Tag Archives: encouraged

When Lying was a Crime Against Humanity

Posted on July 11, 2023 by expressyourself4him

As someone who has worked in guest services, I learned that customers are always right. If a guest was not satisfied with their round of golf, getting cursed out became part of my job, regardless of how unpleasant it was for me. I was always taught to allow disappointed customers to finish their rant followed by my line, “is there anything else I can help you with today?” Since advertisement still comes down to word of mouth, being caught in a lie can and has ruined respectable businesses.

Then Laban overtook Jacob. Now Jacob had pitched his tent on the hill, and Laban coming with his kinsmen pitched [his tents] on the same hill of Gilead. 26 And Laban said to Jacob, What do you mean stealing away and leaving like this without my knowing it, and carrying off my daughters as if captives of the sword? 27 Why did you flee secretly and cheat me and did not tell me, so that I might have sent you away with joy and gladness and with singing, with tambourine and lyre? 28 And why did you not permit me to kiss my sons [grandchildren] and my daughters good-bye? Now you have done foolishly [in behaving like this]. 29 It is in my power to do you harm; but the God of your father spoke to me last night, saying, Be careful that you do not speak from good to bad to Jacob [peaceably, then violently]. 30 And now you felt you must go because you were homesick for your father’s house, but why did you steal my [household] [c]gods? – Genesis 31:25-30.

From a biblical point of view, your name meant everything in Old Testament communities. If an individual did not follow through with what they had promised to do, it ruined this person’s reputation and cast a stain upon their parents and family members. Rather than take personal responsibility by reaping what you sow, Galatians 6:7-8, liars play the victim card. As good, decent and noble citizens have their lives destroyed by corrupt politicians, modern liars are creating a crime against humanity.

A false witness shall not be unpunished, and he who breathes forth lies shall perish, Proverbs 19:9.

From a more practical perspective, the Roman Catholic Church encouraged me to follow the Golden Rule, Matthew 7:12. This verse was an integral part of my Confirmation process, “treating others as you want to be treated.” Jesus expands upon this during a conversation with a lawyer in Matthew 22:36-40. Loving others is motivated by loving God first. Those who struggle to love God often aren’t able to follow the Golden Rule. When communities replace love with hate, lying is used as a cover or excuse. When lying goes unpunished, this may lead to a crime against humanity as neighbors fail to uphold the Golden Rule.

by Jay Mankus

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To Your Posterity

Posted on February 12, 2023 by expressyourself4him

Posterity refers to all future generations of people based upon their descendants. This is much different than posture which is the position in which someone holds their body when standing or sitting. Yet, the Psalmist blends these two terms in Psalm 1:1-3. Human nature influences individuals to copy unwholesome behavior. The friends you chose and make in life will often pressure you to conform to their ways. If you join in and sit down with these individuals, your posterity will change for the worse.

Abram passed through the land to the locality of Shechem, to the oak or terebinth tree of Moreh. And the Canaanite was then in the land. 7 Then the Lord appeared to Abram and said, I will give this land to your posterity. So Abram built an altar there to the Lord, Who had appeared to him, Genesis 12:6-7.

However, if you chose that which brings life, your posterity will result in future blessings like God’s promise to Abram, Deuteronomy 30:15-17. As God continues to reveal himself to Abram in the book of Genesis, Abram is introduced to a vision of a spiritual legacy. To a man married to a woman who is unable to have children, this seems preposterous when God paints a picture of Abraham’s descendants being like countless stars in the sky, Genesis 22:17.

Also I [the angel], in the first year of Darius the Mede, even I, stood up to confirm and to strengthen him [Michael, the angelic prince]. 2 And now I will show you the truth. Behold, there shall arise three more kings in Persia, and a fourth shall be far richer than they all. And when he has become strong through his riches he shall stir up and stake all against the realm of Greece. 3 Then a [a]mighty [warlike, threatening] king shall arise who shall rule with great dominion and do according to his [own] will, Daniel 11:1-3.

Human beings can only do so much to alter their posterity. While talking to a group of relatives last summer on my wife’s side of the family, I was praised for how well the lives of my three children have turned out. Instead of taking credit, I immediately quoted a spiritual mentor from Delaware who encouraged me to daily pray for each of my children. The hours that parents pray for their children annually can alter their path and lead to a successful posterity in the future.

by Jay Mankus

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S.A.N.S. Episode 324: All I Want for Christmas is You

Posted on December 22, 2022 by expressyourself4him

Mariah Carey was at her peak in popularity while I was in college. Back in the late 1980’s, top secular singers were encouraged to release Christmas albums every December. While the lyrics of All I Want for Christmas is You refers to a significant other, the meaning of this song should be centered on wanting to enter into a personal relationship with Jesus, Romans 10:9-11. While Christmas is about bringing families together, Jesus should the star under your tree.

But as he was thinking this over, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, Joseph, descendant of David, do not be afraid to take Mary [as] your wife, for that which is conceived in her is of (from, out of) the Holy Spirit. 21 She will bear a Son, and you shall call His name Jesus [the Greek form of the Hebrew Joshua, which means Savior], for He will save His people from their sins [that is, prevent them from [a]failing and missing the true end and scope of life, which is God], Matthew 1:20-21.

One of the nicknames given to Mariah for her numerous Christmas songs is the Queen of Christmas. The term Christmas is derived from Latin which means the Mass of Christmas. Churches across the country will be filled this week, some for the very first time this year. Perhaps this is a sign of penance, a plea to ask God for forgiveness for their prodigal ways. Others will sit at home on Sunday but will be back for Easter to do this all over again. May services this Christmas inspire hearts to only want one thing for Christmas, Jesus.

by Jay Mankus

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The First Tentmaker

Posted on December 9, 2022 by expressyourself4him

Six months following my graduation from the University of Delaware, I was floundering as a social worker and youth director. Based upon my interactions with ministry leaders in Delaware, I reached a point where I didn’t know what to do anymore. Since my life experiences were limited as a twenty-one-year-old, I scanned the internet to see if there was an organization that could help me. I stumbled upon Tentmakers Youth Ministry based in Hopkins, Minnesota. After a series of phone conversations and interviews, I was selected to participate in a relatively new extensive seven-week leadership training program. When I arrived, this was like a spiritual bootcamp who anyone interested in making the ministry their fulltime career.

To Enoch was born Irad, and Irad was the father of Mehujael, and Mehujael the father of Methusael, and Methusael the father of Lamech. 19 And Lamech took two wives; the name of the one was Adah and of the other was Zillah. 20 Adah bore Jabal; he was the father of those who dwell in tents and have cattle and purchase possessions, Genesis 4:18-20.

Some days when I arrived on campus of the host church, people I talked with the day before were gone. As this training unfolded, a few quit and others were asked to leave because they didn’t possess the necessary ministry skills to survive this difficult career path. What I found out later, leaders were sitting in the back of the room observing our behavior and daily interactions. While this seems cut-throat, it’s better to exit before you fail than end up being the next headline in the latest church scandal. Although the workload was grueling, pressing the limits of my comfort zone day after day, Tentmakers Youth Ministry transformed me. This was the closest I ever came to experiencing heaven on earth, becoming close with people like Phil and Otis, both gifted ministers.

After this [Paul] departed from Athens and went to Corinth. 2 There he met a Jew named Aquila, a native of Pontus, recently arrived from Italy with Priscilla his wife, due to the fact that Claudius had issued an edict that all the Jews were to leave Rome. And [Paul] went to see them, 3 And because he was of the same occupation, he stayed with them; and they worked [together], for they were tentmakers by trade, Acts 18:1-3.

This organization is based upon the apostle Paul’s philosophy about ministry. Paul believed that missionaries shouldn’t rely mainly on donations from sponsors. Rather, Paul encouraged Christian leaders to find a trade you are gifted in and use a portion of these funds to support your ministry. One of the reasons why Aquila and Paul became close friends is that they shared the ability to make tents. As Paul traveled throughout the Middle East and Mediterranean Sea, others were impressed by the tent Paul made for himself and wanted one as well. The first recorded tentmaker in history is Jabal, a descendant of Enoch. God blessed Jabal who traveled from field to field with his cattle, living in tents he made. If you have any aspirations to start your own ministry, follow the tentmaker model so that God will begin to make your dreams a reality.

by Jay Mankus

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S.A.N.S. Episode 250: Thank God for Sunday Morning

Posted on October 9, 2022 by expressyourself4him

There are certain songs that just play on the radio at the exact time you need to hear it. Michael Cochren is the voice behind Cochren & Co. Michael is a worship leader from Indiana who has been inspired by God to tell stories of hope, grace and second chances in his music. Today’s song Thank God for Sunday Morning is a perfect example as Michael sings about younger years when he lived for the weekends.

Rejoice in the Lord always [delight, gladden yourselves in Him]; again I say, Rejoice! 5 Let all men know and perceive and recognize your unselfishness (your considerateness, your forbearing spirit). The Lord is near [He is [a]coming soon], Philippians 4:4-5.

While driving home one night, I was discouraged by my work schedule which has prevented me from regularly attending church on Sunday. The song Thank God for Sunday Morning started playing a few minutes later. The lyrics spoke to me like God was sending a direct message to me. As you listen to Thank God for Sunday Morning, may you be encouraged as I was a few weeks ago.

by Jay Mankus

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S.A.N.S. Episode 235: I’m Not Who I Was

Posted on September 24, 2022 by expressyourself4him

One of the requirements for a disciple of Jesus is introduced in Matthew 16:24-27. Jesus lays out 3 expectations: deny yourself, take up your cross and follow me. Prior to ascending into heaven, Jesus clarifies his great commission in Acts 1:8. Modern Christian musicians like Brandon Heath use their voices to tell the world about Jesus, spreading the Gospel throughout the earth.

You have heard of my earlier career and former manner of life in the Jewish religion (Judaism), how I persecuted and abused the church of God furiously and extensively, and [with fanatical zeal did my best] to make havoc of it and destroy it. 14 And [you have heard how] I outstripped many of the men of my own generation among the people of my race in [my advancement in study and observance of the laws of] Judaism, so extremely enthusiastic and zealous I was for the traditions of my ancestors. 15 But when He, Who had chosen and set me apart [even] before I was born and had called me by His grace (His undeserved favor and blessing), saw fit and was pleased, Galatians 1:13-15.

Brandon uses the outline provided by the apostle Paul in the passage above to communicate his testimony. The lyrics of I’m Not Who I Was explains how the grace of God and the power of the Holy Spirit has gradually transformed Brandon’s life. As you listen to this song, may you be encouraged that it’s never too late to change for the better.

by Jay Mankus

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Finding Spiritual Spotters

Posted on June 30, 2022 by expressyourself4him

I was a novice weightlifter as I entered college. While I went with friends to local gyms, I didn’t really know what I was doing. When I moved off campus my junior year, one of my roommates was a former high school all-American linebacker. Mike turned our attic into a hardcore gym. Mike introduced me to the concept of spotting someone. When you lose the ability to finish a lift, the spotter comes to your rescue by pushing with you to place the bar into the barbell holder.

When Moses held up his hand, Israel prevailed; and when he lowered his hand, Amalek prevailed. 12 But Moses’ hands were heavy and grew weary. So [the other men] took a stone and put it under him and he sat on it. Then Aaron and Hur held up his hands, one on one side and one on the other side; so his hands were steady until the going down of the sun, Exodus 17:11-12.

Depending upon your age, strength, and the weight you are lifting, you may need one or two spotters. Anytime you’re lifting over 250 pounds, its safer to have 2 spotters, one on either side of the barbell. Yet, if you’re working out with someone like Mike whose body resembled a chiseled rock, one spotter is all you need. One of the roles of a spotter parallels a modern day life coach. Mike weekly challenged, encouraged, and pushed me to become stronger every day.

And Joshua mowed down and disabled Amalek and his people with the sword, Exodus 17:13.

One of the immediate benefits of having a spiritual spotter occurred during the Intramural Ultimate Frisbee title game. The guy who was guarding me was 6 foot 3, just under 200 pounds. While in the end zone, I was practically tackled as my elbow violently hit the ground. Yet, I held on, our team tied the game on the final play and won the championship in overtime. As you find and surround yourself with spiritual spotters, you’ll reach new heights, often well beyond your imagination and dream.

by Jay Mankus

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Let Marriage be Held in Honor

Posted on December 29, 2021 by expressyourself4him

In my earliest years as a child living in New Jersey, divorce wasn’t even part of my vocabulary. After moving to Delaware, I was introduced to this term when one of my friends mom got divorced twice. During my teenage years, it was still uncommon to enter a home where parents were divorced. Yet, as I entered high school, more and more adults began to give up on failing marriages.

Let marriage be held in honor (esteemed worthy, precious, of great price, and especially dear) in all things. And thus let the marriage bed be undefiled (kept undishonored); for God will judge and punish the unchaste [all guilty of sexual vice] and adulterous, Hebrews 13:4.

Perhaps this trend was encouraged by popular shows like Mash which regularly showed members of the Army cheating on their spouses. Distance and loneliness was seen as an acceptable reason for breaking marriage vows. At some point in the 1980’s, affairs, flings and one night stands aired weekly on major network television. Once cable arrived, temptation and sexual fantasies trampled this once sacred vow.

Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and they who indulge in it shall eat the fruit of it [for death or life]. 22 He who finds a [true] wife finds a good thing and obtains favor from the Lord, Proverbs 18:21-22.

This Bible may be considered an old fashion book with values that no longer applies to modern day life. Yet, King Solomon makes an interesting observation in the passage above. The words you speak, the people you hang around and the beliefs that are formed will shape your destiny. These self fulfilled prophecies will either produce healthy or failed marriages. May this blog persuade you to hold marriage as an honorable and sacred tradition.

by Jay Mankus

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A Little Bit of Kindness Can Go A Long Way

Posted on September 21, 2021 by expressyourself4him

In the King James Version of the Bible, the actual term for kindness is one word “lovingkindness.” Loving kindness is found 30 times in this translation of the Bible. The most famous passage where kindness is found is known as the Fruits of the Spirit, Galatians 5:22-23. According to the apostle Paul, kindness is a reflection of the Holy Spirit living inside of a human being. When displayed, a little bit of kindness can go a long way.

But love your enemies and be kind and do good [doing favors [z]so that someone derives benefit from them] and lend, expecting and hoping for nothing in return but [aa]considering nothing as lost and despairing of no one; and then your recompense (your reward) will be great (rich, strong, intense, and abundant), and you will be sons of the Most High, for He is kind and charitable and good to the ungrateful and the selfish and wicked. 36 So be merciful (sympathetic, tender, responsive, and compassionate) even as your Father is [all these], Luke 6:35-36.

Jesus has a different standard for his followers. Christians are expected to not only love their enemies, but to pray for them as well. When kindness is poured out upon the heart broken, poor and total strangers, souls are encouraged and uplifted. Unfortunately, in this age of social media, kindness is a lost art. Rather than share kind comments, posts and tweets, gossip, slander and trashing others has taken center stage.

 Let all bitterness and indignation and wrath (passion, rage, bad temper) and resentment (anger, animosity) and quarreling (brawling, clamor, contention) and slander (evil-speaking, abusive or blasphemous language) be banished from you, with all malice (spite, ill will, or baseness of any kind). 32 And become useful and helpful and kind to one another, tenderhearted (compassionate, understanding, loving-hearted), forgiving one another [readily and freely], as God in Christ forgave you, Ephesians 4:31-32.

The apostle Paul reveals in the passage above how to overcome negativity. Instead of allowing yourself to be poisoned by the darkness in this world, Paul calls Christians to be compassionate, tenderhearted and understanding. Despite how other individuals may treat you, genuine kindness is learning how to forgive as Jesus forgave you. When this perspective becomes fully grasped, a little bit of kindness can go a long way in changing your spheres of influence for the better.

by Jay Mankus

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Tuck in Your Shirt

Posted on July 1, 2021 by expressyourself4him

I spent a decade of my life teaching the Bible at a large Christian Academy. On chapel days boys were required to wear a dress shirt and tie while girls had to wear a dress or skirt. Just before this worship service, teachers were expected to do a quick check for any dress code violations. Homeroom teachers were encouraged to remind boys to tuck in their shirt prior to walking over to the sanctuary or else face the risk of receiving a demerit.

We have renounced disgraceful ways (secret thoughts, feelings, desires and underhandedness, the methods and arts that men hide through shame); we refuse to deal craftily (to practice trickery and cunning) or to adulterate or handle dishonestly the Word of God, but we state the truth openly (clearly and candidly). And so we commend ourselves in the sight and presence of God to every man’s conscience, 2 Corinthians 4:2.

The apostle Paul introduced the concept of the belt of truth in the first century. In a letter to the Church at Ephesus, Paul urges readers to fastened the belt of truth, Ephesians 6:14. As a Roman Soldier prepared for battle, securing this belt was crucial for maximizing their mobility so they do they won’t get caught on anything. Yet, when you tell a teenage boy tuck in your shirt, most don’t know why it’s necessary or simply don’t care.

You are of your father, the devil, and it is your will to practice the lusts and gratify the desires [which are characteristic] of your father. He was a murderer from the beginning and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaks a falsehood, he speaks what is natural to him, for he is a liar [himself] and the father of lies and of all that is false, John 8:44.

Paul equates this belt with truth. When individuals allow exaggerations, half-truths, lies and ungodly beliefs to enter their mind, gray areas begin to develop and expand. The Bible is designed to bring clarity and light to confusing or difficult concepts to grasp. However, when Christians go days, weeks and months without opening this book, rules like tuck in your shirt are quickly dismissed. If anyone becomes disconnected from God’s Word, John 15:1-5, you will be susceptible to the father of lies who can deceive you from what is true. May God’s Word open your eyes to help to see the big picture for tucking in your shirt.

by Jay Mankus

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