Tag Archives: DUI’s

Under the Influence of Hypocrisy

Posted on September 24, 2019 by expressyourself4him

The definition of under the influence refers to the capacity or power of a substance to be a compelling force on or produce effects on the actions, behavior, and language of individuals. This phrase is often used in the context of driving a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Terms such as drunk, inebriated, intoxicated and tipsy are synonyms to describe someone who is under the influence of a foreign substance. If souls make a conscious decision to participate in this type of behavior, are there other spiritual forces that affect, burden or control minds?

You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your brother’s eye, Matthew 7:5.

If you are like me, you probably know someone who lives by the motto, “do what I say, not as I do.” The practice of claiming to have moral standards or beliefs to which one’s own behavior does not reflect is hypocrisy. These type of individuals can be annoying, ruining a school or work setting. However, what if you reach a point in your own life where you possess good intentions, but you never carry out your convictions. Unfortunately, I find myself in this very predicament, under the influence of hypocrisy. I have become that which I despise.

If anyone says, “I love God,” and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen cannot love God whom he has not seen, 1 John 4:20.

One of Jesus’ disciples brings up a similar issue which began to occur during the first century. As new converts dedicated their lives from their past, sinful thoughts remained. Thus, while people could say they love God, many still harbored hate within their hearts, unable to forgive some people. In the initial portion of his Sermon on the Mount, Matthew 5, Jesus gives tangible examples of how to live out the 10 Commandments. During a debate with religious leaders, Jesus simplified these rules into 2 simple goals, love God and love your neighbor as yourself, Matthew 22:37-40. This is the only way I know to be set free from being under the influence of hypocrisy. If you still can’t break free, rely on prayer to rescue your soul.

by Jay Mankus

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The Court of Common Pleas

Posted on March 29, 2019 by expressyourself4him

The mission of the Court of Common Pleas is to provide a neutral forum for the people and institutions of a county or state. This court seeks to resolve everyday problems, disputes, and more complex legal matters in a fair and unbiased manner. Last week I was introduced to this process, serving as a parent in support of my son.

For [God does not overlook sin and] the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men who in their wickedness suppress and stifle the truth, 19 because that which is known about God is evident within them [in their inner consciousness], for God made it evident to them. 20 For ever since the creation of the world His invisible attributes, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood through His workmanship [all His creation, the wonderful things that He has made], so that they [who fail to believe and trust in Him] are without excuse and without defense, Romans 1:18-20.

Three decades ago, I found myself in a similar place, sitting in a courtroom in Ohio following a head on collusion that I was in during college. Prior to my case, there were three DUI’s, driving under the influence. Since my accident took place in an Amish county, all three men were operating a horse and buggy. While this experience was not what I expected, I pleaded no contest, paid my fine and moved on with the rest of my life.

For with the heart a person believes [in Christ as Savior] resulting in his justification [that is, being made righteous—being freed of the guilt of sin and made acceptable to God]; and with the mouth he acknowledges and confesses [his faith openly], resulting in and confirming [his] salvation. 11 For the Scripture says, “Whoever believes in Him [whoever adheres to, trusts in, and relies on Him] will not be disappointed [in his expectations],” Romans 10:10-11.

The apostle Paul indirectly refers to a spiritual Court of Common Pleas. In a letter to the church at Rome, Paul makes an argument that no one is without excuse. What Paul is saying is that every human being possesses the same flaw, born with a sinful nature. This inclination is at war with God’s Spirit sent as a counselor to guide you toward the narrow path, Matthew 7:13-14. Yet, before death, there is only one plea that is acceptable to God, Romans 10:9-10. Like the criminal on the cross who was helpless to save himself, those who call upon the name of the Lord will be saved. Whatever state this blog finds your life in, make sure your spiritual plea is consistent with the Bible.

by Jay Mankus

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