When War Broke Out in Heaven

Posted on September 11, 2022 by expressyourself4him

Reading the Bible can be like watching a movie with drama and suspense. There are moments where scenes abruptly end, forcing you to use your imagination to fill in the blanks. Such is the case of the war that broke out in heaven. There are pieces of this event scattered throughout the Old and New Testament leading to the archangel Lucifer and 1/3 of the angels banished from heaven, expelled to earth.

Then war broke out in heaven; Michael and his angels went forth to battle with the dragon, and the dragon and his angels fought, Revelation 12:7.

Isaiah 14:12-19 speak of Lucifer’s fall from grace. Lucifer appears in the Garden of Eden as a serpent, like a king cobra but able to speak like Balaam’s donkey. Based upon Genesis 1-2, Adam was given authority over the earth which served as a demotion in Lucifer’s eyes. Based upon words of Matthew 4:5-11, the tempter received the authority lost by Adam which is supported by Ephesians 2:2.

But they were defeated, and there was no room found for them in heaven any longer. 9 And the huge dragon was cast down and out—that age-old serpent, who is called the Devil and Satan, he who is the seducer (deceiver) of all humanity the world over; he was forced out and down to the earth, and his angels were flung out along with him, Revelation 12:8-9.

Ezekiel 28:17 reveals Lucifer’s departure from heaven as does Luke 10:18. The war itself appears to be as Lucifer exercised his freewill which opposed God’s plan. Perhaps each of the temptations Jesus faced shines light on why Lucifer rebelled and what caused other angels to follow. Whatever the reason, John has a quick vision which summarizes when war broke out in heaven.

by Jay Mankus

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S.A.N.S. Episode 221: Franklin Park

Posted on September 10, 2022 by expressyourself4him

As a Gen X-er, rarely did my children and I see eye to eye on music. However, when I played an old CD mix in my car, one of my sons was extremely surprised by today’s James Clay song. Franklin Park isn’t the most spiritual song that you’ll find, but the inspiration behind the lyrics is noteworthy. Jason wrote about growing up in a trailer park.

You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Nor do men light a lamp and put it under a peck measure, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all in the house. 16 Let your light so shine before men that they may see your [z]moral excellence and your praiseworthy, noble, and good deeds and [aa]recognize and honor and praise and glorify your Father Who is in heaven, Matthew 5:14-16.

My favorite part of Franklin Park is the imagery that life can be like living in a zoo. When individuals aren’t disciplined and are allowed to do whatever they want, this is the kind of environment that emerges. Franklin Park is an unique testimony that speaks to a large audience. May listening to Jason’s song inspired you to write down your own testimony so that God will use you to reach others that no one else can reach.

by Jay Mankus

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The Origin of Hope

Posted on September 10, 2022 by expressyourself4him

Before entering into a relationship with God as a sophomore in high school, hope was just another word to me. Hope was one of those words that self-help gurus used in infomercials to get you to buy their latest book or video. As I stood in front of my mirror performing a pep talk, “I think I can, I think I can,” was my man-made expression of hope.

My soul has them continually in remembrance and is bowed down within me. 21 But this I recall and therefore have I hope and expectation: 22 It is because of the Lord’s mercy and loving-kindness that we are not consumed, because His [tender] compassions fail not. 23 They are new every morning; great and abundant is Your stability and faithfulness, Lamentations 3:20-23.

When I searched the internet for the origins of hope, my results were obscure. Therefore, I moved onto my first memory of Mere Christianity as a high school Bible teacher. According to C.S. Lewis, hope is one of three theological virtues along with charity (love) and faith. One of Jesus’ former disciples writes about how individuals can access hope, 2 Peter 1:3-4.

Now faith is the assurance (the confirmation, [a]the title deed) of the things [we] hope for, being the proof of things [we] do not see and the conviction of their reality [faith perceiving as real fact what is not revealed to the senses], Hebrews 11:1.

While Cardinal virtues are accessible to anyone, true hope is only available through the power of the Holy Spirit. The apostle Paul lists a series of traits that naturally flow out of a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, Romans 10:9-11. This is the origin of hope which makes producing the spiritual fruits in the Bible possible, Galatians 5:22-25. I pray that you share this message with friends who need to experience hope. by Jay Mankus

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S.A.N.S. Episode 220: Sweet Dreams

Posted on September 9, 2022 by expressyourself4him

Today’s song comes from a duo with special voices and a talented pianist. I stumbled upon Andra and Mara while searching for new artists on You Tube. The lyrics of Sweet Dreams aren’t focused on fantasy. Rather, upon experiencing a special dream, Andra and Mara are eager to act upon the message they received. Perhaps. the dream that inspired this song was similar to what happened to Mary and Joseph.

For in a multitude of dreams there is futility and worthlessness, and ruin in a flood of words. But [reverently] fear God [revere and worship Him, knowing that He is], Ecclesiastes 5:7.

King Solomon looked down upon dreamers who spent most of their time thinking rather than acting. Subsequently, if Solomon heard this modern song, he would applaud this like the apostle Paul’s words to a teenage pastor in 2 Timothy 1:6-7. The phrase fan into flame compliments the lyrics “I’ve gotta go now” suggesting the need to take action. May this song speak to your heart.

by Jay Mankus

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Shining God’s Light into the Dark Realm of Politics

Posted on September 9, 2022 by expressyourself4him

Every politician wants to be liked, especially by the media. The apostle Paul speaks to this human desire in Galatians 1:10 as pleasing people comes naturally. Unfortunately, politics in America has become more about fundraising and less about serving a candidate’s constituents. On camera politicians make several promises in order to get elected, but behind the scenes most politicians do what their donors want.

Pilate said to Him, Then You are a King? Jesus answered, You say it! [You speak correctly!] For I am a King. [Certainly I am a King!] This is why I was born, and for this I have come into the world, to bear witness to the Truth. Everyone who is of the Truth [who is a friend of the Truth, who belongs to the Truth] hears and listens to My voice. 38 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 18:37-38.

Jesus stood before the Governor on the first Good Friday. If He wanted to avoid death on a cross, Jesus could have turned to politics to save the world. As Pilate was trying to figure out the truth about the claims made about Jesus from Jewish religious leaders, Jesus appears to find spiritual strength from his time of prayer earlier in the morning. Meanwhile, Pilate used a political loophole to give the first century Woke what they wanted.

But it is your custom that I release one [prisoner] for you at the Passover. So shall I release for you the King of the Jews? – John 18:39

When the same people began to attack Paul for his own spiritual conversion, Galatians 1:10 serves as the rationale for his transformation. Politics is based upon convincing the masses that you care to garnish enough votes to stay in power. Rush Limbaugh referred to this as Symbolism over Substance, using the appearance of caring without altering their own lives. The only way shine light into the dark realm of politics is by emulating the life of Jesus and his call in Matthew 5:13-16. God’s love will pierce hardened hearts.

by Jay Mankus

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S.A.N.S. Episode 219: Stand in Your Love

Posted on September 8, 2022 by expressyourself4him

Today’s song comes from another worship leader at Bethel Church in Redding, California. Josh Baldwin polished his skills as the worship leader at MorningStar Fellowship Church after attending their ministry school. The lyrics of Stand In Your Love alludes to the spiritual war mentioned by the apostle Paul. This song begins by addressing darkness which will try to enter your soul.

Therefore put on God’s complete armor, that you may be able to resist and stand your ground on the evil day [of danger], and, having done all [the crisis demands], to stand [firmly in your place], Ephesians 6:13.

Apparently, the Church at Ephesus was dealing with their own spiritual war. This ordeal inspired Paul to introduce the armor of God which is how Christian’s win spiritual battles. Rather than give into the dark side of temptation, Josh calls the church to stand in God’s love. May the lyrics of Stand in Your Love urge you to trust in the Lord with all your heart and soul.

by Jay Mankus

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I’m Just an Average Joe Who Serves an Almighty God

Posted on September 8, 2022 by expressyourself4him

Telling a man that they are average is like responding to a woman who asks you how they look in a new outfit “you look okay.” These subtle words appear harmless unless you’re struggling with your self-esteem. While telling the truth about your own observations may get you in trouble with a significant other, I’ve reached a point in life where I’ve accepted who I am. I’m just an average Joe who serves an almighty God.

And to keep me from being puffed up and too much elated by the exceeding greatness (preeminence) of these revelations, there was given me a thorn ([a]a splinter) in the flesh, a messenger of Satan, to rack and buffet and harass me, to keep me from being excessively exalted. 8 Three times I called upon the Lord and besought [Him] about this and begged that it might depart from me; 2 Corinthians 12:7-8.

Although most people call me Jay, my birth name is Joseph J. Mankus Jr. Minus my Lithuanian middle name, which is another story for a later time. By the time I reached high school, answering the phone with “Joe Junior or Senior” got too annoying as most calls were for my father. Subsequently, I made it known to everyone that from here on out, call me Jay.

But He said to me, My grace (My favor and loving-kindness and mercy) is enough for you [sufficient against any danger and enables you to bear the trouble manfully]; for My strength and power are made perfect (fulfilled and completed) and [b]show themselves most effective in [your] weakness. Therefore, I will all the more gladly glory in my weaknesses and infirmities, that the strength and power of Christ (the Messiah) may rest (yes, may [c]pitch a tent over and dwell) upon me! – 2 Corinthians 12:8

This decision coincides with when I first became a Christian on December 4th, 1984. Like the story of the prodigal son in Luke 15:11-31, I haven’t always taken a straight path, wandering off and abandoning God for multiple periods and seasons. Yet now I’m back and have come to terms with my current role in life. Like the old Bruce Carroll song, I’m an Average Joe who is ready to serve an almighty God.

by Jay Mankus

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S.A.N.S. Episode 218: Known

Posted on September 7, 2022 by expressyourself4him

Today’s song comes from the former lead singer of Royal Tailor. Tauren Wells started his career as a musician in Houston, Texas. After years of hard work and prayer, Tauren has become an American Platinum selling artist, due to his talents as a powerful songwriter and multi-instrumentalist. After listening to Known, this song and testimony illustrates what happens when you take a risk in life.

But now [in spite of past judgments for Israel’s sins], thus says the Lord, He Who created you, O Jacob, and He Who formed you, O Israel: Fear not, for I have redeemed you [ransomed you by paying a price instead of leaving you captives]; I have called you by your name; you are Mine, Isaish 43:1.

The lyrics of Known point to what King David declares in Psalm 139:1-6, ” God knows our inmost details.” While receiving recognition for something you’ve done or earned feels good, there is no greater thing than being known by God, 1 John 5:12-13. The attached video uses an open mic night for Tauren to display his talented voice. Each day God gives Christians a chance to share God’s love, 1 Peter 3:15-16.

by Jay Mankus

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When Faith and Family Come Together

Posted on September 7, 2022 by expressyourself4him

The concept of “Pay it forward” has ties to ancient Greece and the 1916 book In the Garden of Delight. Yet, as I studied the Bible last week, the apostles of the first century used pay it forward as a means to eliminate poverty. When faith and family come together to form a church, various expenses arise which one person can rarely pay for on his own. Yet, when an entire congregation develops the mindset that everyone in the church is family, every financial need is met.

And they steadfastly persevered, devoting themselves constantly to the instruction and fellowship of the apostles, to the breaking of bread [including the Lord’s Supper] and prayers. 43 And a sense of awe (reverential fear) came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were performed through the apostles (the special messengers). 44 And all who believed (who adhered to and trusted in and relied on Jesus Christ) were united and [together] they had everything in common; Acts 2:42-44.

Based upon the passage above, the first century church practiced four core principles. Bible study, fellowship outside the church. meeting together as a body to worship and prayer. As members of the first century church habitually maintained these core spiritual disciplines, faith and family slowly came together. Yet, Philippians 2:1-4 serves as a reminder that sometimes individuals need to take a step back to get their own life back on track before they can help others in the church.

And they sold their possessions (both their landed property and their movable goods) and distributed the price among all, according as any had need. 46 And day after day they regularly assembled in the temple with united purpose, and in their homes they broke bread [including the Lord’s Supper]. They partook of their food with gladness and simplicity and generous hearts, 47 Constantly praising God and being in favor and goodwill with all the people; and the Lord kept adding [to their number] daily those who were being saved [from spiritual death], Acts 2:45-47.

Unfortunately, most families have a hard time meeting together over the holidays without two members getting into some sort of a heated argument. When personal preferences interfere with unity, it’s better to agree to disagree rather than carrying on with a long-winded exchange of words. The apostle Paul’s advice for moving beyond disagreements is by adopting the mind of Christ, Philippians 2:5-8. While this transformation won’t happen overnight, as Christian’s become servants of God, faith and family come together.

by Jay Mankus

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S.A.N.S. Episode 217: God Only Knows

Posted on September 6, 2022 by expressyourself4him

Formerly known as Joel & Luke and Austoville, the third name change of today’s group was the charm. For King & Country first arrived on the Christian pop scene with their hit song God Only Knows. This duo composed of Australian brothers blends powerful worship lyrics into memorable ballads. Following in the footsteps of my childhood favorite group Men at Work, For King & Country have made their mark in America.

He determines and counts the number of the stars; He calls them all by their names. 5 Great is our Lord and of great power; His understanding is inexhaustible and boundless, Psalm 147:4-5.

The lyrics of God Only Knows is for anyone struggling with the question “why God?” Whether unforeseen circumstances rock your world, it takes time to grasp and understand why a certain trial was allowed to happen to you. Similar to the wisdom left behind in 1 Peter 1:6-7 and James 1:2-4, bad things happen to good people so that faith and maturity forces you to grow spiritually. May God Only Knows remind you that the Lord is indeed in control.

by Jay Mankus

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