Author Archives: expressyourself4him

Evil Eyes

Posted on May 17, 2016 by expressyourself4him

Kim Carnes 1981 version of Bette Davis Eyes spent 9 weeks on top of the Billboard Hot 100 chart.  This song debuted on Mistaken Identity, fitting well into today’s theme.  If you have ever looked into someone’s eyes, you may receive a mixed message.  While one eye may appear to signal a friendly glance, the other may be checking you out.  Meanwhile, angry teachers have a tendency to point evil eyes in the direction of the chatty, disruptive or tardy.

With eyes full of adultery, they never stop sinning; 2 Peter 2:14a.

Peter refers to a different concept in one of his letters to Christians in the first century.  During his interactions with Jesus, Peter met and likely had conversations with prostitutes.  Although its unclear which individual Peter is referring to, the Holy Spirit revealed a quality that people possess known as eyes full of adultery.  What I call the second glance, innocence is replaced by lust as carousing souls covet the physical features of others.

I made a covenant with my eyes not to look lustfully at a young woman, Job 31:1.

Wearing sunglasses may keep others from seeing your evil eyes, but God is not deceived.  Thus, if you’ve fallen into bad habits, you might find yourself consumed with an array of sinful thoughts.  If you find yourself leaning in this direction, take the pledge of Job.  While you will still have to overcome the temptation of the second glance, with God’s help all things are possible.  May these words open your mind to the dangers of eyes full of adultery.

by Jay Mankus

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Creatures of Instinct

Posted on May 16, 2016 by expressyourself4him

If you have ever read about or studied the spiritual climate prior to previous great awakenings, morality tends to move in cycles.  When individuals experience the happier days in life, human beings can forget about the Creator above who brought good tidings and great joy.  If this trend continues, it won’t be long before your flesh leads you to become creatures of instinct.

But these people blaspheme in matters they do not understand. They are like unreasoning animals, creatures of instinct, born only to be caught and destroyed, and like animals they too will perish, 2 Peter 2:12.

Although each previous generation claim they had it harder, those who lived during periods of self-control were likely spared from the beast of lust.  For those born in ages of disobedience or sexual revolutions, the forces of temptation are magnified.  As complacency, justification and rationalization kick in, the desire to indulge intensifies.  Thus, many become pawns of the sinful nature.

For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world, 1 John 2:16.

When the dust settles, creatures of instinct find a valley of sin standing in their way from God’s hands of forgiveness.  As the apostle Paul states in Galatians 5, an opposing force acts as a sparing partner.  Free will adds to this equation, placing a priority on decision making.  Thus, if you follow in the footsteps of Moses, choose life before a creature of instinct leads you down the wrong road.

by Jay Mankus

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Famous Rants

Posted on May 15, 2016 by expressyourself4him

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Bombastic, scathing and passionate are words associated with rants.  As a sports fan, three stand out in particular.  After his team turned the ball five teams in defeat, Jim Mora responds to a reporter’s question, “playoffs, you’re talking about playoff; I just hope we win another game.”  Living just outside of Philadelphia, who can ever forget about Allen Iverson’s practice press conference, “we’re talking about practice, not a game.”  Last, but not least is Dennis Green’s tirade after blowing a 14 point lead on Monday Night Football against the Chicago Bears, “they are who we thought they were, but we let them off the hook.”

They will be paid back with harm for the harm they have done. Their idea of pleasure is to carouse in broad daylight. They are blots and blemishes, reveling in their pleasures while they feast with you, 2 Peter 2:13.

Prior to today, I never thought I would find a rant while reading the Bible, but that all changed after examining 2 Peter 2.  While writing this letter, it appears that something set Peter off.  Whether he was thinking about a specific individual or a collection who share the same mindset, Peter goes off, ripping into those who indulge their sinful nature.  For a moment, I thought I was reading a transcript of a famous press conference.  If only you tube existed back in the first century, this chapter would surely reach over a million hits.

With eyes full of adultery, they never stop sinning; they seduce the unstable; they are experts in greed—an accursed brood! – 2 Peter 2:14

When I grew up in Wilmington, Delaware, a slice of the south existed.  What I mean is that every one on our blocked looked after each other.  Subsequently, I didn’t just have my parents; any time I was out of line, a neighbor went off on me, correcting my bad and inappropriate behavior.  Unfortunately, if this occurred today there would be law suits, division and turmoil.  The more I think about this chapter, I believe Peter leaves behind a vital message.  If you want to rant about something, speak out about those things tearing people you love away from God.

by Jay Mankus

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After a Loss

Posted on May 14, 2016 by expressyourself4him

Whether situations in this life or the actual grieving process following the loss of a life, neither is a pleasant experience.  In the moments afterward, raw emotions are stirred causing an individual to teeter between depression and frustration.  How you handle disappointment will influence the person you will become.

It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs, 1 Corinthians 13:5.

Last night I was a substitute baseball coach during the final scrimmage of the preseason.  Over matched by better athletes, competitors and talent, I think the final score was 24-0.  The game was called in the bottom of the third after the opposition stole home on 3 consecutive wild pitches.  Its bad enough to get beaten, but when you have to wave the white flag to surrender, its a hard pill to swallow.

Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, James 1:2.

During my final year in Chicago, I spent most of that time working for Michael Jordan Golf, serving as a sales associate before being promoted to Assistant Manager and Store Manager.  This allowed me to rub shoulders with people close to Michael.  While I never met him directly, no one hated to lose more than Michael.  Thus, he was relentless, coming back more determined than ever.  Although this has nothing to do with the Bible in particular, this is the mentality you should possess after a loss.

by Jay Mankus

 

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A Soul Tormented by Lawless Deeds

Posted on May 13, 2016 by expressyourself4him

If you turn on a news cast, at some point you will witness something disturbing, shocking or sad.  Unfortunately, many have been desensitized by a barrage of extreme videos.  Thus, as the average citizen become comfortably numb, a soul tormented by lawless deeds is either overlooked or forgotten.

For that righteous man, living among them day after day, was tormented in his righteous soul by the lawless deeds he saw and heard, 2 Peter 2:8.

Ever since public education has de-emphasized moral absolutes, the line between right and wrong has been turned to gray.  Subsequently, hearts and minds can become confused, unsure what’s acceptable and what’s frowned upon.  In this politically correct climate, the law breaker can be excused if they hold a socially acceptable worldview.  Yet if the shoe is on the other foot, a conservative will be verbally crucified for a similar transgression.

Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest, Matthew 11:28.

Lost in the shuffle are those individuals wounded by lawless deeds.  When television cameras move on to the next city, disaster or scandal, those left behind must begin to pick up the pieces of their lives.  Beyond these scars, an invisible voice calls out to the bruised and broken-hearted.  May the hope of Jesus bring peace to souls tormented by lawless deeds.

by Jay Mankus

 

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Blame it on the Jet Stream

Posted on May 12, 2016 by expressyourself4him

In 1989, the song Blame it on the Rain reached number one for two weeks on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 chart.  This was Milli Vanilli’s third number one single.  However, Milli Vanilli’s fame and fortune was short lived, running off the stage during the middle of a concert.  What the world eventually found out, these two stars were lip syncing each song, not the actual singers of their music.

If anyone thinks he is religious and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his heart, this person’s religion is worthless, James 1:26.

In this age of environmentalism, today’s weather patterns are used by some scientists to claim this is proof of global warming.  However, if meteorologists can’t accurately predict tomorrow’s forecast with all their fancy technology, there must be some other force at work in the earth’s atmosphere,  If you want a scapegoat, blame it on the Jet Stream.

If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us, 1 John 1:8-10.

History has a way of exposing imposters, liars and those covering up the truth.  Whether its a group like Milli Vanilli, global warming or secrets from the past, time will bring what was once in darkness into the light.  Therefore, don’t get caught up in arguments that occur weekly on cable television and talk radio.  Rather, live your life as an open book, confess your short comings and may the truth about Christ set you free.

by Jay Mankus

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That a Boy!

Posted on May 11, 2016 by expressyourself4him

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As the culture changes, so does the vocabulary.  Unfortunately, as a sense of loyalty diminishes, human beings are being discarded by employers, often finding a cheaper replacement.  I found out the hard way during my last year as a high school teacher.  In this climate, instead of hearing encouraging words like “that a boy,” criticism follows revealing a lack of appreciation.

With the help of Silas, whom I regard as a faithful brother, I have written to you briefly, encouraging you and testifying that this is the true grace of God. Stand fast in it, 1 Peter 5:12.

Trying to stay positive in these conditions can be difficult.  However, after reading a letter from the disciple Peter, I am reminded of the importance to use uplifting words.  Since most communications at a typical work place tends to be when you make a mistake, what would happen if people received a compliment once a week.  While each individual is different, most need to hear “that a boy or way to go” every so often to make sure they feel appreciated.

Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen, Ephesians 4:29.

Although I have my moments of negativity, these passages of the Bible bring me back to where I need to be.  Thus, despite how I feel, its vital to guard my mouth to avoid being part of the problem.  In view of this, don’t be afraid to be a voice of reason, building up those around you.  By exercising this principle, you will rejuvenate others who yearn to hear, “that a boy!”

by Jay Mankus

 

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The Call to Serve

Posted on May 10, 2016 by expressyourself4him

If you still have a land line and cable, every in coming call shows up on your television.  Anyone without caller ID has another benefit of technology, a new way to screen your calls.  Thus, if you don’t want to talk to a telemarketer or don’t have time to chat with a friend who tends to be long winded, you have the option to let phone ring until the answering machine picks up.

The kingdom of heaven is like a king who prepared a wedding banquet for his son.  He sent his servants to those who had been invited to the banquet to tell them to come, but they refused to come, Matthew 22:2-3.

Those who practice this form of call screening may miss someone from their past, present or someone God wants you to meet.  Meanwhile, God’s calling can be obscure, occurring at the least likely time or place.  Therefore, if you are unable to discern, hear or sense the whisper of God, you will be replaced by a more willing participant.

But they paid no attention and went off—one to his field, another to his business, Matthew 22:5.

Whether you read the Old or New Testament, two common themes exist.  First, human beings were created to praise God.  Second, each person was designed to serve the Lord with their God given gifts.  Sure, everyone goes through periods of disobedience, rebellion and vacation, taking a break from God.  The call is waiting for you daily and the message is clear, to serve.  Don’t be like those in the parable of the wedding banquet who came up with lame excuses.  Rather, make the most of the time that you have, by applying the talents within you.

by Jay Mankus

 

 

 

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Live It Up

Posted on May 9, 2016 by expressyourself4him

 

As I child, I didn’t have many worries in this world.  Sure, I had fears of heights and snakes, but I was naive about all the work my parents had to do to provide for the family.  While my mom and dad each worked full time jobs, I spent most of my time living life to the fullest.

Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil, Ephesians 5:15-16.

Now on the other side of the spectrum, I tend to let the stress in life steal my joy.  Instead of demonstrating a child like faith, I get caught up in the hustle and bustle in life.  Thus, the notion of living it up is far from my mind, a distant memory of my childhood.

Wine is a mocker and beer a brawler; whoever is led astray by them is not wise, Proverbs 20:1.

Some adults never grow up after college, continuing to party, enjoying each weekend off.  Beside being costly, this isn’t how God wants individuals to celebrate life.  Rather, the Lord longs for the day when people embrace fellowship, rely on prayer and follow the apostle’s teaching.  May this guideline in Acts 2:42 spur believers on to live it up.

by Jay Mankus

 

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Breaking it Down

Posted on May 8, 2016 by expressyourself4him

If you are an avid sports fan like me, you probably enjoy watching post game shows following a favorite teams game.  After a win, you revel in watching the highlights that led to victory.  However, in defeat you want to know what happened; searching for the reason why your team lost as analysts break down the film.

I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do, Romans 7:15.

Unfortunately, the older I get, the more analytical I become.  Subsequently, I do the same thing with my own life, trying to point a finger on why I’m not getting the results I expect.  While some may consider this a waste of time, this is merely a way that I discern what I need to do different in the future.

Thanks be to God, who delivers me through Jesus Christ our Lord! So then, I myself in my mind am a slave to God’s law, but in my sinful nature a slave to the law of sin, Romans 7:25.

The breakdown to life on earth is pretty simple.  Mankind was on a path toward destruction, destined for hell.  Yet, this is where Jesus stepped in, taking the fall for every sin ever committed.  Thus, despite my own failed attempts to step out of trouble, the grace of God is available to those who believe.  May the Lord open your eyes as the Bible breaks down God’s plan for eternity.

by Jay Mankus

 

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