Tag Archives: a sense of urgency

Indecision verse Poor Decision Making

Posted on November 4, 2023 by expressyourself4him

King Solomon writes the book of Proverbs for one of his sons with a sense of urgency to make good decisions in life. Perhaps, Solomon wanted his children to avoid making some of the bad choices that he made when he was young. Meanwhile, as an adult, Solomon thought that 700 wives wasn’t enough, so he added an additional 300 concubines to his harem.

Lean on, trust in, and be confident in the Lord with all your heart and mind and do not rely on your own insight or understanding. 6 In all your ways know, recognize, and acknowledge Him, and He will direct and make straight and plain your paths, Proverbs 3:5-6.

The apostle Paul reminded the Church at Rome of a similar fate due to human nature, Romans 3:9-12. A warning to members of Galatia in Galatians 5:16-17 help explain what influences poor decision making. This internal tug of war can lead to indecision as a major deadline approaches. When you’re unsure of what to do, lean on the Lord for understanding.

Do not fret or have any anxiety about anything, but in every circumstance and in everything, by prayer and petition ([b]definite requests), with thanksgiving, continue to make your wants known to God. 7 And God’s peace [shall be yours, that [c]tranquil state of a soul assured of its salvation through Christ, and so fearing nothing from God and being content with its earthly lot of whatever sort that is, that peace] which transcends all understanding shall [d]garrison and mount guard over your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus, Philippians 4:6-7.

Unfortunately, indecision often breeds anxiety. Whenever you weigh the pros and cons of any decision, you have to pull the trigger eventually. Yet, if you find yourself consumed by uncertainty, seek godly counsel to pull your mind in the right direction. Whatever you end up deciding, life is all about living and learning so that you can move on from past failures and mistakes.

by Jay Mankus

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When God Can’t Do Anything Until You Arrive

Posted on March 23, 2023 by expressyourself4him

As an aspiring screen writer, I understand the agony of writers block. This is a form of procrastination, but it’s more of a distraction, afraid, lost and stuck, unsure of the direction you want your story to proceed. If any writer is hoping and praying for a breakthrough, to finally become discovered, you have to finish what you started writing before God can do anything.

See now yonder city; it is near enough to flee to, and it is a little one. Oh, let me escape to it! Is it not a little one? And my life will be saved! 21 And [the angel] said to him, See, I have yielded to your entreaty concerning this thing also; I will not destroy this city of which you have spoken, Genesis 19:20-21.

Abraham’s nephew finds himself in a similar predicament. Since I moved from Delaware last summer, I understand how hard it is to say goodbye to a placed you called home fore 25 years. However, Lot is not selling his home. Everything he worked so long to build was about to be destroyed. Subsequently, as Lot is about to leave all of his possessions behind, he hesitant to say goodbye.

Make haste and take refuge there, for I cannot do anything until you arrive there. Therefore the name of the city was called Zoar [little]. 23 The sun had risen over the earth when Lot entered Zoar, Genesis 19:22-23.

As Lot is delaying the inevitable, an angel of the Lord returns. The purpose of this visit is to speed up Lot’s dillydallying. The point this angel is communicating is that God can’t do anything until you reach Zoar, the city that you yourself have chosen. From time to time, we all hesitate, putzing around, waiting for some sort of sign from God. Yet, all God requires is for us to act, to dlo what we promised. May this Old Testament lesson help fill you with a sense of urgency so that God can continue His plan for your life after you arrive, Philippians 1:6.

by Jay Mankus

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S.A.N.S. Episode 26: World to Wait

Posted on March 1, 2022 by expressyourself4him

While swimming in the Pacific Ocean for the first time a decade ago, I enjoyed Newport Beach and nearby Huntington Beach. After getting hungry, my family walked to the Huntington Beach Pier to Ruby’s, the restaurant that overlooks the Pacific. If you want to know where I’m going with this, today’s featured song is by the group Staves Acre which is from Huntington Beach, California.

I will give great praise and thanks to the Lord with my mouth; yes, and I will praise Him among the multitude, Psalm 109:30.

Staves Acre provides my go to mix at the start of every shift to get blood pumping through my body. The genre of Staves Acre is a cross between classic rock and metal. A few of their songs sound like Rush while others provide more of a metal sound of the 1990’s. As for today’s song, World to Wait provides a great sound with lyrics designed to create a sense of urgency within your soul. I hope you enjoy Staves Acre.

by Jay Mankus

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Engaged and Energized

Posted on June 15, 2021 by expressyourself4him

While engagement is often associated with the process leading up to marriage, to be engaged refers to an active, engrossed and involved state. I’ve never thought of prayer in the context of being engaged. However, when the apostle Paul found an isolated spot to pray, Mark 1:35, his concentration was fixated on God. Paul wasn’t just hoping and wishing for an answer to prayer, he expected God to perform a miracle.

We are ever giving thanks to God for all of you, continually mentioning [you when engaged] in our prayers, 1 Thessalonians 1:2.

One verse later, Paul refers to being energized by faith. As Christians begin to pray with an unceasing desire, this is often accompanied with a sudden boost of energy. When you add and incorporate promises in the Bible to prayer, faith is strengthened. Prayer is an act of putting the needs of others before yourself as you pour out your heart to God. When prayer becomes a daily habit, a spirit of service is conceived.

Recalling unceasingly before our God and Father your work energized by faith and service motivated by love and unwavering hope in [the return of] our Lord Jesus Christ (the Messiah), 1 Thessalonians 1:3.

In the first century, there was a belief that Jesus would return in their own lifetime. For those individuals who witnessed Jesus rise from the dead, there was a sense of urgency to seize each day on earth, Galatians 6:9-10. This is the motivation that the apostle Paul refers to in the passage above. If you want to make the most of your life on earth, engage yourself in prayer so that your faith is energized to keep on serving Jesus.

by Jay Mankus

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If I Could Coax You for a Minute

Posted on January 29, 2021 by expressyourself4him

Coax is one of those words that might be used in the first round of a spelling bee, but is often replaced in daily conversations with more common expressions. Coaxing someone refers to persuading gradually, typically by flattery to draw individuals toward your point of view. In a first century letter to a church that he helped plant, the apostle Paul is disappointed by recent news of the Galatians’ spiritual slide. Thus, Paul devotes an entire chapter to coax these Christians back on track by using the good news about Jesus Christ.

Would that I were with you now and could coax you vocally, for I am fearful and perplexed about you! – Galatians 4:20

While writing a teenager pastor, Paul paints a dark picture of what this leader will have to confront and face in the near future. The Bible contains 55 passages that reference end times, with several of these accounts in the New Testament. The apostles regularly urged first century Christians to have a sense of urgency, living each day as if Jesus will return today to judge the living and the dead. Yet, when a day comes and goes, demons and seducing spirits are on the prowl, a spiritual predator lying in wait for the weak and wounded.

But the [Holy] Spirit distinctly and expressly declares that in latter times some will turn away from the faith, giving attention to deluding and seducing spirits and doctrines that demons teach, 2 Through the hypocrisy and pretensions of liars whose consciences are seared (cauterized), 1 Timothy 4:1-2.

Thus, if I could coax you for a minute, take a moment to examine the world around. Why are people angry? What is the source of hatred? Is this country truly falling apart of like the media suggests or is this simply a ploy to hide evil intentions? Is former president Trump really as evil as he’s portrayed on television or is Satan disguising himself as an angel of light to deceive the masses? If you really want to know what’s going on in the world, turn your attention to the spiritual realm and you might be surprised by what you find, 2 Corinthians 11:13-15.

by Jay Mankus

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A Critical Hour to Love

Posted on April 3, 2020 by expressyourself4him

Whenever you do a quick review of your life, there were times when you needed encouragement, hope or a friend to lift you out of depression. If you didn’t receive a call, have someone come over to your house or pray for you, you may not have recovered. Last week I heard a sad story of a first responder to the Coronavirus who committed suicide. Apparently, she took her own life, afraid she might infect someone she loved. This tragic event reminds me an expression used by the apostle Paul. In a letter to the church of Rome, Paul suggested that this is a critical time to love.

Besides this you know what [a critical] hour this is, how it is high time now for you to wake up out of your sleep (rouse to reality). For salvation (final deliverance) is nearer to us now than when we first believed (adhered to, trusted in, and relied on Christ, the Messiah), Romans 13:11.

Human nature has a way of lulling individuals into a false sense of security. If you are not disciplined, focused or in tune with the Holy Spirit, you may first yourself falling into a deep spiritually sleep. Daily updates about new cases of and deaths from COVID-19 can make normally optimistic people comfortably numb. Whenever you stop moving forward, neutral can quickly turn into reverse. If the current Coronavirus pandemic isn’t calling you to act now, what are you waiting for? As Jesus said in the first century, “the harvest is ready, but the workers are few.”

The night is far gone and the day is almost here. Let us then drop (fling away) the works and deeds of darkness and put on the [full] armor of light, Romans 13:12.

Instead of leaving readers in the dark, the apostle Paul offers directions. The first step is to stop enabling your flesh to indulge sinful desires. Once you put to death your old self, Colossians 3:1-4, you can begin to put on the armor of God, Ephesians 6:12-18. Those who make a successful transition from darkness to light are in prime position to shine during times of crisis. If you stop for a moment to take a look at all of the needs around, a sense of urgency will conceive a desire to love. Franklin Graham’s ministry Samaritan’s Purse has led the way with their field hospital in Central Park to show the love of Jesus to Coronavirus patients fighting for their lives.

by Jay Mankus

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Waiting for the Kingdom of God

Posted on June 13, 2018 by expressyourself4him

Deep inside of human beings, there exists a purpose and reason for getting out of bed each day.  This invisible drive may change from time to time depending upon your career, job or motivation level.  When this sense disappears, fades or becomes unclear, mustering up enough energy to make it through a day turns into a chore.  The Bible refers to this term as vision.  This perception guides believers through trials and tribulations, remaining focused on your ultimate goal.

When evening had already come, because it was the preparation day, that is, the day before the Sabbath, 43 Joseph of Arimathea came, a prominent and respected member of the Council (Sanhedrin, Jewish High Court), who was himself waiting for the kingdom of God—and he courageously dared to go in before Pilate, and asked for the body of Jesus, Mark 15:42-43.

In the first century, there was a man who found himself torn between his occupation and purpose for living.  According to a couple of verses, Joseph of Arimathea was a member of the Sanhedrin.  This ruling council was essentially the Jewish High Court, the supreme court for religious debates.  Yet, this position didn’t satisfy Joseph’s soul, longing for something more.  This spiritual thirst conceived a desire to wait for the kingdom of God.

After these things Joseph of Arimathea, who was a disciple of Jesus, but secretly for fear of the Jews, asked Pilate that he might take away the body of Jesus, and Pilate gave him permission. So he came and took away his body, John 19:38.

According to Luke 10, there was a secondary group of disciples chosen.  These seventy two individuals are not mentioned by name.  Yet, it appears Joseph of Arimathea was a secret disciple, perhaps working behind the scenes as one of these 72.  The crucifixion of Jesus served as a wake up call for Joseph, knocking on Pilate’s door while Jesus was still hanging from a cross.  Three hours earlier, at noon, the day turned to night.  This cosmic event is detailed by several first century historians.  This sign from God convinced Joseph that the kingdom of God was at hand.  May the Holy Spirit open your eyes today so that you too will respond to current events with a sense of urgency like Joseph of Arimathea.

by Jay Mankus

 

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The Hunger for Healing

Posted on February 19, 2018 by expressyourself4him

When a doctor, diagnosis or science renders a decision about a dire condition, there are typically two common responses.  The initial one results in grief, pity and sorrow, especially if you hear those dreaded words, “there’s nothing I can do.”  The latter is often found in fighters who ignore the obvious by clinging to a higher power, praying for the impossible.  When life deals you a losing hand, my question to you is how great is your hunger for healing?

That evening after sunset the people brought to Jesus all the sick and demon-possessed. 33 The whole town gathered at the door, 34 and Jesus healed many who had various diseases. He also drove out many demons, but he would not let the demons speak because they knew who he was, Mark 1:32-34.

The gospels of Mark and John highlight the degree of hunger necessary to usher in miracles from heaven.  The first passage takes place after Jesus performs his first miracle in the city of Capernaum.  Casting out a demon from a Jewish man at the local synagogue, a light bulb went off in the minds of several eye witnesses.  Whether this was verbalized or not, the citizens of this small town began to think, “if this man can cast out a demon, surely Jesus can heal me as well.”  After sunset everyone in town gathered outside Simon Peter’s house.  Despite the darkness outside, a sense of urgency grew within these desperate hearts, seeking healing today, not tomorrow.  Although some may have waited past midnight, this hunger was rewarded through a series of healings.

One who was there had been an invalid for thirty-eight years. 6 When Jesus saw him lying there and learned that he had been in this condition for a long time, he asked him, “Do you want to get well?”  7 “Sir,” the invalid replied, “I have no one to help me into the pool when the water is stirred. While I am trying to get in, someone else goes down ahead of me,” John 5:5-7.

The second encounter begins with pessimism.  Anyone who has endured the same condition for 38 years without receiving an answer to prayer can lose hope.  Perhaps, this explains the conversation Jesus has with this depressed individual.  Like a doctor examining a patient, Jesus gets to the point, “do you want to be healed?”  This man is symbolic of many Americans today, wanting to be healed, yet offering up good excuses to explain why their condition has not improved.  Nonetheless, Jesus shows compassion and grace, restoring this man’s ability to walk.  While some theologians will say its not in God’s will for everyone to be healed on earth, the spiritual appetite that you display can help you beat the odds by stirring heaven’s angels to perform a miracle in your life.  Don’t give up; don’t ever give up hope in the power of Jesus’ name!

by Jay Mankus

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A Bold Request

Posted on August 26, 2015 by expressyourself4him

The recent commercials sponsored by Credit Karma suggest that getting a free credit score empowers individuals with boldness.  Thus, whether you are buying a car or house, you should always ask for more.  Perhaps the meek have a bargaining chip, yet reality is a far cry from Hollywood.

“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you, ” Matthew 7:7.

Boldness can be manifested within Type A personalities, conceived through desperation or develop overtime through confidence.  In the case of a criminal, hanging on a cross next to Jesus, it didn’t take long to realize He was different.  Whether it was listening to nearby conversations or something inside his heart, a sense of urgency grew.  When the time presented itself, this unworthy soul asked for forgiveness and a place in paradise.

For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened, Matthew 7:8.

One of the areas where I am not bold enough is when I pray.  During a discussion with followers prior to his death, Jesus unveiled a secret about prayer.  “You don’t have because you haven’t asked!”  This dilemma applies to many who are currently experiencing a life without much joy.  Therefore, if you want to make a bold request, approach God’s throne of grace with an expecting heart, believing that you too will experience paradise.

by Jay Mankus

 

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