Category Archives: Uncategorized

S.A.N.S. Episode 274: Never Been a Moment

Posted on November 2, 2022 by expressyourself4him

Today’s song contains a little bit of country with a great biblical message. Micah Tyler became an overnight sensation with his debut album The Story I Tell. While the featured song comes from a new album, Micah has a special gift of telling a story through his music. The song Never Been a Moment highlights God’s omnipresence, touching our lives through with hints of the love of Jesus.

How shall a young man cleanse his way? By taking heed and keeping watch [on himself] according to Your word [conforming his life to it]. 10 With my whole heart have I sought You, inquiring for and of You and yearning for You; Oh, let me not wander or step aside [either in ignorance or willfully] from Your commandments. 11 Your word have I laid up in my heart, that I might not sin against You, Psalm 119:9-11.

Unfortunately, I often get distracted, especially by bad days which tend suck the joy out of my life. Instead of remembering the words of James 1:2-4 and 1 Peter 1:6-7, I let tough moments influence how I act and feel. May the lyrics of Never Been a Moment speak to your heart like it has to mine. Therefore, the next time your day spins out of control, remember Micah’s words so you embrace God’s love.

by Jay Mankus

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The State of Disembodied Existence

Posted on November 2, 2022 by expressyourself4him

Every time I complete studying the entire Old or New Testament, I like to begin a new one with a different version of the Bible. The first church that I served in as a Youth Director was in Rising Sun, Maryland. At the time I worked there, this conservative Methodist Church was using the Amplified Bible. While this version is great for studying, it’s hard to read out loud as it gives all the possible translations of the Bible.

And the sea delivered up the dead who were in it, death and Hades ([c]the state of death or disembodied existence) surrendered the dead in them, and all were tried and their cases determined by what they had done [according to their motives, aims, and works], Revelation 20:13.

As I read the final chapter of the Bible, I’m using the Classic Edition of the Amplified Version. This might explain why John hints at the state of disembodied existence. It appears that John is referring to eternal life where our spirit and soul will reside, the essence of who you are. My spiritual mental in high school, Coach Ken, explained this to me that others will recognize us in heaven beyond our physical body.

Then death and Hades ([d]the state of death or disembodied existence) were thrown into the lake of fire. This is the second death, the lake of fire, Revelation 20:14.

The apostle Paul uses this concept in a closing prayer for members at the Church at Thessalonica, 1 Thessalonians 5:20-23. While the term soul appears just under 500 times in the Bible, Jesus spoke about loving God with all your heart, soul and mind, Matthew 22:47. While the concept of your state of disembodied existence is interesting, it’s not what’s important. The key is making sure you enter into a personal relationship with Jesus, Romans 10:9-11. This is my prayer for all who read this blog.

by Jay Mankus

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S.A.N.S. Episode 273: Hold You Tight

Posted on November 1, 2022 by expressyourself4him

If you watch any form of cable news, current events are littered with crime, devastation, and heartache. You don’t have to be a child to need a hug to brighten your day. This is the message that Dan Bremnes sings about in his new song Hold You Tight. The attached video uses current events to reach a broad group of people.

At that time the disciples came up and asked Jesus, Who then is [really] the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? 2 And He called a little child to Himself and put him in the midst of them, 3 And said, Truly I say to you, unless you repent (change, turn about) and become like little children [trusting, lowly, loving, forgiving], you can never enter the kingdom of heaven [at all]. 4 Whoever will humble himself therefore and become like this little child [trusting, lowly, loving, forgiving] is greatest in the kingdom of heaven.5 And whoever receives and accepts and welcomes one little child like this for My sake and in My name receives and accepts and welcomes Me, Matthew 18:1-5.

When I first listened to Dan’s song, the above passage immediately came to mind. As busy adults, sometimes we lose focus on what really matters in life. The lyrics of Hold You Tight implies that Jesus will be there with you through the storms that you face, Matthew 11:28-30. Don’t try to fight these difficult times alone. Rather, cast your burdens at the foot of the cross so you can find relief for your soul.

by Jay Mankus

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The First Resurrection

Posted on November 1, 2022 by expressyourself4him

My first seminary class was Systematic Theology II. At the time, I was working two jobs and taking one class each semester. This first class was so mentally exhausting, I realized that I needed to give my mind a break, listening to something interesting. One of my bosses let me listen to Leonard Ravenhill who was a famous speaker on Prayer and Revival. Ravenhill introduced me to the term the first resurrection.

The remainder of the dead were not restored to life again until the thousand years were completed. This is the first resurrection, Revelation 20:5.

Unfortunately, it’s been 25 years since I last listened to Ravenhill’s teachings. Since this time, Leonard has passed away and I don’t recall much so it’s time to revisit the first resurrection. Initially, I was baffled as n my mind I kept thinking about Jesus’ resurrection, Matthew 28:1-6. The words John uses to describe the first resurrection is protos anastasis in Greek. John refers to standing up again to live.

Blessed (happy, [a]to be envied) and holy (spiritually whole, of unimpaired innocence and proved virtue) is the person who takes part (shares) in the first resurrection! Over them the second death exerts no power or authority, but they shall be ministers of God and of Christ (the Messiah), and they shall rule along with Him a thousand years, Revelation 20:6.

The thousand years only makes this matter more confusing. However, when you consider the words of 2 Peter 3:8, one thousand years is like one day with the Lord. Therefore, the point John is attempting to make is similar to Jesus’ message to Nicodemus in John 3:1-5. The first resurrection is to be reborn by getting up to live again. May today’s blog inspire you to become a new creation in Christ Jesus like Mac Powell’s newest song.

by Jay Mankus

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S.A.N.S. Episode 272: I Will Carry You

Posted on October 31, 2022 by expressyourself4him

One of the most overused cliches in sports is when a commentator points out that a pitcher or player doesn’t have their A game. This same concept applies to life as somedays no matter how hard you try, nothing seems to go right or well. Subsequently, there are moments in life when you need someone to carry you until you regain confidence and strength.

He gives power to the faint and weary, and to him who has no might He increases strength [causing it to multiply and making it to abound]. 30 Even youths shall faint and be weary, and [selected] young men shall feebly stumble and fall exhausted; 31 But those who wait for the Lord [who expect, look for, and hope in Him] shall change and renew their strength and power; they shall lift their wings and mount up [close to God] as eagles [mount up to the sun]; they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint or become tired, Isaiah 40:29-31.

Ellie Holcomb sings about this topic in her new song I Will Carry You. While Ellie first was recognized as a member of the band Drew Holcomb & the Neighbors, she’s spent the past decade on her own. When I first listened to, I Will Carry You, I was reminded of the Footprints Poem and the promise of an Old Testament prophet. May today’s song carry you through any trials that you are facing in life.

by Jay Mankus

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Guaranteeing Your Place in the Book of Life

Posted on October 31, 2022 by expressyourself4him

There is a reason that the Bible is the best-selling book of all time. Perhaps, reading pages that are described as living and active can be engaging and life changing, Hebrews 4:12. Yet, the one question I always wanted to know about as a child was what happens to human beings after you die? My question went unanswered for me until college.

I entreat and advise Euodia and I entreat and advise Syntyche to agree and to work in harmony in the Lord. 3 And I exhort you too, [my] genuine yokefellow, help these [two women to keep on cooperating], for they have toiled along with me in [the spreading of] the good news (the Gospel), as have Clement and the rest of my fellow workers whose names are in the Book of Life. 4 Rejoice in the Lord always [delight, gladden yourselves in Him]; again I say, Rejoice! – Philippians 4:2-4.

Attending any funeral is depressing and sad. Yet, when you don’t know if the person who passed away is with Jesus in heaven can be crushing and gut wrenching. I remember attending a funeral at a strange church in high school after my friend committed suicide. The pastor kept saying “if there is God and if there is a heaven, we hope that Kevin is there.” This experience wanted me to know more about the Bible’s teaching on the Book of Life.

And if anyone’s [name] was not found recorded in the Book of Life, he was hurled into the lake of fire, Revelation 20:15.

The apostle Paul mentions the Book of Life in today’s first passage. The context of this letter highlights why you should rejoice in the Lord. Perhaps, this is the same reason why angels rejoice in heaven whenever a lost sheep is found by the Shepherd, Luke 15:7. While 99 percent of funerals claim that the person who died is now in heaven, this isn’t consistent with Jesus’ teaching in Mattew 7:13-14. According to one disciple, you can know for sure, guaranteeing your place in the Book of Life, 1 John 5:13.

by Jay Mankus

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S.A.N.S. Episode 271: Gratitude

Posted on October 30, 2022 by expressyourself4him

Today’s song comes from a worship pastor at Seacoast Church in Charleston, South Carolina. Brandon Lake is also a member of the Bethel Music and the Maverick City Music collective team. Since today’s song falls on the Sabbath, Brandon’s song Gratitude is fitting. Part of any worship service is raising your voice in song as a form as gratitude to God.

Thank [God] in everything [no matter what the circumstances may be, be thankful and give thanks], for this is the will of God for you [who are] in Christ Jesus [the Revealer and Mediator of that will]. 19 Do not quench (suppress or subdue) the [Holy] Spirit; 1 Thessalonians 5:18-19.

The context of the passage above comes the apostle Paul. Paul’s first impression of Thessalonica wasn’t a good one. Subsequently, Paul felt like this new church needed to focus on the positive aspects in life rather than the negative. As you listen to Gratitude by Brandon Lake, may you be inspired to take the time daily to thank God for all blessings in your life.

by Jay Mankus

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The Biblical Armageddon

Posted on October 30, 2022 by expressyourself4him

Politicians often use World War III as a talking point to convince voters that their opponent is far too extreme to get elected or too dangerous to remain in power. As mid-term elections continue to ramp up this month, advertisements and commercials will continue to demonize other candidates. While the 1998 film Armageddon is entertaining, there is one war that will occur known as the biblical Armageddon.

And I saw three loathsome spirits like frogs, [leaping] from the mouth of the dragon and from the mouth of the beast and from the mouth of the false prophet. 14 For really they are the spirits of demons that perform signs (wonders, miracles). And they go forth to the rulers and leaders all over the world, to gather them together for war on the great day of God the Almighty, Revelation 16:13-14.

According to a vision from God by one of Jesus’ former disciples, the final battle on earth, Armageddon, will take place at Megiddo. This former territory of the Tribe of Manasseh will serve as the scene of World War III. Despite all the lead up this this event in the Bible, John is vague about the actual details in Revelation 19:19-21. Instead of providing thrilling accounts like Saving Private Ryan, John summarizes this battle in a sentence: the beast was seized, overpowered, along with the false prophet who were defeated and judged by God. Spoiler Alert!

Behold, I am going to come like a thief! Blessed (happy, [a]to be envied) is he who stays awake (alert) and who guards his clothes, so that he may not be naked and [have the shame of being] seen exposed! 16 And they gathered them together at the place which in Hebrew is called Armageddon. 17 Then the seventh [angel] emptied out his bowl into the air, and a mighty voice came out of the sanctuary of heaven from the throne [of God], saying, It is done! [It is all over, it is all accomplished, it has come!] – Revelation 16:15-17.

Perhaps, this may explain why no famous movie writer has attempted to make a modern version of the biblical Armageddon. What John does provide in the passage above, Armageddon serves as the last piece of the puzzle of God’s plan on earth. This final event on earth will open the doors of heaven for eternity where all dead Christians will be reunited for a never-ending reunion. While I’m sorry there is no drama about the Armageddon, make sure you get your life right with God now, so you’re prepared.

by Jay Mankus

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S.A.N.S. Episode 270: Speak to the Mountains

Posted on October 29, 2022 by expressyourself4him

Today’s featured song comes from the son of youth pastor. While Chris McClarney was forced to move several times as a child due to the volatility of youth ministry, he now resides in Nashville, Tennessee with his wife and children. One of my favorite Chris McClarney songs is Speak to the Mountains. Chirs’ lyrics remind me that God is bigger than my troubles in life.

But seek ([z]aim at and strive after) first of all His kingdom and His righteousness ([aa]His way of doing and being right), and then all these things [ab]taken together will be given you besides. 34 So do not worry or be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will have worries and anxieties of its own. Sufficient for each day is its own trouble, Matthew 6:33-34.

In the chorus of Speak to the Mountains, Chris sings with conviction of his belief that nothing is impossible with God on your side. I just wish I wasn’t shaken by the daily trials that I face in life. Perhaps, the more I listen to Speak to the Mountains I will be motivated to stop panicking and begin to trust in the Lord with all my heart and soul.

by Jay Mankus

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Halloween House Cleaning

Posted on October 29, 2022 by expressyourself4him

When I was a teenager, I participated in a seance. I had a crush on the girl leading it, so I didn’t hesitate to join in this late-night summertime activity. I was in Junior High at the time, and I didn’t know what faith was, so I didn’t think about the spiritual consequences. At the time, I thought this was pretend, like Whoppi Goldberg’s character in Ghost. This is my Halloween house cleaning story.

But when the unclean spirit has gone out of a man, it roams through dry [arid] places in search of rest, but it does not find any. 44 Then it says, I will go back to my house from which I came out. And when it arrives, it finds the place unoccupied, swept, put in order, and decorated, Matthew 12:43-44.

In the years that followed these seances, I battled severe depression. During one restless night, I even planned my own suicide, jumping off my second-floor banister with a noose around my neck. Before I went through with this, my best friend from baseball actually hung himself a week later. I was an emotional wreck for the next few years until my high school swim coach introduced me to Jesus.

Then it goes and brings with it seven other spirits more wicked than itself, and they go in and make their home there. And the last condition of that man becomes worse than the first. So also shall it be with this wicked generation, Matthew 12:45.

Halloween has become the second most celebrated holiday in the United States, a close second to Christmas. Halloween is the only time each year that children and parents come into your house, a great time to witness by sharing the love of Jesus. Unfortunately, if you participate in certain activities, there are spiritual doors that you may open like I did at seances. Though I don’t believe everything I see on television, there are many who speak about opening the door for the Devil to enter their life, Ephesians 4:26-27. May this blog prompt you to do your own Halloween House Cleaning this fall.

by Jay Mankus

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