Tag Archives: faith

Project Afterlife

Posted on August 10, 2015 by expressyourself4him

Yesterday,  I wrote a blog called When the Holy Spirit Takes Over.  Little did I know that these exact words were used by a doctor who helped raise a man from the dead in the pilot episode of Project Afterlife.  Following in the footsteps of It’s a Miracle on Pax Television, Destination America’s new show interviews eyewitnesses and individuals who have died for a short period of time before coming back to life.

Behold, I will bring to it health and healing, and I will heal them and reveal to them abundance of prosperity and security, Jeremiah 33:6.

About a year ago, I started a conversation with a co-worker.  Taking an unusual, yet interesting turn, this man revealed that years earlier he died and came back to life.  Arrested for underage drinking, this teenager died in the back of a cop car.  Although his memory is blurred, the next thing he remembers is waking in a hospital bed.  Due to his severe condition, the police officer never issued a ticket, giving him a second chance just as God gave this man a new lease on life.

And the prayer of faith will save the one who is sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven, James 5:15.

There will always be skeptics of healing, miracles and raising someone from the dead.  Especially, if you believe the Spirit pored out upon the disciples on the Day of Pentecost ceased following their deaths, limited to first century apostles.  Yet, if you check out Project Afterlife next Sunday night at 10pm eastern time, maybe your beliefs will be swayed.  Either way, sit back, listen to the testimonies shared and be open to the healing power of Christ.

by Jay Mankus

 

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A Selective Society

Posted on August 7, 2015 by expressyourself4him

As the 2016 Presidential election kicks off Thursday night with the first major debate, don’t be surprised by the responses you hear.  For this is the season of persuasion, a makeover to present a much broader perspective of each candidate.  Hoping the audience forgets any selective memory of their past, “if you vote for me I will speak for you, the little guy.”  Yet, like any season, campaign promises will come to an end as soon as each ballet has been counted.  Just as birds fly south for the winter, politicians will return to their normal routine, to a selective society, embracing those who share a similar worldview.

And the gospel must first be preached to all nations, Mark 13:10.

Perhaps this facade turns most people off, causing a growing number of citizens to stay home on Election Day.  This is what made Jesus so attractive to the masses during the first century.  His message wasn’t limited to the rich and famous.  Rather, Jesus’ focus extended beyond party lines, seeking to reach individuals in every nation.  Thus, as he teaches disciples about the future, one thing is clear, a selective society is unacceptable.

He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation, Mark 16:15.

When I look at myself in the mirror, the truth hurts.  Despite what I believe, I find myself gravitating toward those who like me and distancing myself from those with different opinions.  This is not the image Jesus paints in the Bible.  The gospel is not based upon feelings.  Rather, everyone is given an opportunity, a chance to accept or reject faith.  Therefore, whether you’re a politician or average person, avoid the temptation of remaining in a selective society by stepping out in faith to fulfill the great commission.

by Jay Mankus

 

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Shaken

Posted on July 25, 2015 by expressyourself4him

Confidence is something that is not always visible, especially in those who are guarded, laid back and stoic.  However, competitors have a keen sense when someone is about to crumble, like a shark drawn to blood in the water.  Whether its displayed through body language, fear in someone’s eyes or a loss of composure, these warning signals empower opponents to press on toward victory.

For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline, 2 Timothy 1:7.

This is what makes sports fascinating for me to watch.  Regardless of the sport, every season possesses at least one shocking upset, unthinkable initially until momentum causes the confidence of an individual or team to be shaken.  While most recover the following day or season, some never reach their full potential, permanently damaged from this life altering event.

For the Lord will be your confidence and will keep your foot from being caught, Proverbs 3:26.

The same can be said about careers, jobs and positions in life.  You may find a dream job where you flourish, maximizing your God-given talents.  However, new leadership, management or ownership changes your job description, finds someone to replace you or eliminates your department completely.  This reality has impacted many Americans resulting in shattered confidence and broken dreams.

I have died, but Christ lives in me. And I now live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave his life for me, Galatians 2:20.

To recover requires prayer, a support system and mental toughness similar to the early church.  After Jesus died, his twelve disciples were on the verge on disbanding.  However, the resurrection transformed these men, restoring their confidence and emboldening their faith.  If this blog finds you down in the dumps, may the promise of the resurrection lift your spirits as you attempt to regain the confidence that you’ve lost from prior disappointments.

by Jay Mankus

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Bouncing Back After Rejection

Posted on July 24, 2015 by expressyourself4him

“There is nothing in this life that can destroy you but yourself. Bad things happen to everyone, but when they do, you can’t just fall apart and die. You have to fight back. If you don’t, you’re the one who loses in the end. But if you do keep going and fight back, you win.” – Alexandra Monir

For a scientist, trial and error is merely a series of experiments to ascertain whether or not your theory is correct.  Thomas Edison didn’t give up after ten, one hundred or one thousand failed tests.  Rather, he pressed on, bouncing back after countless rejections to invent the light bulb.

I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me, Philippians 4:12-13.

In today’s climate, you have to be mentally tough to survive.  The best baseball hitters in history only succeeded thirty three percent of the time.  Perfectionists would never survive this degree of failure.  Thus, perspective is crucial to mustering up the strength to carry on.

But you, take courage! Do not let your hands be weak, for your work shall be rewarded, 2 Chronicles 15:7.

Last weekend I received my third rejection letter in the past four years in my quest to become a professional screenwriter.  My first movie, Express Yourself never had a chance, not knowing the proper format to get noticed.  The second, Behind the Devil’s Door was better, yet after submitting it I realized the flaw of my conclusion.  Sometimes I wonder if I should continue with my third, Dragged Behind the Devil’s Door or invest my time in something else.  Despite thoughts of doubt, I can’t quit until I feel like I’ve done everything in my power to make this dream a reality.  Therefore, regardless of the adversity that you endure, ask God to give you the faith to bounce back following rejection.

by Jay Mankus

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The Healer and the Healee

Posted on July 22, 2015 by expressyourself4him

News of any sort of biblical healing today will leave skeptics wondering, “that can’t be true, can it?”  In the past, many who have claimed to be the healee only experience temporary healing, with the conditions, illness or symptoms returning sometime after their miraculous encounter.  However, in recent years an outbreak of testimonies are coming in from all over the world from the healer and the healee.

Then they came to Jericho. As Jesus and his disciples, together with a large crowd, were leaving the city, a blind man, Bartimaeus (which means “son of Timaeus”), was sitting by the roadside begging. Mark 10:46.

In the days of Jesus, a particular individual sets the scene for a special day.  Unable to see, Bartimaeus appears to have relied on pity to make a living, similar to those who stand at crowded intersections asking for money.  Yet, when news of Jesus’ arrival came, he refused to stay in his hapless state.  Yelling out despite the naysayers, Bartimaeus’ cries touched Jesus’ heart.  A desperate man filled with an unswerving faith opened the door for permanent healing.

“What do you want me to do for you?” Jesus asked him. The blind man said, “Rabbi, I want to see,” Mark 10:51.

In my own circumstances, I often doubt that God can transform my situation.  Thus, instead of experiencing healing, I tend to become the complainer or complainee.  If only I possessed the faith of Bartimaeus, things would be different.  However, as for now, I’m grasping for the resurrection power made available by the Holy Spirit.  Though the apostle Paul teaches not everyone will be healed, 2 Corinthians 12:7-12, I’m waiting for the day I meet the healer and experience permanent healing.

by Jay Mankus

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One Thing People Lack

Posted on July 17, 2015 by expressyourself4him

If you’re not careful, people can get snippy when you point out one of their weaknesses.  Whether its a defense mechanism or a way in which individuals bend the truth, few want to hear about their imperfections.  However, there is a famous conversation where Jesus reveals one thing people lack.

As Jesus started on his way, a man ran up to him and fell on his knees before him. “Good teacher,” he asked, “what must I do to inherit eternal life?” – Mark 10:17

One day, a rich young ruler humbly falls at the feet of Jesus.  Desperately wanting reassurance of his spiritual quest to reach heaven, this ruler asks, “what must I do to inherit eternal life?”  While most teachers would seize this teachable moment, Jesus pauses to redirect the topic.  Despite being the son of God Jesus responds with the words, “why do you call me good?”  Essentially, the Lord proclaims that no one is good but God.

Jesus looked at him and loved him. “One thing you lack,” he said. “Go, sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.” – Mark 10:21

Using the ten commandments as a measuring stick, this benchmark serves as a guide as you interact with members of society.  In a sense, this is expected, what any follower of God should do.  Thus, when Jesus adds one final requirement, this ruler leaves Jesus’ presence heart broken.  Though other gospel writers vary their details of this encounter, it appears that this ruler trusted in his money rather than placing his sole faith in God to provide.  This same expectation applies today.  Do you lack complete trust in the Lord or fervently rest in Jehovah-Jireh?  May your reply to this question motivate you to draw closer to Christ.

by Jay Mankus

 

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Cleansing from the Inside Out

Posted on July 13, 2015 by expressyourself4him

If you’re sick, most make an appointment to see a doctor.  When a tooth or molars begin to hurt, you go see a dentist.  While this makes complete sense, why is it when people of faith struggle spiritually most fail to visit the biblical Doctor?

How can a young person stay on the path of purity? By living according to your word.  I seek you with all my heart; do not let me stray from your commands, Psalm 119:9-10.

Depending upon how you were raised, parents will influence how you handle pain.  Old school parenting teaches to “get up, suck it up and don’t cry.”  A modern approach might include “shake it off after allowing tears to flow.”  Nonetheless, cleansing from the inside out begins with worship, pouring your heart out to the God of the universe in song.

I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you, Psalm 119:11.

However, worship is merely a prescription to maintain one’s spiritual health.  Daily medication revolves around mediating on the Words of God.  Whether you want to call this a devotion, quiet time or Bible Study, this discipline enriches the heart, soul and mind.  Therefore, if you want to receive healing from the inside out, start by opening up the Bible daily.  May this regular appointment with God transform you and cleanse you from the inside out.

by Jay Mankus

 

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Forced to Conform or Else

Posted on July 8, 2015 by expressyourself4him

There was a time in my youth when news anchors were believable, reliable and trusted by those who tuned in to watch.  Sometime over the past twenty five years, news have become altered by hidden agendas seeking to convince the masses of a specific ideology.  Today, every daily event is examined, filtered and portrayed in such a manner as to control the headlines.  Unfortunately, media outlets are forcing viewers to believe their worldview or face the wrath of negative press.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths, Proverbs 3:5-6.

Like a bully, opposing individuals and groups are targeted.  Sometimes to prove a point, expose a religious belief or brought on by a poorly timed comment.  In Oregon, Sweet Cakes by Melissa was forced to close after refusing to prepare a wedding cake for a gay couple about to get married.  Since closing, the state has decided to fine the owner 125,000K, setting an example for anyone else who dares to discriminate against homosexual couples.  In other words, if you want to run a business in America, you better keep your religious convictions to yourself or face the consequences.

So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ, Romans 10:17.

The event from March of 2015 in Indiana seems more like a set-up unless having pizza at wedding receptions is now the new in food.  Anyway, Memories Pizzeria was also forced to close following their denial of another gay couple.  Perhaps each of these businesses could have come to a happy medium or maybe they did but it was not reported.  Yet, in their hearts, mind and soul, neither could betray their religious beliefs detailed in Leviticus 18:22 and Leviticus 20:13.  Unfortunately, their freedom of religion and speech was not honored since it is now politically incorrect.

And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him, Hebrews 11:6.

There are two ways to view this ongoing persecution of Christians.  First, God has given every individual free will.  The Lord doesn’t force anyone to believe in the Bible.  Rather, the Word has been written so that those who hear or read may come to faith in Christ.  The second perspective relates to the days of Daniel when a decree made it illegal to pray in public.  Despite the threat of being thrown into a den of lions, Daniel chose to obey God rather than adhere to man’s law.  This is where faith is put to the test, separating the genuine from who are blown and tossed by changing tides.  As the world continues to change, may every person of faith be prepared to overcome the challenges and trials of the future.

by Jay Mankus

 

 

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Developing a Faith like That

Posted on June 30, 2015 by expressyourself4him

After a series of disappointments, Jesus takes an inventory of his twelve disciples, wondering if they will ever get it.  Cutting directly to the point, Jesus asks “who do you say that I am?”  Despite previous and future blunders, Simon Peter get’s it right this time, “Son of the living God.”  While the timing was right, Jesus unveils the future, what will happen and by whom He will endure suffering.  From one moment of greatness to the gutter, Peter tries to privately rebuke Jesus.  Instead the tables are turned as Peter begins to think like the devil.

But when Jesus turned and looked at his disciples, he rebuked Peter. “Get behind me, Satan!” he said. “You do not have in mind the concerns of God, but merely human concerns,” Mark 8:33.

In the passage which follows, Jesus lays out a three step plan for developing a genuine faith which takes into consideration the mind of God.  After nearly three full years with Jesus, the disciples struggled to break free from human concerns.

1. Deny Yourself: Take on the very nature of a servant, placing the needs of others above yourself.

2. Take Up Your Cross: Set out on ascertaining what God’s will is and make this your calling in life.

3. Follow Christ: Through prayer, study of the Bible and worship, follow in the foot steps of Jesus.

I’m not sure who first said the mind is a terrible thing to waste, yet this also applies to faith.  Christians can do the right thing, say the right thing and worship in an ideal church, but still fail miserably in their faith.  Like any competition, if you don’t play a complete game, it only takes one bad stretch to blow it.  Therefore, as you wrestle with balancing necessary human concerns, may you take Jesus’ advice in Mark 8:34 and develop into a faith like Christ.

by Jay Mankus

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Moving On After Tragedy

Posted on June 28, 2015 by expressyourself4him

The human mind can act like a sponge, absorbing scenes from life like a file on a computer.  Depending upon what you encounter, a number of cues can trigger each stored event to your memory in an instant.  Unfortunately, the bad and ugly thoughts can haunt individuals, making it difficult to move on after tragedy strikes.  During a late night conversation in college, a classmate began to reveal a dark secret from her past.

If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you, James 1:5.

A year earlier, she had heard an explosion behind her house, which backs up to the New Jersey Turnpike.  Immediately, her nursing student instincts took over, running down a steep embankment to help anyone in need of medical attention before emergency assistance arrived.  Not ready for what came next, she helped two kids escape from a car which had caught on fire.  However, both parents were trapped so all she could do was shield these children from the image of mom and dad burning to death in the flames.

Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him, James 1:12.

We can’t change the past, but after the mourning process, its time to move on.  Similar to an injury, healing differs from one person to the next.  Although scars will always remain, with Christ all things are possible to get over.  Yet, finding hope, peace and joy is not guaranteed.  This is where faith comes into play, trusting in the Lord to guide your steps.  Whatever mountain that you have to climb, may you find strength to move on after the trials you endure.

by Jay Mankus

 

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