Author Archives: expressyourself4him

Shining God’s Light into the Dark Realm of Politics

Posted on September 9, 2022 by expressyourself4him

Every politician wants to be liked, especially by the media. The apostle Paul speaks to this human desire in Galatians 1:10 as pleasing people comes naturally. Unfortunately, politics in America has become more about fundraising and less about serving a candidate’s constituents. On camera politicians make several promises in order to get elected, but behind the scenes most politicians do what their donors want.

Pilate said to Him, Then You are a King? Jesus answered, You say it! [You speak correctly!] For I am a King. [Certainly I am a King!] This is why I was born, and for this I have come into the world, to bear witness to the Truth. Everyone who is of the Truth [who is a friend of the Truth, who belongs to the Truth] hears and listens to My voice. 38 Pilate said to Him, What is Truth? On saying this he went out to the Jews again and told them, I find no fault in Him, John 18:37-38.

Jesus stood before the Governor on the first Good Friday. If He wanted to avoid death on a cross, Jesus could have turned to politics to save the world. As Pilate was trying to figure out the truth about the claims made about Jesus from Jewish religious leaders, Jesus appears to find spiritual strength from his time of prayer earlier in the morning. Meanwhile, Pilate used a political loophole to give the first century Woke what they wanted.

But it is your custom that I release one [prisoner] for you at the Passover. So shall I release for you the King of the Jews? – John 18:39

When the same people began to attack Paul for his own spiritual conversion, Galatians 1:10 serves as the rationale for his transformation. Politics is based upon convincing the masses that you care to garnish enough votes to stay in power. Rush Limbaugh referred to this as Symbolism over Substance, using the appearance of caring without altering their own lives. The only way shine light into the dark realm of politics is by emulating the life of Jesus and his call in Matthew 5:13-16. God’s love will pierce hardened hearts.

by Jay Mankus

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S.A.N.S. Episode 219: Stand in Your Love

Posted on September 8, 2022 by expressyourself4him

Today’s song comes from another worship leader at Bethel Church in Redding, California. Josh Baldwin polished his skills as the worship leader at MorningStar Fellowship Church after attending their ministry school. The lyrics of Stand In Your Love alludes to the spiritual war mentioned by the apostle Paul. This song begins by addressing darkness which will try to enter your soul.

Therefore put on God’s complete armor, that you may be able to resist and stand your ground on the evil day [of danger], and, having done all [the crisis demands], to stand [firmly in your place], Ephesians 6:13.

Apparently, the Church at Ephesus was dealing with their own spiritual war. This ordeal inspired Paul to introduce the armor of God which is how Christian’s win spiritual battles. Rather than give into the dark side of temptation, Josh calls the church to stand in God’s love. May the lyrics of Stand in Your Love urge you to trust in the Lord with all your heart and soul.

by Jay Mankus

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I’m Just an Average Joe Who Serves an Almighty God

Posted on September 8, 2022 by expressyourself4him

Telling a man that they are average is like responding to a woman who asks you how they look in a new outfit “you look okay.” These subtle words appear harmless unless you’re struggling with your self-esteem. While telling the truth about your own observations may get you in trouble with a significant other, I’ve reached a point in life where I’ve accepted who I am. I’m just an average Joe who serves an almighty God.

And to keep me from being puffed up and too much elated by the exceeding greatness (preeminence) of these revelations, there was given me a thorn ([a]a splinter) in the flesh, a messenger of Satan, to rack and buffet and harass me, to keep me from being excessively exalted. 8 Three times I called upon the Lord and besought [Him] about this and begged that it might depart from me; 2 Corinthians 12:7-8.

Although most people call me Jay, my birth name is Joseph J. Mankus Jr. Minus my Lithuanian middle name, which is another story for a later time. By the time I reached high school, answering the phone with “Joe Junior or Senior” got too annoying as most calls were for my father. Subsequently, I made it known to everyone that from here on out, call me Jay.

But He said to me, My grace (My favor and loving-kindness and mercy) is enough for you [sufficient against any danger and enables you to bear the trouble manfully]; for My strength and power are made perfect (fulfilled and completed) and [b]show themselves most effective in [your] weakness. Therefore, I will all the more gladly glory in my weaknesses and infirmities, that the strength and power of Christ (the Messiah) may rest (yes, may [c]pitch a tent over and dwell) upon me! – 2 Corinthians 12:8

This decision coincides with when I first became a Christian on December 4th, 1984. Like the story of the prodigal son in Luke 15:11-31, I haven’t always taken a straight path, wandering off and abandoning God for multiple periods and seasons. Yet now I’m back and have come to terms with my current role in life. Like the old Bruce Carroll song, I’m an Average Joe who is ready to serve an almighty God.

by Jay Mankus

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S.A.N.S. Episode 218: Known

Posted on September 7, 2022 by expressyourself4him

Today’s song comes from the former lead singer of Royal Tailor. Tauren Wells started his career as a musician in Houston, Texas. After years of hard work and prayer, Tauren has become an American Platinum selling artist, due to his talents as a powerful songwriter and multi-instrumentalist. After listening to Known, this song and testimony illustrates what happens when you take a risk in life.

But now [in spite of past judgments for Israel’s sins], thus says the Lord, He Who created you, O Jacob, and He Who formed you, O Israel: Fear not, for I have redeemed you [ransomed you by paying a price instead of leaving you captives]; I have called you by your name; you are Mine, Isaish 43:1.

The lyrics of Known point to what King David declares in Psalm 139:1-6, ” God knows our inmost details.” While receiving recognition for something you’ve done or earned feels good, there is no greater thing than being known by God, 1 John 5:12-13. The attached video uses an open mic night for Tauren to display his talented voice. Each day God gives Christians a chance to share God’s love, 1 Peter 3:15-16.

by Jay Mankus

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When Faith and Family Come Together

Posted on September 7, 2022 by expressyourself4him

The concept of “Pay it forward” has ties to ancient Greece and the 1916 book In the Garden of Delight. Yet, as I studied the Bible last week, the apostles of the first century used pay it forward as a means to eliminate poverty. When faith and family come together to form a church, various expenses arise which one person can rarely pay for on his own. Yet, when an entire congregation develops the mindset that everyone in the church is family, every financial need is met.

And they steadfastly persevered, devoting themselves constantly to the instruction and fellowship of the apostles, to the breaking of bread [including the Lord’s Supper] and prayers. 43 And a sense of awe (reverential fear) came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were performed through the apostles (the special messengers). 44 And all who believed (who adhered to and trusted in and relied on Jesus Christ) were united and [together] they had everything in common; Acts 2:42-44.

Based upon the passage above, the first century church practiced four core principles. Bible study, fellowship outside the church. meeting together as a body to worship and prayer. As members of the first century church habitually maintained these core spiritual disciplines, faith and family slowly came together. Yet, Philippians 2:1-4 serves as a reminder that sometimes individuals need to take a step back to get their own life back on track before they can help others in the church.

And they sold their possessions (both their landed property and their movable goods) and distributed the price among all, according as any had need. 46 And day after day they regularly assembled in the temple with united purpose, and in their homes they broke bread [including the Lord’s Supper]. They partook of their food with gladness and simplicity and generous hearts, 47 Constantly praising God and being in favor and goodwill with all the people; and the Lord kept adding [to their number] daily those who were being saved [from spiritual death], Acts 2:45-47.

Unfortunately, most families have a hard time meeting together over the holidays without two members getting into some sort of a heated argument. When personal preferences interfere with unity, it’s better to agree to disagree rather than carrying on with a long-winded exchange of words. The apostle Paul’s advice for moving beyond disagreements is by adopting the mind of Christ, Philippians 2:5-8. While this transformation won’t happen overnight, as Christian’s become servants of God, faith and family come together.

by Jay Mankus

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S.A.N.S. Episode 217: God Only Knows

Posted on September 6, 2022 by expressyourself4him

Formerly known as Joel & Luke and Austoville, the third name change of today’s group was the charm. For King & Country first arrived on the Christian pop scene with their hit song God Only Knows. This duo composed of Australian brothers blends powerful worship lyrics into memorable ballads. Following in the footsteps of my childhood favorite group Men at Work, For King & Country have made their mark in America.

He determines and counts the number of the stars; He calls them all by their names. 5 Great is our Lord and of great power; His understanding is inexhaustible and boundless, Psalm 147:4-5.

The lyrics of God Only Knows is for anyone struggling with the question “why God?” Whether unforeseen circumstances rock your world, it takes time to grasp and understand why a certain trial was allowed to happen to you. Similar to the wisdom left behind in 1 Peter 1:6-7 and James 1:2-4, bad things happen to good people so that faith and maturity forces you to grow spiritually. May God Only Knows remind you that the Lord is indeed in control.

by Jay Mankus

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A Habitual Faith

Posted on September 6, 2022 by expressyourself4him

As a child, exceling as a student did not come naturally to me. Playing sports did, but only baseball was easy and natural. If I wanted to get better, habitually practicing was my goal. I spent most of my free time playing ball outside, hitting tennis balls against the side of our house and playing the course golf course that I created in my backyard. Unfortunately, I wasn’t gifted with great size or strength, so I learned to be gritty, willing myself to get better and enhance my skills daily.

But if we [really] are living and walking in the Light, as He [Himself] is in the Light, we have [true, unbroken] fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses (removes) us from all sin and guilt [keeps us cleansed from sin in all its forms and manifestations]. 8 If we say we have no sin [refusing to admit that we are sinners], we delude and lead ourselves astray, and the Truth [which the Gospel presents] is not in us [does not dwell in our hearts], 1 John 1:7-8.

When I became a Christian at a Fellowship of Christian Athletes event in the middle of my sophomore year of high school, I began to apply these same principles to my faith. I started a Bible Study at my house, even though I didn’t know what I was doing. My drive to become a better Christian led me to join a weekly accountability group, attend a Methodist youth group religiously every Sunday night and pursue opportunities for monthly retreats. By my senior year, I was appointed the Program Director for my FCA huddle meetings at Concord High School.

If we [freely] admit that we have sinned and confess our sins, He is faithful and just (true to His own nature and promises) and will forgive our sins [dismiss our lawlessness] and [continuously] cleanse us from all unrighteousness [everything not in conformity to His will in purpose, thought, and action], 1 John 1:9.

Yet, this is not what a habitual faith resembles. During a Christian retreat in college, pastor Tommy Nelson introduced me to “Spit Baths.” Pastor Nelson was referring to Christians who schedule time with God daily, but their Bible Study and prayer times are short and meaningless. This message has stuck with me over the years, urging me to dig deeper into God’s Word and pour out my heart to God in prayer. Genuine habitual faith occurs when believers naturally keep in step with the Holy Spirit, daily sharing with others what God is teaching you about the Bible and how it applies to life. May this blog inspire you to pursue a habitual faith.

by Jay Mankus

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S.A.N.S. Episode 216: Only One

Posted on September 5, 2022 by expressyourself4him

Jacksonville, Florida is known for its beaches and host sight for the annual backyard rivalry of the Georgia/Florida college football game. However, today’s song comes from Yellowcard who formed their band in 1997 in Jacksonville. During the Coronavirus pandemic, I spent my lunches at my desk, looking for wholesome music new to me. One of those searches led me to the song Only One by Yellowcard.

And there is salvation in and through no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by and in which we must be saved, Acts 4:12.

Based upon the lyrics from lead singer Ben Dobson and attached video, Only One appears to me a love song. Yet, for me, I was drawn to the words of a first century doctor in the passage above. While physical love can be amazing, spiritual love lasts for eternity. Although emotions rise and fall based upon your feelings, Jesus is the only one who promises eternal salvation.

by Jay Mankus

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When Character Seems Illogical

Posted on September 5, 2022 by expressyourself4him

August 28th is the 59th anniversary of Martin Luther King Junior’ I have a Dream speech. While there are a couple of memorable moments, my favorite is Dr. King’s vision of an America where people are judged based upon the content of their character and not the color of their skin. Unfortunately, recent efforts by the Cancel Culture and Woke Movements have prevented MLK’s dream from becoming a reality.

You have heard that it was said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth. 39 But I say to you, Do not resist the evil man [who injures you]; but if anyone strikes you on the right jaw or cheek, turn to him the other one too, Matthew 5:38-39.

Human nature is one of the main reasons to blame. According to the apostle Paul in Romans 7:14-20 sinful desires tend to take over human bodies. Subsequently, that which you were told to do as a child, which the Bible refers to as good and right, is not carried out. Meanwhile, a new age of justification and rationalization has swept through the United States to excuse bad behavior.

Never return evil for evil or insult for insult (scolding, tongue-lashing, berating), but on the contrary blessing [praying for their welfare, happiness, and protection, and truly pitying and loving them]. For know that to this you have been called, that you may yourselves inherit a blessing [from God—that you may obtain a blessing as heirs, bringing welfare and happiness and protection], 1 Peter 3:9.

Yet, there are situations where character seems illogical. Jesus spoke about turning the other cheek when you are emotionally or physically attacked. C.S. Lewis wrote about self-preservation in Mere Christianity. Lewis uses the context of war for self-defense. Nonetheless, the Bible claims that God is the ultimate judge who will seek revenge on your behalf. Therefore, while character does seem illogical in the passages above, Christians need to be spiritually transformed before portions of the Bible make sense.

by Jay Mankus

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S.A.N.S. Episode 215: Purpose for Pain

Posted on September 4, 2022 by expressyourself4him

The voice of today’s song may sound familiar as Scott Stapp was the lead vocalist and lyricist of the rock band Creed. Scott was also a key member of the group Art of Anarchy which released 3 albums during their tenure. However, the song the Purpose of Pain got my attention after finding it on You Tube. The lyrics build upon the words of Peter in the passage below.

[You should] be exceedingly glad on this account, though now for a little while you may be distressed by trials and suffer temptations, 7 So that [the genuineness] of your faith may be tested, [your faith] which is infinitely more precious than the perishable gold which is tested and purified by fire. [This proving of your faith is intended] to redound to [your] praise and glory and honor when Jesus Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed One) is revealed, 1 Peter 1:6-7.

Scott looks at the events in life and asks the Lord, “what is the purpose of this pain that I’m currently going through.” Perhaps, Scott may have been inspired by the testimony of Job found in his Old Testament book. When Christian’s begin to ask the Lord daily in prayer, “why is this happening to me,” answers will come in due time. May you be ready to accept, grasp and understand the purpose of pain.

by Jay Mankus

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