Author Archives: expressyourself4him

Striking It Rich

Posted on September 9, 2013 by expressyourself4him

The advent of reality television has spawned a different kind of gold rush as contestants, individuals and a select few are willing to risk everything, even their reputation to strike it rich.  According to the Writers Guild of America in an article written by Charles Slocum, Allen Funt can be credited as the founder of reality television through his 1948 series Candid Camera.  One year prior, Funt’s radio project entitled Candid Microphone has inspired the recent rage in reality programing featured on nearly every cable channel.  Whether this new fad fizzles out soon is unclear, yet one thing is certain, people will continue to endure embarrassment as long as a pot of gold exists at the end of the rainbow.

The Bible provides an alternative perspective on striking it rich.  Prior to his death, the apostle Paul shares words of wisdom to a young pastor in a chapter to Timothy.  Paul’s first advice is to develop the right mindset, 1 Timothy 6:6, focusing on what you have rather than allow envy to steer your attention toward what others have acquired.  Next, Paul urges this teenager to listen to the right voice, 1 Timothy 6:9.  The Greek word used for desire means to have an unshakable thirst for more; thus Paul recommends the message he shared to believers in Rome, Romans 8:5-13.  Finally, if you are blessed with money in this life, maintain the proper attitude described in 1 Timothy 6:17.  By doing this, you can strike it rich spiritually.

Unfortunately, applying these words takes sacrifices, time and a world of adjustment.  While some may be called to a life of poverty like Mother Teresa, others have squandered their wealth like the prodigal son, Luke 15:13-17.  Meanwhile, many have simply buried their talents, afraid of disappointment, failure or rejection, Matthew 25:24-28.  The words of Moses still ring true today, a guide for those hoping to strike it rich, Deuteronomy 30:15-16.  If beauty lies in the eyes of the beholder, then riches dwell in the hearts of those who store up treasures for the after life, Matthew 6:19-21.  Begin your pursuit today!

by Jay Mankus

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You’ve Got To Bring It!

Posted on September 8, 2013 by expressyourself4him

Survival of the fittest was coined by British philosopher Hebert Spencer after reading On the Origin of Species by Charles Darwin.  In reality, this term is an alternative way of saying natural selection.  However, from a modern translation, in order to survive and rise above others to become the cream of the crop, you’ve got to bring it every day.  Whether you are an administrator, athlete, blue collar worker or a student with great expectations, you can’t take a class, day or play off.

As a former professional athlete and high school coach, it doesn’t take a rocket scientist to recognize if someone is dogging it.  Just take of peek to observe students walking down the hall to use the restroom.  Those walking slower than a senior citizen are stalling, wasting as much time as humanly possible.  On the other hand, the highly motivated are back in a flash, hoping they didn’t miss anything important.  If this pattern of complacency, laziness and minimal effort continues, these individuals will not succeed, put to shame and overshadowed by the overachievers in life.

The Bible was well ahead of its time, introducing a similar concept to the world by the end of the first century.  Jesus talked about striving for perfection during his sermon on the mount, encouraging the crowd to put their heart and soul into every aspect of life, even those people you despise or hate, Matthew 5:43-48.  As an avid sports fan of track and field, the apostle Paul addresses two sides to this topic.  From a mental approach, Paul focuses on the concentration necessary to acquire the proper attitude as you compete in life, 1 Corinthians 9:24-27.  Then, from a moral stand point, Paul adds work ethic with a devotion for your creator in Colossians 3:17, 23.  When you put these three passages together, the message is quite clear, “you’ve got to bring it!”

by Jay Mankus

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Is It Strange that I Feel This Way?

Posted on September 7, 2013 by expressyourself4him

The new normal in the 21st century is foreign to many who hold to Judeo-Christian values.  While talking to a friend this past week, our conversation turned toward college, the temptations we faced and the culture that currently exists.  When my friend’s daughter came home last week for the first time, just starting her freshman year, she felt uneasy.  One of the things she is wrestling with is the disconnect she has with friends who have embraced the party atmosphere at school.  Not sure how to respond, she asked her father, “is it strange that I feel this way?”

Once of Jesus’ disciples used the term alien to describe how he felt living in and among the world, 1 Peter 2:11-12.  Strange is relative depending upon your normal surroundings, but it is clear when you choose to go against the flow, its not easy, requiring courage, fortitude and faith.  However, Peter expounds upon what believers should expect, a spiritual war, urging you to comply with the sinful nature.  This attack on the human soul begins with the commercialism of alcohol.  The message has become so prevalent on television that beer, liquor and mixed drinks are trying to convince consumers that if you buy this, drink that or are seen holding a certain beverage, you will be the life of the party.  This hyper-reality overlooks the pain hangovers produce, deaths related to drunk driving and the destruction alcoholism can create within families.

During my first semester at the University of Delaware, my floor had the lowest Grade Point Average on campus according to my Resident Assistant.  While not quite as low as the Delta’s in the movie Animal House, I felt like I wasted an entire semester.  Those students who earned a 0.0 GPA did not return, leaving a much quieter dorm.  Even friends I knew who lived in Fraternity homes, either matured or grew tired of partying.  Therefore, for anyone out there, who thinks they aren’t normal for abstaining from drinking, you are not alone.  Like the Old Testament suggests, God always keeps a remnant, a group of followers who overcome temptation by holding true to the Bible.  Hold fast to the promise of Galatians 6:9-10!

by Jay Mankus

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The Conservative Conscience

Posted on September 6, 2013 by expressyourself4him

Conservative refers to holding firmly to traditional values.  From an American perspective, this means adhering to the biblical principles which the United States of America was founded upon.  Meanwhile, a conscience is an inner feeling or voice in your mind, serving to guide one’s behavior in the right direction.  Thus, the conservative conscience was designed by God, implanted within each soul, to impart prudence, temperance and fortitude to individuals.

An example of the conservative conscience is found in Genesis 42:21-23.  Reuben, the oldest of Joseph’s 11 brothers is steered away from blaming God for his trial.  Instead, Reuben’s conscience convicts him of throwing Joseph into an empty well, faking his death and lying to his father, by placing goat’s blood all over the special rob Jacob made for Joseph.  As long as a spirit of compromise does not enter your body, this conservative conscience is available to all human beings.

Unfortunately, the conscience has been under attack for more than 50 years in America.  Atheists convinced educators that God did not belong in public schools during the 1960’s.  Abortion made killing a children inside a mother’s womb legal in the early 70’s.  The Home Box Office brought nationwide cable television into homes by the 80’s.  Little by little, compromise by compromise, lie by lie, the conservative nature of the conscience has been lost.  Without many Reuben like role models, society has forgotten why the conscience exists.  May God has mercy on us, turn us back toward the Holy Spirit and rejuvenate the conservative conscience!

by Jay Mankus

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Escaping the Dungeon of Doubt

Posted on September 5, 2013 by expressyourself4him

Although their initial origin is disputed, the word dungeon is likely derived from the Frankish term dungjo, referring to a vault, a concealed and hidden space.  By the 14th century, the English developed underground prisons within their castles also known as oubliettes due to their typical shape and design.  According to Genesis 41:14, prisoners went without bathing or shaving, stuck in a living hell hole on earth.  In Joseph’s case, he was waiting on God for more than 2 years to set him free.

Today, these man made structures have been replaced by an invisible pit, deep inside the human soul.  Formed by doubt, this dungeon is like a haunted house, creepy, dark and void of hope.  When an individual appears to be reaching the top of this hole, disbelief and skepticism often hinder progress as the ruler of the air, Ephesians 2:2, maintains his grip, holding a saint in bondage for yet another day, Ephesians 6:12.  While self conceit and doubt wrestle for control, a life filled with disappointment serves as dark clouds, blocking any rays of optimism, paralyzing a believer from fully escaping.

Like a patient receiving medical attention, nightmares, scars and seeds of doubt linger after your release.  The human mind serves as a sponge, absorbing the trauma you have endured, playing tricks on you once freed from the devil’s talons.  Thus, one needs a spiritual reboot, cleansing all the viruses you have been infected by through the word of God, Colossians 2:6-8.  The Bible presents people with truth serum, replacing doubt with faith, Romans 10:17.  While not fully healed until heaven, Psalm 119:105 introduces curious onlookers to the only full proof escape route from the dungeon of doubt.

by Jay Mankus

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Prepared by the Past… One Dot at A Time

Posted on September 4, 2013 by expressyourself4him

Life is like a dot to dot picture given to children at many sit down restaurants in America, part of the kid’s meal, keeping young people occupied until the meal is served.  However, instead of having 10 numbers, your life puzzle have thousands, too many to keep on one page without any numbers to follow.  Thus, when you try to comprehend God’s logic of why this or that happened, you can’t make any sense of the dots, unable to get a clear picture of how your past fits into the present and future.  Nonetheless, some people throughout history have experienced moments in time when God revealed how their dots fit together.

Genesis 41:9-40 is one of these occasions where faithfulness, patience and prayer met.  The second youngest of 12 brothers, God gave Joseph the gift of dream interpretation.  Humbled by his previous days of bragging to his brothers, Joseph gives God the sole credit in Genesis 41:15-16.  Before the days of resumes and cover letters, the positive words of Pharaoh’s chief cup bearer served as a reference, giving Joseph a face to face meeting with the leader of Egypt.  Beginning in Genesis 41:28-36, Joseph turns this opportunity into an interview, sharing his previous work experience along with what he would do if in charge.  Impressed by Joseph’s presentation, Joseph goes from the dungeon to the penthouse, second in command to Pharaoh.  Joseph’s dot to dot puzzle is completed in Genesis 45:5-8, using words to explain the picture, God’s plan for his life.

Tomorrow, I start my first day as an ambassador with Amazon.  Receiving this promotion last Saturday, I haven’t been this excited since managing a store for Michael Jordan Golf back in 1997.  As the dots in my life begin to take shape, I am beginning to see how God has prepared me by previous positions.  Teaching for a decade will help me train new hires in my department, insuring their success God willing.  While I am far from completing my own dot to dot, I am confident that one day, God will make everything clear, Ecclesiastes 3:11.  If you are struggling with your own puzzle, frustrated by a lack of progress, do not fret.  May you find comfort and rest from in the words of Solomon in Ecclesiastes 3:12-14.

by Jay Mankus

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Do You See What I See?

Posted on September 3, 2013 by expressyourself4him

Horse trainers have discovered that using racing blinders helps a thoroughbred stay focused on the task at hand, winning a race.  Instead of directing their attention toward opponents, spectators at the track and various other distractions that exist on race day, these horses have been taught to look straight ahead by their jockeys, keeping their eyes on the finish line.  Unfortunately, a growing number of people have bought into this mindset.  Subsequently, many individuals are acting like thoroughbreds, neglecting the world around around them, blind to the dejection, fear and hurt within the souls of mankind.

Recently, I have become an expert at putting on blinders, seeing what I want to see and moving on, refusing to accept the painful reality of this life.  My self-seeking nature has led to a “what’s in it for me” attitude, like Ray Kinsella at the end of Field of Dreams, forgetting the purpose of his existence.  While I am suppose to be a light for the world, Matthew 5:13-14, I resemble a flashlight, flicking light on or off when I want.  Thus, opportunities to encourage, lend a helping hand or share your time with a person in need are lost.

In Genesis 40:6-7, Joseph, son of Israel, sets an example for the world to follow.  Unlike the average individual, oblivious to people around them, Joseph notices 2 dejected men.  Although he could have ignored their body language and facial expressions, Joseph takes advantage of their depressed state, taking a risk by asking 2 prisoners a question.  Rather than run away from confrontation, Joseph becomes a vessel for healing, at least for the cup bearer.  In response to Joseph’s actions, one must ponder, “do you see what he saw?”  Or are you too busy to slow down like the first 2 characters mentioned in the parable of the good Samaritan, Luke 10:25-37, due to a full schedule?  Open your eyes and ears on this Labor Day or else the words of John 8:47 will be proven true, sealing your eternal fate.

by Jay Mankus

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Yearning for the Favor of God

Posted on September 2, 2013 by expressyourself4him

As life seems to pass people by, its easy to become a grumpy old man or woman, complaining about this or that.  To ease your pain, you might even wish harm on someone’s success, jealous of their apparent blessings from God.  Yet, in the end, all people really yearn for is the favor of God.

When you reach a state of helplessness, unable to pay your bills, provide for your family or know where your next meal is going to come from, faith is a last resort.  Sure, winning the lottery would be great, but reality tells another story.  Hard work and prayers only take you so far, the rest depends on whether or not your daily life pleases the Lord like Abel or results in the disappointment of Cain.

Genesis 39-42 provides a spiritual road map for becoming the apple of God’s eye.  Despite the various tough luck Joseph endures through these chapters of the Bible, others recognized the hand of God in his life.  Potiphar gave him total control of his estate and a warden delegated full responsibility of a prison to his care.  In the ups and downs of life, Joseph’s relationship with God was a mainstay, the wind beneath his wings.

A couple of thousands of years after Joseph’s death in Egypt, Jesus shares a parable in Matthew 25:14-30.  Though the term favor is not mentioned directly, Jesus reveals how someone can get God’s attention.  Like a master going on a long journey, no date is set for his return.  Nonetheless, the goal is simple, live each day as if they are coming home today.  Void of complacency, seeking God’s favor is not unattainable.  On the contrary, take the unique gift, personality and talent you have received from the Lord, applying each daily.  God willing, by His grace and mercy, one day, you will hear those words spoken by Jesus, “well done good and faithful servant!” – Matthew 25:21.

by Jay Mankus

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Shocking Words from Inside the Bible

Posted on September 1, 2013 by expressyourself4him

Inside of book 3 within Mere Christianity, C.S. Lewis wrote a chapter entitled Sexual Morality.  Lewis takes an unusual angle, comparing food to sex, using this to explain why an adult may venture into a strip club.  This appetite is called the Beast of Lust by the group Tribe of Dan, a powerful force which persuades people to wander further than they ever expected or thought to go beyond God’s boundaries defined by the Bible.  Lewis is likely referencing 1 Corinthians 6:12-20, where the apostle Paul warns believers against giving into their sexual desires outside of marriage.  Paul introduces the concept of soul ties, where sleeping with another person binds a part of your soul together with this individual.  These ties are strong, often ruining marriages due to previous encounters, one night stands or prior relationships.

One of my favorite classes I taught for 10 years changed its name several times, yet the textbook remained the same, Mere Christianity.  Upon reaching C.S. Lewis’ chapter on sex, I usually spent a day introducing students to Leviticus 18, a guide for what is and what isn’t lawful sexually.  Although many of the things mentioned are common sense, if you have ever read the book of Genesis, you might be surprised by what you missed, overlooked or like me, shake your head, feeling like you need a shower.  Incest, homosexuality and one night stands are a common theme within the first 37 chapters of Genesis.  Chapter 38 even eludes to masterbation in verses 9-10 and contains an act of prostitution before ending in the birth of twins.  Yes, there are definitely shocking words from inside the Bible, yet why do they exist?

First, sex is the first and last act of the sinful nature.  Galatians 5:19 lists sexual immorality as the most natural feeling, inclination or tendency that human beings face.  When someone feeds this hunger without limits, it can give birth to orgies, the last act of the flesh in Galatians 5:21 when sin is full blown.  Second, God doesn’t beat around the bush; He is honest, telling the world what to expect when you indulge into worldly pleasures, Romans 8:5-9.  Free will gives everyone options, to do as they please while on earth.  Finally, Jesus is real, speaking on your level, even if it meant speaking to drunk guests at weddings, John 2:1-11.  While many churches are afraid of speaking about sex in sermons, the Bible is full of shocking words to get your attention so that one day, you might make reservations for a future life in heaven, John 3:16-17.  Jesus is just a prayer away, Romans 10:9-10!

by Jay Mankus

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Too Many Gangsta Wanna Be’s

Posted on August 31, 2013 by expressyourself4him

During my first semester teaching in a private Christian school, less than 10 percent of my students were minorities.  Ten years later, roughly half of my students were either African Americans, Hispanic or from overseas, on exchange for a year.  As these cultures clashed with suburbia, I noticed a change in several students, mainly guys.  Trying to fit in, these teenagers began to emulate Ice Cube, 50 Cent, Eminem and 2Pac.  Instead of conforming to Christ, Romans 12:1-2, most ventured into the material world, wearing ball caps to the side, dressing like rap stars in videos and speaking broken English, slang, to sound cool.

Last night, I experienced my first public roller skating crowd since high school, escorting my daughter to her 9th birthday party at the local rink in town.  What I saw was much worse than anything I encountered in my classroom as a teacher.  As I stood to the side, talking pictures on my ipad of my daughter and her friends, a middle school girl gave me some advice.  “Be careful when you carry that Mister, there are some really mean people here!”  This was just a few minutes after people started skating, a clear indication that there are way too many gangsta wanna be’s in this upcoming generation.

In my final years of teaching, I attended a few seminars which addressed this issue of art imitating life, giving a biblical perspective of why some many young people are drawn to rap culture.  Leaders like Dr. Jeff Meyers and John Stonestreet have developed cutting edge curriculum, on the edge of societal evolution, available through Summit Ministries.  When people are humble, the media dismisses them as they bypass these individuals for the flamboyant, obnoxious or those who give great sound bites.  Or they take godly role models like Tim Tebow, over killing their coverage, causing the average fan to tune out, sick of the same message.  In this age, in a world that is falling apart morally, may father figures and influences like the movie Courageous change these gangster feelings before its too late.

by Jay Mankus

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