Betrayed by Martin Wiles

I was relatively new to the office; she was a long time employee. And what our boss decided almost wrecked our friendship.

*Susie had been with the company a number of years and had worked her way up to one of the most important positions in the office. Comparatively, I was a newcomer—hired to fill one of the lowest paid positions. But for some reason, our boss liked me and decided to give me Susie’s position. Susie took the news in stride but inside felt I had betrayed her. It took a heart to heart talk between us to convince her I had nothing to do with the promotion and had been just as surprised as she had been.

The writer of this psalm felt God had betrayed him. For you are God, my only safe haven. Why have you tossed me aside? Why must I wander round in grief, oppressed by my enemies? (Psalm 43:2)

I have been betrayed by some very important people in my life just as my co-worker felt she had. But where God is concerned, I’ve learned my feelings don’t always mimic reality. God may not feel near, but he is. I may feel abandoned because I have unconfessed sin in my life or because God is attempting to grow my faith. This feeling of his absence should lead me to self-examination and should birth efforts to inch closer to him.

Life has taught me God is the best friend I can have. He is the only one who will never break my trust or disappoint me in any way. Any other human—because they are that, has the potential to betray me.

If you have been betrayed and are feeling abandoned, take comfort in knowing God is always near to guide, sustain, and love you with an everlasting love.

Prayer: Thank You Father for never walking out on us and for never betraying us in any other way even though others might.
*Name changed to protect individual's privacy.

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Praising Though Pain

Praising God when things are going well is easy; praising him in painful situations is more difficult—some think impossible.

My wife and I discovered this after inviting our adult son to live with us. Having been kicked out of his residence for using drugs, he had nowhere to go. Our hearts reached out to him. After reassurance he was no longer using drugs, we consented to let him stay with us temporarily. Little did we know he was going through withdrawal. Threats, angry outbursts, and other undesirable traits furiously emerged. A painful situation it was difficult to praise God in and for.

The psalmist expressed his emotional distraught over trying to praise God in painful situations. O LORD, why do you stand so far away? Why do you hide when I am in trouble? (Psalm 10:1 NLT)

Praising in painful situations expresses my faith. Faith isn’t required for those circumstances I can handle on my own or pay someone else to, but it is required when human capability is insufficient.

Praising through the pain also reminds me I live by faith and not sight. From a literal viewpoint, my situation may seem insurmountable, but no mountain exists that I can’t summit with God’s assistance.

In some strange way, praising when it seems senseless relieves the stress, anxiety, and worry that normally accompany difficult circumstances. These emotional downspouts are quelled through my faith expressions of trust in an Almighty God.

Praising through pain witnesses to others who may or may not personally know Christ. Very few things make people sit up and take notice like someone who genuinely smiles even though life has knocked them down. Such a state of mind can only be obtained through a proper faith perspective.

Have you learned how to praise through the pain?

Prayer: Thank You, eternal God, that there’s no circumstance so detrimental that we cannot praise You in it.

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Thanking God Properly by Martin Wiles

November—and Thanksgiving particularly, is the month Americans choose to show their thankfulness. But honestly, there have been days, months, and years when expressing thankfulness was difficult.

The year my son left to live with his mother was a difficult year to be thankful. Nor did I feel thankful when I sent my daughter off to college. Empty nests are lonely. The year my father died was a difficult year to be grateful. As well as the year I spent a week in the hospital with a bleeding ulcer and spent more time in the doctor’s office than out of it.

But like many other things in life, I don’t tie thankfulness to my feelings. I thank God because it’s the proper thing to do. The lame beggar Peter healed recognized the same thing. He jumped up, stood on his feet, and began to walk! Then, walking, leaping, and praising God, he went into the Temple with them. (Acts 3:8 NLT)

When I examine situations closely enough, I find reasons to thank God even when it appears there are none. Praise is an appropriate method of thanking God. The lame beggar did after Peter healed him. If Christ does nothing more for me than what he has at Calvary, I have sufficient reason to praise him forever.

Giving is another way I demonstrate thankfulness. I’ve wandered through periods when money was tight, bills fell behind, and some services were even disconnected. Yet I still gave. God’s kingdom work is worth it, and he has promised to meet my needs when I do.

I also thank God with time. I give of my time by worshipping with other believers, by using the spiritual gifts God has showered on me, by indulging in spiritual disciplines, and by loving my neighbor through acts of service.

How are you illustrating your thankfulness to God?

Prayer: Merciful God, guide us to demonstrate our thankfulness to You for all You’ve done for us and to do so every day.

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Seeing Life Clearly by Martin Wiles

I cannot remember when I could see clearly without assistance.

I’ve worn glasses since my early days of elementary school. And while I can remember bits and pieces of my life before then, I can’t specifically remember the luxury of seeing clearly without them. No doubt, my vision was blurry for a period of time before I admitted it. After all, glasses are cumbersome. Cleaning them, being careful not to break them, having friends call you names, not being able to play certain games. Even though I didn’t enjoy glasses, I did appreciate clear eyesight.

Some individuals who gathered with Jesus for a meal weren’t seeing clearly either, but poor eyesight had nothing to do with their perspective. Meanwhile, Jesus was in Bethany at the home of Simon, a man who had previously had leprosy. While he was eating, a woman came…broke open the jar and poured the perfume over his head. Some of those at the table were indignant. “Why waste such expensive perfume?” they asked. (Mark 14:3-4 NLT)

Simon had been a leper. Was he one of the critics? Had he forgotten his deliverance? And what about the disciples? Had they forgotten what Jesus delivered them from? It’s easy to lose perspective and view circumstances through a fog.

Spending time with Jesus helps me see myself, others, and life’s situations more clearly. I came into this world a sinner. I wasn’t born good; I was bad, but God made me good through Jesus’ sacrifice and my acceptance of his forgiveness.

While living on earth, no one was unimportant to Jesus. Seeing others clearly means viewing worth in all people because they are God’s creations. Just like Jesus did the woman who anointed his feet.

And when I see life clearly, I’ll remember God is in control of every one of my life’s situations whether they are problematic or enjoyable.

Are you seeing life clearly through Jesus’ eyes?

Prayer: Lord Jesus, help us see ourselves, others, and life events with Your perspective.

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Here’s Hope by Martin Wiles

He listened eagerly as I taught Rick Warren’s The Purpose Driven Life. Little did I know his life once didn’t have any.

“I didn’t grow up in a Christian home,” he told me after class. “The only time I went to church was when I was at my grandparent’s house.” And life eventually soured on him…to the point that he considered—and attempted, to end it. He went to his room, took out a gun, looked down the barrel, pulled the trigger… But the bullet whizzed by his head instead of finding its way into it. At which time he fell on his knees and cried out for God’s mercy. And God granted it. Not only did he instantly save him but he also placed a family in his life who became his spiritual mentors. He discovered his purpose…and hope.

The prophet Isaiah shared what appeared to be a hopeless situation, but it was actually one designed to birth optimism in hopeless people. But he was pierced for our rebellion, crushed for our sins. He was beaten so we could be whole. He was whipped so we could be healed. (Isaiah 53:5 NLT).

Relationships are important. Having friends and family who come along my side when I’m traveling through life’s valleys is always comforting. Togetherness beats loneliness. But the most vital relationship I have is the one with my Savior. All others will contain an element—no matter how small, of disappointment but not the one with Christ. In my darkest moments, he gives me hope and sheds light on my situation.

Experiencing forgiveness in the present and clinging to the hope of eternal life in the future makes all conditions bearable. With Christ in my life, I can view all situations from a different and optimistic perspective.

Are you experiencing the hope that is available through Christ?

Prayer: We place our hope in You, our God and Savior, believing we will never be disappointed.


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Cheese Wafers by Michelle Wiles

Ingredients

2 CUP SHARP CHEDDAR CHEESE

1 CUP FLOUR

½ CUP BUTTER (SOFTENED)

½ CUP PECANS 

¼ TEASPOON SALT

¼ TEASPOON CAYENNE 

1 CUP RICE KRISPIES (CRUSHED)

Directions

CREAM CHEESE AND BUTTER.

ADD REMAINING INGREDIENTS.

FORM DOUGH INTO SMALL BALLS.

PLACE ON A COOKIE SHEET.

DIP FORK IN WATER AND PRESS CROSS DESIGN ON TOP OF EACH COOKIE.

BAKE AT 350 FOR 8-10 MINUTES.

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Declaring God’s Glory by Martin Wiles

“Even a dairymaid can milk cows to the glory of God.” So said and thought Martin Luther, that great German reformer.

As I sat in the theater watching the actors play out their respective roles, I was amazed by the lighting controlled from above. Spotlights accurately shone on whatever actor or group of actors were performing their feature renditions. Others may have been occupying the stage as well, but only shadows fell across them. They could only hope enough light would bounce off the star players so they could maneuver their way around as they awaited their next appearance in the spotlight.

Somehow for me, a milkmaid and a stage spotlight resemble proclaiming God’s glory. The heavens proclaim the glory of God. The skies display his craftsmanship. (Psalm 19:1 NLT)

When I look at nature, I see God’s glory. Leaves that change in the fall revealing their true colors. Millions of stars hanging in the night sky. Weeds of all shapes and sizes blooming by the roadside. A baby giraffe being born. Ferocious winds churning inside a powerful hurricane. The beauty of nature is not a freak accident but a product of God’s hand.

Like nature, I can show God’s glory to others by allowing the fruit of his indwelling Spirit to radiate in my life. The fruits of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, and self-control. Fruits that make others take a second glance because they are so unfamiliar to them…but enticing nonetheless.

And I demonstrate God’s glory best when I use those fruits in the lives of others. Jesus said to let my good works show God’s glory to others. So whether I’m a milkmaid, farmer, priest, engineer, custodian, mechanic, or the President, I can glorify God with my life.

Are you letting God’s glory shine through you?

Prayer: Father in heaven, may the mediations of our heart, the words of our mouths, and the deeds of our hands radiate Your love to others.

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Living with Purpose by Martin Wiles

I’ve never been one, but I hear it’s an exhilarating experience. And as of February 21, 2013, I entered the “Grandpa (or more appropriately ‘Pee Paw’) world.”

Levi Andrew Wiles entered our universe in Anderson, South Carolina, at 1:24 a. m. Fortunately my daughter didn’t force me to wait 20 hours for his arrival. Within the space of a few hours, he guzzled his first breath of air, wallowed in his first bath, underwent a thorough inspection by medical staff, gulped his first sip of mother’s milk, and made himself ready for the holding and gawking that normally attends the birth of a first child or grandchild.

But as wonderful as it was staying awake 24 hours just to see this cuddly bundle of joy, being a Pee Paw isn’t my life’s purpose. With a few quick strokes of his pen, Paul tells how every believer can live with purpose. But my life is worth nothing to me unless I use it for finishing the work assigned me by the Lord Jesus (Acts 20:24 NLT).

Entering healthy relationships…the most important being the one with Christ, gives purpose to my life. Paul discovered this on the road to Damascus when God blinded him so he could see spiritually.

Living with purpose entails setting goals. Ones just beyond my personal ability to reach. Goals that when met prompt me to assign God credit. Ones that align with what he’s called me to accomplish in life. Goals that result in finishing life well.

Living with purpose also involves sharing my faith just as I shared the news of Levi’s birth with everyone important in my life. Good news…the best news…should never be bottled up in selfishness.

If it seems you’re wandering aimlessly through life, let God show you how to live with purpose.

Prayer: Thank You Eternal Father for giving us purpose in life and the gifts to complete Your plans. When it appears we’re floundering around with little or no direction, re-birth Your goals in our hearts and minds.

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Dealing with Doubts by Martin Wiles

Deep inside…occasionally…temporarily—and on bad days, I’m a skeptic.

But before you pronounce judgment, examine your inner self. The one no one else knows. The side you only let escape when you’re with the closest of friends. If you’re honest, you’ll probably admit that sometimes you’re a doubter too.

I know asking God for something without believing he’ll grant it is useless. I’ve prayed without faith. More often than I want to admit. I say I believe—I even act like I do, but deep inside I’m not sure I always do. If I did, I wouldn’t be surprised when God actually answers. Like most, when I was young in the faith, I believed God could and would do anything. But then I became over familiar with my faith and it lost its edge.

Fortunately, I’ve re-captured the freshness of my faith, but occasionally I’m still like God’s people of old—and perhaps the average believer. They even spoke against God himself, saying, “God can’t give us food in the wilderness. (Psalm 78:19 NLT) But he did give them food and water.

Dealing with my occasional doubts is easier when I remember doubt isn’t from God. He never desires that I doubt his love, wisdom, guidance, concern, or his ability to usher me into abundant living.

And it’s through those very instances when I’m tempted to doubt God that I learn to trust him more. One significant way God moves me beyond uncertainty is by shoring up my trust in him to do the right thing in every circumstance.

My doubts are also dealt with by constantly reminding myself that the Christian life is lived by faith not sight. Sight can lead to doubt; faith drives it away.

Do you doubt God more than you’re comfortable with? He will never disappoint you.

Prayer: Eternal God, when we are tempted to doubt You, move us to faith instead.

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God’s Guardrail by Martin Wiles

Have you ever thanked God for a guardrail? I’m not sure I have, but I know my grandfather did.

My uncle, aunt, and cousins enjoyed traveling to the mountains of North Carolina and Tennessee. Places like Cherokee, North Carolina, and Gatlinburg, Tennessee. Sites where the roads were mountainous and curvy. I’m sure I went with them a time or two when I was a small lad. While I don’t specifically remember those trips, I do remember my grandparents going. And my grandfather was always overjoyed to return to flat land and straight roads. Apparently, my uncle took the mountainous curves a little too quickly for him. He was always thankful for the guardrails.

Life has taught me the importance of another type of guardrail. Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee. (Psalm 119:11 KJV)

Guardrails aren’t indestructible. If the right size vehicle crashes into them with the right amount of force, they’ll be destroyed or severely damaged. Not so with God’s Word. It is indestructible, but better yet…trustworthy. Regardless of the circumstance I need guarding against, it has the ability to guard by delivering practical wisdom for daily living. What is written was God breathed.

After a period of time, many guardrails need replacing. Years of enduring inclement weather eventually wears them out. God’s Word, however, never corrodes, loses its luster, or needs replacing with more politically correct ideas.

And whereas abuse can make a guardrail unsightly or cause it to need replacement, abuse never does the same for Scripture. Many in history have neglected it, railed against it, and even attempted to destroy it, but it stands now…and forever.

God’s Word has the power to guard us from sinful crashes. Are you allowing it to do its job in your life?

Prayer: Thank You Father for providing all that’s required for successful and pure living in the teachings of Your Word.

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God Misses Nothing by Martin Wiles

She was a victim of circumstances. What happened to her was common. Happily, someone was looking on.

Hagar was the servant of a woman married to a wealthy man, but all of his riches couldn’t provide a son for a woman whose womb was sealed. So her mistress resorted to a familiar custom by asking her to bear a child for her. She agreed. What choice did she have? But she made the mistake of getting proud after she became pregnant. Her mistress couldn’t help but notice her arrogance and sent her and her unborn child into the wilderness to die. Here she encountered a God who saw her situation and intervened.

Thereafter, Hagar used another name to refer to the LORD, who had spoken to her. She said, “You are the God who sees me.” She also said, “Have I truly seen the One who sees me?” (Genesis 16:13 NLT)

I’m sometimes tempted to think God only sees the big things in my life but misses the small events when in reality he misses nothing. If I’m diagnosed with a life threatening disease he sees it. But he’s also looking when I’m kind to a co-worker or student at school.

While God misses nothing, he doesn’t always intervene unless I ask. It’s not that he doesn’t desire to help; he is simply waiting on my invitation. When I invite him into my circumstances, he promises to work all things together for good (Romans 8:28).

God also doesn’t miss my acts of disobedience, such as with Hagar. She left her mistress and ran from her problem. I’ve been known to do the same. God is always faithful to send a gentle disciplinary reminder when I do.

Whether or not you feel God’s presence continually, he is always around. He misses nothing in your life.

Prayer: Thank You, Almighty God, for continuously being involved in our daily affairs and for giving us the wisdom we need for daily living.

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Reflections by Martin Wiles

As I walked through my office, dusting every shelf, I realized life had become too busy.

Pictures of deceased and living relatives sit idly on my book shelves. Rocks from places I’ve visited on mission trips and vacations nestle closely by. Rocks from places like Colorado, Nova Scotia, and Maine. And also other mementoes that belonged to family members. As the feather duster gently glided around each one, I suddenly recognized it had been far too long since I had thought about some of these important people in my life.

As the children of Israel languished on the outskirts of the Promised Land, Moses challenged them to reflect on what God had done for them—especially how he had preserved them through 40 years in the wilderness. Remember how the LORD your God led you through the wilderness for these forty years. (Deuteronomy 8:2 NLT).

According to the writer of Hebrews, I’m surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses who are gazing on as I run this race of life (Hebrews 12:1). Some are living, and others have passed to the other side. Taking time to reflect gives me down time to remember the lifestyle examples they left as well as to reflect on the teachings they considered important. Fortunately, my genealogical line is bulging with many honorable witnesses.

Busyness is one of Satan’s strategies to get me so focused on living life that I don’t have time to reflect. Life then loses its purpose and meaning. I find myself scurrying from one task to another with no time to reflect…just time to complete what’s in my immediate present and around the next corner.

Reflection accomplishes the opposite. I recall who I am now and realize it’s because of where I came from…because of the people in my past. Reflection re-orients me in the proper direction. Have you reflected lately?

Prayer: Father in heaven, may the reflections of our hearts and minds re-orient our life and re-focus our attention.

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Fall Back Not Under by Martin Wiles

Germany and its World War I Allies began the practice on April 30, 1916, as a way to conserve coal. America soon followed suit.

When I was a child, I relished the extra daylight hours Daylight Savings Time provided. There was more time to play outside with my friends. But in the fall, I loathed the long hours of darkness.

As an adult, the “falling back one hour”—along with the decreased amount of light, often leads me and hundreds of others into a gloomy and sometimes depressed mood physicians have labeled the “winter blues”—and in its more severe form SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder). I find myself out of energy and struggling to make it through the day. My body craves more light…more vigor.

David knew nothing about DST or SAD, but he did know a little about being down in the dumps. I waited patiently for the LORD to help me, and he turned to me and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the pit of despair, out of the mud and the mire. He set my feet on solid ground. (Psalm 40:1-2 NLT)

Practical advice for fighting SAD includes having a well lit home during the winter months and going outside on warm days to soak up sunshine. A light box or fluorescent lights are also good investments. In more serious cases, physicians can prescribe anti-depressants.

But any or all of the above should be combined with letting more of the Son in. I can flood my soul with spiritual exercises just as I flood my home with artificial light. As I sit by the bright lights I can read and meditate on God’s Word, journal my thoughts, reflect on how God has met my needs in the past and in the present, and praise him for all the good things in life.

Don’t let Satan tempt you to fall under when all you’ve really done is fall back.

Prayer: Merciful Father, when the blues set in, encourage us to trust You to drive them away.


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Loving My Enemies by Martin Wiles

Shortly after meeting, he became my best friend, but within five years he was my sworn enemy.

*Charles was an older gentleman I once knew. We hit it off immediately. I was the type of pastor he liked. But as time progressed, I noticed his attitude toward me cooling. I was making decisions he didn’t appreciate and suggesting the church move in directions he was uncomfortable with. The nail that sealed the coffin on our friendship was when the board made a decision he thought was directed at his integrity in a position he held. He thought I was the initiator even though I tried to convince him otherwise. Our friendship was over. He berated me in private and ignored me in public. And even though I attempted apologies, he refused them. 

Life has taught me that everyone won’t like me, but Jesus says, If someone slaps you on one cheek, offer the other cheek also. If someone demands your coat, offer your shirt also. (Luke 6:29 NLT)

God’s Word reminds me to pray for my enemies. Not an easy thing to do, especially if they have harmed me physically or emotionally. But my prayer for them changes my attitude and makes it possible for me to love them in Christ. If he loved them enough to die for them, how can I do any less?

Jesus also reminds me not to retaliate if or when I have the opportunity. This doesn’t mean I don’t have rights or should serve as their door mat. I simply don’t seek revenge or try to get even. Rather I heap coals of fire on their head by loving them instead of hating them. Love covers a multitude of sins and also extinguishes fires of animosity.

How are you responding to your enemies?

Prayer: Merciful Lord Jesus, when we are scorned by others, enable us to respond in love as You did on Calvary’s cross.
*Name changed to protect the individual’s privacy.

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Spiritual Shortcuts by Martin Wiles

Prior to college, I hated reading. And though I learned to appreciate its merits in college, there were times I was tempted to take a short cut.

All students know where reading short cuts lay. In little books called Cliff Notes. During my college days, you couldn’t find them on the internet, but you could in book stores. I never felt good about using them until I began reading some of the classic shorts stories in literature class. I failed to comprehend how the professor knew what particular symbols stood for. How was I supposed to learn this material if I couldn’t understand it? So on occasion, I chose the short cut.

But when it comes to spiritual growth, there are no short cuts. Paul was bold in telling new believers the requirements for spiritual growth and often paid for it himself by being physically harmed. For I didn’t shrink from declaring all that God wants you to know. (Acts 20:27 NLT)

God’s principles are tough. Loving everyone regardless of whether they love me isn’t easy. Some people are simply difficult to love. Controlling my anger—especially when someone or circumstances have given me reason to be angry, is demanding. Not overeating and eating healthy is also challenging. And giving when I don’t have extra to give always tests my faith.

But obeying these and other principles leads to a higher spiritual plane where I can walk in the high places with God. Diligence is required as well as is determination. Day in and day out, I must be consistent whether I feel like it or not. My success is guaranteed by the power of God’s Spirit residing in me. Apart from him, I can do nothing.

Have you been attempting spiritual shortcuts in hopes of reaching spiritual growth? Let God give you the strength to take the long way around.

Prayer: In Your power, Father, we march onward with strength and peace toward our ultimate goal of spiritual growth.

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Responding to Fear by Martin Wiles

The banging and clanging startled me from a restless sleep. I knew all too well what was happening.

I’ve seen their claw marks on trees, crouched in fear as they raided nearby campsites, walked up on one with cubs, and read signs warning of their presence. Black bears are no friends to campers and hikers. While a black bear’s natural response to human presence should be fear, negligence on the part of too many campers has often removed that fear. Rather than running, they rob, tease, and occasionally attack.

David acknowledged that fear occasionally haunted him but also offered his response. What time I am afraid, I will trust in thee. (Psalm 56:3 KJV)

God isn’t the author of fear—never has been…never will be. One biblical writer was so bold as to say that God hasn’t given us the spirit of fear but of power and of love and of a sound mind (II Timothy 1:7). While God has created in us the fight or flight syndrome—and fear can cause us to avoid danger and harm, debilitating fear is not of God. God just gives me the good sense to get out of harm’s way.

Jesus, on the other hand, said not to fear those who could harm the body. Rather, respect the one who has power over my soul instead (Matthew 10:28). My body will die, but my soul won’t.

Faith is the opposite of fear, and God wants me to live by the former instead of the latter. He will always act in my best interest. Even if a tragic accident snuffs out my life, my soul is secure in his presence. And in life? He promises to supply every need I have. I have no reason to fear.

Are you living with a spirit of fear?

Prayer: Thank You Lord Jesus for assuring us we have no reason to fear when You control our lives.

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Born for a Purpose by Martin Wiles

She had never met him before, but she cared for him as if he was the most important person in the world.

Ann* knew she was going to be a single mother in eight months. While she regretted the unfortunate decision that produced the baby inside her, she didn’t begrudge the fact that new life was being produced by her. She ate healthy, got sufficient rest, avoided substances that could harm her and her child, visited the doctor regularly, watched her weight, and took vitamins. All things an expectant mother should do to ensure a healthy baby. Nine months later, Sam* entered the world. A healthy boy with shining skin and smile to match. Ann’s not sure what his purpose is yet, but she’s confident God has one.

God has a purpose for all people regardless of their birth circumstances. The LORD who made you and helps you says: Do not be afraid. (Isaiah 44:2 NLT)

Like Sam, my birth wasn’t a product of fate or evolution either. God was in control of when I entered this world and had a plan for what I’d do when I did. Fate doesn’t control my existence. While my parents had a role in my birth, they were only instruments in the hands of a mightier Power. Many children are accidents from a parent’s perspective but never from God’s. He can take a human accident and make a masterpiece from it. In fact, there aren’t any accidents in God’s plan.

The first humans were placed on earth for a reason, and everyone since then has followed suit. I’m in the mix. I have purpose. There’s a reason for my existence. God has work for me to do, people for me to influence, and blessings for me to enjoy. Have you discovered the purpose for which you were born?

Prayer: Father, may we be the clay in Your hands, allowing You to mold our minds, wills, and emotions that they might fit into Your purpose.
*Names changed to protect individuals’ privacy.

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Fishing in the Right Place by Martin Wiles

Have you ever tried your best and came up empty?

I’ve fished many times and came up dry, but my grandmother rarely did. Had you seen her on the Santee River in her wooden boat and traditional garb, you would have assumed she was a man out for a day of fishing. But my grandmother was a fisherwoman—and a good one at that. She went often and stayed long. When I tagged along, I knew it was going to be an all-day affair. She prepared herself with frozen jugs of water and plenty of sandwiches. And her preparation normally paid off.

Jesus taught a great deal about another type of fishing but used the literal act to teach the lesson. He said to Simon, “Now go out where it is deeper, and let down your nets to catch some fish.” “Master,” Simon replied, “we worked hard all last night and didn’t catch a thing. But if you say so, I’ll let the nets down again.” (Luke 5:4-5 NLT)

Whether it’s talking to an unbeliever about Jesus, discovering my life’s purpose, managing an investment, making a significant purchase, visiting the prisons, or inviting a neighbor over for dinner, Jesus knows more about fishing than I do. He can see my life from beginning to end in one fell swoop, so I should consult him regardless of what river I’m fishing in.

Christ can also give me wisdom for the fishing techniques I use. He’s not only capable of engineering the end but he’s also competent enough to help me with the details to reach the end.

I didn’t always enjoy fishing all day with my grandmother—especially if the fish weren’t biting, but her endurance taught me stamina. And Jesus will give me stamina to enjoy the fishing I do when it’s done in his name and with his guidance.

Are you fishing where Jesus says?

Prayer: Merciful Lord, guide us through our daily affairs with Your wisdom so that we might enjoy life in the fullest.

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Chicken Vegetable Soup by Michelle Wiles

 

Ingredients

2 CUP DICED COOKED CHICKEN

       
1 CUP CHOPPED CARROTS

½ CUP CHOPPED CELERY

1 CUP DICED POTATOES

1 ½ TABLESPOON RICE

1 CAN CHICKEN BROTH

1 CAN DICED TOMATOES

½ ONION (CHOPPED)

1 PKG. TACO SEASONING

SALT/PEPPER

Directions

IN SAUCEPAN COMBINE POTATOES, ONION, CELERY, AND CARROTS.

COVER THEM WITH WATER.

COOK UNTIL TENDER.

COMBINE REMAINING INGREDIENTS.

COOK ON LOW FOR 1 HOUR

 

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Savor the Flavor by Martin Wiles

When the smell wafts through every crevice of our home and finally passes under my nostrils, my mouth waters.

Fried chicken…southern style. There’s nothing like it. My wife knows how to season it just right. I could eat it every day. From a good health standpoint, I understand it’s probably not beneficial for me. The grease clogs my arteries, and the skin houses enough fat and grease to do a magnificent clogging job. But I savor the flavor and taste and plan to keep eating it on every occasion I can wrap my mouth around a juicy piece of it. Some things are worth dying for.

But one thing I savor more than fried chicken is my time with God. Taste and see that the LORD is good. Oh, the joys of those who take refuge in him! (Psalm 34:8 NLT)

Time with God just doesn’t happen. It must be planned and purposed. Even in my years of rebellion, I made time for him. I read my Bible and prayed regularly. I didn’t necessarily enjoy the time as much as I could have, but I squeezed God in. Just as frying up a pan of crispy chicken requires effort, making time for God does as well.

Not all habits are unhealthy or destructive; and spending time with the Savior is one of them. The reason I’ve been able to maintain consistency in savoring my time with the Father is because my parents taught me to make it a habit. And habits happen regularly.

When my spirit is on good terms with God, I always relish my time with him more. And this enjoyment makes me want to come back again and again…every day…and all throughout each day.

Are you savoring time with God? If not, ask him to reveal what’s preventing you from seeking and enjoying time with Him.

Prayer: Lord of heaven and earth, draw us into a daily consistent and enjoyable time with You. May we savor Your presence in our life.

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The Whiner’s Corner by Martin Wiles

“Could I really be a 1,” I wondered. And not because number one was actually number one in this scenario. I wanted to be a three. 

I sat in the webinar listening to the speaker describe teachers. One’s, two’s, and three’s. We were categorized. The question was which one. And more importantly, which one did I huddle in. “Three’s,” he said, “rarely whine.” They take each day in stride, love the boss, get along with peers, love students, and embrace change with a smile. Two’s do all of those things most of the time. But the one’s? They do them rarely. They’d rather whine…and complain. All of a sudden, I felt guilty. I wasn’t a one, but some days I didn’t feel like a three either.

Moses dealt with a bunch of one’s. There, too, the whole community of Israel complained about Moses and Aaron (Exodus 16:2 NLT). As God’s representative leading the Israelites to their Promised Land, he continually heard their complaining. Not enough meat. Insufficient water. Didn’t like the food God provided. Members of the whiner’s corner.

When I step into the complainer’s corner, I express my ingratitude for what God has done in my life in the past and what he’s doing now. I, in essence, say, “God, you’re not doing too good of a job with my life.”

Whining also demonstrates a misunderstanding of how God is going about meeting my needs. I don’t always do an admirable job of distinguishing between my wants and needs—or even of meeting my needs in an adequate manner. God does. His methods might not be the avenues I’d choose, but faith leads me to believe he knows what’s best. 

Are you a member of the whiner’s corner? Or a number 1 slipping toward 0? Why not step into the gratitude circle?

Prayer: Lord Jesus, when we’re tempted to complain, motivate us to rejoice instead.

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Anxiously Awaiting by Martin Wiles

For four years, we’ve been waiting. We’ve grown accustomed to “Hurry up and wait.”

My wife’s list of medical ailments should convince any judge she’s eligible for disability. So what’s the hold up? Probably her age. She’s under 50. She’s been turned down three times. We filed for an appeal, and it was granted. Presently we’ve been waiting six months to get a court date. Her not being able to work seriously affects our financial situation, but what can we do? Wait…but not anxiously.

Elijah was no doubt a little nervous as he awaited an answer from the God he proclaimed to the pagan prophets was real. Immediately the fire of the LORD flashed down from heaven and burned up the young bull, the wood, the stones, and the dust. (I Kings 18:38 NLT)

Waiting has never been one of my strong points. I’ve not always been able to get what I wanted when I wanted it or even at all, but the impatience is still there. This anxiousness often carries over into my walk with God. When is he going to answer? How long is it going to take for him to intervene? Will he give me the wisdom I need? But I’ve learned I don’t have to beg God to answer. Elijah didn’t either.

Why does God make me wait? Patience is one reason. Delayed gratification grows this virtue. God may also have a better plan than I do, but it involves waiting for it to materialize. Or perhaps things must happen or be put in order…things I’m not aware of…things only God sees. Timing is important in God’s plan, and timing normally involves waiting as well.

God may often ask you to wait, but you don’t have to wait anxiously. Simply rest in Him.

Prayer: Merciful God, give us patience instead of anxiety when You ask us to wait for Your best.

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When Anxiety Comes by Martin Wiles

I watched anxiety darken her face. Where would the money come from?

Our family budget has taken a severe hit over the last five years. Recently, we struggled through a summer without the income my wife was receiving from keeping an afterschool child. As the start of the new school year approached, she was informed her services were no longer required. A change in jobs had eliminated the necessity for afterschool care. Now what?

While we were worrying, God was working. Having recently changed churches, we were now attending a church that needed a custodian. Though there wasn’t money in the budget to hire one, several individuals in the church pledged enough to hire someone. We were hired. And the pay? Exactly what my wife had previously earned.

In spite of God’s warning, I tend to hold onto my cares and worries instead of giving them to him. Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you (I Peter 5:7 NLT).

I’ve bumped into many anxious situations in my lifetime, but I’ve learned to pass through them knowing God wasn’t the author. This enables me to view and respond to them differently. My circumstances are never out of control when God’s in control. Nor does God allow anything designed to arouse worry and anxiety.

Satan is the troubler of my mind, emotions, and experiences. He knows he can’t steal my eternal security, so he attempts to rob my peace by sending a few trials and uncertainties. The proper response—even though I must continually remind myself, is to give my worries and cares to God. He cares for me; Satan doesn’t. When I respond properly to troubling situations, others are impressed, my light for Christ shines brightly, and my faith explodes.

Are you giving your anxieties to God or attempting to carry them yourself?

Prayer: Merciful Father, when anxious moments make an appearance in our life, give us enough faith to turn them over to You and not worry.

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Defined by Convictions by Martin Wiles

There were at least three I determined I would not compromise.

Convictions are beliefs I think are important enough to stand by regardless of the temptation to do otherwise. I fashioned three early in life: I wouldn’t cheat, I wouldn’t have premarital sex, and I wouldn’t fight. There were times in school when I didn’t know the material because I hadn’t studied. I could have glanced sideways, but I took the failing grade instead. And I had opportunities to have sexual relationships before marriage, but I held firm. Some of my convictions offended others who in turn wanted to fight me. I never threw a punch.

Daniel was a man of conviction also. But Daniel was determined not to defile himself by eating the food and wine given to them by the king (Daniel 1:8 NLT). After being instructed to eat food his religion considered defiled, he resolved to stand by his convictions.

My convictions define me. They reveal my character and demonstrate my integrity. In fact, they are what they are because of the character I possess. To close friends and associates, I’m known as a person who won’t do…or say…. If I act in ways contrary to my convictions, they are shocked.

The convictions I had as a young person—and the ones I have now, are based on God’s Word. And this is how I planned it. What God says I should and shouldn’t do is important. Once I build them, I hang onto them regardless. Sure, there have been occasions when I slipped and fell, but with God’s help I stood back up and moved on.

My convictions should also influence others. When they run contrary to the norm—and God’s commands normally do, this is a natural result.

What convictions have you formed that you are not willing to compromise?

Prayer: All powerful God, assist us in forming godly convictions, and give us strength to stand by them through thick and thin.


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Listening to God by Martin Wiles

He was the principal’s son, but I wasn’t making much headway teaching him history.

I was in my fourth year of teaching at a local private school when the board of directors hired a new headmaster who had a son traveling through the teenage years…a son whose grades needed attention. After a battery of tests, it was determined his son had ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder). His father decided medicine was needed to correct his inability to listen. But whereas he didn’t listen before because of his challenges, now he couldn’t listen because the medicine put him to sleep. Either way, he was unable to listen.

With me…I have the ability to listen. But do I? Talk is cheap, like daydreams and other useless activities. Fear God instead (Ecclesiastes 5:7 NLT).

Only saying I listen to God is cheap talk. But when I fear him I’ll pay attention with the intent of learning something. God doesn’t want me to be afraid of him—even though he does possess life and death power over me. Rather he desires that I reverence and love him to the degree it motivates me to realize he knows what’s best.

If I’m to listen to God, I also need some down time. Life is busy—for me and everyone else. If I’m not careful, God will get crowded out…pushed to the “when I have time” corner. I need silence and alone time to properly hear what his Spirit is revealing and rousing me to do.

Without an intimate connection, I can’t hear God either. And this is more than simply asking Jesus to be my Savior. It’s consistently spending time with him and executing the things that enhance my spiritual growth—which in turn advances my ability to hear.

Are you listening when God speaks to you?

Prayer: Merciful Father, foster in us a desire to hear and then do Your will.

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