Tag Archives: blessings

Where Dreams and Destiny Intersect

Posted on October 3, 2016 by expressyourself4him

Working at Amazon, I come across thousands of books annually with interesting titles.  One book that I own is entitled, You Are What You Speak.  While I haven’t read this book from cover to cover, its premise claims the words you choose influences the person you become.  For example, the more positive your outlook, the better your chances improve on reaching your dreams and goals in life.  Meanwhile, the more pessimistic you get, the less likely your dreams and destiny will ever intersect.

Saying, “If you will diligently listen to the voice of the Lord your God, and do that which is right in his eyes, and give ear to his commandments and keep all his statutes, I will put none of the diseases on you that I put on the Egyptians, for I am the Lord, your healer,” Exodus 15:26.

In a world losing honesty and integrity, Moses shares an important message to Israel during the Exodus out of Egypt.  Moses doesn’t guess or speculate, he writes with certainty.  If you want to avoid the same fate as Pharaoh’s people, be diligent in listening to the voice of the Lord.  Moses isn’t out of his mind, rather he is leading the way toward healing, safety and security in this life.  When you keep God’s commandments, you are laying a fertile foundation for faith to take root.

But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well, Matthew 6:33.

In the middle of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount, he references Moses indirectly.  Yet, Jesus lays out a blue print for those who long for a place where dreams and destiny intersect.  Instead of creating a shopping list of prayers to present before God, Jesus sets out the priorities needed to receive God’s blessings.  First, seek out God’s kingdom as you pursue righteousness.  Once faith becomes a life style, then daily bread and many more things will be provided supernaturally from God.  Although I haven’t reached this place yet, I long for the day when my dreams and destiny intersect.

by Jay Mankus

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Trying to Find a New Normal

Posted on September 28, 2016 by expressyourself4him

Every day that you wake up brings its own blessings and curses.  You never know what to expect as uncertainty lurks around each corner.  Subsequently, one day Job lost his farm animals in a series of unexplainable events.  Before this day ended, his children were all killed by a tornado.  In response to this tragic news, Job makes a statement which still applies today, “the Lord gives and takes away.”

And said: “Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked I will depart.   The LORD gave and the LORD has taken away; may the name of the LORD be praised,” Job 1:21.

When the grieving process comes to an end, individuals need to find a new normal.  Prior to August of this year, life was a lot less complicated.  However, now that my youngest son has been diagnosed with type one diabetes, every meal is like taking a math quiz to determine the total number of carbs.  Despite this recent trial, I can’t overlook all the blessings God has provided.  So when the Lord does begin to take some things away, don’t forget to praise and thank Him for the blessings in disguise.

His wife said to him, “Are you still maintaining your integrity? Curse God and die!”  He replied, “You are talking like a foolish woman. Shall we accept good from God, and not trouble?” In all this, Job did not sin in what he said, Job 2:9-10.

When illness attacked Job’s body, his faith was once again put to the test.  At some point in his health scare, Job’s wife lost it, becoming angry and bitter at God.  Despite her advice, Job stood strong, accepting the trial God allowed to occur.  To make matters worse, 3 friends suggested some sort of hidden sin had brought God’s wrath upon Job and his family.  Nonetheless, over time Job found a new normal, remained faithful to the Lord and was rewarded with new children and possessions to replace that which was lost.

by Jay Mankus

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Seeking God First…Maybe Second…Actually Third

Posted on September 11, 2016 by expressyourself4him

Good intentions and reality are two different things.  My daily routine is a good example of this paradox.  My goal to seek God first daily doesn’t always work out as I plan.  Most days God falls out of the top spot, sliding down to second, third or lower.  How I spend or waste time will ultimately reveal where my heart and mind is.

Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows, Galatians 6:7.

The apostle Paul was never known to beat around the bush.  Thus, his words serve as a wake up call, putting my own actions on trial.  Despite what the world may believe, God can’t be fooled.  Receiving blessings isn’t automatic.  Rather, what comes around, goes around as individuals reap what they sow.  Therefore, the lower I place God in my priorities, the less I can expect from the Lord in return.

But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well, Matthew 6:33.

Despite my failure, Jesus did leave a blue print to help people get back on track.  During the Sermon on the Mount, two things must happen before one can achieve God’s favor.  First, serving others, with eternity in mind must come first.  In addition, individuals should hunger and thirst for righteousness, eager to draw closer and closer to God.  Only when these two principles are carried out, will individuals begin to experience daily bread, like manna from heaven entering your life.  Until then, resolve to seek Jesus first.

by Jay Mankus

 

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The Absence of Discipline

Posted on September 4, 2016 by expressyourself4him

One of the definitions of discipline eludes to a branch of knowledge.  Similar to higher education, discipline is self-taught or prodded through some sort of accountability relationship.  This concept involves dedication, hard work and strict training.  For those who commit by developing daily routines usually experience blessings, success and wealth.

For lack of discipline they will die, led astray by their own great folly, Proverbs 5:23.

On the other side of the spectrum, you will find apathy.  Those who indulge in this behavior will go through periods of complacency.  The by-product of this decision causes individuals to lose sight of their goals, living day to day.  Subsequently, vision for the future slowly disappears as depression, laziness and hopelessness take over.  This is what likely inspired Solomon to claim the lack of discipline will lead to death.

For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline, 2 Timothy 1:7.

If you have found yourself in a steady decline recently, the apostle Paul provides a message of hope.  The Holy Spirit was sent by God following Jesus’ ascension into heaven to empower those who call on the name of Lord.  Therefore, don’t allow a spirit of pessimism to reign within you.  Rather, claim the promise in the passage above so that you will escape an undisciplined life.

by Jay Mankus

 

 

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Savor the Moments

Posted on June 19, 2016 by expressyourself4him

As a parent, I have a tendency to fast forward to the future.  It’s natural to want to skip diapers, the terrible twos and questioning stage.  Yet, if you avoid these difficult phases, its hard to appreciate the little things in life.  Thus, as my oldest son James starts his freshman year of college at Liberty University in the fall, all I can do is savor the moments.

But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, “Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!” – Luke 10:40

Most people fall into one of two categories, possessing a personality like Mary or Martha.  Martha’s tend to be worry warts, usually serious, struggling to slow down.  Thus, in the passage above, Martha’s tunnel vision prevents her from enjoying Jesus’ visit.  Frustrated by the lack of concern by her sister, Martha’s words are played out in countless households daily.  Unfortunately, this character flaw steals the joy Martha should possess at this moment.

But few things are needed—or indeed only one.  Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her,” Luke 10:42.

Those of you who are carefree tend to fall into the Mary category.  Sure, she might not be task oriented like her sister, but she longs for conversations.  Eager to find out where Jesus has been, the people he’s met and progress the ministry has made, this explains the compliment Mary receives.  Although it may be difficult to alter your personalty, you don’t want to miss out on the blessings God has in store for you.  Therefore, with the help of the Holy Spirit, may you learn to savor the moments.

by Jay Mankus

 

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Get Rid of It

Posted on April 27, 2016 by expressyourself4him

As a child, there were always a couple of things I dreaded.  Whether it was cleaning my room, doing homework or eating vegetables, my parents nagged me into obedience.  However, unless you are married or have a significant other, the older you get, the less you will hear people say, “get rid of it.”

So get rid of all evil behavior. Be done with all deceit, hypocrisy, jealousy, and all unkind speech, 1 Peter 2:1.

This was not the case in the first century.  As a growing number of Gentiles came to faith in Christ, apostles began to share a common message.  Prior to any exposure to religion, most individuals follow in the ways of their ancestors or parents.  Yet, entering into a personal relationship with Jesus Christ is like being reborn.  Therefore, drastic changes to your life must be made if you want to experience spiritual fruit.

So I say, let the Holy Spirit guide your lives. Then you won’t be doing what your sinful nature craves, Galatians 5:16.

Peter talks about purging yourself from the impurities of life.  Meanwhile, the apostle Paul provides more specific instructions, using the Holy Spirit as a guide for life.  Although any type of change is difficult, obedience to these two passages will result in future blessings.  Thus, whether you like it or not, parents are usually right, so get rid of those things which drag you down while there is still time.

by Jay Mankus

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Faith + Patience = Blessings

Posted on March 16, 2016 by expressyourself4him

Faith is like having an imaginary friend as a child.  However, instead of talking to this person, you develop a strong belief that everything will be all right.  Over time questioning parents are replaced by a cynical world, trying to convince you that you’re insane or hallucinating.  In the final episode of Joan of Arcadia, Season 1, doctors persuade Joan, played by Amber Tamblyn, that her encounters with God have been a figment of her imagination.  In the same way, when God is silent its not uncommon for many to lose faith.

And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him, Hebrews 11:6.

Patience on the other hand is one of those virtues you would like to possess, but are afraid to pray for.  Anyone who asks God for patience will be ushered into numerous situations that will force you to learn this trait the hard way.  Beyond praying, patience is often acquired over a period of time in the form of lessons learned through trials.  Time has a way of helping individuals see the big picture, using hindsight to recognize God’s hand in your past.  Thus, patient people tend to lean on faith which ultimately leads to blessings.

Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance, James 1:2-3.

When you add two numbers together in math, the outcome is always identical.  Unfortunately, the same can’t be said about life.  Job endured horrible disappointment which led friends to believe these events were a form of God’s punishment for some unconfessed sin.  These anomies continue to exist today, pushing faith and patience to the limit.  Nonetheless, if you follow the words of Deuteronomy 28:1-3, over the long haul you will find that faith plus patience leads to blessings.

by Jay Mankus

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A Day of Laziness

Posted on January 1, 2016 by expressyourself4him

While some individuals will be making last second New Year’s resolutions, there is an invisible obstacle that tends to sneak up on the unassuming.  Commercials such as “you deserve a break today” feed into this mindset.  Thus, if you let your guard down, become complacent or careless, a day of laziness can be the beginning of the end of your dreams.

The soul of the sluggard craves and gets nothing, while the soul of the diligent is richly supplied, Proverbs 13:4.

As I reflect upon what is left of 2015, I’m ashamed to say that I’ve been a victim of days of laziness.  Somewhere along the way, a laissez-faire spirit entered my body.  Sleeping in here and a lack of discipline there has resulted in a luck luster year.  Before I could mount a comeback, compromise has stalled my momentum, leaving sorrow and pain in my heart.

The desire of the sluggard kills him, for his hands refuse to labor, Proverbs 21:25.

Unfortunately, my spiritual state is like a lukewarm bottle of water on a sunny spring day.  Poor decisions on days of laziness have led me to a tattered soul.  There is no one else to blame but me.  The only blessing is that tomorrow is another day filled with God’s mercy, forgiveness and grace.  Therefore, I press on, hoping to avoid days of laziness in 2016 so I can begin to take hold of that which God has prepared for me in advance to do.

by Jay Mankus

 

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Crossing the Threshold into Prayer

Posted on December 1, 2015 by expressyourself4him

Some individuals have a tendency to think out loud.  Meanwhile, when alone others are in the habit of talking to themselves.  Unfortunately, a stereotype has conceived labeling any who talks to God or hears his voice to be crazy.  Thus, to enter a state of prayer requires a certain mindset, crossing over the threshold from the physical into the supernatural.

While Jeremiah was still confined in the courtyard of the guard, the word of the LORD came to him a second time, Jeremiah 33:1.

The power of prayer is like a restaurant which gradually grows as good news spreads through word of mouth.  If prayer doesn’t live up to your expectations, you won’t return, disappointed by your overall experience.  On the flip side, when you cross the threshold into prayer, a desire is conceived to return as soon as you have a chance.

Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know, Jeremiah 33:3.

In the days of the divided kingdom, Judah began to follow in the footsteps of Israel, gradually turning away from God.  Saddened by this choice, the prophet Jeremiah receives a message from the Lord.  Essentially, God promises those who cry out to the Lord in prayer, crossing over into the supernatural, will receive answers to the mysteries of this life.  Therefore, don’t let time or what others think hold you back from entering prayer.  While answers may not come immediately, those who cross this threshold will receive blessings, encouragement and guidance throughout life on earth.

by Jay Mankus

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Forgetting to Thank the One Providing the Blessings

Posted on November 26, 2015 by expressyourself4him

The expression “you don’t know what you had until its gone” often hits home over the holidays.  Each year death takes away someone or something special from our lives.  Unfortunately, when life is going well, people forget to be grateful.  Take for example the Israelites, freed from 400 years of oppression and slavery.  Yet, this wasn’t enough as hungry stomachs led to complaining and grumbling.  When God answered their prayers in the form of manna, bread from heaven, the magic of this miracle soon wore off, craving more.  As quail arrived, sent by the Lord, the Israelites forgot to thank the One providing the blessings.

The Israelites said to them, “If only we had died by the LORD‘s hand in Egypt!  There we sat around pots of meat and ate all the food we wanted, but you have brought us out into this desert to starve this entire assembly to death,” Exodus 16:3.

Doctors tend to notice certain details that most individuals miss.  In the case of Luke, a first century physician, his version of the Healing of 10 Lepers mentions an unique observation.  Leprosy attacks the vocal cords, limiting one’s ability to project their voices.  One of the ten healed by Jesus was overcome by emotion, crying out at the top of his lungs for the first time in years.  While Jesus is disappointed that only one person came back to thank him, Luke highlights the immediate healing experienced by this man.  The other nine took their speech for granted, yet one man did not miss the opportunity to thank the One who performed this blessing.

One of them, when he saw he was healed, came back, praising God in a loud voice.  He threw himself at Jesus’ feet and thanked him—and he was a Samaritan.  Jesus asked, “Were not all ten cleansed? Where are the other nine?  Has no one returned to give praise to God except this foreigner?” – Luke 17:15-18

On Thanksgiving Day, hearts and minds tend to be fixed on cooking, football or shopping.  Instead of slowing down to enjoy life, the pursuit of happiness causes souls to search for self-gratification.  This exercise usually leads to disappointment or emptiness.  Therefore, this year on this sacred day, make sure you take the time to thank the good Lord above for all the blessings in this life.  If you don’t, you will miss a golden opportunity to prepare your heart to catch the spirit of Christmas, with good tidings and great joy to all!

by Jay Mankus

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