Tag Archives: Changing for the better

Hooked, Lined and Sinking

Whenever anyone has made up their mind to do something, whether good or bad, it’s nearly impossible to prevent them from acting out what has been conceived within their mind. Jesus’ earthly brother, son of Mary and Joseph, compares this to a hungry fish. While some fish are smarter than others, a particular bait is too enticing to resist. From a spiritual standpoint, this is called hooked, lined, and sinking further and further away from a sound mind.

But before they lay down, the men of the city of Sodom, both young and old, all the men from every quarter, surrounded the house. And they called to Lot and said, Where are the men who came to you tonight? Bring them out to us, that we may know (be intimate with) them, Genesis 19:4-5.

As someone who has lived in the city and country, every area possesses what locals refer to as relatively safe and unsafe places. As a new resident to South Carolina, I may have ventured into danger without knowing about it. Nonetheless I try to stay alert so I don’t wander into trouble. Unfortunately sin clouds the minds of the addicted and those struggling with bad habits. Anyone who falls under the influence of temptation will likely emulate the enticed fish in the passage below.

Let no one say when he is tempted, I am tempted from God; for God is incapable of being tempted by [what is] evil and He Himself tempts no one. 14 But every person is tempted when he is drawn away, enticed and baited by his own evil desire (lust, passions). 15 Then the evil desire, when it has conceived, gives birth to sin, and sin, when it is fully matured, brings forth death, James 1:13-15.

While Lot lived in a he city of Sodom, he kept to himself based upon Moses’ description. However as two angels visit Lot, it’s clear that the residents are open about their sexuality. Moses’ words highlight the enticement and lust inside their hearts. When human beings don’t care about changing for the better, it’s like a hooked fish sinking closer and closer toward death. Wake up before it’s too late.

By Jay Mankus

False Assumptions

The analytical may not always develop the simplest solution, yet the end result makes much more sense than policies created by politicians.  In many cases, adults are treated like high school students, punishing the masses for the sins of a few.  Meanwhile, public service announcements assume that alcoholics, drug addicts and out of control gamblers can change just by listening to an ad.

A psalm of David. I call to you, LORD, come quickly to me; hear me when I call to you, Psalm 141:1.

According to motivational speakers, the key to transforming individuals begins and ends with one’s attitude.  Attitudes are like navigational devices, steering people based upon their moods either in positive or negative directions.  However, if you can encourage someone’s attitude to change, they can turn around their own life.

Do not let my heart be drawn to what is evil so that I take part in wicked deeds along with those who are evildoers; do not let me eat their delicacies, Psalm 141:4.

Any plan which neglects attitudes will lead to false assumptions.  Few addicts can and will able to quit cold turkey, able to walk away without ever succumbing to temptations of the past.  Rather, if anyone wants a realistic approach to break free from past demons, pray for a new attitude.  May this journey lead to life altering results.

by Jay Mankus