A Season of Boldness

Posted on December 26, 2020 by expressyourself4him

Boldness is often associated with audacity, bravery, courage, and dauntlessness. This intrepid spirit shows no signs of fear, willing to face whatever barrier, challenge or obstacle that is in their way. While teenagers who possess this trait may be labeled as a rebel for not conforming to the rigid standards in public schools, boldness is appreciated by other adults who are afraid of getting into trouble. In a sense, the bold speak what the meek are scared to verbalize.

The wicked flee when no man pursues them, but the [uncompromisingly] righteous are bold as a lion. 2 When a land transgresses, it has many rulers, but when the ruler is a man of discernment, understanding, and knowledge, its stability will long continue, Proverbs 28:1-2.

King Solomon uses an interesting analogy in the passage above. The bold are compared to a courageous lion who stands up for what is right. As cities and states prepare for a second lock down, some citizens have had enough of cowering in fear. With their businesses and life long dreams on the verge of collapsing, a spirit of boldness is empowering individuals to take a stand. Despite threats of fines and or jail, these people can no longer compromise what they believe to be right and true.

And now, Lord, observe their threats and grant to Your bond servants [full freedom] to declare Your message fearlessly, Acts 4:29.

During the first century, Jesus’ disciples were under attack, prohibited to publicly teach about their resurrected leader. John and Peter were arrested by religious leaders for preaching the resurrection of Christ. The next day Peter was filled with the Holy Spirit as he defended their position in front of magistrates, elders and scribes who assembled in Jerusalem. Upon their release, Peter was energized by the stand they took, encouraging more believers to embrace a season of boldness.

by Jay Mankus

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Christmas is a Time for Second Chances

Posted on December 25, 2020 by expressyourself4him

The retail calendar is an endless cycle, constantly moving from one celebration to the next. As soon as Halloween festivities end, stores are transformed into a winter wonderland overnight. Meanwhile, on television a month of horror flicks are replaced with movies about joy, thanksgiving, and praise. When Thanksgiving Dinner’s wind down, Christmas shopping comes to life or should I say ignite. Whether you wait in lines or do most of your purchases online, consumerism doesn’t overshadow the fact that Christmas is a time for second chances.

Again I tell you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to go into the kingdom of heaven. 25 When the disciples heard this, they were utterly puzzled (astonished, bewildered), saying, Who then can be saved [from eternal death]? – Matthew 19:24-25

During a first century conversation, the 12 disciples became deflated following a parable shared by Jesus. The point of Jesus’ analogy was to illustrate that individuals aren’t good, holy or strong enough to save themselves. Attempting to be some sort of superhuman Christian, the disciples became depressed, painfully aware of their limitations. As despair began to set in, Jesus’ words served as a swing in momentum, “anything is possible with God.” Yes, even those of you who need a second chance this Christmas.

But Jesus looked at them and said, With men this is impossible, but all things are possible with God, Matthew 19:26.

George Bailey, played by James Stewart, needed a visit from an angel to notice just how wonderful his life was. A ruthless TV-network chief played by Bill Murray in Scrooged needed to witness his own death to realize what was truly important in his own life. As you sit down at some point this Christmas to watch one of the classics films, the Lord wants to remind you that forgiveness, grace and mercy is available every day, Lamentations 3:31-25. For Christmas is the season of second chances, a fresh start and a new beginning in life. Seize this opportunity to begin again with God, Romans 10:9-11.

by Jay Mankus

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The Source of Affection

Posted on December 24, 2020 by expressyourself4him

Love is absent from the title of traditional Christmas Carols. While Charles Dickens wrote A Christmas Carol in 1843. the oldest Christmas Carol song dates back to 336 AD. St. Hilary of Poitiers composed Jesus Illuminates All which was initially the Latin carol “Jesus refulsit omnium.” Although it’s unclear what inspired St. Hilary to write this song, 336 was the first recorded year when the Church first recognized December 25th as Jesus’ birthday.

So I write these things while I am absent from you, that when I come to you, I may not have to deal sharply in my use of the authority which the Lord has given me [to be employed, however] for building [you] up and not for tearing [you] down, 2 Corinthians 13:10.

Wrapping up his final letter to the Church at Corinth, the apostle Paul recognizes why people of faith should celebrate the birth of Christ. According to Paul, Jesus is the source of affection and love. Building upon his words in 1 Corinthians 13, God is love in it’s various forms. While reading Psalm 98, 96:11–12 and Genesis 3:17–18, Isaac Watts wrote the classic hymn Joy to the World. George Frideric Handel put the finishing touches on the modern version of Joy to the World before his death in 1759.

Finally, brethren, farewell (rejoice)! Be strengthened (perfected, completed, made what you ought to be); be encouraged and consoled and comforted; be of the same [agreeable] mind one with another; live in peace, and [then] the God of love [Who is the Source of affection, goodwill, love, and benevolence toward men] and the Author and Promoter of peace will be with you, 2 Corinthians 13:11.

The older I get, the meaning of Christmas to me has evolved. As a child, Christmas was about attending a mass that ended at midnight. When I couldn’t sleep, I took a nap under our tree, eager to open my presents. Yet, now as a parent, I’m more focused on what I give. In college I wrote Christmas letters to encourage and inspire my friends. Now as a father, I feel compelled to give of my time after working 22 of the last 25 days. While my gifts may not always be well received, a relationship with God is the greatest gift of all.

by Jay Mankus

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Worn Out Before the Worship Begins

Posted on December 23, 2020 by expressyourself4him

The Coronavirus has taken a toll on families, lives and souls in 2020. According to a recent report, over 100,000 small businesses have closed this year. Meanwhile, if further lock downs or restrictions are enacted in the weeks and months to come, more the 85% of restaurants could be forced to go out of business for good. Although the thought of Christmas may serve as a healthy distraction for some, many Americans are worn out before Christmas worship services begin, me included.

Oh come, let us worship and bow down; let us kneel before the Lord, our Maker! – Psalm 95:6

The book definition of worship is the feeling or expression of reverence and adoration for a deity. While talking to a Samaritan woman in the middle of a hot summer day, Jesus refers to a physical thirst for living water. True worship is valuing the treasures of God, not temporary pleasures that quickly fade away. The inner essence of worship is designed to pour out your heart to the Lord. This occurs by responding to acquired knowledge of the Bible within your mind, as longings within your heart begin to ooze out. However, if you are emotionally spent, how do you regain a vigor for worship this Christmas?

God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth,” John 4:24.

One thing Jesus doesn’t want is a counterfeit, a phony Christian faking worship. When anxieties, burdens, and concerns overwhelm your soul, Jesus serves as a weighing station, Matthew 11:28-30. Prayer is a way you can unload all of your spiritual trash, sucking any joy remaining in your life. Once this removal is compete, true worship can begin. Therefore, if you are still trying to pick up the pieces shattered by Covid-19, meet with Jesus now so that you’ll be ready to worship God on Christmas Day.

by Jay Mankus

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Examine, Test, and Evaluate Yourself this Christmas Season

Posted on December 22, 2020 by expressyourself4him

One of annoying aspects of teaching high school were end of the year evaluations. The principal would pop their head into my classroom unannounced, sit in the back and began to scribble down a series of notes. Fifteen minutes later they quickly disappeared, basing their entire review on a couple of snapshots in time. Depending upon how my students behaved on these random days influenced my overall rating. Unfortunately, this wasn’t the best way to examine, test and evaluate my performance as a teacher.

Examine and test and evaluate your own selves to see whether you are holding to your faith and showing the proper fruits of it. Test and prove yourselves [not Christ]. Do you not yourselves realize and know [thoroughly by an ever-increasing experience] that Jesus Christ is in you—unless you are [counterfeits] disapproved on trial and rejected? – 2 Corinthians 13:5

In the final chapter of his letter to the Church at Corinth, the apostle Paul refers to a different kind of examination. If you examine the context leading up to this passage, verses 1-4, Paul suggests that some Christians were good at talking, yet lacked spiritual substance. Instead of just showing up without warning, Paul reveals a future visit with a purpose of checking up on their spiritual progress. Not beating around the bush, Paul states that he’ll be extremely disappointed if he finds stagnant believers, slacking off spiritually.

Do not quench (suppress or subdue) the [Holy] Spirit; 20 Do not spurn the gifts and utterances of the prophets [do not depreciate prophetic revelations nor despise inspired instruction or exhortation or warning]. 21 But test and prove all things [until you can recognize] what is good; [to that] hold fast. 22 Abstain from evil [shrink from it and keep aloof from it] in whatever form or whatever kind it may be, 1 Thessalonians 5:19-22.

As 2020 winds down for good, perhaps you’ll have some spare time over Christmas to reflect upon your faith. While wrapping up a letter to the Church at Thessalonica, the apostle Paul provides some tips for improving your own spiritual life. First, don’t suppress the Holy Spirit by being open to God’s leading in 2021. Second, focus and be thankful on the talents that God has given you instead of being jealous of what others have. Third, use the Bible as a point of reference before forming a conclusion. Finally, as you examine, test and evaluate your own faith, cling to that which is good and avoid any glimpse of evil.

by Jay Mankus

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Don’t Leave Me Alone This Christmas

Posted on December 21, 2020 by expressyourself4him

Since March 18th 2020, a typical Coronavirus lock down consists of bans, curfews, and extreme restrictions on social interaction in public. While quarantines are designed by doctors, hospitals, and the government to contain the spread of infectious diseases, anyone who has endured a self induced isolation due to contracting Covid-19, you’ve probably felt alone at some point. Meanwhile, parents and grandparents across the country stayed inside as much as possible last Spring. Due to concerns, fears or a high risk candidate, most families have been separated; all in the name of flattening the curve.

Fear not [there is nothing to fear], for I am with you; do not look around you in terror and be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen and harden you to difficulties, yes, I will help you; yes, I will hold you up and retain you with My [victorious] right hand of rightness and justice, Isaiah 41:10.

As Christmas day approaches, I’m not dreaming of snow. Rather, I’m envisioning life without a mask. I want to go to the grocery store again without strangers scattering as far away from me as possible as I stroll up and down each aisle. While the anti-social may have enjoyed this year, I miss shaking hands, hugging a friend and being within six feet of person when you have a conversation. Peace and quiet is nice for a day or two, but I’m ready to be outgoing again like an enthusiastic college student eager to meet new people. I’m tired of being alone most of the day, hungry for permanent meaningful lasting relationships.

Who shall ever separate us from Christ’s love? Shall suffering and affliction and tribulation? Or calamity and distress? Or persecution or hunger or destitution or peril or sword? 36 Even as it is written, For Thy sake we are put to death all the day long; we are regarded and counted as sheep for the slaughter. 37 Yet amid all these things we are more than conquerors and gain a surpassing victory through Him Who loved us. 38 For I am persuaded beyond doubt (am sure) that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities, nor things]impending and threatening nor things to come, nor powers, 39 Nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation will be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord, Romans 8:35-39.

Part of the release of her first album in 2015, Hollyn’s song Alone inspired today’s blog. The chorus contains a passionate request to not to be left alone. Tying in her faith with loneliness, Hollyn begs the Lord, “don’t leave me alone.” Depending upon where you will celebrate Christmas in 2020, anxieties tend to grow beneath the surface. Unless you have some sort of family to lift up your spirits, Christmas can be one of loneliness times of the year. Thus, I devote this blog to anyone who needs a helping hand, a friendly smile or encouraging word. Whenever depression starts to set in, cry out to the Lord in prayer “don’t leave me alone this Christmas.”

.by Jay Mankus

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What Gifts Will You Bring?

Posted on December 20, 2020 by expressyourself4him

The prophet Isaiah foretold about a caravan of men who sought out the resting place of a newly born king. Described as Magi, astrologers who were experts of the night sky, these wise men put their faith in the promise of a Messiah. This journey wasn’t based upon a hunch or wishful thinking. Rather, these men came bearing gifts, expecting to find what they were looking for. Upon reaching their destination, this wise men were overcome with joy, worshiping and praising God for Jesus.

A multitude of camels [from the eastern trading tribes] shall cover you [Jerusalem], the young camels of Midian and Ephah; all the men from Sheba [who once came to trade] shall come, bringing gold and frankincense and proclaiming the praises of the Lord, Isaiah 60:6.

Each of the offerings brought to Jesus are symbolic of a specific class or state. The gold is associated with kings, the frankincense with priests and myrrh, the emotional state of sadness, used to embalm the dead. Perhaps, this association led Jesus’ disciples to become distracted, confusing the political with the spiritual. Instead of viewing Jesus as the Savior of the World, Peter believed that He would become the physical King of the Jews. This skewed mindset likely influenced Peter to publicly deny knowing Jesus following his arrest.

When they had listened to the king, they went their way, and behold, the star which had been seen in the east in its rising went before them until it came and stood over the place where the young Child was. 10 When they saw the star, they were thrilled with ecstatic joy. 11 And on going into the house, they saw the Child with Mary His mother, and they fell down and worshiped Him. Then opening their treasure bags, they presented to Him gifts—gold and frankincense and myrrh. 12 And receiving an answer to their asking, they were divinely instructed and warned in a dream not to go back to Herod; so they departed to their own country by a different way, Matthew 2:9-12.

Nearly 2,000 years later, the world is still full of chaos. However, instead of dealing with tyrannical kings, governors and legislators across the country are instituting strict state mandates on houses of worship and how many members of your family can be in the same home on Christmas. These new edicts are distracting people from the true reason for Christmas. Such as what gift will you be offering up to baby Jesus? While you may not have access to gold or frankincense, everyone has something to offer. Whether it’s a gift, talent or unique quality, God is waiting for you to offer up one of these traits to Jesus. What will you give this year?

by Jay Mankus

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Don’t Leave God on the Outside Looking In

Posted on December 19, 2020 by expressyourself4him

One of the greatest lies the Devil perpetuates today is that God is going to punish you, This implanted thought causes some to give up hope, believing that they will never be good enough for God. Subsequently, those who develop and embrace this ungodly belief will keep God at a distance. Rather than accept the biblical fact that God disciplines those who He loves, a barrier is built up over time, keeping God on the outside looking in.

Those whom I [dearly and tenderly] love, I tell their faults and convict and convince and reprove and chasten [I discipline and instruct them]. So be enthusiastic and in earnest and burning with zeal and repent [changing your mind and attitude], Revelation 3:19.

While on the island of Patmos, one of Jesus’ disciples has a vision of what a relationship with God is like. Instead of barging into our rooms to examine what you’ve done wrong, God is patiently waiting to be welcomed inside. Eager to get your attention, God has a way of knocking on certain aspects of your life. Like leaving a trail a bread crumbs, the Lord has a way of providing signals to let you know He’s only a pray away. Nonetheless, Jesus will remain outside in the cold until you let him into your heart, Romans 10:9-10.

Behold, I stand at the door and knock; if anyone hears and listens to and heeds My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and will eat with him, and he [will eat] with Me, Revelation 3:20.

Unfortunately, human timing and God’s timing often clash. When you’re ready to open up and become vulnerable, something immediately interrupts you from God. Meanwhile, you may be busy, consumed by what you are working on, leaving little or no time for a spiritual conversation. Most human beings don’t do this on purpose, but way too many individuals go through life leaving God on the outside looking in. May this blog inspire you to make room in your busy schedule for Jesus this Christmas.

by Jay Mankus

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Seeing Beyond the Present this Christmas

Posted on December 18, 2020 by expressyourself4him

Since I stopped listening to and watching any type of news cast, I’ve been much happier. If I ever get curious about what’s going on in the world, all I have to do is click on the internet to see how depressing everything appears to be. Following Trump’s apparent loss in the 2020 Presidential Election, I thought stories would shift from the Coronavirus toward a more positive outlook for the future. From what I’ve read online, there must be a contest that I’m not aware of between news organizations to see who can present the bleakest forecast.

To everything there is a season, and a time for every matter or purpose under heaven: 2 A time to be born and a time to die, a time to plant and a time to pluck up what is planted, 3 A time to kill and a time to heal, a time to break down and a time to build up, 4 A time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance, Ecclesiastes 3:1-4.

As I read about the latest death toll from Covid-19, I was reminded of an old song by Randy Stonehill. The lyrics of this song is filled with sadness, sorrow, and tragedy, very apropos for probably one of the worst years of the 21st century. Stonehill uses the backdrop of a Denny’s restaurant to compare an orphans Christmas meal with symbolism from the Bible. While the attached you-tube is gut wrenching, listening to this song helps me realize just how blessed my life is despite the current crisis facing America.

Consider it wholly joyful, my brethren, whenever you are enveloped in or encounter trials of any sort or fall into various temptations. 3 Be assured and understand that the trial and proving of your faith bring out endurance and steadfastness and patience. 4 But let endurance and steadfastness and patience have full play and do a thorough work, so that you may be [people] perfectly and fully developed [with no defects], lacking in nothing, James 1:2-4.

A wise Old Testament king predicted that these days would come. While the details are always slightly different, you can’t escape trials that pop up. These unexpected circumstances and events don’t wait for you to catch up. Rather, when crap hits the fan, things will get messy often leaving emotional and physical scars. Like the depressing story in the song Christmas at Denny’s, it’s hard to see beyond the present. Yet, when I read the miraculous testimony of Elizabeth and Mary, with God anything is possible this Christmas, Luke 1:37.

by Jay Mankus

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Cancelling Your Debts This Christmas

Posted on December 17, 2020 by expressyourself4him

Most Americans are currently in debt, owing more money than what they have or make. According to a recent survey, 81.5% of millennials, 80.9% of baby boomers, and 79.9% of Gen Xers possess some sort of outstanding debt. To make matters worse, guilt will drive many to buy Christmas presents that they can’t afford as an act of love. However, going into greater financial ruin just to impress your children, family members or significant other isn’t worth it. Instead of waiting for New Years to start a list of resolutions, it’s time to cancel your debts this Christmas.

Therefore the kingdom of heaven is like a human king who wished to settle accounts with his attendants.24 When he began the accounting, one was brought to him who owed him 10,000 talents [probably about $10,000,000], 25 And because he could not pay, his master ordered him to be sold, with his wife and his children and everything that he possessed, and payment to be made, Matthew 18:23-25.

In the passage above and below, Jesus begins the Parable of the Unmerciful Servant. Using the amount of the debt above based upon the income from a first century worker, this man would have had to work more than 100 years to pay this off which wasn’t possible. Recognizing the dire condition of his servant’s debt, the master took pity by cancelling the entire amount. Similar to the modern expression “Pay it Forward,” the man who had his debt forgiven, failed to practice the same mercy when someone owed him money. Unfortunately, this world is full of individuals who say the right thing, but rarely practice what they preach.

So the attendant fell on his knees, begging him, Have patience with me and I will pay you everything. 27 And his master’s heart was moved with compassion, and he released him and forgave him [cancelling] the debt, Matthew 18:26-27.

As the weight of buying presents this Christmas begins to burden your soul, think of creative ways to display your love and affection. The artists and creative may be inspired to make gifts rather than purchase them. Others may be compelled to downsize their number of gifts to one per family member or institute a secret Santa for a group so only one large gift needs to be bought. Whatever you decide, the sooner you get your finances in order, the quicker you’ll be able to find peace this Christmas. In the context of forgiveness, make sure you follow the example of the master in the parable above so that past trespasses against you will be cancelled for good this Christmas, Matthew 6:14-15.

by Jay Mankus

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