Tag Archives: Bible

Sending the Correct Message

Posted on July 29, 2016 by expressyourself4him

In this political season, it doesn’t take much to communicate the wrong message.  Sometimes an individual goes rogue to advance their own agenda.  Others may attempt to make a name for themselves by expressing an over the top statement.  However, the most common mistake occurs from a slip of the tongue.  If the media is present, this faux pas usually results in a firestorm and has ended the careers of promising candidates.

I will climb up to my watchtower and stand at my guardpost.  There I will wait to see what the LORD says and how he will answer my complaint, Habakkuk 2:1.

On the flip side, many struggle to comprehend what God is trying to communicate daily.  Thus, countless people of faith wander off into the wilderness wondering if the Lord will ever make Himself clear.  Many prayers will be offered, yet silence can be one of the most frustrating experiences in life.  Distraught children, moms and others seeking answers cry out to the heavens waiting for some kind of tangible sign.

Then the LORD said to me, “Write my answer plainly on tablets, so that a runner can carry the correct message to others,” Habakkuk 2:2.

Unfortunately, the Bible is clear about this issue as believers are commanded to live by faith, not by sight.  Though some don’t want to hear this, time will tell why this or that happened to you.  Nonetheless, its easy to manipulate messages, often taking the Bible out of context to get the outcome you desire.  Despite these efforts, the prophet Habakkuk suggests that there will be times in life when you will have to wait for insight.  In view of this, practice patience until the Lord provides a runner to carry you the correct message.

by Jay Mankus

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Reruns, Rewind and Revive

Posted on July 28, 2016 by expressyourself4him

The summer tends to be a season for reruns.  As students and teachers take a break until the fall semester begins, there is time for late night binge watching.  While most use On Demand, Netflix or DVR’ed programs, the older generation still rely on television guides to plan their viewing pleasures.  Classic movies have a way of grabbing your attention.  Although you know the story, desires from within carry you away for hours at a time as a distraction from the stress and worries in life.

Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, Philippians 2:3.

For those of you who don’t spend much time watching television, perhaps you prefer reflection.  Either during a jog, walk or while doing yard work, its nice to rewind, taking an inventory of where you’ve been, where you are or where you want to go.  This practice is like setting goals in your mind, providing direction for the future.  One of the things I enjoy pondering about are those things in life which bring me the most joy.  Listening to music, playing sports, writing and working on projects around the house fill me with a sense of accomplish along with purpose and meaning in life.

Not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others, Philippians 2:4.

One of the final activities I engage in involves food for the soul.  Beyond a dose of daily Bible reading and prayer, hearts and minds need to be revived and refreshed to make it in life.  Thus, I have days where I soak in music while I rest.  Sometime I find a book on a topic that interests me, giving me a broader perspective on life.  Although I waste just as much time as the average American lounging around on a couch or sofa, I experience peace that surpasses understanding when I rewind my direction and revive my soul.

by Jay Mankus

 

 

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Sharp, Sloppy or Somewhere in Between

Posted on April 15, 2016 by expressyourself4him

After experiencing a mediocre 2015, I vowed to alter my priorities in 2016.  Early on I was sharp, starting each day off on the right foot with a quiet time in the Bible, prayer and workout sessions.  By the end of January, my daily routine had become second nature.  Yet, somewhere over the last month, I have gotten careless, allowing a lukewarm spirit to enter my soul.

Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another, Proverbs 27:17.

Over the weekend, the verse above served as a reminder to what I was missing.  To remain sharp takes time, effort and being open to change.  While the average American can’t afford a personal trainer to keep you in shape, other believers can serve as a life coach.  Meeting together, interacting and talking walks together can be the boost or motivation to stop being sloppy and begin to maximize the life God has given you.

“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing,” John 15:5.

Like anything in life, everyone experiences cycles, periods where things clicks and phases where nothing flows.  So whether you are sharp, sloppy or somewhere in between, Jesus’ words in the gospel of John provides hope for those struggling.  The analogy within this passage illustrates God as a gardener who prunes those unproductive areas of our lives.  However, individuals must stay connected to the vine, Jesus, to remain sharp.  Therefore, if you feel like you can’t go any further or are sick of mediocre results, reach out to Jesus today and you will find life.

by Jay Mankus

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The Good Things of Christ

Posted on March 24, 2016 by expressyourself4him

There are four books of the Bible known as the gospels according to Jesus Christ.  Matthew, Mark, Luke and John give an account of the life, teachings, death and resurrection of Jesus.  However, gospel originates from the Old English term godspel.  This word has two meanings, referring to good tidings or good news.  Thus, inside these four New Testament books contain the good things of Christ.

But when Christ came as high priest of the good things that are now already here, he went through the greater and more perfect tabernacle that is not made with human hands, that is to say, is not a part of this creation, Hebrews 9:11.

According to Hebrews, Jesus came down to earth to be a physical great high priest.  Within the four gospels you will find verses that highlight this great news.  The inspiration behind this selfish act was love.  Trying to restore that which was lost, Jesus resists temptation to become the perfect lamb of God.  Following the disappointment of Jesus’ death on the cross, Sunday’s resurrection rejuvenated those who had lost hope.

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.  For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him, John 3:16-17.

Today, some members of the media are trying to rewrite history, suggesting the resurrection was a hoax.  Using the conspiracy theory first conceived in Matthew 28:12-15, film makers have created moderns movies to deceive Christians.  Yet, like anything else in life, you have to surround yourself with positive people, fleeing from negative influences.  As another Resurrection Sunday approaches, may the good things about Christ lift you up and draw you closer to a risen Savior during this season of miracles.

by Jay Mankus

 

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I Am Your Father

Posted on December 22, 2015 by expressyourself4him

Star Wars has become a part of American pop culture.  Since its debut of episode IV on May 25th, 1977, watching each film in the series is like a rite of passage.  Today, the creation of a third trilogy is now being embraced by a third generation, three for grandparents, parents and their children.  Thus, one of the most quoted lines from Hollywood, “Luke I am your Father” lives on.

God has fulfilled for us, their children, by raising up Jesus.  As it is written in the second Psalm: “ ’You are my son; today I have become your father,” Acts 13:33.

In the Old Testament of the Bible, there are several prophecies about a coming Messiah.  By the time the first century began, many Jews were afraid to get their hopes up.  Nonetheless, as a carpenter began to perform miracles surrounded by 12 helpers, the scriptures came to life.  Thus, a doctor aware of this history quoted one of the Psalmist.  Through a relationship in Christ, the Lord has become a Father to children living for God.

God said to Moses, “I AM WHO I AM.  This is what you are to say to the Israelites: ‘I AM has sent me to you,” Exodus 3:14.

To avoid committing blasphemy, Israel removed consonants, referring to God as YHVH.  Another Hebrew word Ehyeh-Asher-Ehyeh translates into English, I am or I am that I am.  Subsequently, as Jesus was questioned by Jewish leaders following his arrest in the Garden of Gethsemane, the moment he claimed to be I am, it was grounds for death.  Unfortunately, those who crucified Jesus never realized Jesus is God’s son and that He was their Father.

by Jay Mankus

 

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Which Way Should I Go Now?

Posted on December 14, 2015 by expressyourself4him

Bugs Bunny is a cartoon character I grew up watching as a kid.  However, Bugs first appeared in 1940 in the film A Wild Hare.  Despite coming out on top in most episodes, Bugs was directionally challenged.  Perhaps, this characteristic spawned the famous saying, “which way should I go Doc, which way should I go?”

Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit, Galatians 5:25.

The average individual has to ask a similar question annually.  What do I what to do for the rest of my life?  Where do I need to live to make this a reality?  Beyond the daily choices people make, two opposing forces exist in the world: the sinful nature and spirit.  One feeds on self indulgence while the other exists to fulfill a higher calling.  Since both are invisible, its hard for the average citizen to know which one to follow.

The two of them, sent on their way by the Holy Spirit, went down to Seleucia and sailed from there to Cyprus, Acts 13:4.

Perhaps, the person with the best credentials in this area was the apostle Paul.  In Galatians 5:16-26, Paul paints a vivid picture to help distinguish fleshly desires from the spirit.  These acts can serve as a monitor, revealing where you are heading based upon current actions.  Like a disciplined athlete, Paul began to fine tune the presence of Spirit, learning to keep in step with God.  However, 1 Timothy 1:15 reveals Paul’s failures when he chose the flesh over the Spirit, making progress through trials and errors.

Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path, Psalm 119:105.

Modern society has something Paul never had a copy of, the complete Bible.  According to the Psalmist, the Bible can serve as a spiritual flash light, pointing individuals in the right direction.  While you may encounter moments when you struggle to discern a clear cut decision on what to do, God has given everyone a conscience to help along the way.  My best advice to those uncertain about the next path to choose comes from Solomon.  “Many are the plan’s in a man’s heart, but the Lord’s purpose prevails.”  May the wisdom of the Bible serve as a key ingredient to help you get where you want to go.

by Jay Mankus

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Never Say Never

Posted on August 16, 2015 by expressyourself4him

As I reflect upon life on my birthday, I am reminded of a recent State Farm commercial.  A young man trying to play it cool professes “I’ll never get married!”  Shortly following every claim, each statement comes true.  Therefore, whether you’re young or old, never say never.

“Truly I tell you,” Jesus answered, “today—yes, tonight—before the rooster crows twice you yourself will disown me three times,” Mark 14:30.

Five years ago, I had dreams of becoming a college professor at a new community college about to open.  I thought my lone obstacle was completing my master’s degree, a third of the way through at the time.  However, financial issues squashed this from ever getting off the ground.  Six months later I was blind sided, out of a job and forced to invent myself.

But Peter insisted emphatically, “Even if I have to die with you, I will never disown you.” And all the others said the same, Mark 14:31.

In the Bible, Peter often comes off as cocky, boldly stating that he would never deny Jesus even if all the disciples did.  A couple of days later, Peter publicly denied Jesus three times.  At the sound of a rooster crowing, Peter was reminded of his vow.  Full of regret and remorse, even the confident like Peter experience painful reminders to never say never.

by Jay Mankus

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When the Lines Vanish

Posted on August 6, 2015 by expressyourself4him

While watching a rerun of I-Robot, a 2004 film featuring Will Smith, there are parallels to modern day life.  This Science Fiction movie takes place in 2035, where the richest corporation in Chicago, U.S. Robotics, has a lofty goal of having a robot in every home.  Guided by the three laws, founders of the NS-5 robots believed there creation was flawless.

“Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it,” Matthew 7:13.

Today, boundaries of the past have been replaced, exchanging biblical standards with a progressive form of political correctness.  Instead of relying on a book, the Bible to define right from wrong, a liberal playbook is being laid out to re-educate the hearts, minds and souls to a new generation.  Thus, when the moral lines of yesterday vanish, the government is seeking to take over like U.S. Robotics in I-Robot.

If anyone, then, knows the good they ought to do and doesn’t do it, it is sin for them, James 4:17.

As acts of violence escalate, perhaps one can assume that those crossing this invisible line are amoral.  However, knowing ethics does not always guarantee that actions will follow.  Free will built into an individual’s DNA can override the facts of life.  Therefore, when the lines vanish, revolution is inevitable.  In these days and times, fasting and prayer is essential to keep people on track spiritually, shining light into a world filled with darkness.

by Jay Mankus

 

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The Difference in a Gift

Posted on August 2, 2015 by expressyourself4him

In the Ultimate Gift, Drew Fuller plays Jason Stevens, a spoiled brat who has lived a life of luxury.  Despite his grandfather’s efforts to curtail this behavior, Red Stevens leaves his grandson an unusual inheritance, a series of tests.  Following the completion of each task, Jason receives the next challenge.  A different kind of gift, the goal of this exercise is to wean Jason off of his love of money.

Again I tell you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God,” Matthew 19:24.

This passage of the Bible suggests its harder for the wealthy to enter heaven than the poor.  Speaking in hyperbole, Jesus references the area outside of city gates where camels would be tied up.  Based upon the context, an encounter with a rich young ruler, the rich tend to find assurance in their accumulated finances.  Thus, trusting in the Lord for salvation becomes more complicated as one amasses great wealth.

“They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything—all she had to live on,” Mark 12:44.

During past experiences on mission trips in college, I was always amazed at the peace dirt poor individuals possess.  Shacks are appreciated like a mansion, thankful for every little possession.  Thus, when a person stricken by poverty offers up a gift, its usually out of the goodness in their hearts.  This offering probably won’t be gold or silver.  Yet, when moved by the Holy Spirit, the poor give, trusting that the Lord will provide their daily bread.

by Jay Mankus

 

 

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When the Truth is Silenced

Posted on July 26, 2015 by expressyourself4him

If you have ever traveled to a foreign country, not every place you visit is safe.  Depending upon freedom of the press that exists, certain key elements, information or issues may be withheld, sugarcoating the truth.  Thus, whether you are a citizen, resident or just passing by, the message communicated in newspapers or portrayed on television may not be true.  As political correctness redefines daily coverage of the news, the truth of specific matters is often silenced.

Don’t let anyone deceive you in any way, for that day will not come until the rebellion occurs and the man of lawlessness is revealed, the man doomed to destruction, 2 Thessalonians 2:3.

The Bible is no longer a moral compass to reference in America.  Nor is the Ten Commandments a measuring stick since its offensive to those who hold other worldviews.  Rather, a New Age is being introduced to public education through Common Core, where there is more than one answer to a question.  Subsequently, truth is now relative, silencing ethical and moral truths of the past.

For the secret power of lawlessness is already at work; but the one who now holds it back will continue to do so till he is taken out of the way, 2 Thessalonians 2:7.

This topic reminds me of a classic Memorex commercial.  Sometimes technology can be used to deceive individuals from reality.  Films like Enemy of the State, The Net and Live Free or Die Hard illustrate how breeches in security can collapse an entire nation.  In addition, laws like Net Neutrality do the opposite of what they claim, actually silencing the truth rather than defending it.  In view of these signs of the end of days, may the Holy Spirit protect you from lies by clinging to God’s truth.

by Jay Mankus

 

 

 

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