Tag Archives: faith

Drifting Off Course

Posted on January 17, 2014 by expressyourself4him

It’s hard to believe that after a first weeks, most of my New Year resolutions have gone up in smoke as I drift off course, not following several of my goals for 2014.  My workout sessions didn’t last a week, eating healthy never got off the ground and others high hopes faded from the enthusiasm of a clean slate.  As I drove to work this morning, my biggest disappointment is the lack of leadership I have displayed in charting out a new course for the future.

Life as many of you know, involves ebbs and flows, highs and lows and periods of coasting where I find myself presently.  Caught in a state of transition, I’m not sure what I should commit to, where to invest my time and how my current financial position will be impacted by Obama Care and an economy propped up by a mirage.  In moment’s like this, true leaders blaze a new trail, see light beyond the darkness and become a rock of faith for their family.

In my current condition, this is impossible.  Fortunately, history reveals a message of optimism for those of you who have drifted off course.  Matthew 19:16-20 shares a story about a young man who on the surface appeared to have his act together.  Jesus, realizing this individual was trying on his own to earn eternal life, throws a curve ball sending the man away sad and causing his own disciples to question their own faith.  However, the point of this encounter is to teach the masses that with God, all things are possible, Matthew 19:25-26.  May this news turn your day and year around!

by Jay Mankus

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Is God Superstitious?

Posted on January 9, 2014 by expressyourself4him

Back in 2012, the National Football League and Budweiser teamed up for an ad campaign on superstitions.  As the writers became more creative, this slogan took on a local market feel geared toward all 32 NFL cities, “It’s only crazy if it doesn’t work.”  Whether its your favorite location to watch a game like Buffalo Wild Wings, a certain jersey you wear on game day or find a chair or place in your house where your team does the best, these traditions breed superstitions.

This concept is nothing new as Tom Cruise illustrates a similar point in the 1992 film A Few Good Men.  Preparing for the defense of his 2 clients on trial for murder, Lieutenant Kaffee appears to think better when he is holding his baseball bat.  When Demi Moore cleans up after a long strategy session at Kaffee’s home, placing the bat in a closet, Tom Cruise freaks out, warning her to never touch his bat again.  While retrieving  the bat, Cruise has a flash back from the crime scene providing the perfect argument for the case.  One must ask the question; Was it the bat or the location the bat was in?

This morning while reading Exodus 28, I was left to ponder, “Is God superstitious?”  According to Exodus 28:15, the Lord gave Moses directions to make a special garment for priests.  Whenever a priest had to make an important decision about Israel or on their future, Aaron, Moses’ brother would put on this breastplate to improve his thought process.  In Jesus’ day, another notion developed about touching the tassels worn by rabbis.  According to legend, the tassels attached to a rabbis cloak contained special powers and if touched like the woman in Luke 8:43-48, healing would result.  Knowing this mindset, Jesus wanted to make sure this woman knew that it wasn’t his cloak, it was her faith that brought healing.

Despite this information, human beings are extremely superstitious.  I fell prey to this while playing professional golf.  I noticed that whenever I wore certain shirts, I played really good or horrible causing me to believe it was the lucky or unlucky shirt that dictated how I played.  Even today, I’m embarrassed to say that I may not wear a shirt to  church, sit in a certain place or go watch a game where failure and losses have occurred in the past.  When you want something to happen this badly, its probably not a good thing.

As for the question is God superstitious, I believe the Lord embraces obedience, order and special places.  Jesus found God’s voice easier to hear in a quiet place, free from earthly distractions, Mark 1:35.  Although some individuals may appear lucky on the surface, maintaining blessings from God is dependent upon obedience, Deuteronomy 28:1-2.  Finally, as I study the book of Exodus, I am beginning the realize God’s sense of order and purpose the ark of the covenant, tabernacle, temple and articles which enhance worship.  In the end, God is not superstitious, He is simply supernatural!

Feel free to share your thoughts in the comment section of my blog.

by Jay Mankus

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Praying in Vain

Posted on January 8, 2014 by expressyourself4him

Whether you are old, young or somewhere in between, hopelessness can lead people to question what they are doing?  When things don’t go your way, creating a snowball effect, minds might begin to wonder if God really cares about you and your situation?  If these trials persist, doubt often enters the scene causing individuals to begin to believe, “what’s the point of praying?”  “Why should I continue to pour my heart and soul into prayer, when nothing seems to change.”

This is where you will find David in Psalm 5.  In the midst of his circumstances, this servant of God wanted to make sure he wasn’t praying in vain.  Thus, he reminds God of his attributes, character and personality early in the morning.  Using God as a crutch, David realizes the Lord is his last resort, the only force able to transform his predicament.  Tired of seeing arrogant, deceitful, evil and wicked individuals proper, David pleads with God based upon Moses words in the Old Testament.  Not worthy to be called righteous, David rests in mercy, Psalm 5:7, entering God’s presence with reverence and respect.  Prayers like this one inspired the Lord to call his humble servant a man after God’s heart, 1 Samuel 16:7.

Wherever this blog may find you, confidence lies in results.  As soon as you see direct answers and progress, your attitude will improve.  However, if your words offered up in faith return unanswered, one of 3 things may be true,  First, God may be keeping you from something that might steer you away from Him.  Second, God’s timing is likely not aligned with your prayer, resulting in a “not right now” response, Ecclesiastes 3:11.  Finally, there is a chance that someone, something or an unconfessed sin from the past is blocking God’s reply, Isaiah 1:15-17.  Follow the principles of Isaiah 1:18-19 and you will leave vanity for sanity, experiencing a slice of heaven here on earth, Matthew 6:33-34.

by Jay Mankus

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A Fellow Without a Ship

Posted on January 4, 2014 by expressyourself4him

While driving to this year’s New Year’s Eve party alone after work, my mind searched for an ideal atmosphere in 2014.  Ultimately, I am longing for a healthy balance between family and fellowship with friends.  Unfortunately, previous good intentions and new year resolution’s quickly faded early on, resulting in loneliness like a fellow without a ship.

Although I love spending time with others, my occupation, a spirit of perfectionism and a lack of energy has sucked a special ingredient from my soul.  Subsequently, I have drifted farther away from the people I need to make me whole again on the inside.  Like the Titanic, sinking into the sea, many of my close acquaintances have gone in multiple directions following the demise of Red Lion Christian Academy and Evangelical Free Church.  Fighting for spiritual life boats, in need of their own aid and healing, currents of blame, misunderstandings and theology have led me to run aground, stranded without a ship to call home.

In view of this state, I am praying for real change in 2014, not just words but the discipline to make this a reality, 2 Timothy 1:7.  As a result, my priorities must be reshuffled, adjusted to meet this goal.  Like anything that is good, this won’t happen overnight, requiring patience and perseverance.  However, by grace through faith, Ephesians 2:8, may God turn this fellow without a ship into a creature of habit starving for fellowship.

by Jay Mankus

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Behind Closed Doors

Posted on December 28, 2013 by expressyourself4him

Zach got up like any other work day, going through his morning routine.  On his way to his office, he noticed a parade of people lining up down Main Street.  With no holiday on the calender, he stopped to chat with some folks in the crowd, curious about all the commotion.  To his surprise, Jesus was passing by Jericho, receiving rock star treatment, minus the screams from young ladies looking for an autograph.

Vertically challenged, Zach could not see anything, despite jumping up and down with all his might to catch a glimpse of this legendary man.  Caught up in the frenzy, Zach runs ahead of the masses, finds an overhanging tree and starts to climb.  Yes, this wasn’t your typical day, especially when the chief tax collector hangs out over the road to get Jesus’ attention.  What happened next got the grapevine stirred up as gossip rumbles across the town, Luke 19:5-7, “Jesus meeting a sinner in his own house?”

Unfortunately, inquiring minds are left to wonder what occurred behind closed doors as the doctor gives a shorthand version in Luke 19:8-10.  Touched by this offer, Zach doesn’t panic about what his house looked like.  Nor does he spend countless hours making excuses for his past sins.  Rather, Zach appears to be convicted by the wrongs he had committed.  Thus, he makes a pledge to the poor and penance to those he overcharged.  Following this meeting with Jesus, Zacchaeus was spiritually transformed, moved by the promise of salvation, John 3:16 and inspired by faith to act, James 2:26.  May we all be so fortunate to one day experience a face to face meeting with Jesus.

by Jay Mankus

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A Christmas Without Gifts?

Posted on December 26, 2013 by expressyourself4him

This morning a thought came to my mind, what would Christmas morning be like without gifts?  First of all, most would enjoy a good night sleep before going to church or sleep later after attending a midnight service.  Once awake, the distractions of presents might actual promote quality conversations as individuals reflect upon the previous year.  As breakfast or brunch is served, discussions would likely move toward meaningful topics, free from typical superficial talk about who received the best gift and which family member got the shaft or least favored status.

Without the rush of getting back to play with your newest toy, the birth of the Messiah might become real to young children.  Instead of being brain washed by traditions of Christmas, Colossians 2:8, words from the Bible would fall upon fertile soil, Matthew 13:23, opening the door for faith to prosper, Romans 10:17.  Thus, Christmas wouldn’t be about what you got for Christmas.  Rather, hearts and minds would be transformed from “Thank you Santa, to Thank you God for the promise of Matthew 1:23.”

If I struggle with balancing a traditional Christmas with worshiping baby Jesus, I’m sure I am not alone.  My Christmas Day prayer is that I will point my children toward the true reason for this season.  When the sunsets on the 25th, families shouldn’t have to wait another calender year to celebrate the birth of Christ.  Rather, the Spirit of Christmas can and should be kept alive through the power of the Holy Spirit, 2 Peter 1:3-4, given to all those who believe.  Although the day is now December 26th, its never too soon to start preparing your hearts for a Christmas without gifts, devoted to the King of Kings and Lord of Lords.

by Jay Mankus

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Regifting Jesus

Posted on December 18, 2013 by expressyourself4him
Over the years, countless songs have expressed the ideal manner in which to regift Jesus to a lost and dying world, Luke 19:10.  Camp fire songs like “Pass It On” convey how a little spark from the love of God can produce a spiritual fire within another human being.  Hymns such as “Be Not Afraid” supplies a message of hope for those who follow Jesus, promising rest for weary souls.  Modern lyrics from hits like “If We Are the Body” by Casting Crowns questions why acts of believers in Christ aren’t consistent with the words of Scripture, Romans 12:4-5.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HJL7Eis0Rb0
The concept of regifting refers to giving or handing down something that you don’t need anything or find appealing.  Unfortunately, this mentality influences who we love, for how long and the extent to which faith is displayed.  Consequently, innocent bystanders are confused by inconsistencies within the church and by those who claim to be Christmas worshipers.  Thus, poor examples of regifting Jesus will leave many at home this holiday season.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zeTpISSA5x8
If beauty is in the eye of the beholder, then the quality of regifting Jesus lies within your heart.  Philippians 2:4 suggests that wounded individuals might need to heal before they can begin to successfully impact others for the good.  Whatever your current condition is, may you look to the Lord for strength, Philippians 4:13.  During these weak moments in life, may the power of the Holy Spirit empower you to regift Jesus in a genuine and loving manner.

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Grace With Obedience

Posted on December 15, 2013 by expressyourself4him

The apostle Paul introduced the doctrine “by grace through faith” in Ephesians 2:8-10.  The context of Paul’s message refers back to his words to the church in Rome.  In human terms, it’s impossible for man to keep the Jewish law, Romans 3:9-12, as sin past down through the curse on placed upon Adam in Genesis 3 prevents anyone for deserving or earning eternal life on their own merits, Romans 6:23.  Only when an individual places their trust in an unseen Messiah, is heaven a reality, by grace through faith in Christ Jesus.

On the other side of the spectrum, we find James, the earthly brother of Jesus.  Based upon his actions mentioned in the 4 gospels and his only book, one of the catholic letters, readers will hear what they think is a contrary teaching.  Possibly reflecting of his own lack of faith, not believing his brother was the son of God, the Lord’s brother places an emphasis on actions inspired by faith, James 2:14-26.  Prior to Jesus’ resurrection, James was void of any belief.  However, James points out that true faith, breeds action.  Each go hand in hand, as once an individual claims to have faith but does not convey or display it, they are merely living a lie as James himself did until his big brother rose from the grave.

Finally, Moses relays words directly from God in Exodus 23:24-26 to the Israelites on their way to receive the promised land.  God’s initial expectations are to follow the first few commandments, mainly to avoid creating or worshiping other gods or things on earth.  In return for obedience, God will bless food, water and the health of his people.  One might suggest this is the origin and inspiration behind saying grace before you eat today, seeking blessing from the Lord of all.  Beyond this, the Lord promises to protect babies in their mother’s womb and supply long life as long as faith and obedience are woven together.  Regardless of where your allegiance lies, may the Holy Spirit guide you with a spirit of obedience accompanied by grace.

by Jay Mankus

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Empty Hands

Posted on December 11, 2013 by expressyourself4him

When disaster, tragedy or the unexplainable strikes an innocent soul, God often get’s the blame.  Accusations, complaining and questioning follow as people search for answers beneath the rumble left behind.  In the background, overhearing these conservations, the Lord is disappointed, by empty hands, always taking yet never giving.

Lost in history are the words at the end of Exodus 23:15, “no one is to appear before me empty handed.”  During the good times in life, God is like a friend we lose touch with, too busy to carve out any time in our daily schedule.  Pride puffs up our minds, thinking we are the reason for success.  Solomon was right in Proverbs 16:18 as pride foreshadows our fall, as individuals come crashing back to earth.

One could make the assumption that part of Jesus’ teaching in the parable of the Talents in Matthew 25:14-30 relates to bringing God our best, not just the leftovers.  Exodus 23:19 illustrates what full hands resemble, offering up your first fruits to God.  Modern examples could be giving Jesus your first moments awake each morning, listening God’s Word first thing or giving your first paycheck of the month to the local church.

The next time you are tempted to grumble against the Lord, ask yourself this question.  Did I give God my full, partial or little attention today?  Depending upon your reply, maybe you need to fill your hands before you lift them up to the Lord in prayer.  When you learn to give, God will pay it forward in His time, Ecclesiastes 3:11.  As for now, gather before a poor witness causes countless to scatter from the faith, Matthew 12:30.

by Jay Mankus

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Remembering Your First Fruits

Posted on December 8, 2013 by expressyourself4him

As Christmas Day approaches, thinking about God; make that slowing down to consider the Lord is a difficult task.  Pondering what presents you are going to buy, how much each will cost and when you will make take to find them all can be exhausting.  Thus, tithing back to God or offering your talents to the church often get’s lost in the holiday rush.

While reading the Bible recently, traces of giving back to God are interspersed within the Pentateuch, another name for the first 5 books of the Old Testament.  In the back of my mind, I want to give 10 % or the first portion of my paycheck back to God, yet a lack of a faith is preventing me from experiencing supernatural blessings.  If only I would trust God to provide daily bread, then the storehouses of heaven might open.

Perhaps this is why the apostle Paul wrote, “the things I don’t want to do I do, but those I hate I do, ” Romans 7:15.  This invisible force field prevents genuine believers from a spiritual breakthrough.  Alone, on my own strength, I am hopeless, destined for failure, Romans 3:23.  However, by grace, through faith, stands a God of second, third and fourth chances, Ephesians 2:8-10.  May this promise catapult you to new heights as you remember to give God what is rightfully His, your first fruits, Romans 7:4.

by Jay Mankus

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