Category Archives: Uncategorized

Its Not Funny Anymore

Posted on December 9, 2016 by expressyourself4him

I guess you can say I grew up in the Cheech and Chong Era.  Richard “Cheech” Moran and Tommy Chong met in Canada in the late sixties; then became famous for their comedy routines and films.  Movies like Up in Smoke glorified pot smoking, encouraging Americans to laugh and embrace the concept of getting high.  This genre spawned characters like Jeff Spicoli played by Sean Penn in Fast Times at Ridgemont High and the Doobie Brothers.  I bought into this movement, laughing with everyone else.  However, a recent death has helped me realize that its not funny anymore.

There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens: Ecclesiastes 3:1.

Earlier in the week, I heard the news that Rashaan Salaam had passed away.  Salaam was the 1994 Heisman Trophy winner and the number one draft pick of the Chicago Bears.  I moved to Chicago the same year he was drafted.  In 1996, I met Rashaan while I was an Assistant Store manager of the Michael Jordan Golf Shop at the Woodfield Mall.  Unlike most celebrities, Rashaan was humble and quiet, not trying to bring attention to himself.  I saw him a couple of times after that, but never spoke with him.  While nursing a leg injury which kept him out of the 1998 NFL season, Salaam admitted to reporters that he was hooked on marijuana during his rehab.

A time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance, Ecclesiastes 3:4.

According to reports, Salaam’s death appears to have been ruled a suicide.  Beside the note Rashaan left behind, nobody will ever know for sure why he took his own life.  Perhaps, 6 years of playing professional football took a toll on his body.  Maybe, there was some sort of depression or regret from not living up to the expectations of being a former Heisman Trophy winner.  Whatever the reason, drugs cut this young man’s life short.  Some where along the way, Rashaan believed the lies of Hollywood that smoking pot won’t harm you.  How many more people have to die before America wakes up to see its not funny anymore?

by Jay Mankus

 

 

Leave a comment

Posted in truth and tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.

Gulping Down Evil

Posted on December 8, 2016 by expressyourself4him

Prior to 1955, a bottle of Coca Cola was 6.5 ounces.  If you pour 5 of these into a big gulp cup, the final one will spill out over the top.  Realizing the need for expansion, Coca Cola experimented with a 32 ounce cup supplied to 7 Eleven chains in Southern California.  By 1976, despite public pressure concerning obesity, the Big Gulp was conceived.

A corrupt witness mocks at justice, and the mouth of the wicked gulps down evil, Proverbs 19:28.

Although 7 Eleven stores did not exist during the Old Testament, there were some individuals who developed reputations as heavy drinkers.  Since Jewish weddings could last up to a week, guests who traveled from out of town were wined and dined.  Participating in these festivities likely influenced the words King Solomon chose in the passage above.  Comparing drinking to corruption, there are some people who gulp down evil.

Woe to those who call evil good and good evil, who put darkness for light and light for darkness, who put bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter! – Isaiah 5:20

Almost 20 years ago, my friend and I both contradicted Lyme Disease in the same summer.  While my symptoms were caught early, his went overlooked for several months.  Unfortunately, he lost his sense of taste, unable to distinguish between that which is sweet or bitter.  The same can be said about individuals who can’t discern between good from evil.  Subsequently, its possible for a wayward soul to reach a place where one begins to gulp evil.

by Jay Mankus

 

 

 

Leave a comment

Posted in truth and tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.

Drugs, Medicine and the Will to Survive

Posted on December 7, 2016 by expressyourself4him

The Food and Drug Administration was formed by the United States in 1906 to regulate drug use in America.  Eight years later California became the first state to create a law banning the use of marijuana.  While marijuana remains a banned federally banned substance, several states have created new laws to allow this drug for medical use.  A few states have taken this one step further in this year’s election, voting to open Cannibal shops for recreational use.  Yet, is this the correct decision or will Americans rue this day?

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

While the Bible does not address pot specifically, Solomon does warn Israel about the danger of alcohol.   According to the passage above, wine and spirits influence one’s ability to control tempers.  Thus, even after a drink or two, basic instincts are compromised, vulnerable to overreactions.  Subsequently, anyone who does not heed this warning is in danger of falling into temptation.

Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body, 1 Corinthians 6:19-20.

Depending upon your current physical condition, some people may need to rely on drugs and medicine to stay alive.  I’m no exception, forced to take steroids the past 15 years to keep my eye pressure under control.  Others need life saving doses daily just to be able to function normally.  The dilemma comes into play when people who are healthy become co-dependent upon a drug.  Since human bodies are considered a temple of the Holy Spirit, filling yourself with unnecessary substances places souls in harm’s way.  While the debate over drug use in America will continue in the political realm, may the Bible guide hearts longing to escape the grasp of unhealthy addictions.

by Jay Mankus

Leave a comment

Posted in truth and tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.

Stop Being Part of the Problem

Posted on December 6, 2016 by expressyourself4him

As a parent trying to become a good father, the words you choose can either ease tensions within your home or you can be part of the problem.  In my earlier years as a dad, I was often quick to respond, sometimes scaring my children with harsh words.  Instead of trying to resolve an issue, I was actually making the situation worse.

Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord, Ephesians 6:4.

During the first century, parents had a similar problem.  One translation in the Bible uses the expression, “fathers do not exasperate your children.”  Timing, tone and words will either console or enrage young people.  Thus, when you do address a concern, interject an opinion or correct an improper behavior, be cautious that you don’t become part of the problem.

Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it, Proverbs 22:6.

There’s a saying, “you’re damned if you do and damned if you don’t.”  American evangelist Lorenzo Dow used this in his teachings on the theology of election in the early 1800’s.  Depending upon his audience, Dow found himself in a catch 22 situation, appeasing some while offending others.  The same applies today to parents.  Though its vital to train children to discern right from wrong, the method you choose influences the final outcome.  Therefore, be wise in your spoken words or else you will remain part of the problem.

by Jay Mankus

Leave a comment

Posted in truth and tagged , , , , , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.

Untouched

Posted on December 5, 2016 by expressyourself4him

When my wife and I bought our home, we decided to forego cable initially.  On a good day for reception, 7 channels were available, with 4-5 normally visible.  Our favorite channel was Pax, tuning in weekly to catch Hope Island, a show about a pastor’s life outside of church and It’s a Miracle.  While each series had their moments, the testimonies shared on It’s a Miracle revealed a hidden truth.  Sometimes angels, divine intervention and prayer leave individuals untouched by trouble.

The fear of the LORD leads to life; then one rests content, untouched by trouble, Proverbs 19:23.

In the Old Testament, it was common for Jewish families to recount previous miracles experienced by Israel to their children.  The Flood, Passover and possessing the Promised Land were popular stories to reflect upon.  These encounters instilled the power of God to the next generation.  Yet, King Solomon puts these accounts into their proper perspective by stressing that the fear of the Lord is the driving force behind protecting souls from trouble.

Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand, Isaiah 40:10.

Whether you are a person of faith or not, its easy for some to read too much into every day events.  This sort of daily and or weekly analysis often results in a false sense of security.  Self-reliance can make an individual believe that human effort, knowledge and strength is the source of their protection.  Unfortunately, this way of thinking discounts the invisible actions of angelic beings.  Although human beings should take some credit, the fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge and the force behind protecting souls from danger.

by Jay Mankus

 

Leave a comment

Posted in truth and tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.

After You Fail A Test

Posted on December 4, 2016 by expressyourself4him

Nobody likes to funk a test.  Sometimes you don’t understand a topic.  Perhaps, you missed time from class, feeling lost upon your return.  Whatever the scenario, tests reveal where you are, what you know and what you need to do to get where you want to be in life.

Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing, James 1:2-4.

A few weeks ago I took a test following my eye surgery.  To my surprise, vision in both of my eyes diminished to the point that I could read any of the letters on the first and easiest line.  Shocked by these results, I realized that a lack of sleep was contributing to my poor vision.  Subsequently, I altered my schedule to rest my eyes as much as possible.  After today’s examination I regained full vision in my left eye and improved slightly in my surgically repaired eye.

Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him, James 1:22.

I don’t what the future holds for my vision.  God willing I will be able to complete the 3 movie scripts that I am working on while I can still see.  My goal is to sell these to Hollywood and retire with plans to write one script per year.  Yet, for now I must remain steadfast, trusting in the Lord during these days of adversity.  Whatever the outcome, even if it means failing a test along the way, strive to receive the crown of life promised in the Bible.

by Jay Mankus

 

Leave a comment

Posted in truth and tagged , , , , , , , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.

When You Begin to Lose God’s Favor

Posted on December 3, 2016 by expressyourself4him

When the outcome to a day, week or year does not end as you expect, hoped for and seek, there are various explanations to consider.  Perhaps, its not your time to receive what you desire.  Maybe others are more qualified or simply worked harder than you.  However, at some point you might have to consider that you are losing God’s favor.

He longed to fill his stomach with the pods that the pigs were eating, but no one gave him anything, Luke 15:16.

A first century doctor recounts a parable shared by Jesus.  This story illustrates how its possible to lose God’s favor.  Instead of waiting for his father’s inheritance, the prodigal son forced the issue.  This thirst for earthly riches led to a chain of events resulting in one bad decision after the other.  Before this young man knew it, the prodigal was broke, homeless and longed to eat the sloop fed to unclean pigs.

Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the LORD‘s purpose that prevails, Proverbs 19:21.

Whenever you hit rock bottom, the first step to recovery is coming to your senses.  Once former thoughts of rationalizing sin disappear, individuals can begin to acknowledge their wayward steps.  Thus, the best way to repair your relationship with God starts with confession, humility and public apologies.  If you’re struggling to grasp why things are going your way in life, may the Holy Spirit enlighten you so that you can regain God’s favor.

by Jay Mankus

Leave a comment

Posted in truth and tagged , , , , , , , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.

To Those Who Believe in Prayer

Posted on December 2, 2016 by expressyourself4him

Earlier in the week, I was reading an online article about the fires in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.  The residents of this region within the Great Smokey Mountains were deeply concerned about the fires spreading along what is known as the Chimney Top.  One woman who was interviewed pleaded with Americans of faith, “if anyone who believes in prayer, we need your help.”

If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you, John 15:7.

Within 24 hours of this request, the Lord sent a couple of inches of rain to provide water to this drought ravaged state.  Weather forecasters are calling for more rain in the next coming days to stop the spread of any further fires from breaking out.  Doubters and skeptics will likely ignore the obvious, giving chance, good fortune and luck the credit.  Yet, for me, I am putting two things together, desperate hearts plus seeking God leads to answered prayers.

Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours, Mark 11:24.

When I read the Bible, sometimes the words of Jesus seem too good to be true.  Perhaps, individuals are afraid of being disappointed and left down.  This fear has infected minds leading to a lack of faith that breeds unanswered prayers.  In view of this, its essential to begin to claim God’s promises in prayer.  As for the fire victims of Tennessee and those picking up the pieces from tornadoes in the south, these fellow Americans are in desperate need of prayers.  Therefore, if you believe in the power of prayer, begin now to see what miracle God will do next.

by Jay Mankus

 

 

 

Leave a comment

Posted in truth and tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.

When Evil Never Leaves

Posted on December 1, 2016 by expressyourself4him

Evil is one of those traits which is shocking.  Whether its heinous, malicious or repulsive, the presence of such actions are chilling.  Any type of demonstration can leave eye witnesses shivering with fear.  According to Solomon, this cloud of darkness never leaves some souls.

Evil will never leave the house of one who pays back evil for good, Proverbs 17:13.

The concept of evil is often left to Hollywood.  Whether its a horror, murder mystery or science fiction film, few come face to face with a resident of evil.  Apparently, anyone who seeks revenge will be cursed with evil spirits that never leave,  This belief is similar to the Bible’s sowing principle, “you reap what you sow.”

Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life, Galatians 6:8.

In view of this scary information, its vital to avoid entering a world of darkness.  Instead, begin to keep in step with the Holy Spirit, relying on prayer to guide your way.  By doing this you will steer clear of the hauntings that other lost souls have endured.  Learn from the mistakes of others by fleeing from evil.

by Jay Mankus

 

 

Leave a comment

Posted in truth and tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.

A Sign of Wisdom

Posted on November 30, 2016 by expressyourself4him

When I become frustrated, sarcasm is the first thing to come out of my mouth.  If I’m not careful, these words can become foreplay before I erupt with anger.  The biblical definition of temperance refers to going as far as permissible and no further.  Perhaps, this might explain why the apostle Paul suggests “in your anger, do not sin.”

Even fools are thought wise if they keep silent, and discerning if they hold their tongues, Proverbs 17:28.

Meanwhile, Solomon addresses a similar issue with the Israelites.  There are several moments in life when its better to kept silent, refraining from saying something that you might regret.  Maybe this is where parents get their expression, “if you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say it.”  Either way, this advice provides a sign of wisdom.

So that we would not be outwitted by Satan; for we are not ignorant of his designs, 2 Corinthians 2:11.

One of my college professors use to remind our class, if you don’t learn from history you will simply repeat the mistakes of the past.  The passage above serves as a warning that Satan is on the prowl, looking to pounce on a weak soul.  Thus, you should not be ignorant of his schemes, Ephesians 6:10-12.  In view of this knowledge, put on the shield of faith.  Those who wear the armor of God daily will serve as a sign of wisdom to those living in darkness.

by Jay Mankus

 

Leave a comment

Posted in truth and tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.
← Older Posts
Newer Posts →