Author Archives: expressyourself4him

Where Are Your Footprints Leading?

Posted on July 16, 2016 by expressyourself4him

For those of you who have pets, it doesn’t take much for a kitten, puppy or other new member of the family to reap havoc.  Like any child who knows their in trouble, sometimes animals try to hide their mess.  In this case, all you have to do is follow visible signs of destruction before you reach the guilty party.  Yet, child and pets aren’t alone as even adults have moments of weakness, sending a poor message by taking steps in the wrong direction.

If we claim to have fellowship with him and yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live out the truth, 1 John 1:6.

Unfortunately, grown ups tend to make life much more complicated than it is.  Subsequently, sometimes its important to simplify life, going back to the basics.  The Bible kids classic song Oh Be Careful Little Eyes What You See is a great place to start.  These lyrics warn individuals of the lasting consequences of walking in darkness.  Tasting forbidden fruit, lusting for someone or something or crossing the line known as sin, could become a life style if you’re not careful.

“The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are healthy, your whole body will be full of light.   But if your eyes are unhealthy, your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light within you is darkness, how great is that darkness! Matthew 6:22-23

In his sermon on the Mount, Jesus shares the correlation between your eyes and sin.  Essentially, eyes are a lamp created to guide and direct people throughout life.  However, if used inappropriately, these beacons of light can become a source for evil.  Thus, whether you are young or old, Oh Be Careful Little Eyes What You See still applies.  In view of this choose wisely and if you make mistakes along the way, repent quickly.  May the footprints that you leave on earth point souls to the love of Jesus.

by Jay Mankus

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When Timing Really is Everything

Posted on July 15, 2016 by expressyourself4him

In the hours following the terrorist attacks on September 11th, 2001, Major League Baseball and the National Football League felt it was inappropriate to play games while bodies were being pulled from beneath remnants of the World Trade Center.  Subsequently, baseball commissioner Bud Selig cancelled all games for the rest of the week.  Meanwhile, Paul Tagliabue postponed a weekend slate of NFL games, citing regrets of playing two days after president John F. Kennedy’s assassination.

These things happened as a warning to us, so that we would not crave evil things as they did, 1 Corinthians 10:6.

While civil unrest is apparent, citizens unhappy with how some Americans were killed and treated by law enforcement, perhaps now is a good time for a season of trueths.  If timing really is everything, what good will further protests do in the wake of the deadliest day for police officers since 9/11.  Where is common sense, decency or social etiquette to let people mourn and remember those whose life have been snuffed out?  If individuals don’t learn from history, America will not escape the same fate fallen civilizations have endured.

There is time to kill and a time to heal.  A time to tear down and a time to build up.  A time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance, Ecclesiastes 3:3-4.

Regardless of your stance on racial relations, there should be one common bond that unites, that we are one nation under God.  The political correct crowd can not deny the founding of religious principles established by our forefathers.  Thus, everyone must make an important decision: are you going to be part of the problem or a piece to the solution?  Solomon’s words in Ecclesiastes are profound.  Yet, if these words are ignored, I’m afraid healing will never arrive.  In the future, don’t let your emotions get the best of you.  Rather, ask God to help you see what you can do to make America great again!

by Jay Mankus

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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The Devil’s Triangle

Posted on July 14, 2016 by expressyourself4him

Across the surface of the earth, there are small sections which produce anomalies.  For one reason or another, abnormal, odd or strange events seem to happen within defined areas.  One of the most famous occurs over water, others take place in the mountains and some form a triangle between three specific geographical points.  Whether you are referring to the Devil’s Triangle at sea or a 44 mile highway loop in Oliver Springs, Tennessee, some places appear to be cursed, filled with a history of accidents, disaster or tragedy.

And that they will come to their senses and escape from the trap of the devil, who has taken them captive to do his will, 2 Timothy 2:26.

Although I don’t want to jump to conclusions, these places produce acts and occurrences that defy science.  While several of these unusual accounts can be explained due to rare barometric conditions, others seem to be linked to the supernatural.  According to the apostle Paul, people will experience traps set by the devil, demonic influences or powers of darkness.  Thus, when you find yourself within the snares of the Devil’s Triangle, you need to know what you’re up against.

In which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient, Ephesians 2:2.

As a fallen angel, Satan controls the airspace, sending minions to create havoc throughout the face of the earth.  These invisible attacks plants seeds of doubt, urges hearts to indulge in worldly pleasures and promotes a New Age mindset.  Sometimes this involves sending people into our lives that lead to subtle changes in the form of compromise.  While people may visit places on earth known as the Devil’s Triangle, you don’t have to leave your home to experience a spiritual war upon your soul.  Prepare yourself with prayer!

by Jay Mankus

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A Misfit Living in a Cruel World

Posted on July 13, 2016 by expressyourself4him

Fifty two years ago this coming December, Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer debuted.  In the years that have followed, children and parents have made this animation a Christmas classic.   Something about an elf who wants to be a dentist and a reindeer whose nose glows appeals to anyone who feels like a social outcast.  Essentially, this story serves as a reminder to those who are currently a misfit living in a cruel world.

While Jesus was having dinner at Matthew’s house, many tax collectors and sinners came and ate with him and his disciples, Matthew 9:10.

After experiencing public scrutiny and humiliation, Hermey and Rudolph run away from their problems, coming to shore on the Island of Misfit Toys.  Upon interacting with a Charlie in the Box and a train with square wheels, Hermey and Rudolph come to the realization that their lives aren’t as bad as they initially thought.  Sometimes all you need to do is meet someone less fortunate and your perspective changes immediately.

Jesus had compassion on them and touched their eyes. Immediately they received their sight and followed him, Matthew 20:34.

There is a perception in the world from those who do not believe in God that Jesus is too good, holy and righteous for sinners.  On the contrary, Jesus spent most of his time on earth conversing, eating and sitting with the lower and middle class.   Jesus’ ministry was centered around reaching out to misfits, needy individuals and the poor.  Therefore, don’t think you have to have everything together to serve the Lord.  Rather, find meaning and purpose in this cruel world by touching the lives of people in need with an encouraging word, hug or smile.

by Jay Mankus

 

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A Sad Sign of Troubled Times

Posted on July 12, 2016 by expressyourself4him

The History Channel has a series of shows related to prophecy.  Nostradamus programs tend to get the most publicity, concentrating upon his published collection that first appeared in 1555.  While there are shows dedicated to Bible prophecy, there is one author who gets overlooked.  The apostle Paul makes a prediction in a letter to one of his disciples which is like a headline from one of the major tabloids.

They are the kind who worm their way into homes and gain control over gullible women, who are loaded down with sins and are swayed by all kinds of evil desires, 2 Timothy 3:6.

Apparently, there was a growing trend of bad boys having a negative influence on woman during the first century.  Based upon the vocabulary used in the passage above, Paul suggests that men were preying on gullible women, then manipulating females to get what they want.  Based upon the amount of children born out of wedlock and dysfunctional homes in America today, Paul’s prophecy is a sad sign of troubles times.

Always learning but never able to come to a knowledge of the truth, 2 Timothy 3:7.

The notion that love is blind applies to this moral dilemma.  While many individuals often say, “I’ll never do that again,” when push comes to shove several repeat the same mistakes time after time.  Thus, bad boys continue to intrigue naive woman, curious what it would be like to date them.  Unfortunately, despite having a knowledge of right from wrong does not stop the desperate or tempted from tasting temporary pleasures.  May the Holy Spirit pierce through this darkness so that these sad signs of a fallen society will turn around soon.

by Jay Mankus

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Something Made to Last

Posted on July 11, 2016 by expressyourself4him

If you are a purest, its hard to find anything today that is built to last the test of time.  Somewhere over the last hundred years, a younger generation has chosen cheaper prices over reliability.  Subsequently, most of the items for sale are temporary, often breaking much sooner than promised or before their warranty is up.

I am the gate; whoever enters through me will be saved.  They will come in and go out, and find pasture, John 10:9.

In 1970, Coca-Cola began an advertising campaign claiming that their soft drink Coke was the real thing.  Essentially, executives were trying to convince consumers that Pepsi Cola and RC Cola were artificial, unlike their product.  Today, other manufacturers are making similar boasts.  Unfortunately, unless you are willing to pay a premium price, rarely will you find something made to last.

The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full, John 10:10.

Remedy Drive sings about this topic in their 2012 song Something Made to Last.  One of the issues they address are things in life that promise satisfaction, but end in disappointment.  Since every life has the same finale, death, its vital to find something that is eternal.  This is where Jesus enters the picture, promising an abundant life to those who chose to believe.  Therefore, don’t allow yourself to settle for a life void of meaning.  Rather, step out in faith by taking the hand of Jesus, who has left you the Holy Spirit which gives you something made to last.

by Jay Mankus

 

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Reactions Without Responsibility

Posted on July 10, 2016 by expressyourself4him

Any parent who loses a child to a drunk driver, victim of a crime or family member of a relative fatally shot wants to see justice prevail.  In the heat of the moment, especially after receiving this bad news, emotions can cause harsh reactions.  Yet, in America people are suppose to be innocent until proven guilty.  Sure, it would be nice if the court systems could speed up this process.  However, until individuals have their day in court, its irresponsible to incite violence, rush to judgment or use social media to encourage others to seek revenge.

How can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? – Matthew 7:4

In the hours following the unfortunate shooting deaths of African Americans by police officers in Louisiana and Minnesota, reactions in the media were fast and furious.  Apparently, some people took black leaders, politicians and twitter posts literally.  Subsequently, now there are six dead police officers in 2 states, several more wounded and public servants have been betrayed by the citizens they are paid to protect.  The response by celebrities to the initial two deaths is a clear indication that reactions have consequences.

You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye, Matthew 7:5.

America has come to a cross roads, on the verge of a racial divide.  The leadership and message provided by Dr. Martin Luther King has either been forgotten or is absent from this current generation.  In view of this dire situation, its time for personal responsibility, realizing that everyone is imperfect.  During his sermon on the Mount Jesus encouraged followers to get their own lives in order before criticizing or judging other people.  The same truth applies to Americans today.  Therefore, the next time you have an urge to lash out, over react or post complaints on social media, remember these words of Jesus.  If put into practice, God’s Word can begin to transform lives one soul at a time.

by Jay Mankus

 

 

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When Your Compass Doesn’t Work

Posted on July 9, 2016 by expressyourself4him

For those of us who are directionally challenged, its easy to become reliant on modern technology.  Advances in cell phones, electronic maps and GPS devices will tell you immediately when and if you take a wrong turn.  However, what will happen if your compass in life does not work.

But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come, John 16:13.

If you have ever watched documentaries on the Bermuda Triangle, there have been numerous accounts of aircraft and ships whose navigational devices stop working.  Sometimes this lasts for a few seconds or continues for an extended period of time.  When you can’t determine magnetic north, people have to fly blind, relying on certain landmarks to find your way home.  Yet, when clouds, fog or storms roll in, this task is further complicated.

All that belongs to the Father is mine. That is why I said the Spirit will receive from me what he will make known to you, John 16:15.

From a spiritual point of view, your conscience is similar to a compass.  Nonetheless, if you allow yourself to become distracted by a career, project or work, its not that hard to get lost.  Within these days, months and years of darkness, people tend to lose hope.  This is why Jesus left the Holy Spirit following his ascension, providing a counselor in your time of need.  Therefore, when everything else in life fails, reach out to the Lord and He will guide you home.

by Jay Mankus

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A Convenient Absence of the Truth

Posted on July 8, 2016 by expressyourself4him

During a recent sleepless night, I stumbled upon a rerun of a 30 for 30 on ESPN.  Trying to find something to fall asleep to, an episode on the Hillsborough soccer stadium tragedy did just the opposite.  This riveting documentary made me begin to wonder what other events from history have been sanitized by a convenient absence of the truth.

When the chief priests had met with the elders and devised a plan, they gave the soldiers a large sum of money, Matthew 28:12.

On April 15th, 1989, soccer fans began to flood a standing room only section of the Hillsborough stadium.  As space to stand started to disappear, a mass panic ensued causing people to press toward a fence shielding fans from players on the field.  This chaos was complicated by a lack of reaction by stadium officials leading to the deaths of 96 people.

Telling them, “You are to say, ‘His disciples came during the night and stole him away while we were asleep,’ Matthew 28:13.

In the hours and days that followed, authorities using the media as a pawn began to assign blame.  Like modern day talking points, alcohol, drunk fans and crude behavior served as window dressing to hide the actual facts of this disaster.  Justice took over 20 years to arrive when original police statements and those altered by government officials were posted side by side on the internet.  This is just another example of corruption inspired by a convenient absence of the truth.

If this report gets to the governor, we will satisfy him and keep you out of trouble,” Matthew 28:14.

This strategy is nothing new as even Jesus dealt with a similar scheme to redefine his own resurrection.  As Jewish and Roman officials tried to squash Jesus’ growing popularity and message, a plan was devised to change public opinion.  There was only one problem with this decision, Jesus spent 40 days in public after rising from the dead.  According to Luke, Jesus was seen by over 500 eyewitnesses serving as a first century Drudge Report.

So the soldiers took the money and did as they were instructed. And this story has been widely circulated among the Jews to this very day, Matthew 28:15.

Today, if you click on the internet, turn on the television or tune into talk radio, don’t blindly believe the first thing that you hear or see.  Rather, remember that a few elite media members control the daily narrative presented to the airways in America.  Essentially, what you see isn’t always what is actually happening.  Therefore, as a new election season approaches full of ads steeped in embellishment, do your own homework before you reach a final conclusion.  If you don’t, you might be the next victim, deceived by a convenient absence of the truth.

by Jay Mankus

 

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You’ll Never Know Unless You Try

Posted on July 7, 2016 by expressyourself4him

When I was younger, I thought I was better than I actually was.  I would talk smack, emotionally annoy opponents and wouldn’t back down from a confrontation.  Over time I have mellowed, learned the importance of humility and found contentment in my retirement from sports.  Yet, I’m thankful that I wasn’t afraid to fail as a professional golfer.

For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come, 1 Timothy 4:8.

As I step away from competition, my son James faces a similar dilemma.  Despite being a state champion pole vaulter and 3 time all conference golfer, playing division one sports in college is a whole new ball game.  Thus, he has to decide do I risk embarrassment, humiliation or do I play it safe by avoiding disappointment?  My message to him is you’ll never know unless you try.

Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me, Philippians 3:12.

In my first golf mini-tour event, I shot 48 on the front nine, shaking so badly it was hard to swing a club.  I could have hung my head, quit or withdrawn from this competition.  Yet, I battled, birdieing the 10th, finding my rhythm on the back nine.  I never made any money nor did I reach the P.G.A. tour, but I walked away from this game knowing I did everything in my power to succeed.  Thus, whether you are my son, a friend or a stranger I meet along the road called life, you’ll never know your ultimate destiny unless you try by utilizing your God given talents.

by Jay Mankus

 

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