generosity. Criminal acts, marital relationship quandaries, partnership splits, friendship turmoil, and church fights all result from dressing in the wrong definition of success.

Neither money nor what it can buy brings true happiness. Contentment with the necessities of life, realizing possessions are temporary, keeping our motives in check, loving God and people more than things, and sharing with others what God entrusts to us are all good ways to put on clothes that will always fit regardless of age. What attitudes are you dressing in?

Prayer: We recognize You God as the giver of all good gifts and of everything we own presently or ever will. Turn our eyes from greed and toward the opportunities You give us to assist others.

Get it now for 99 cents with coupon code NQ87Z. An ebook on getting the Christian life right. Click the title-Authentic Christianity, for downloading information.

Cheese Ball by Michelle Wiles

 

½ LB. SHARP CHEESE

3 T. BELL PEPPER (CHOPPED)

1 T. PIMENTO (CHOPPED)

¼ C. CRUSHED SALTINES

1 HARD BOILED EGG (CHOPPED)

3 T. MINCED ONION

3 WHOLE OLIVES (CHOPPED)

3 T. SWEET PICKLES

½ TSP. SALT

PAPRIKA

 

GRATE CHEESE AND MIX REMAINING INGREDIENTS EXCEPT PAPRIKA.

CHILL FOR A COUPLE OF HOURS BEFORE FORMING INTO A BALL. THIS WILL MAKE IT EASIER TO FORM. 

ROLL IN CRUSHED SALTINES.

SPRINKLE WITH PAPRIKA.

 

Get it now for 99 cents with coupon code NQ87Z. An ebook on getting the Christian life right. Click the title-Authentic Christianity, for downloading information.

Zoned Out for God by Martin Wiles

Comfort zone. A behavioral state that doesn’t fabricate anxiety because I’m using patterns I’ve learned will deliver my expected level of performance without risk. But at present, I wasn’t in mine.

Having recently graduated from Bible college and been summoned to pastor my first church, my excitement level was intense. But one responsibility the committee failed to share was delivering grief…leading the congregational singing. To say I have a Barney Fife voice is putting it mildly. He couldn’t carry a tune in a bucket; I can’t even carry the tune. And to stand before 50 people and attempt it was nerve shattering. After five years my singing was still deplorable, but my nervousness eventually subsided.

Moses was outside his comfort zone. Leading two million people through a wilderness to the Promised Land was no small task…and one that caused him great anxiety. But God assured him, I will personally go with you, Moses, and I will give you rest—everything will be fine for you (Exodus 33:14 NLT).

By reading the bible and Christian history-and through personal experience, I’ve concluded that stepping outside our comfort zones is a frequent occurrence for the Christ follower. Otherwise, it wouldn’t be faith walking.

When you feel led to step outside your comfort zone, make sure it’s at God’s prompting. If you’re not positive, experimenting will usually reveal the answer in short order. When outside your comfort zone…but in God’s will…claim the confidence of God’s strength and rebuke the spirit of fear. And any time we follow God in faith…whether in or out of our comfort zones…we must be devoted to God’s call as Moses was.

Walking outside our comfort zones is an expression of our trust in God not an act of foolishness…though it may appear so to others. Get “zoned out” for God.

Prayer: Almighty God who has promised never to leave or forsake us, we trust You in faith to sustain and protect us when we follow You into areas of service we’re uncomfortable with.

Get it now for 99 cents with coupon code NQ87Z. An ebook on getting the Christian life right. Click the title-Authentic Christianity, for downloading information.

Helping Wisely by Martin Wiles

Visits with requests for assistance were a common occurrence. And no wonder. Our driveway joined the church’s parking lot making our identity a dead giveaway.

One petition stands out. My wife and I were sitting under our carport when we heard, “Hey, is anyone home?” I thought it a little strange, but we answered back. Two young adult ladies sauntered up carrying their prepared beforehand story. I listened carefully, informed them about our policies, and sent them on their way. Upon investigation, their story didn’t appear legitimate. We declined their request and were soon glad we did. A few weeks later I was purchasing gas at one of our local convenience stores when who should I see but this same young lady purchasing lottery tickets. We could have helped, but it wouldn’t have been wisely.

The Bible challenges us to help but warns about the methods. My child, if you have…agreed to guarantee the debt of a stranger-…follow my advice and save yourself…go and beg to have your name erased (Proverbs 6;1-3 NLT).

While we shouldn’t discriminate in whom we help with our acts of kindness or financial resources, helping wisely does require a measure of discrimination. The following guidelines are helpful: pray for God’s guidance, investigate the situation when necessary, remember it’s God’s money being used, and ask whether the situation is a recurring pattern. In many circumstances, there are more effective ways to give than actually transferring money.

While Jesus appears to have helped indiscriminately, he had what we don’t-perfect divine knowledge. God desires that we use our resources to assist the needy, but helping wisely takes steps to ensure we use prudently what God has given us. Ask God to help you see opportunities you might otherwise overlook.

Prayer: Merciful Father, give us wisdom to help wisely when we encounter situations that You desire us to intervene in.

Get it now for 99 cents with coupon code NQ87Z. An ebook on getting the Christian life right. Click the title-Authentic Christianity, for downloading information.

Walking in Shadows by Martin Wiles

I sauntered along beneath a canopy of trees, rays of sunlight periodically penetrating the thick overgrowth and slithering to the ground…giving a checkered effect beneath my feet. A mixture of sun and shadows. As the day grew weary, the shadows lengthened and with it my fear of what might lurk in the grey areas…a person seeking to harm me…an animal planning to attack me.

Walking in the shadows is a common occurrence when hiking in the mountains of the Southeastern United States. Unlike our Western sisters, most of the Eastern mountains are completely blanketed to their peaks with vegetation providing ample opportunity for shadows to linger and lengthen during sunny days.

For the psalmist shepherd, leading his sheep meant treks through valleys and over mountains plush with shadows. Areas of darkness where thieves and murderers often held up and predatory animals crouched. Yet his confidence lay in the Lord. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me (Psalm 23:4 KJV).

Shadow walking is unavoidable. At a height of six foot one inch, I can cast a shadow more than twice my length when the sun’s rays are positioned correctly against my body.

Knowing that shadows distort is helpful. Remembering they can arouse fearful emotions and house dangerous situations is also beneficial. Only by faith walking can we dispel the negatives of walking in the shadows of brokenness, disappointment, despair, financial ruin, dysfunctional relationships, unfaithfulness, death, and a host of other challenges that accompany living in this world.

Successful Christian living is walked by faith not by sight or tangible proof…shadows or no shadows. What silhouettes are looming over you? God can give you faith to stride through them without fear.

Prayer: Grant us O God the courage needed to face every day with its challenges as we trust You to lead us through the shadow-laden valleys.

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

What’s Mine Is…by Martin Wiles

His nickname was “Double T,” but I knew him better by what snuggled in his pocket each Sunday morning…a single dollar bill.

Double T was a kind man, well-known in the community, well-liked in the area, a faithful church attendee, and a regular giver…of one dollar. Had his offering been a “widow’s mite” it would have sufficed-but it wasn’t. He was a good friend, but I often wondered how he imagined the church could pay her bills and serve evangelistically if everyone contributed only one dollar.

“What’s mine is mine, and what’s yours in mine” is a common quip spoken in jest when a woman wants to remind her husband that everything really belongs to her. But a more appropriate statement might read, “What’s mine is ours, and what’s yours is ours.” The psalmist reflects the correct attitude: The earth is the LORD’s, and everything in it. The world and all its people belong to him (Psalm 24:1 NLT).

God owns the cattle on a thousand hills (Psalm 50:10) which implies everything I have is his too. What’s mine is his because he’s given me the talents, physical abilities, and opportunities to amass it, invent it, or produce it. It’s only mine on loan. Since God owns all I possess, I don’t have the final say so on how I employ it. Well…I do, but I don’t. Misuse gives only one dollar when it’s not a legitimate mite and ignores service opportunities because I’m just too busy or really don’t care.

When I recognize that “mine” is really God’s, I’ll use everything I own in manners that promote his kingdom’s growth, provide for my basic needs and those of others, and at the same time enjoy each breath God gives. How can you better let your actions say, “What’s mine is God’s?”

Prayer: Merciful God, giver of all we possess and enjoy, challenge us to use Your gifts to us in ways that effectively and sincerely serve You and others.

An ebook on getting the Christian life right. Click the title-Authentic Christianity, for downloading information.

Veggie Salad by Michelle Wiles

 

8 oz box of Macaroni noodles

8 oz Peas and Carrots drained

8 oz Can Corn drained

1 small jar pimento drained

1 small sweet onion chopped

1 small bell pepper chopped

1 tsp sugar

10 sweet pickles chopped

Salt and pepper

Add miracle whip and mix to taste.

Better served the next day.

 

Get it now for 99 cents with coupon code NQ87Z. An ebook on getting the Christian life right. Click the title-Authentic Christianity, for downloading information.

No Extra Credit Needed by Martin Wiles

“Is there anything I can do for extra credit?”

I considered the source and the question; one I had been asked quite a few times. Occasionally I consent, but most of the time I utter a simple “No.” What I really want to say is, “If you would do what I disperse, you wouldn’t need any.”

My schema is such that if a student tries, they will normally pass. Low test scores are raised by homework and class participation grades. And of course my grace will dispose of a few low marks. Rarely is extra credit needed when a student is working vigorously…but those asking normally aren’t.

I’ve discovered the same in my spiritual journey. Though our spiritual rewards differ, God doesn’t assign extra credit because we don’t deserve any. Every grade (blessing) he dispenses proceeds from his grace not our merit.

Referencing a servant’s perspective, Jesus said of obedience; In the same way, when you obey me you should say, “We are unworthy servants who have simply done our duty” (Luke 17:10 NLT).

If I work for God with a slothful attitude, I’ve missed the purpose of the relationship. If I earn my spiritual grades just to make heaven, I’ve misunderstood my purpose. And if I’m presently neglecting God while hoping for extra credit to pass the final account, I’ll be sorely disappointed.

God created us for interaction with him…not forced but enjoyable. He endowed us with special abilities engineered to be used at a particular time in the world. There’s never been another person like you, and no one can complete what God covets you do at this particular historical moment. Don’t look for extra credit; just diligently enjoy doing what God has given you to accomplish. Seize every opportunity.

Prayer: Everlasting God, may we be content to do our God-given duty of loving You supremely and others sacrificially.

An ebook on getting the Christian life right. Click the title-Authentic Christianity, for downloading information. 

Different Is Okay by Martin Wiles

Series: Learning to Do Good

A part of me was like any other normal teenager…I wanted to fit in.

Clothing brand was important. Levis. Children with parents who cared at all about their child’s reputation made sure they wore them. Cut back on the groceries and the weekly hairdo. Cook at home. Just make sure it’s Levis. And shoes…Converse…high-top and preferably black. None of these generic brands from the local discount store. Work overtime if needed. Just get me Converse. And while I hated school, where I went was also important. Upon our move to a new town and my entrance into high school, my parents enrolled me in the most expensive local private school available.

But there was another part of me that thought, “I don’t care what anyone else thinks about…” Different is okay. From God’s viewpoint, that attitude is acceptable, preferable, and even expected. Therefore, come out from among unbelievers, and separate yourselves from them, says the LORD (II Corinthians 6:17 NLT). God had to repeatedly remind his people they were distinctive.

I can’t completely separate myself from sinners and sin. Both infected the world long ago when Adam and Eve chose to disobey God and pass on their sinful behavior to their progeny-me included. But I can be different by staying as close to God-things as possible. When I do, being like “others” loses most of its appeal-unless they’re like God.

Sinful influences will always attempt to pull us into their web, but keeping our eyes on the perfect pattern of Jesus Christ will entice us to be like him and different from the norm. Different really is okay. What will it take for you to be more like the person God created you to be? Whatever it is, he’ll provide the strength needed to succeed.

Prayer: Loving Savior, may our likenesses represent You even when they entail being different from the norms we observe in others.

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

Insulated by Martin Wiles

Series: Learning to Do Good

Each winter it was evident our old house lacked what would help keep us cozy.

For five years, my wife and I lived in a home nearing one hundred years old…a home built before air conditioning…a home constructed to remain cool in a sultry atmosphere but not warm in a frigid one. Fireplaces and stacks of quilts would suffice for that infrequency, and homebuilders left out what is now common in energy efficient homes-insulation.

Winters were challenging. We watched our dangling curtains rustle when the wind blew. Doors and windows freed drafts to snake through the cracks. We saw our heat leap from the floor vents and sprint to the ceiling. And our electricity bill reflected what was missing.

Insulation serves a home and also a spiritual family well. Our people must learn to do good by meeting the urgent needs of others (Titus 3:14 NLT). And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another (Hebrews 10:25 NLT).

I’ve considered whether a Christian must associate with other believers and answered “No.” But will they want to? Yes. Together we share our mutual love and adoration for the One who gave his life for us. Collectively we hold each other up when tragedy, disease, and other unfortunate life events knock us to our knees. We cry for each other when some have no more tears to shed. We strengthen one another’s faith when difficulties attempt to shatter it on the rocks of doubt.

Struggles and difficulties can tear our emotions to shreds, but frequent association with those who share our faith keeps us insulated against Satan’s attempt to keep us in a cold home of indifference and distrust toward God. Make it a habit to associate with those who encourage and heighten your faith.

Prayer: We thank You Father for insulating us against the cruel effects of others and this world. Thank You for our friends, family, and fellow believers who encourage us and help guard us against the enemy who seeks to destroy us by divisive tactics.

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

You Are What You Think by Martin Wiles

Series: Learning to Do Good

Some chuckled while others appeared confused. “Stinking thinking leads to nasty actions.” I said it in a ninth grade Bible class when the subject came up while studying the believer’s armor-particularly the helmet of salvation. And it does.

Helmets are important. For race car drivers, equestrian riders, motorcycle racers, football players, baseball batters, hockey enthusiasts, and even bull wranglers. They protect one of the most important parts of our body…the brain. While the heart is of utmost importance…the ceasing of which essentially ends our bodily existence, brain damage affects body movement, decision making and even the ability to personally function. More importantly…though we might not know the exact connection, it affects the mind as well.

Learning to do good requires wearing a helmet which Paul defines as salvation. Our people must learn to do good (Titus 3:14 NLT). Put on salvation as your helmet (Ephesians 6:17 NLT).

Once Christ is invited into our lives, we should don it regularly for there’s another important part the mind plays. What we think, we feel, and then act upon. All actions ascend from moving on pleasant feelings we’ve thought about…no matter how briefly. “I acted without thinking” isn’t a true statement though we often use it to excuse unwise actions.

Taking the Bible’s advice is apropos: Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise (Philippians 4:8 NLT). Our minds are Satan’s playground, and all temptation begins when he uses our sense receptors to feed our minds with things that are better avoided.

Fortunately, God gives us the power to take these thoughts captive under the authority of Jesus’ name. So put on your helmet and think thoughts that spur you on toward the holy living God designed you for.

Prayer: Gracious God, we thank You for giving us power over our thoughts and therefore our actions. Guide us to wear our helmets that we might think on things that honor You and lead to right behavior and attitudes.

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

Convictions Count by Martin Wiles

Series: Learning to Do Good

Philosopher Edmund Burke said; “All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is that good men do nothing.”

Of all the parental and church instructions I hurled out my youth window, it might seem strange that a rebellious teenager would cling to the “abstaining from sex before marriage” one. But I did.

I suppose it was an anomaly to my girlfriends-who were normally sexually active or wanted to be, and to my male friends who enjoyed bragging about their conquests. And after all, if I was committing all the other sin habits, why not this one too? I can’t explain the inconsistency; I can only admit it was a firm conviction.

Defined, conviction means “a strong persuasion or belief,” and learning to do good requires them. Our people must learn to do good (Titus 3:14 NLT). Without them, I’ve discovered I’ll fail in obedience, but with them I’ll obey what the Bible says; Then we will no longer be immature like children. We won't be tossed and blown about by every wind of new teaching. We will not be influenced when people try to trick us with lies (Ephesians 4:14 NLT).

Convictions should be established early in life, and parents, teachers, and other significant individuals play a vital role in ingraining these in children. Proper foundations are laid early rather than later in life.

Convictions should also be based on the principles of God’s Word. While truth is not solely relegated to the Bible, it’s the only place where unvarnished and absolute truth is discovered that will benefit the individual, group, and world.

Additionally, convictions must be practiced to be advantageous. Saying I genuinely believe in something without applying it is of little use to me or others. What convictions is God convicting you to make?

Prayer: Almighty God, give us the eternal fortitude to form our convictions based on Your Word and then to depend on Your grace to live by them each day.

An ebook on getting the Christian life right. Click the title-Authentic Christianity, for downloading information. 

Mastering the Road Map by Martin Wiles

Series: Learning to Do Good

Once a challenge, technology has almost relegated them to the annals of history.

Mastering a road atlas is taxing. The more territory it covers, the less detail is present and the more jumbled the highways, interstates and cities are. Trying to follow a particular route is a chore when you cross one of these congested areas. I’ve done my share of road map reading. Looking at it right side up usually confuses me on my turns, so I normally face it the way I’m traveling. Fortunately, apps on cell phones and GPS’s have almost made them extinct.

God’s Word is the believer’s road map and the key that opens the learning to do good lock. Our people must learn to do good (Titus 3:14 NLT). For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword…It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires (Hebrews 4:12 NLT).

God’s Word was written thousands of years ago, but the power of God’s Spirit who inspired the writers of this ancient book still makes it come alive to those who take time to read and meditate on the principles. Power to do good results when I apply the principles and become a doer of the Word rather than a casual hearer.

God’s Word convicts and cuts me like a double-edged sword when I observe his standards and then compare them with mine and how I practice them daily. It reveals who I truly am in my innermost being rather than the person I often let others observe. It’s my road map that when followed correctly and consistently keeps me on the path of holy living and sacrificial serving and keeps my perspective on eternal things. Take up God’s road map and enjoy success at traveling life’s good road.

Prayer:  Thank You eternal God for providing the road map that leads us to forgiveness of sin, service to others, successful living, and eventually an eternity with You.

An ebook on getting the Christian life right. Click the title-Authentic Christianity, for downloading information.

Bacon and Cream Cheese Pinwheels by Michelle Wiles

Directions
1 bag Oscar Myer Crumbled Real Bacon Bits

1 8oz. Cream Cheese (softened)

2 pkgs Refrigerated Crescent Rolls

Ingredients
In a small bowl mix the bacon and cream cheese. Set aside.

Take a crescent roll triangle and place a spoon full of bacon cream cheese mix on the wide end of the roll.

 Form into a pinwheel and place on a greased cookie sheet.

Bake at 350 degrees for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.

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

Sharing the Story by Martin Wiles

Series: Living the Good Life

I couldn’t believe my ears when I heard the final report. The tale had grown, and the details were altered.


You’ve probably played the game. Everyone sits in a circle, and the first person tells something to the next individual. The story is repeated until it travels full circle with the last person telling the entire group. Inevitably, it will vary from the original. Which explains why in life we often alter details or get them incorrect…and not necessarily on purpose.

But one story never changes and shouldn’t be altered. Paul told Titus, You must teach these things and encourage the believers to do them (Titus 2:15 NLT). The “things” were the teachings of Scripture.

God’s story has been identical since humanity’s initial rebellion-he loves and forgives. In the distant Garden of Eden, he informed the serpent that one of Eve’s descendants would deliver a lethal blow to his head (Genesis 3:15). He made good on his word by allowing Jesus to die for our sins and then by victoriously resurrecting him. From the beginning, believers have shared the story.

Sharing should be done sincerely because we honestly love people and want them to experience God’s love and forgiveness. We can do it boldly because the message contains God’s power to change our lives from the hopeless disappointing messes they are without God. Sharing should be executed regularly because our world is populated with people who urgently need God’s love and guidance. And we must deliver it uncompromisingly. The message of the cross isn’t always popular, but it can’t be watered down or altered. There’s no other avenue of forgiveness and no other boulevard to heaven. But when accepted, the story will change a life like nothing else. Who do you know who needs to hear your story?

Prayer: Merciful Lord, lover of our souls, we thank You for telling us the story of Your forgiveness and for removing all our sins. Burden us with a desire to share this story with those who need to hear.

An ebook on getting the Christian life right. Click the title-Authentic Christianity, for downloading information.