Tag Archives: grace

What Have You Died For Me Lately?

Posted on July 29, 2015 by expressyourself4him

If the media could only see the foolishness of their standards.  A politician may be the greatest leader in the world only to have their legacy ruined, magnified by a single poor decision broadcasted over and over again.  One professional athlete may be on the verge of being the greatest of all time until one bad performance causes supporters to boo.  Meanwhile, successful business men and women are being fired for a few careless words, sharing their world views on touchy subjects.

It is impossible for those who have once been enlightened, who have tasted the heavenly gift, who have shared in the Holy Spirit, who have tasted the goodness of the word of God and the powers of the coming age, Hebrews 6:3-4.

This absurd trend reminds me of what the Bible refers to as the Passion Week.  The week before Jesus’ death on a cross, the masses were.shouting out praises.  “You’re amazing, the best, greatest and wonderful!”  Seven days later, peer pressure turned these cheers into shouts of “crucify Him!”  In other words, what have you done for me lately?   If you haven’t, then you are as good as dead, part of yesterday’s news.

And who have fallen away, to be brought back to repentance. To their loss they are crucifying the Son of God all over again and subjecting him to public disgrace, Hebrews 6:5.

The author of Hebrews brings up an interesting angle to this discussion.  Essentially, there were Jewish Christians who were perverting God’s grace in the late first century.  Subsequently, Jesus’ death on the cross wasn’t enough to stop their sinful ways.  Rather, grace was a convenient crutch to lean on, a Get Out of Sin free card.  Turning the tables over in regards to their earthly temple, bodies, Hebrews turns up the heat, suggesting each blatant sin is like crucifying Jesus all over again.  Therefore, it’s not what have you died for me lately; Jesus died once and for all, for all sin.  Thus, go now and leave your life of sin.

Jesus straightened up and asked her, “Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?” “No one, sir,” she said. “Then neither do I condemn you,” Jesus declared. “Go now and leave your life of sin.” – John 8:10-11

by Jay Mankus

 

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Waking Up to a Whole New World

Posted on July 21, 2015 by expressyourself4him

Twenty years ago, adult, controversial and risque commercials appeared after dark, when most children were asleep.  The culture was much more conservative, careful not to corrupt the innocence of youth.  Unless you are living in denial, today everything is fair game, waking up to a whole new world.

But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us, Romans 5:8.

Social media is setting the pace daily, led by what’s trending on Twitter, followed by the latest eye catching video on Youtube.  Subsequently, a new generation lives by an entirely new set of standards, distant from the ethics of the Bible.  What once was wrong has become mainstream, normal to an accepting society, open to news ways of thinking.

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

Caught in the middle, the church is forced to balance grace with truth.  Although kinder and gentler, its difficult for those raised in the Fire and Brimstone Era to get past obvious sins.  Thus, when a microphone is put in front of a pastor’s face or as the camera rolls, its hard not to portray these individuals as judgmental, void of the love of Christ.  Despite what Christians believe about abortion, homosexuality and divorce, its better to demonstrate faith rather than shoving your beliefs in someone’s face.  Waking up to a whole new world will require an emphasis on living examples of Jesus to reverse these trends and possibly inspire a revival throughout the land.

by Jay Mankus

 

 

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Don’t Take No For An Answer

Posted on June 19, 2015 by expressyourself4him

The woman was a Greek, born in Syrian Phoenicia. She begged Jesus to drive the demon out of her daughter, Mark 7:26.

Nai, Ne, Nee, Nei, Nein, Nej, Nem, Nie, Nil and Non.  Each of these terms are used to deny, refuse or negate a request.  Yet, not everyone gives up the first time they are rejected.  Children have a unique gift to beg, plead and wallow until they get their way.  Perhaps, the Lord has created each soul with a natural reflux to not take no for an answer.

“First let the children eat all they want,” he told her, “for it is not right to take the children’s bread and toss it to the dogs,” Mark 7:27.

This phenomena is best illustrated in what we know today as the parable of the Persistent Widow, Luke 18:1-8.  However, there is another biblical account which displays how desperation causes human minds to reason with God.  The woman in this passage found in Mark 7:24-30 demonstrates an uncanny wit, coming back with quick replies, one after the other.  Though most would have given up following Jesus’ initial comment, she refused to take no for an answer.

“Lord,” she replied, “even the dogs under the table eat the children’s crumbs,” Mark 7:28.

One of the most disappointing things anyone can experiencing is praying for a loved one to not die only to have their life cut short.  Trying to regroup after this loss can take years to recover.  Thus, the next time you pray, its common to be reluctant, gun shy about asking God for a specific request.  Inside your mind can play tricks on you as doubt whispers, “don’t waste your time.”  However, when worry enters your life, don’t forget the example set by this God fearing woman.  Therefore, as you approach the throne of grace, don’t take no for an answer when you pray.

Then he told her, “For such a reply, you may go; the demon has left your daughter.” She went home and found her child lying on the bed, and the demon gone, Mark 7:29-30.

by Jay Mankus

 

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O.C.D. in Religion

Posted on June 15, 2015 by expressyourself4him

Obsessive-compulsive disorder is a modern term to describe those who feel the need to anally repeat things over and over.  Activities can include locking doors, washing hands and thorough routines similar to a superstition.  This repetition serves as a method to ease anxious tensions.  Unfortunately, most individuals don’t rest until several minutes have past with some wasting an hour of their day displaying the same pattern of behavior.

The Pharisees and all the Jews do not eat unless they give their hands a ceremonial washing, holding to the tradition of the elders. When they come from the marketplace they do not eat unless they wash. And they observe many other traditions, such as the washing of cups, pitchers and kettles, Mark 7:3-4.

After reading through the gospels, Pharisees, religious leaders and teachers of the law in Jesus’ day appear to portray O.C.D. like tendencies.  Oblivious to their condition, Jesus brings this to their attention in Mark 7:6-9.  Somewhere along the way, these respected individuals began to over-emphasize human traditions by de-emphasizing God’s commands.  In the process, faith became legalistic, following a set of rules rather than purifying their hearts before a God full of grace.

Jesus replied, “Isaiah was right when he prophesied about you hypocrites; as it is written: “ ’These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me, ” Mark 7:6.

Not much has changed since AD 30 as a segment of Christian churches are more concerned about being a watch dog than converting hearts and minds to follow Christ, Romans 10:9-10.  Using their places of worship like a bully pulpit, sermons are forcefully preached to control their congregations, trying to maintain power as well as squash those with contrary views.  Unfortunately, theology can be divisive, leading some pastors to follow in the same footsteps of the Pharisees.  May those who struggle with religious OCD, see the error of their way, come to the light and be transformed by the Holy Spirit.

by Jay Mankus

 

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Can I Get A Witness?

Posted on May 9, 2015 by expressyourself4him

Depending upon the context, the phrase “can I get a witness” has different meanings.  If you’re in a car accident, a witness could determine if your insurance will rise or stay the same.  In the court of law, a good or bad witness can sway the outcome of a trial.  Meanwhile, movies like School Ties reveal how anyone who sees a person cheat is encouraged to turn the guilty party in or the ethics code as a whole fails.

“You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden.  Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house, Matthew 5:14-15.”

From a spiritual perspective, Christians are suppose to stand out as shinning examples of God’s light.  Essentially people of faith are called to emulate the Bible’s truth by demonstrating fruits of the Holy Spirit.   Although many choose to be a chameleon, blending into the world, Jesus calls these individuals out, claiming the light is not in them, 1 John 2:11.  Thus, preachers today often make a plea from their pulpits in the form of “can I get a witness?”

But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of ajny kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God’s holy people, Ephesians 5:3.

The type of witness the Bible is searching for possesses a genuine spirit, full of grace.  While these standards are hard to live up to, Jesus sets the bar high, Matthew 5:48.  As you wake up, you may not feel like following in the footsteps of Jesus.  Nonetheless, the strength of Christ in you will surpass what human limits allow, Philippians 4:13.  Therefore, if you want to please the Lord, stand up today by being an unabashed witness for Jesus Christ.

by Jay Mankus

 

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What Do Strangers See in Me?

Posted on April 10, 2015 by expressyourself4him

 

Spending the past week in the south has allowed me to slow down, catch my breath and reflect.  Stressed out, rushed and unhappy isn’t a vibe that I enjoy giving off.  Subsequently, I am only left to ponder, what do strangers see in me when they look my way?

One generation commends your works to another; they tell of your mighty acts, Psalm 145:4.

I wish I could say that I stick out as a positive influence in a negative world.  On a good day maybe, yet life is a marathon not a sprint.  Thus, I tend to suck wind, not always finishing each day strong.  Some days I may even crawl past the finish line, wishing I can press a reset button.

They speak of the glorious splendor of your majesty— and I will meditate on your wonderful works, Psalm 145:5.

The Psalmist suggests the faith of one generation is passed on to the next.  However, what if the lives of believers don’t reflect a biblical love?  Will a hopeless generation come to the conclusion that God is dead?  While God does promise a remnant will always exist, whether small or large, I’m fearful saints aren’t recognizing the sense of urgency at hand.  What do strangers see in you?  God willing, deep inside your heart exists grace, love and forgiveness that today’s generation will pass on to the next.

by Jay Mankus

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All In; Not Just When You Feel Like It

Posted on April 5, 2015 by expressyourself4him

Sometimes your eyes are bigger than your stomach, unable to eat everything that you put on your plate.  In the same manner, when individuals open their mouths, empty vows spoken without any action leave a trail of broken promises.  This is not the standard Jesus set for his disciples.  Rather, he challenged his followers to be all in, not just when they feel like it.

Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength, Mark 12:30.

Based upon the interpretations of modern poets, song writers and the world, love is a feeling.  Worldly love changes from one day to the next, something that you can lose over time.  However, a biblical love is a willful desire, which requires everything you have.  While you may experience periods of fatigue, not 100 %, faith inspires the weak to dig down deep with all your heart, soul and mind.

But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me,                             2 Corinthians 12:9.

According to the lyrics of Stellar Kart’s song All In, “Its easier to be the crowd, to just fit in and not stand out at all; To make a case for apathy, and never risk a thing in case you fall and this is life and we all decide the stand we take and this is mine.”  This stanza accurately describes the stance most people take in this life.  However, God expects more of his children, to follow in the footsteps of the apostle Paul.  By praying the words of 2 Corinthians 12:9, even in your moments of weakness, Christ’s power can lead any willing soul to become all in.
by Jay Mankus

 

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The Great Vindication

Posted on March 12, 2015 by expressyourself4him

Absolve, exonerate and uphold are terms associated with vindication.  Unfortunately, print media and cable television often run stories with gossip, innuendos and rumors without complete assurance of the facts.  Thus, when uncovered evidence disproves false accusations, the damage has already been done.  By the time an apology is made, reputations are usually ruined, tattered by the piling on of public opinion.

No weapon that is fashioned against you shall succeed, and you shall confute every tongue that rises against you in judgment. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord and their vindication from me, declares the Lord. – Isaiah 54:17

In the spiritual realm, nothing is hidden from God, Hebrews 4:13.  Any flaw, mistake or trespass is exposed, revealing the imperfections of human beings like jars of clay, 2 Corinthians 4:7.  There is no one who is righteous, for all have fallen short of the glory of God, Romans 3:9-12.  Despite this lowly state, sinners have an advocate in their corner, gaining access to the great vindication through grace, Ephesians 2:8.

For the LORD will vindicate his people and have compassion on his servants. – Psalm 135:14

Although critics, enemies and naysayers will always exist, the Lord promises that a day will come when his people will be vindicated.  While scoffers may hurt your feelings, God’s compassion and forgiveness will wipe away your tears.  In the end, you will get the last laugh for trusting in an invisible God.  Therefore, put aside your fears and reservations by approaching the throne of grace with a humble heart.  This will lead you to the great vindication.

by Jay Mankus

 

 

 

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A Living Hell

Posted on February 18, 2015 by expressyourself4him

While the Old Testament law promotes an eye for an eye and life for a life.  God does support a scenario of life in prison without parole.  Following the murder of his brother, the Lord refused to allow anyone to kill Cain, essentially allowing him to suffer a lifetime of regret, a living hell on earth.

But the LORD said to him, “Not so, anyone who kills Cain will suffer vengeance seven times over.” Then the LORD put a mark on Cain so that no one who found him would kill him. – Genesis 4:15

You don’t have to commit murder to experience a living hell.  Those who have suffered a car accident may have to live with the regret of having a friend die while they were driving.  Soldiers often endure post traumatic stress syndrome following a horrific life event in the line of battle.  Meanwhile, parents who lose a child to drowning, SIDS or fatal illness may never recover from this painful tragedy.

By faith Abel brought God a better offering than Cain did. By faith he was commended as righteous, when God spoke well of his offerings. And by faith Abel still speaks, even though he is dead. – Hebrews 11:4

The voice of Abel cries out today to anyone who has dealt with a living hell on earth.  Although the Bible is unclear about what Abel said, whispers of grace, hope and mercy extend to souls torn in two.  Despite these wounds, life moves on with or without you.  Therefore, as you search for a source of healing, may the promise of Psalm 34:18 mend the broken hearted and lift up those crushed by a living hell.

by Jay Mankus

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Don’t Waste Your Breath

Posted on January 15, 2015 by expressyourself4him

When cold weather arrives each winter, its not uncommon to see each breath you take.  In the context of a conversation, every now and then you will encounter an individual who is not teachable, disregarding your advice.  Thus, instead of wasting your breath, you have to learn to move on until the timing is right.

Stay away from a fool, for you will not find knowledge on their lips. – Proverbs 14:7

Whether you are a coach, parent or teacher, it won’t be long until one of your pupils questions your authority.  Ignorance, pride and self-confidence are the usual suspects, making children think they know it all.  Rather than talking in vain, sometimes you how to wait until humility arrives before your words will be heard.

In the mouth of the foolish is a rod of pride: but the lips of the wise shall preserve them. – Proverbs 14:3

However, when the fall does come, responding with “I told you so” won’t win you any fans.  As the opportunity arises, make sure your words are full of grace, Colossians 4:5-6, softening harden hearts.  In the meantime, don’t waste your breath until this day arrives, when the prodigal comes to their senses, Luke 15:17.

by Jay Mankus

 

 

 

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