Treasuring God’s Word

Posted on April 27, 2022 by expressyourself4him

One author of the Bible compares the Old Testament with a lamp for your feet and light to guide your steps, Psalm 119:105. Jesus compares the Bible to living water in John 4:13-15. Building upon the concept first introduced in Psalm 1:2-3. When I began to treasure the words in the Bible in college, a transformation started to begin. While I still have plenty of blots and blemishes, finding life in God’s Word will result in eternal treasures.

But he who keeps (treasures) His Word [who bears in mind His precepts, who observes His message in its entirety], truly in him has the love of and for God been perfected (completed, reached maturity). By this we may perceive (know, recognize, and be sure) that we are in Him: 6 Whoever says he abides in Him ought [as [d]a personal debt] to walk and conduct himself in the same way in which He walked and conducted Himself, 1 John 2:5-6.

One of the members of Jesus’ inner circle, learned to treasure God’s Word. However, in the first century, John only had parts of the Old Testament available to read. Despite this lack of access, John must have clinged to all everything that Jesus taught him. This explains the words in the passage above as those who abide in God follow that same Spirit that guided Jesus.

Only you be strong and very courageous, that you may do according to all the law which Moses My servant commanded you. Turn not from it to the right hand or to the left, that you may prosper wherever you go. 8 This Book of the Law shall not depart out of your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, that you may observe and do according to all that is written in it. For then you shall make your way prosperous, and then you shall deal wisely and have good [b]success, Joshua 1:7-8.

The concept of treasuring God’s Word began with one of Israel’s forefathers. As Moses passed the torch to Joshua, the passage above provides the instruction for all of the Israelites to follow as they prepared to enter into God’s promised land. To avoid going astray spiritually, Joshua called everyone to meditate on God’s Word day and night. If you follow Joshua’s advice today, you will treasure the Bible.

by Jay Mankus

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S.A.N.S. Episode 85: God of this City

Posted on April 26, 2022 by expressyourself4him

You won’t find many Christian songs written in a local brothel. However, during a mission trip to Thailand, the words to God of this City flowed out of this sinful place. This practice fits into the mission statement of featured song from: “Bluetree believes we are to live integrated, whole lives – where worship invades all we are and do – so we can begin to experience the wholeness of life God intends for us.”

 Keep awake then and watch at all times [be discreet, attentive, and ready], praying that you may have the full strength and ability and be accounted worthy to escape all these things [taken together] that will take place, and to stand in the presence of the Son of Man, Luke 21:36.

This Praise and worship band that originated in Belfast’s Christian Fellowship Church adds an electronic element to their songs. This is clearly present in Life’s Noise also on the God of this City album. Following the release of God of this City, many inner-city churches were inspired to reach their own urban communities. Wherever you live, remember that God is in control and can become the God of your city.

by Jay Mankus

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How is the Seeker Service Experience Going?

Posted on April 26, 2022 by expressyourself4him

It’s been almost fifty years since Willow Creek Community Church in South Barrington, Illinois introduced the concept of a Seeker Service Experience. As someone who got married right down the street, I know the history of this youth group that began meeting at Willow Creek Theater in Palatine, Illinois. If you have ever visited the Willow Creek Campus, it’s an amazing sight to see. Yet, whenever any leader reinvents church by deviating from the first century blueprint listed below, there will be spiritual consequences that often go unnoticed.

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), Acts 2:42-43.

Carey Nieuwhof recently put together several telling church statistics for the United States in 2021. The total attendance is only at 36% of what it was prior to the Coronavirus restrictions. Today, only 52% of church-goers want primarily in-person services. To be honest, church attendance in this country has been on a steady decline since September 11th, 2001. The Sunday after 9/11 saw the largest attendance at churches in American history. Whenever human beings are confronted by death or tragedy, there is a natural response to consider life after death. Or as 1 John 5:13 states, to secure your eternal destiny.

And all who believed (who adhered to and trusted in and relied on Jesus Christ) were united and [together] they had everything in common; 45 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 2:44-47.

The reason why so many Willow Creek Association Churches have failed to duplicate the success of the original is their failure to possess the same spiritual hungry. Willow Creek began as a youth group who fasted and prayed for their lost teenage friends. Like the words of Nehemiah 1:4-7, this was the spiritual force that produced a mega church. A spiritual revival in this western suburb of Chicago led to the formation of this massive church campus. While Seeker Services may get the unchurched into your building, becoming part of the body of Christ occurs by following the apostles teaching which ultimately produces Christ followers who are eager to come back week after week to serve the Lord.

by Jay Mankus

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S.A.N.S. Episode 84: Faith Like That

Posted on April 25, 2022 by expressyourself4him

Jonah 33 is one of those sneaky good Christian rock bands that hasn’t gotten the airtime that they deserve. Based out of the college town of Fayetteville, Arkansas Jonah 33 combines hard rock with metal mixed in with biblically based ballads. Today’s featured song is Jonah 33’s most popular, Faith Like That, from their self-titled debut album in 2001.

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.

From a spiritual point of view, Hebrews 11 is known as the Bible’s Hall of Faith. Spiritual giants of the past are recognized for specific faithful acts that are highlighted in this chapter. If you want to possess a faith like these godly men and women, study how these individuals lived their lives. While none of these people mentioned are perfect, their faith is worthy to be emulated.

by Jay Mankus

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Sorting Out the Details

Posted on April 25, 2022 by expressyourself4him

Whenever you plan a weekend getaway or vacation, one member of your family has to sort out all the details. If you’re flying, what’s the best day and time to get the cheapest deal? Where are you going to stay and how close is this to the main attractions? During one trip early in my marriage, I forgot about all the Nascar fans in town for the race at the Monster Mile in Dover. My oversight made it impossible to find a hotel on our way back, ending up in a dive in the middle of nowhere.

If you know (perceive and are sure) that He [Christ] is [absolutely] righteous [conforming to the Father’s will in purpose, thought, and action], you may also know (be sure) that everyone who does righteously [and is therefore in like manner conformed to the divine will] is born (begotten) of Him [[r]God], 1 John 2:29.

One of Jesus’ disciples writes about sorting out all the necessary spiritual details to conform to God’s will for your life. The apostle Paul starts this process by developing the right mindset in Romans 12:1-2. While reaching out to a teenager pastor in the first century, Paul encourages this spiritual leader to daily apply his gifts and talents, 2 Timothy 1:6-7. As Christians begin to ascertain their spiritual gifts and adopt the mind of Christ, sorting out God’s will for your life begins to fall into place.

I appeal to you therefore, brethren, and beg of you in view of [all] the mercies of God, to make a decisive dedication of your bodies [presenting all your members and faculties] as a living sacrifice, holy (devoted, consecrated) and well pleasing to God, which is your reasonable (rational, intelligent) service and spiritual worship. 2 Do not be conformed to this world (this age), [fashioned after and adapted to its external, superficial customs], but be transformed (changed) by the [entire] renewal of your mind [by its new ideals and its new attitude], so that you may prove [for yourselves] what is the good and acceptable and perfect will of God, even the thing which is good and acceptable and perfect [in His sight for you], Romans 12:1-2.

However, sorting out all the details of conforming to God’s will in purpose, thought, and action will vary for each Christian. Some who come to a personal faith in Jesus late in life often have a clear vision of God’s calling. Young followers may have to explore for a couple of years or a decade, going through their own prodigal experience. Or if you’re like me you have to reinvent yourself at a stage in life to transition into a new job or calling. Whatever steps God takes you through, remember that success is the process of arriving until the Lord calls you home.

by Jay Mankus

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S.A.N.S. Episode 83: Thank God I’m Not Jesus

Posted on April 24, 2022 by expressyourself4him

I’ve never been a big fan of country music, but from time to time I’ll come across an inspiration song. When I first bought the Beautiful Thing Album by Crossway, I didn’t know what I was getting. To my surprise there were a number of country/worship songs that appealed to me. Yet, my favorite by far is entitled Thank God I’m Not Jesus.

For if you forgive people their trespasses [their [g]reckless and willful sins, [h]leaving them, letting them go, and [i]giving up resentment], your heavenly Father will also forgive you. 15 But if you do not forgive others their trespasses [their [j]reckless and willful sins, [k]leaving them, letting them go, and [l]giving up resentment], neither will your Father forgive you your trespasses, Matthew 6:14-15.

The lyrics follow in the footsteps of Bruce Almighty and Evan Almighty. Rather than create a film to illustrate what it would be like to be God, Crossway members imagine how they would react and respond if they were Jesus. To avoid any spoiler alerts, you have to listen to the entire song to truly appreciate Crossway’s message. However, as you do, the passage above reminds every one of the importance to forgive those who trespass against you. This is Jesus’ call and expectation so that you will be forgiven.

by Jay Mankus

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Pumping Your Heart with Life

Posted on April 24, 2022 by expressyourself4him

In this age of mental health awareness and eating healthier, the spiritual side of life is often neglected, 1 Timothy 4:8. You could be making strides with a new diet and exercise program, but are you pumping your heart with life? Jesus introduces this concept in John 10:10. Jesus speaks of an abundant life where lives are full of joy, reaching a mindset where you are pumping your heart with life.

I write to you, fathers, because you have come to know (recognize, be conscious of, and understand) Him Who [has existed] from the beginning. I write to you, young men, because you are strong and vigorous, and the Word of God is [always] abiding in you (in your hearts), and you have been victorious over the wicked one, 1 John 2:14.

The disciple whom Jesus loved wrote about abiding in the Word of God. Based upon his gospel, John compares Jesus to the Word, introducing the concept of the Trinity, John 1:1-5. When you combine John’s insights with Hebrews 4:12, the Bible is a source of life. Like the ending of the Sermon on the Mount, pumping your heart with life means putting Jesus’ teaching into practice, Matthew 7:24.

Let them not depart from your sight; keep them in the center of your heart. 22 For they are life to those who find them, healing and health to all their flesh. 23 Keep and guard your heart with all vigilance and above all that you guard, for out of it flow the springs of life, Proverbs 4:21-23.

One of the wisest human beings to walk the face of the earth compares a heart to the well spring of life. Jesus builds upon this concept in Luke 6:45 as mouths speak out of the overflow of the heart. Solomon wrote about the importance of guarding your heart so that it doesn’t become polluted by darkness, Matthew 6:19-21. Therefore, if you want to experience an abundant life in Christ, John 10:10, fill your heart with the words of the Bible, Joshua 1:8.

by Jay Mankus

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S.A.N.S. Episode 82: Everything Changes

Posted on April 23, 2022 by expressyourself4him

When Kathy Troccoli arrived on the music scene, to me she became the Christian version of Madonna. Over the years, Kathy has amassed 18 number-one radio hits, 19 Dove Award nominations, 2 Dove Awards, and 3 Grammy nominations. What separates Troccoli from Madonna and other secular artists is her music ministry that is now approaching 30 years on stage, performing and touching lives.

Do not be conformed to this world (this age), [fashioned after and adapted to its external, superficial customs], but be transformed (changed) by the [entire] renewal of your mind [by its new ideals and its new attitude], so that you may prove [for yourselves] what is the good and acceptable and perfect will of God, even the thing which is good and acceptable and perfect [in His sight for you], Romans 12:2.

Everything Changes was one of those cross over songs that you could hear on Christian and secular radio stations. While I never attended one of her concerts, I was touched by the message she shared on several different radio interviews. Being attractive, popular, and a Christian is rare to see in this day and age, but when you put your hope and faith in Jesus, anything is possible.

by Jay Mankus

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Embrace Contentment or Revel in Bitterness

Posted on April 23, 2022 by expressyourself4him

I’ve had my most trying week of 2022. While I try not to read too much into daily events, failure and rejection have been a common theme in the past 72 hours. On one side of this internal wresting match, human nature lurks, tempting me to revel in bitterness, gossip and pity. On the other, a still small voice is whispering “embrace contentment.” If you’re wondering, I still haven’t made a decision.

Many plans are in a man’s mind, but it is the Lord’s purpose for him that will stand, Proverbs 19:21.

One of the messages that I keep trying to tell myself comes from King Solomon. “Many are the plans in a man’s mind, but God’s purpose will prevail.” However, when you’re about to move and my request for a lateral hardship transfer to South Carolina has been denied, the uncertainty of my future is eating at me. Perhaps, I’ve been too comfortable in my current position, and this is God’s way of rocking my boat.

Then Satan answered the Lord, Does Job [reverently] fear God for nothing? 10 Have You not put a hedge about him and his house and all that he has, on every side? You have conferred prosperity and happiness upon him in the work of his hands, and his possessions have increased in the land. 11 But put forth Your hand now and touch all that he has, and he will curse You to Your face. 12 And the Lord said to Satan (the adversary and the accuser), Behold, all that he has is in your power, only upon the man himself put not forth your hand. So Satan went forth from the presence of the Lord, Job 1:9-12.

Like the words of Moses’ farewell address to Israel, I can either choose life or death, contentment or bitterness. Although my trial of having two different cars not start for me and break down, this is nothing compared to what one man faced in Job 1-2. Maybe I need to take a deep breath, go to sleep and hope this week was just a bad dream. That didn’t work! The next time you encounter one of those Murphy Law days, weeks, months or year, embrace contentment or revel in bitterness. The choice is yours.

by Jay Mankus

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S.A.N.S. Episode 81: Welcome to the Jesus Movement

Posted on April 22, 2022 by expressyourself4him

It’s not very often that Junior High School aspirations become a reality. Yet, for the Christian blues-rock group Three Crosses, this is exactly what happened. Lifelong friends from New Jersey, Steve Pasch and Ralphie Barrientos formed Three Crosses in 1995. When my wife Leanne was a youth director in Chicago, we took the youth group to see Three Crosses during one of their tours.

But you shall receive power (ability, efficiency, and might) when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you shall be My witnesses in Jerusalem and all Judea and Samaria and to the ends (the very bounds) of the earth, Acts 1:8.

Three Crosses is best known for their moving worship songs. Yet, Welcome to the Jesus Movement is one of those tunes that provides a great song with solid lyrics. When you add songs like The Stone Was Rolled Away, Christians can prepare their minds to celebrate a resurrected Lord. If you ever want to uplift your soul, play the first two Three Crosses albums and the Holy Spirit will stir and touch your heart.

by Jay Mankus

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