Tag Archives: fasting

What a Waste of Time

Posted on March 21, 2016 by expressyourself4him

Every weekend, depending upon your work schedule, most Americans have 48 hours to recover before starting a new week.  Sure, there are things you need to do around the house, check up on or complete before Monday morning arrives, but you have plenty of time.  Unfortunately, the older I get, the better I become at finding ways to waste time.  In fact, my time off is like a blur, a mist that appears for a while, then disappears just as quick.

Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes, James 4:14.

Although I’m not distracted by cell phones or computers, once I plop down on my recliner time flies, often losing half a night in one sitting.  At least I’m not alone.  According to the Bible, time has always been a struggle.  I guess if you get too focused on the future, you lose sight of the here and now.  Yet, wanting to get some thing important done and have it actually happen are two different things.

So teach us to number our days that we may get a heart of wisdom, Psalm 90:12.

One of the solutions to stop wasting time is provided by a Psalmist.  Seizing the moment or simply prioritizing your time is a good place to start.  By concentrating on the here and now, wisdom can be achieved.  Yet, prayer, fasting and reflection will lead individuals in the right direction.  As you wrestle with your own time management issues, may the Holy Spirit guide you to make the most of the free time that you possess.

by Jay Mankus

 

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All These Things

Posted on January 12, 2016 by expressyourself4him

Prior to beginning his ministry on earth, Jesus faced three temptations during a forty day fast.  The first was physical as the Devil attacked the human bodies dependence on food.  According to Matthew 4:4, relying on the spiritual, the Bible, strengthens minds.  Yet, seeking God is much more than overcoming temporary pleasures.

But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well, Matthew 6:33.

Not giving up, Satan fought back, testing Jesus to see if He was willing to use God’s power for his own glory.  The request was not impossible.  Jesus could have called on angels to save His life.  This mental temptation feeds on pride, daring souls to prove the Devil wrong.   Instead of participating in this folly by lowering God’s standards, Jesus quotes scripture to expose the Devil’s cunning plot.  The key to righteousness is remaining humble, wrestling with desires of the sinful nature to keep in step with the Holy Spirit.

Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own, Matthew 6:34.

The final obstacle Jesus overcame was devotion, who will you worship?  The Father of Lies continues to make empty promises today, deceiving the uneducated daily.  Knowing and practicing foundational biblical truths is the last step of obedience before you can experience the promise of Matthew 6:33.  Although young men stumble and fall, seeking God and his righteousness must be your top authority.  Until this occurs, all these things are just a fantasy.  However, when you cross this threshold, following in the footsteps of Christ, the Lord will begin to provide in supernatural ways.

by Jay Mankus

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A Slow Fast

Posted on January 7, 2016 by expressyourself4him

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lhNy2bRJYQQ

I grew up in a competitive neighborhood, with several talented athletes.  Every summer we had races to see who was the fastest.  Although I did lose to a girl once, most of the time I was a step quicker than everyone else.  This environment led me to become long distance runner, finding my niche in cross country.  Perhaps this may explain why I have become an impatient adult, always in a hurry to get to no where.

“Yet even now,” declares the Lord, “return to me with all your heart, with fasting, with weeping, and with mourning; Joel 2:12.

In recent years, my paths have crossed with several individuals who fast at the beginning of each calendar year.  Since I enjoy eating, this spiritual discipline hasn’t come easy, more painful than beneficial.  Some friends have passed on helpful resources like books written by Jentzeen Franklin to help me get over the proverbial hump.  Yet, my heart hasn’t been ready to commit to this until now.

When I wept and humbled my soul with fasting, it became my reproach, Psalm 69:10.

While my current weight, the heaviest ever is one motivating factor, another reason to begin a fast is to pave a clear path for my future.  After listening to a few sermons in December, I found the easiest fast if there is such a thing is a Daniel Fast, twenty one days of eating fruits, vegetables and forgoing soft drinks for water.  Based upon Daniel’s experience during his captivity in Babylon, at the end of this period Daniel and his friends appeared healthier than those who ate the king’s food.  Thus, as I ease my way into this fast, I wait in eager expectation of the insight and life lessons the Lord will teach me over this 21 day journey.  If the timing is right, you can start as similar fast any time throughout 2016.

by Jay Mankus

 

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While You Worship

Posted on December 13, 2015 by expressyourself4him

Sandra Bullock starred in the 1995 love story While You Were Sleeping.  After saving a man’s life from an on coming train, Peter played by Peter Gallagher falls into a coma where rumors alter and hide the truth.  In the real world, many people fall into spiritual comas, sleeping through most of life on earth.  Some individuals are revived, others perish and those remaining often become comfortably numb.  One of the solutions to snap of these mental states occur while you worship God.

While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them,” Acts 13:2.

In the 1992 film School Ties, Brendan Fraser plays a star quarterback recruited by a prestigious private boarding school.  The only problem is Brendan is Jewish and the school is Catholic.  Thus, this high school senior is encouraged to keep this a secret, pressured to adhere to foreign beliefs.  Whenever people are forced into doing something, its not naturally and can lead to future grudges.  The same can be said about children who feel forced to worship a God in whom they do not a relationship with.  Adults who grew up in this kind of atmosphere often stray far from the Lord, trying to figure life out on their own.

About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them, Acts 16:25.

The Bible is filled with numerous examples and unlikely ways in which people can to faith.  However, without action, these emotions can die.  Thus, as seekers enter into God’s presence in the form of worship, spiritual awakenings commence.  There is something to be said of a house of worshipers in one accord and spirit.  Although this doesn’t come natural, energy in a building, a song or state of desperation can unleash a movement of God.  I can’t explain it, but when you find yourself on your knees, shouting at the top of your voice and raising your hands toward heaven, God can unveil wisdom about your past, present and future.  Don’t delay any further by joining a local congregation this weekend while you worship.

by Jay Mankus

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You Have to Seek Before You Can Peak

Posted on December 7, 2015 by expressyourself4him

In the aftermath of Wednesday’s San Bernardino shooting leaving 14 dead and another 21 others wounded, responses poured out in the form of thoughts and prayers.  As 2016 Republican Presidential candidates turned to God for help, democratic leaders used this tragedy to drum up support for gun control and the elimination of the second amendment.  Perhaps, this political difference caused a New York journalist to write, “God isn’t fixing this.”  Unfortunately, the author of this quote doesn’t know one of the most basic Bible principles, you have to seek before you can peak ahead.

But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well, Matthew 6:33.

During one of the most famous sermons ever recorded, Jesus spends a chapter in Matthew 6 explaining the concept of spiritual etiquette.  Like the present, first century inhabitants were searching for results as well as credit once things improved.  Thus, Jesus brings up proper and improper attitudes and motives.  Listing a few current examples, Jesus exposes the impure.  Essentially, Jesus suggests that prayer, fasting and money won’t change you current situation.  Rather, as soon as individuals make the decision to seek God first, everything else will begin to fall into place within this life.

Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own, Matthew 6:34.

Unfortunately, the Name and Claim It Crowd, also known as the Prosperity Gospel, have overlooked one crucial word, righteousness.  God’s nature can not exist without it.  Thus, as Christians leave a negative imprint on society, members of the media are doubting the Lord’s ability to fix America’s decaying morality.  True progress lies in an unswerving devotion to trust God for daily bread, basic essentials to survive.  While this mental state is possible to achieve, few have the faith to endure the storms of life.  Therefore, the next time someone tries to limit God’s power, remember you have to seek before you can peek at the blessings the Lord has in store for you in the future, Proverbs 3:5-6.

by Jay Mankus

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When the Lines Vanish

Posted on August 6, 2015 by expressyourself4him

While watching a rerun of I-Robot, a 2004 film featuring Will Smith, there are parallels to modern day life.  This Science Fiction movie takes place in 2035, where the richest corporation in Chicago, U.S. Robotics, has a lofty goal of having a robot in every home.  Guided by the three laws, founders of the NS-5 robots believed there creation was flawless.

“Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it,” Matthew 7:13.

Today, boundaries of the past have been replaced, exchanging biblical standards with a progressive form of political correctness.  Instead of relying on a book, the Bible to define right from wrong, a liberal playbook is being laid out to re-educate the hearts, minds and souls to a new generation.  Thus, when the moral lines of yesterday vanish, the government is seeking to take over like U.S. Robotics in I-Robot.

If anyone, then, knows the good they ought to do and doesn’t do it, it is sin for them, James 4:17.

As acts of violence escalate, perhaps one can assume that those crossing this invisible line are amoral.  However, knowing ethics does not always guarantee that actions will follow.  Free will built into an individual’s DNA can override the facts of life.  Therefore, when the lines vanish, revolution is inevitable.  In these days and times, fasting and prayer is essential to keep people on track spiritually, shining light into a world filled with darkness.

by Jay Mankus

 

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Overcoming the Transitional Zone

Posted on May 21, 2015 by expressyourself4him

Each Spring lawn care companies give grandiose images of the perfect yard.  If you just buy this product, follow their three step process and properly maintain your grass, this could be your house?  Unfortunately, these commercials do not take into consideration the transitional zone, the area where Bermuda Grass in the south meets Tall Fescue from the north.  Following an internship in Golf Course Design and Maintenance, I asked a mentor what I should do with my lawn in Delaware.  His advice, “blow it up and start from scratch with fresh top soil and sod.”

I will bless those who bless you, and him who dishonors you I will curse, and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed.”- Genesis 12:3

Recently, president Obama has declared that America is no longer a Christian nation.  Meanwhile, liberal politicians have distanced the United States from our former ally Israel.  On the surface this may not seem like a big deal.  However, inside the Bible tells a different story.  The Old Testament is filled with verses the claim God blesses those nations which protect and support Israel.  On the other hand, those whom dishonor Israel will be cursed.  If this trend in America continues, the United States will find itself in God’s transitional zone, blessed since 1948 for helping Israel become a nation to on the verge of being cursed due to our lack of understanding of this biblical principle.

For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. – Ephesians 6:12

Beneath the surface, there are spiritual weeds, demons and evil spirits, seeking to cause havoc in the lives of individuals.  Since these forces are invisible, you can’t use Round Up to kill these entities.  Rather, prayer walks, fasting, worship and meditating on God’s Word will help those souls stuck in this transitional zone.  Although I can’t promise you that you’ll have a perfect life void of pests, I can assure you of the promises of God.  While you battle the visible tasks in this life, don’t forget to tap into the power of the Holy Spirit, 2 Corinthians 10:3-5, so that you can overcome life’s spiritual transitional zone.

by Jay Mankus

 

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What Disturbs the Devil?

Posted on January 19, 2015 by expressyourself4him

Now the serpent was more crafty than any of the wild animals the Lord God had made. He said to the woman, “Did God really say, ‘You must not eat from any tree in the garden’?” – Genesis 3:1

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iiN5PNzabYc

1) Obedience

Whenever someone refuses to break a rule, fails to compromise or take a short cut, the Devil becomes unsettled.  Therefore, expect a heavy dose of temptation in minds to challenge authority, doubt absolute truth and draw a new line for modern times.  Hollywood is a pawn that continues to remake documentaries and movies about American history, Bible stories and godly leaders in the past, hoping to rewrite a legacy void of character, integrity and truth.

“When he came to his senses, he said, ‘How many of my father’s hired servants have food to spare, and here I am starving to death!   I will set out and go back to my father and say to him: Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you.   I am no longer worthy to be called your son; make me like one of your hired servants.   So he got up and went to his father. “But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him. – Luke 15:17-20

2) Repentance

Any act, attempt or consideration to reconcile unhinges the Devil.  Whenever you confess your sins, you attract God the Father’s attention, thereby creating panic within the realm of fallen angels.  To squash any thoughts of this, don’t be surprised by spirits of bitterness, grudges and or pride getting in the way of restoring broken relationships.  Those on the verge of mending friendships will have unusual things occur, trying to distract and prevent you from publicly expressing your sorrow, James 5:16.

Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted[a] by the devil.   After fasting forty days and forty nights, he was hungry. – Matthew 4:1-2.

3) Fasting

Finally, the spiritual practice of forgoing food to draw near to the Lord will certainly be like stirring up a hornet’s nest.  Fearful of the powerful results portrayed throughout the Bible, Satan will pull every dirty trick out of his play book to prevent you from entering this state of worship.  Mental, physical and spiritual attacks always follow this practice so be on guard if the Holy Spirit encourages you to participate in a fast, Ephesians 6:11-12.  Arm yourself with the attitude of Christ so that you will be reach new heights in your relationship with God.

by Jay Mankus

 

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To Fast or Not to Fast?

Posted on December 31, 2014 by expressyourself4him

In recent years, January 1st signifies the beginning of 21 day fasts for a growing number of churches across America.  Depending upon the congregation, this could mean a …

1) Daniel Fast: Eating vegetables and water based upon the events of Daniel 1:11-14.

2) Media Fast: Replacing listening and viewing habits for 3 weeks with Bible Study, prayer and soaking in worship music.

3) Traditional Fast: Limiting your diet to liquids, with stricter fasts allowing only water.

Before you jump into any commitment, you might want to consider the advice of Solomon.

When you make a vow to God, do not delay to fulfill it. He has no pleasure in fools; fulfill your vow. – Ecclesiastes 5:4

My advice is to take a more realistic approach.  If fasting is new to you or something you haven’t done in years, ease yourself into 21 days of fasting.  I recommend skipping 1 meal per day, the first week.  If your body is up for the challenge, limit your eating to one meal per day the second week.  However, if you find yourself gorging each meal, you might want to focus on skipping one meal per day the entire 21 days.  Make a vow you can keep, then honor it.

When I heard these things, I sat down and wept. For some days I mourned and fasted and prayed before the God of heaven. – Nehemiah 1:4

As for what to expect, the lack of food can make individuals grumpy.  Those with medical conditions may need to opt for a Media Fast to avoid health concerns.  Beyond the pain, the insight one receives from fasting can be life altering.  While fasting during my days of teaching, several messages of discernment came to me through the power of the Holy Spirit.  In addition, your perspective of food will change as fasting will heighten your sense of taste.  In the end, the choice is up to you: to fast or not to fast?

by Jay Mankus

 

 

 

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Where God’s Calling is Clearest

Posted on April 1, 2014 by expressyourself4him

Skeptics will tend to agree with the words of 1 Samuel 3:1, “in those days the word of the Lord was rare.”  If these conditions exist today, how can someone discern or know if it is actually God’s voice calling out?  History provides 5 examples where God’s calling  is clearest.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y6suBrSFaiM

1. In the Temple of the Lord, 1 Samuel 3:1-18.

Although just a boy, Samuel was raised in the temple.  Since his mentor was a priest, Samuel learned how to approach God, yet had never heard his voice.  On one ordinary night, Eli the priest introduced Samuel to the voice of the Lord.

2. Reading the Word of the Lord, 2 Kings 22:11-13.

Often, God is the first thing people cut from a busy schedule, allowing their Bible to collect dust on a shelf.  Time away from this book slowly reveals a shift in one’s actions, behavior and words.  After hidden for several years, Josiah finds a copy of the Old Testament hidden in a closet.  Astonished by the words he is reading, the king of Judea is moved by God to repent for the sins of his nation.

3. Retreating to a Remote Location, Mark 1:35-39 & 1 Kings 19:9-13.

To flee distractions and interruptions, Jesus regularly began his day in solitude, talking to God the Father.  This enabled the son of God to go where the Lord wanted Him daily.  Meanwhile, most retreat destinations are located in mountains or valleys, isolated from the hectic pace of life.  This atmosphere opens the door to listen for God’s still small voice.

4. Fasting and Worship, Nehemiah 1:4-11 & Acts 13:1-4.

Fasting is the practice of going without food for a set period to seek God’s will in a specific matter.  When you add worship to this equation, the Holy Spirit often opens up doors that were previous locked.  During a worship service, Paul and Barnabas each sensed a clear calling to become missionaries, sharing the good news of Jesus to a lost and dying world.

5. Keeping in Step with the Holy Spirit, Acts 8:26-31 & Galatians 5:25.

Whether you are in God’s house, fasting, praying, reading the Bible, retreating to recharge your spiritual batteries or in a state of worship, these environments provide unfiltered access to the Holy Spirit.  Essentially, this takes faith to the next level, becoming a doer of the word, Matthew 7:24.  Believers should test every voice, 1 Thessalonians 5:21-22, before accepting God’s calling, Isaiah 6:8.  If you think I’ve left any place out, please let me know under the comment section.

by Jay Mankus

 

 

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