Tag Archives: distressed

Amusing Myself to Death

The definition of entertainment refers to providing and or receiving amusement or enjoyment.  Early cultures built theaters, often used to host plays to provide comic relief from the troubles in life.  In recent years, sports allows individuals to release their stress for a couple of hours each weekend.  However, if you get too comfortable or close to the finer things in life, you may be in danger of amusing yourself to death.

While Paul was waiting for them in Athens, he was greatly distressed to see that the city was full of idols, Acts 17:16.

After a long week of work, I tend to find myself on a recliner soaking in something on television.  While I do spent time outside playing golf, at my current age, I prefer to be entertained.  Perhaps this explains why I have a hard time turning the channel when movies like A Few Good Men, Bourne Identity or Shawshank Redemption come on.  Its strange how reruns can attract someone’s attention, wasting valuable time that could be spent fulfilling your dreams.

So he reasoned in the synagogue with both Jews and God-fearing Greeks, as well as in the marketplace day by day with those who happened to be there, Acts 17:17.

One of the best resources for escaping the grips of amusement is Summit Ministries.  During my decade of teaching, Dr. Jeff Myers and John Stonestreet were at the forefront of preparing students for college.  One of their common messages is that life imitates art.   The best way to address this is by engaging today’s culture through apologetics.  Just as the apostle Paul persuaded the people of Athens, this world needs a leader to snap people out of their spiritual slumber.  May the Lord awaken couch potatoes with the saving grace of God.

by Jay Mankus

 

Friction and Frays

A rope exposed to the elements is vulnerable to becoming worn or tattered along the edges.  When friction arrives, increased tension can further weaken strands.  Under extreme conditions, this cord can snap, causing permanent damage.

David was greatly distressed because the men were talking of stoning him; each one was bitter in spirit because of his sons and daughters. But David found strength in the Lord his God. – 1 Samuel 30:6

Human beings have a lot in common with ropes.  The adventures in life can push individuals to their limits.  Stress added to any number of trials can cause people to become unwound, hanging on by a thread.  Thus, as friction and frays threaten to harm souls, something needs to be done to reattach these broken fibers.

He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds. – Psalm 147:3

If you ever feel like you’re coming apart at the seems, call out to the One who can weave you back together, Isaiah 41:10.  Jesus didn’t promise that life was going to be easy.  Rather, as storms develop, God has given us a solid rock to stand on when earthly foundations are washed away, Matthew 7:24.  Therefore, as friction continues to pose a threat, fraying parts of your soul, hold on to Jesus so that in God’s perfect timing, you will be made whole.

by Jay Mankus