Category Archives: truth

Enlisting in God’s Army

Posted on July 4, 2021 by expressyourself4him

During the Revolutionary War, the Continental Congress established different oaths for the enlisted men and officers of the Continental Army. The oath of enlistment is administered by commissioned officers to any person enlisting or re-enlisting for a term of service into any branch of the military. From 1917-1973, the United States instituted a draft when enlistment numbers weren’t enough to field enough soldiers to build a competitive military.

As they talked, behold, Goliath, the champion, the Philistine of Gath, came forth from the Philistine ranks and spoke the same words as before, and David heard him. 24 And all the men of Israel, when they saw the man, fled from him, terrified, 1 Samuel 17:23-24.

David was a teenage shepherd when his older brothers became members of Israel’s army. According to Samuel, David’s father sent David to visit his brothers, bringing care packages from home. Based upon Samuel’s details in chapter 17, David was curious and eager to find out how the war with the Philistines was going. As Goliath stood up to make his daily challenge, David was offended while everyone else ran away in fear.

And the Israelites said, Have you seen this man who has come out? Surely he has come out to defy Israel; and the man who kills him the king will enrich with great riches, and will give him his daughter and make his father’s house free [from taxes and service] in Israel. 26 And David said to the men standing by him, What shall be done for the man who kills this Philistine and takes away the reproach from Israel? For who is this uncircumcised Philistine that he should defy the armies of the living God? – 1 Samuel 17:25-26

Initially, David’s brothers were convinced that their little bro was pulling a publicity stunt. While his brothers thought he was merely seeking attention after being surrounded by sheep daily, David was serious about volunteering. This decision to enlist in God’s army transformed David’s life from a shepherd boy to a war hero. The apostle Paul explains what modern day Christians need before they enter the battlefield called life, Ephesians 6:10-18. This is the spiritual armor necessary to be a successful soldier in God’s army.

by Jay Mankus

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Seeking out What is Right

Posted on July 3, 2021 by expressyourself4him

Before the creation and evolution of the internet, students went to the library to find the right answer. After going through the card catalog, I usually went to a librarian to expedite my search for the book with the answer to my question. As I got older, I was introduced to Cliff. If time was running out before a due assignment, Cliff Notes was a reliable source until one of my teachers caught on to the short cut that many of us were taking to find out what we needed to know.

These six things the Lord hates, indeed, seven are an abomination to Him: 17 A proud look [the spirit that makes one overestimate himself and underestimate others], a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood. 18 A heart that manufactures wicked thoughts and plans, feet that are swift in running to evil, 19 A false witness who breathes out lies [even under oath], and he who sows discord among his brethren, Proverbs 6:16-19.

From a Biblical Worldview, the Bible is the place to seek out what is right. According to one first century author, the Bible is living and active, able to penetrate souls, Hebrews 4:12. Meanwhile, the apostle Paul refers to God’s Word as the source for correcting, rebuking and teaching individuals what is right, 2 Timothy 3:16-17. A first century church developed a practice for testing new philosophies by examining them with the Old Testament, Acts 17:11-12.

Lying lips are extremely disgusting and hateful to the Lord, but they who deal faithfully are His delight. 23 A prudent man is reluctant to display his knowledge, but the heart of [self-confident] fools proclaims their folly, Proverbs 12:22-23.

King Solomon is much more direct in the passages above. Before you fully understand what is good and right, you need to know what God detests. If any act falls under one of these 7 categories, the Lord wants any of his followers to flee from these behaviors. One of Jesus’ earthly brothers called first century believers to draw near to God while resisting temptation, James 4:7. In his final remarks in the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus provides a blueprint in Matthew 7:7-8 for seeking out what is right.

by Jay Mankus

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Tell It How It Is

Posted on July 2, 2021 by expressyourself4him

Every month businesses, media sites and television networks preach to the masses about Black History, Woman’s History, Gay Pride and so on as the calendar year unfolds. Whether you’re attending school, walking into a retail store or work for a large corporation, monthly themes often take on the form of propaganda. Advertisements, commercials, internet pop up ads and posters bombard individuals with a specific message or spotlight every week.

Everyone who commits (practices) sin is guilty of lawlessness; for [that is what] sin is, lawlessness (the breaking, violating of God’s law by transgression or neglect—being unrestrained and unregulated by His commands and His will), 3 John 4.

While many great people have been overlooked or omitted from history, who you are and what you become is based upon the choices that you make in life. If you come out of the closet to profess a desire to be recognized as homosexual or transgender, these individuals are now celebrated and praised by the national media. Meanwhile, if you speak up about being a devout Christian or Trump Supporter, you’ll probably be labeled a bigot, narrow minded or be accused of being a racist. Freedom of Speech appears to only apply to those who hold a progressive worldview.

Who of you convicts Me of wrongdoing or finds Me guilty of sin? Then if I speak truth, why do you not believe Me [trust Me, rely on, and adhere to Me]? 47 Whoever is of God listens to God. [Those who belong to God hear the words of God.] This is the reason that you do not listen [to those words, to Me]: because you do not belong to God and are not of God or in harmony with Him, John 8:46-47.

The world is like a series of cycles which go up and down and back and forth. In the days following September 11th, 2001, more people went to church than ever before in the United States. However, in the last 20 years, a sense of urgency has been lost as individuals have found other hobbies, things and ways to replace God. The apostle Paul says it best about maintaining a biblical worldview in Galatians 1:10. The choices that you make will reveal if you’re pleasing God or pleasing others. You reap what you sow whether good or bad. This is how it is. Choose wisely, Deuteronomy 30:15-18.

by Jay Mankus

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Tuck in Your Shirt

Posted on July 1, 2021 by expressyourself4him

I spent a decade of my life teaching the Bible at a large Christian Academy. On chapel days boys were required to wear a dress shirt and tie while girls had to wear a dress or skirt. Just before this worship service, teachers were expected to do a quick check for any dress code violations. Homeroom teachers were encouraged to remind boys to tuck in their shirt prior to walking over to the sanctuary or else face the risk of receiving a demerit.

We have renounced disgraceful ways (secret thoughts, feelings, desires and underhandedness, the methods and arts that men hide through shame); we refuse to deal craftily (to practice trickery and cunning) or to adulterate or handle dishonestly the Word of God, but we state the truth openly (clearly and candidly). And so we commend ourselves in the sight and presence of God to every man’s conscience, 2 Corinthians 4:2.

The apostle Paul introduced the concept of the belt of truth in the first century. In a letter to the Church at Ephesus, Paul urges readers to fastened the belt of truth, Ephesians 6:14. As a Roman Soldier prepared for battle, securing this belt was crucial for maximizing their mobility so they do they won’t get caught on anything. Yet, when you tell a teenage boy tuck in your shirt, most don’t know why it’s necessary or simply don’t care.

You are of your father, the devil, and it is your will to practice the lusts and gratify the desires [which are characteristic] of your father. He was a murderer from the beginning and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaks a falsehood, he speaks what is natural to him, for he is a liar [himself] and the father of lies and of all that is false, John 8:44.

Paul equates this belt with truth. When individuals allow exaggerations, half-truths, lies and ungodly beliefs to enter their mind, gray areas begin to develop and expand. The Bible is designed to bring clarity and light to confusing or difficult concepts to grasp. However, when Christians go days, weeks and months without opening this book, rules like tuck in your shirt are quickly dismissed. If anyone becomes disconnected from God’s Word, John 15:1-5, you will be susceptible to the father of lies who can deceive you from what is true. May God’s Word open your eyes to help to see the big picture for tucking in your shirt.

by Jay Mankus

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Spiritual Aerobics

Posted on June 30, 2021 by expressyourself4him

Aerobics is a vigorous exercise designed to strengthen the heart and lungs. Besides running, swimming and walking which most of you can do by yourself at home or in your neighborhood, there are an unlimited supply of videos on aerobics. Whether you follow along to a workout video or you tube, there are numerous ways to get back into and stay in shape. However, if you keep putting this off day after day, you’ll lose all motivation for physical exercise.

Do you not know that in a race all the runners compete, but [only] one receives the prize? So run [your race] that you may lay hold [of the prize] and make it yours. 25 Now every athlete who goes into training conducts himself temperately and restricts himself in all things. They do it to win a wreath that will soon wither, but we [do it to receive a crown of eternal blessedness] that cannot wither. 26 Therefore I do not run uncertainly (without definite aim). I do not box like one beating the air and striking without an adversary. But [like a boxer] I buffet my body [handle it roughly, discipline it by hardships] and subdue it, for fear that after proclaiming to others the Gospel and things pertaining to it, I myself should become unfit [not stand the test, be unapproved and rejected as a counterfeit], 1 Corinthians 9:24-27.

The apostle Paul introduces readers to the concept of spiritual aerobics. Using the host city of the Isthmian Games as a backdrop, a prestigious track and field event held during the off years of the Olympics, Paul references the strict training of these athletes. Spiritual aerobics is designed to strengthen your heart, soul and mind. Whether you’re reading the Bible, praying or participating in a worship service, these exercises energize your spiritual life.

Therefore then, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses [who have borne testimony to the Truth], let us strip off and throw aside every encumbrance (unnecessary weight) and that sin which so readily (deftly and cleverly) clings to and entangles us, and let us run with patient endurance and steady and active persistence the appointed course of the race that is set before us, 2 Looking away [from all that will distract] to Jesus, Who is the Leader and the Source of our faith [giving the first incentive for our belief] and is also its Finisher [bringing it to maturity and perfection]. He, for the joy [of obtaining the prize] that was set before Him, endured the cross, despising and ignoring the shame, and is now seated at the right hand of the throne of God, Hebrews 12:1-12.

The author of Hebrews takes spiritual aerobics to the next level, comparing this to running a marathon. I once ran 15 miles in an afternoon training for my senior year of cross country in high school. While one of my teammates easily cruised through the final few miles, I struggled to finish as my legs got heavier and heavier with each stride. The key to spiritual aerobics is unloading and throwing off anything that is holding you back or slowing you down. Instead of dreading the race called life, keep your head up and fix your eyes on Jesus so you will find the strength to make it to the finish line.

by Jay Mankus

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Double Minded Double Lives

Posted on June 29, 2021 by expressyourself4him

The earthly brother of Jesus is similar to the main character in a modern film. James finds himself struggling to come to grips with his past. Despite watching his older brother grow up to become the greatest spiritual of the first century, James began to listen to Jewish religious leaders. Based upon the confessions within his epistle, James’ mind was poisoned by the elders from local synagogues. This led to a double mind and a subsequent double life.

Only it must be in faith that he asks with no wavering (no hesitating, no doubting). For the one who wavers (hesitates, doubts) is like the billowing surge out at sea that is blown hither and thither and tossed by the wind. 7 For truly, let not such a person imagine that he will receive anything [he asks for] from the Lord, 8 [For being as he is] a man of two minds (hesitating, dubious, irresolute), [he is] unstable and unreliable and uncertain about everything [he thinks, feels, decides], James 1:6-8.

When you are young, it’s easy to be persuaded by classmates and peers with strong personalities. Depending upon who you end up talking with, hanging around and joining at a lunch room table, you may find yourself in a moral dilemma, Psalm 1:1-2. Do you go with the flow of the crowd or do you stand up for what you believe? James compares this to the wind and waves which intensity from a storm, often coming out of no where. When the weather changes quickly, will you waver or stay true to who you are and what you believe?

Come close to God and He will come close to you. [Recognize that you are] sinners, get your soiled hands clean; [realize that you have been disloyal] wavering individuals with divided interests, and purify your hearts [of your spiritual adultery], James 4:8.

If you find yourself in a free fall, living a double life, James provides valuable advice in the passage above. In my final 2 years of college, I was a strong Christian when a new semester began, only to fall away from the Lord each summer. The temporary treasures of the world had become so attractive that my double mind led to a double life. This all came to a crossroad when I broke my ankle playing sand volleyball just before my senior year of college. Stuck in bed for my final weeks of my last summer as a student, I began to use James 5:16 as an outline for prayer. My double mind didn’t go away immediately, but over time a contrite heart helped me withstand this spiritual storm.

by Jay Mankus

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The Parable of 3 Umpires

Posted on June 28, 2021 by expressyourself4him

Despite the strike zone box displayed on modern television broadcasts, each Major League Baseball umpire has their own unique interpretation of what is a strike. There are 3 main theories when it comes to calling balls and strikes. Some follow the standard “I call it as I see it.” Others are more precise, waiting a brief moment before making a decision, often irritating players on the field and coaches in the dugout. Younger umps tend to follow a post modernism perspective where the truth of their strike zone is relative.

But when He, the Spirit of Truth (the Truth-giving Spirit) comes, He will guide you into all the Truth (the whole, full Truth). For He will not speak His own message [on His own authority]; but He will tell whatever He hears [from the Father; He will give the message that has been given to Him], and He will announce and declare to you the things that are to come [that will happen in the future], John 16:13.

Every year coaches and manages of baseball teams around the country argue with umpires about their strike zone. Some of these adults may receive a warning while others will be thrown out after losing control of their emotions. Whether you agree with a particular umpire or not, Jesus refers to a higher power that will help individuals locate the truth. The Holy Spirit was introduced by Jesus as a spiritual counselor that will guide you toward the truth. God’s Spirit was designed to help you overcome the bad breaks and blown calls that go against you in life.

Pilate said to Him, What is Truth? On saying this he went out to the Jews again and told them, I find no fault in Him, John 18:38.

Just before Jesus is handed over to be crucified, a first century governor wants to know what truth is. Following a series of questions. Pilate found no fault in Jesus. Despite his position of power, the religious leaders turned the crowd against Jesus as Barabbas was released and Jesus was put to death in his place. From an umpire’s perspective, Jesus was safe. Yet, God’s will was for Jesus was to seek to save that which was lost, Luke 19:10. This blown call by the Chief Priest and elders was all part of God’s plan, John 3:16-17. Balls and strikes don’t matter as long as you see the big picture, Romans 5:8.

by Jay Mankus

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A Molecular Miracle

Posted on June 27, 2021 by expressyourself4him

A miracle is defined as an extraordinary event in the physical world that surpasses all known human or natural powers. When science can’t explain what just happened, miracles are ascribed to a supernatural cause. One of nature’s most powerful organic electrolytes is Fulvic Acid. This organic natural electrolyte can balance and energize biological properties it comes into contact. This attribute has led scientists to refer to Fulvic Acid as a molecular miracle.

And when the wine was all gone, the mother of Jesus said to Him, They have no more wine! 4 Jesus said to her, [Dear] woman, what is that to you and to Me? [What do we have in common? Leave it to Me.] My time (hour to act) has not yet come. 5 His mother said to the servants, Whatever He says to you, do it, John 2:3-5.

One of Jesus’ disciples recalls the Bible’s version of a molecular miracle in the passage above. At this time, Jesus has only called 6 of his 12 disciples, still waiting to recruit half of his ministry team. In the meantime, Jesus is invited to wedding, a family friend of Mary’s. When news of the wine running out reached Jesus’ mother, she knew her son had special powers to save the day.

Jesus said to them, Fill the waterpots with water. So they filled them up to the brim. 8 Then He said to them, Draw some out now and take it to the manager of the feast [to the one presiding, the superintendent of the banquet]. So they took him some. 9 And when the manager tasted the water just now turned into wine, not knowing where it came from—though the servants who had drawn the water knew—he called the bridegroom 10 And said to him, Everyone else serves his best wine first, and when people have drunk freely, then he serves that which is not so good; but you have kept back the good wine until now! – John 2:7-10

This molecular miracle began with several pots of water. In a matter of minutes, Jesus turned H2O into fine wine. A typical first century wedding would last somewhere between a weekend up to six days. When guests were drunk, the fine wine was replaced with cheap alcohol. Yet, according to the passage above, not only did Jesus perform a molecular miracle, the quality of this wine was top of the line. This is what is possible when God became flesh, John 1:1.

by Jay Mankus

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Again, Again and Again

Posted on June 26, 2021 by expressyourself4him

Again refers to once more or another time. Meanwhile, déjà vu is a feeling that one has seen or heard something before. This occurs as an illusion of remembering scenes and events when you experience it. If you’ve ever felt this sensation, it’s like your mind is playing tricks on you. If a series of bad luck comes your way, happening over and over again, most people begin to wonder, “why is this happening to me?”

Because it was our will to come to you. [I mean that] I, Paul, again and again [wanted to come], but Satan hindered and impeded us, 1 Thessalonians 2:18.

Humans beings tend to look for patterns in random data as a way to extract order from disorder. This tendency was first identified by German scientist Klaus Conrad. While studying people suffering from the onset of schizophrenia in 1958, Conrad described this condition as apophenia. Whatever you want to call this perception of how certain events are linked or tied together, when you hit a rough patch in life it’s hard to keep fighting through adversity.

Casting the whole of your care [all your anxieties, all your worries, all your concerns, once and for all] on Him, for He cares for you affectionately and cares about you watchfully. 8 Be well balanced (temperate, sober of mind), be vigilant and cautious at all times; for that enemy of yours, the devil, roams around like a lion roaring [in fierce hunger], seeking someone to seize upon and devour, 1 Peter 5:7-8.

After repeated failed attempts to visit the Church at Thessalonica, the apostle Paul didn’t have to speculate. Due to his years in ministry, Paul didn’t need a Saturday Night Live skit to recognize Satan’s schemes, Ephesians 6:10-12. Meanwhile, one of Jesus’ disciples refers to the Devil as a predator waiting for a weak individual to pounce upon. If what is happening to you doesn’t make any sense, it’s time to turn to prayer again, again and again to find answers.

by Jay Mankus

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What are You Avoiding?

Posted on June 25, 2021 by expressyourself4him

Samaria is bordered by Galilee to the north and Judea to the south. The first century historian Josephus set the Mediterranean Sea as Samaria’s boundary to the west, and the Jordan River as its limit to the east. This defined region is consistent with the biblical allotments of the tribe of Ephraim and the western half of Manasseh in the Old Testament. The Jews avoided Samaria because they had become a mixed race with Gentiles and centered their worship at Mount Gerizim rather than Jerusalem. 

He left Judea and returned to Galilee. 4 It was necessary for Him to go through Samaria, John 4:3-4.

While Jesus’ disciples walked around Samaria, Jesus felt it was necessary to go straight through. The remainder of John 4 reveals Jesus’ divine appointment. Using Jacob’s well as a meeting point, it was a matter of time before the locals traveling to retrieve water would arrive. This sets the stage for a conversation with a woman who struggled with commitment. After a series of failed marriages, Jesus changes the subject from water to spiritual matters. In a matter of moments, a spiritual hunger is conceived within this woman’s heart. A spark that would soon transform her life.

And in doing so, He arrived at a Samaritan town called Sychar, near the tract of land that Jacob gave to his son Joseph. 6 And Jacob’s well was there. So Jesus, tired as He was from His journey, sat down [to rest] by the well. It was then about the sixth hour (about noon), John 4:5-6.

Whenever you avoid someone or something, you miss out on the opportunity to alter another person’s life. If you are led by fear to walk away from conflict, you’re missing out on a potential blessing from God. Meanwhile, if you’re running away from God’s calling like one Old Testament prophet, Jonah 1:2-4, you’ll make things harder on yourself. Instead of wasting months, years or decades of your life walking in the wilderness, consider it a pure joy when you’re forced to endure, face and overcome trials and tribulations in your life, James 1:2-4.

by Jay Mankus

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