Author Archives: expressyourself4him

Don’t Throw it Away

Posted on June 3, 2022 by expressyourself4him

Every now and then, I will be overwhelmed by frustration. Whatever I am working on at this time turns into an epic failure. Human nature will trigger thoughts like “what’s the point or you’re wasting your time.” Apparently, one of Jesus’ disciples encountered a similar situation during the first century. Due to a growing number of spiritual imposters, John warns leaders to not throw away all that you’ve invested.

Look to yourselves (take care) that you may not lose (throw away or destroy) all that we and you have labored for, but that you may [persevere until you] win and receive back a perfect reward [in full], 2 John 1:8.

Perhaps John is reminded of the words of Jesus in Luke 14:28. Before you build anything, start a new project or commit yourself to a time-consuming task, consider the costs. If you don’t have a time of reflection to sort out all the details, there’s a chance you’ll never finish this endeavor. Therefore, before you pour your heart and soul into anything, sit down to see if this can be accomplished.

And let us not lose heart and grow weary and faint in acting nobly and doing right, for in due time and at the appointed season we shall reap, if we do not loosen and relax our courage and faint. 10 So then, as occasion and opportunity open up to us, let us do good [[i]morally] to all people [not only [j]being useful or profitable to them, but also doing what is for their spiritual good and advantage]. Be mindful to be a blessing, especially to those of the household of faith [those who belong to God’s family with you, the believers], Galatians 6:9-10.

In the passage above, the apostle Paul writes to Christians who are thinking about giving up on someone or something. Whether you’re reaching out to a friend or working on a worthy project, in the end you reap what you sow. If anything is good or worthwhile, Philippians 4:8-9, think about such things. May the encouragement provided above help you not throw away all that you have invested. Keep the faith!

by Jay Mankus

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S.A.N.S. Episode 122: How Could I Ask for More?

Posted on June 2, 2022 by expressyourself4him

When I was working full time in youth ministry, Cindy Morgan was one of my favorite female Christian artists. While working in Columbus, Indiana at a Methodist Church, Cindy was one of the featured artists at an outdoor concert at Mill Race Park. The album that touched my heart the most was Real Life. At this time, there wasn’t many artists who addressed real life issues like How Could I Ask for More?

For it is by free grace (God’s unmerited favor) that you are saved ([c]delivered from judgment and made partakers of Christ’s salvation) through [your] faith. And this [salvation] is not of yourselves [of your own doing, it came not through your own striving], but it is the gift of God; 9 Not because of works [not the fulfillment of the Law’s demands], lest any man should boast. [It is not the result of what anyone can possibly do, so no one can pride himself in it or take glory to himself,] Ephesians 2:8-9.

As a child, the alure with being rich and famous is common. Yet, when my parents moved to a wealthy area of Ohio and my girlfriend Leanne lived in an affluent suburb in Chicago, the emptiness of wealth was revealed to me. I didn’t see what I expected except for a desire to keep up with the Joneses. Looking back, the lyrics of How Could I Ask For Me reminds me that happiness comes the love of Jesus. So as my future job in South Carolina is still unknown, all I can do is thank God for the little things as I wait.

by Jay Mankus

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No Doubt About It

Posted on June 2, 2022 by expressyourself4him

One of the traditions of the Roman Catholic Church is a time of prayer during each mass. Depending upon the congregation or priest, a list of prayers is usually read out loud. Following each individual request, the audience responds with “Lord hear our prayer.” One of Jesus’ disciples writes about this in the passage below. According to John, God does hear these prayers and there’s no doubt about it.

And if (since) we [positively] know that He listens to us in whatever we ask, we also know [with settled and absolute knowledge] that we have [granted us as our present possessions] the requests made of Him, 1 John 5:15.

It’s not uncommon for children to adopt an invisible friend when they are young. While parents may be uneasy about this behavior, this is the power of the imagination of a child at work. Similar to Robin Williams’ adult character in the film Hook, age and time have a way of sucking the joy out of parents. Rather than revel in the innocence of being young, the Devil has a way of wearing down faith, John 10:10.

When the disciples saw it, they marveled greatly and asked, How is it that the fig tree has withered away all at once? 21 And Jesus answered them, Truly I say to you, if you have faith (a [n]firm relying trust) and do not doubt, you will not only do what has been done to the fig tree, but even if you say to this mountain, Be taken up and cast into the sea, it will be done. 22 And whatever you ask for in prayer, having faith and [really] believing, you will receive, Matthew 21:20-22.

During a first century walk, Jesus teaches his disciples a powerful lesson about pray. This isn’t a meaningless imaginary exercise where you pretend to talk to an invisible God. Rather prayer is maximized when Christians approach God without doubt. Having belief and faith takes prayer to the next level. To those who pray without a doubt begin to move the mountains blocking God’s path for you.

by Jay Mankus

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S.A.N.S. Episode 121: Everything

Posted on June 1, 2022 by expressyourself4him

Today’s featured song is a favorite for drama teams throughout the nation. Lifehouse’s Everything is a modern version of Curious Fools’ classic song Pull which was a popular dramatization when I was in youth ministry back in the mid 1990’s. The attached video uses Matthew 11:28-30 to illustrate how everything in life begins to pile up and subsequently overwhelm burdened and troubled souls.

Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy-laden and overburdened, and I will cause you to rest. [I will [o]ease and relieve and [p]refresh [q]your souls.] 29 Take My yoke upon you and learn of Me, for I am gentle (meek) and humble (lowly) in heart, and you will find rest ([r]relief and ease and refreshment and [s]recreation and blessed quiet) for your souls. 30 For My yoke is wholesome (useful, [t]good—not harsh, hard, sharp, or pressing, but comfortable, gracious, and pleasant), and My burden is light and easy to be borne, Matthew 11:28-30.

Recognizing this internal struggle, Jesus calls anyone who is overburdened to come to Him. While human nature may make you think you can carry all of this on your own, you won’t be able to find rest or peace. This is the context of what the apostle Paul was going through in 2 Corinthians 12:7-12. The next time you find yourself swept away by stress, in your weakness trust Jesus to become your strength to lift you up on wings of eagles, Isaiah 40:29-31.

by Jay Mankus

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The Difference Between an Animal and the Devil

Posted on June 1, 2022 by expressyourself4him

When news broke of the Uvalde school shooting last Thursday, media outlets began searching for how and why this tragedy occurred. When the name of the shooter was unveiled, Salvador Ramos was compared to an animal and monster by several cable news analysts. While you can compare Salvador to Cain from the Bible, Genesis 4:5-7, there is a difference between an animal and the Devil.

Be well balanced (temperate, sober of mind), be vigilant and cautious at all times; for that enemy of yours, the devil, roams around like a lion roaring [[f]in fierce hunger], seeking someone to seize upon and devour, 1 Peter 5:8.

One of Jesus’ former disciples compares the Devil to the king of the jungle. This invisible enemy is like a hungry lion searching for prey to devour. As a child I remember watching Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom on Sunday nights before I went to bed. One episode featured lions separating young and weak Wildebeest from the herd. Once separated, it was only a matter of time before the lion’s hunger was satisfied.

The thief comes only in order to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance (to the full, till it [b]overflows), John 10:10.

While animals follow their herd instincts, the Devil is much more destructive. According to Jesus, the Devil is similar to a thief who is eager to steal, kill, and destroy lives. Although you may not have physical possessions stolen, the Devil seeks to steal your joy for life, kill any remaining dreams and destroy your hope. While cable panelists may not know the difference between animals and the Devil, Peter is clear about the preventative steps Christians must take so that you don’t become the Devil’s next victim.

by Jay Mankus

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S.A.N.S. Episode 120: To the Sky

Posted on May 31, 2022 by expressyourself4him

Pete Stewart is one of those Christian artists who has done whatever it takes to fulfill his dream of being a musician. Stewart started out as the lead singer of The Accident Experiment and guitarist for Tait. In more recent years, Pete has become the lead singer of Grammatrain as well as a songwriter and producer. The lyrics of To the Sky speak to a desire to seize the day so you can do what God is calling today.

Come now, you who say, Today or tomorrow we will go into such and such a city and spend a year there and carry on our business and make money.14 Yet you do not know [the least thing] about what may happen tomorrow. What is the nature of your life? You are [really] but a wisp of vapor (a puff of smoke, a mist) that is visible for a little while and then disappears [into thin air]. 15 You ought instead to say, If the Lord is willing, we shall live and we shall do this or that [thing], James 4:13-15.

To the Sky reminds me of words written by Jesus’ earthly brother. James reached a point in his life where God helped him see how short life on earth can be. Since tomorrow isn’t guaranteed, it’s important to look to the sky to figure out what exactly is God’s will for your life, Romans 12:1-2. May To the Sky serve as a reminder to lift each new day up to the Lord in prayer so you will begin to seize the moments God provides.

by Jay Mankus

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Where Was God in Uvalde?

Posted on May 31, 2022 by expressyourself4him

Following the most recent school shooting in Uvalde, Texas, one of the first headlines I saw on social media pierced my heart. This one particular comment blamed God for not intervening. The exact quote was “Where was God in the Uvalde School Shooting?” Unfortunately, when freewill is exercised and someone has already made up their mind like Cain, the only thing remaining is the actual act of evil.

But for [a]Cain and his offering He had no respect or regard. So Cain was exceedingly angry and indignant, and he looked sad and depressed. 6 And the Lord said to Cain, Why are you angry? And why do you look sad and depressed and dejected? 7 If you do well, will you not be accepted? And if you do not do well, sin crouches at your door; its desire is for you, but you must master it, Genesis 4:5-7.

Based upon the initial investigation into the life of the school shooter Salvador Ramos, he had a speech impediment, a stutter that caused other students to tease him. Beside recently dropping out of high school, Salvador’s family had a criminal record that led him to live with his grandparents. One psychologist suggested that the pictures of graduating seniors displayed throughout downtown UValde may have been one of the triggers that caused Salvador to snap.

Let no one say when he is tempted, I am tempted from God; for God is incapable of being tempted by [what is] evil and He Himself tempts no one. 14 But every person is tempted when he is drawn away, enticed and baited by his own evil desire (lust, passions). 15 Then the evil desire, when it has conceived, gives birth to sin, and sin, when it is fully matured, brings forth death, James 1:13-15.

While Texas officials may never uncover the reason for Salvador’s evil actions, the Bible shines light upon what is going on inside of sinful minds. Cain was envious of his younger brother Abel who was blessed by God. This jealousy conceived hatred inside of Cain’s heart that Jesus compares to the root of murder in Matthew 5:21-22. Meanwhile, temptation does originate from God. Rather, temptation is an internal process that baits, entices and lures people like Salvador to sin. Just like God tried to talk Cain out of getting rid of his brother, God’s attempt to change Salvador’s mind was unsuccessful to stop freewill.

by Jay Mankus

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S.A.N.S. Episode 119: There You Go

Posted on May 30, 2022 by expressyourself4him

Caedmon’s Call is one of the Christian groups that I lean on when an emotional pick me up. This group led by Cliff Young on lead vocals and rhythm guitar, blends traditional folk with alternative rock. If I’m in a mellow mood, I prefer Shifting Sand. Yet, my favorite and today’s featured song is There You Go. Both of these appear on the 40 Acres album. While now disbanded, Caedmon’s Call has aged well with time.

Go then and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them [b]into the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 Teaching them to observe everything that I have commanded you, and behold, I am with you [c]all the days ([d]perpetually, uniformly, and on every occasion), to the [very] close and consummation of the age. [e]Amen (so let it be), Matthew 28:19-20.

Following the resurrection and ascension of Jesus into heaven, Christians possessed a sense of urgency to fulfill the Great Commission introduced by Jesus in the passage above. This plan began by telling all of your friends and family about Jesus. When the disciples ran out of names, they traveled to surrounding towns and villages. Once stage two was completed, the ends of the earth is the final step. If you ever get bored spiritually, listen to God’s still small voice and you’ll go where the Holy Spirit leads.

by Jay Mankus

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The Testimony of God

Posted on May 30, 2022 by expressyourself4him

If you’re ever had some sort of supernatural experience, you may find it hard to tell a friend that you’ve just seen a ghost, caught a glimpse of a UFO or entertained an angel who suddenly disappears. This is the premise of Joan of Arcadia which ran for two full seasons from 2003-2005. Amber Tamblyn plays Joan Girardi who continues to have daily encounters with God. To avoid being labeled as crazy, Joan keeps this relationship secret, waiting for the right time and person to disclose her testimony of God.

So there are three witnesses [b]in heaven: the Father, the Word and the Holy Spirit, and these three are One; 8 and there are three witnesses on the earth: the Spirit, the water, and the blood; and these three agree [are in unison; their testimony coincides], 1 John 5:7-8.

The disciple whom Jesus loved builds upon the concept of the Trinity that he introduced in John 1:1-6. John refers to witnesses in heaven and witnesses on earth. In the spiritual natural realm, God the Father, the Word which came to life, and the Holy Spirit continue to share their testimony in heaven. Meanwhile, God’s Spirit, living water, and the blood shed by Jesus serve as witnesses on earth today. While this concept is hard to grasp, stories of eyewitnesses during Easter Sunday have passed on their testimony.

If we accept [as we do] the testimony of men [if we are willing to take human authority], the testimony of God is greater (of stronger authority), for this is the testimony of God, even the witness which He has borne regarding His Son, 1 John 5:9.

The apostle Paul provides a blue print for modern day testimonies in Galatians 1:11-24. When I became a Christian in high school, I had no idea of what a testimony was and why it is necessary. Yet, as I attended various conferences, retreats and summer camps, the stories that guest speakers shared were testimonies. Like the old hymn, “Blessed Assurance,” as you evolve spiritually and draw closer to God, lessons are learned that might help others. These testimonies of God are crucial for helping struggling Christians find their way back to Jesus. May this blog inspire you to share your own testimony this Memorial Day.

by Jay Mankus

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S.A.N.S. Episode 118: While I’m Waiting

Posted on May 29, 2022 by expressyourself4him

Kirk Cameron plays Caleb Holt in the 2008 film Fireproof. As a fan of the show Growing Pains, I’ve followed Kirk Cameron’s career over the years. When Kirk began to speak out about his faith, Hollywood stopped calling, forcing Kirk to seek roles in lesser-known films. My favorite Kirk Cameron film is Mercy Rule where his character fights back against powerful environmental lobbyists.

The Lord is good to those who wait hopefully and expectantly for Him, to those who seek Him [inquire of and for Him and require Him by right of necessity and on the authority of God’s word], Lamentations 3:25.

Today’s featured song comes from the Fireproof Soundtrack. John Waller sings about Caleb’s attempt to transform his life so that he can convince his wife from divorcing. While I’m Waiting is part of a montage where Caleb seeks to serve and love his wife as Christ loved the church. Since most prayers aren’t answered immediately, Christians are forced to wait in faith until miracles occur.

by Jay Mankus

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