Tag Archives: hearts

God’s Invitation to Faith

Posted on November 20, 2023 by expressyourself4him

As a former youth pastor in Columbus, Indiana, some of my students would come over to my apartment at night with a burning question on their heart. According to the disciple whom Jesus loved, one Pharisee caught up with Jesus after sunset, afraid of what his peers might think of their meeting together. Jesus used this conversation as an invitation to faith.

Jesus answered him, I assure you, most solemnly I tell you, that unless a person is born again (anew, from above), he cannot ever see (know, be acquainted with, and experience) the kingdom of God. 4 Nicodemus said to Him, How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter his mother’s womb again and be born? 5 Jesus answered, I assure you, most solemnly I tell you, unless a man is born of water and [[a]even] the Spirit, he cannot [ever] enter the kingdom of God, John 3:3-5.

After meeting with a couple of key teenage leaders, I became open to the idea of meeting in the chapel once a month. Rather than having a series of games, ice-breakers, and planned talk, the youth group met in a small chapel designed for hosting prayer gatherings. This night gave students an open forum to share what was on their hearts, minds and soul.

For God so greatly loved and dearly prized the world that He [even] gave up His only begotten ([d]unique) Son, so that whoever believes in (trusts in, clings to, relies on) Him shall not perish (come to destruction, be lost) but have eternal (everlasting) life. 17 For God did not send the Son into the world in order to judge (to reject, to condemn, to pass sentence on) the world, but that the world might find salvation and be made safe and sound through Him, John 3:16-17.

Depending upon the moving of the Holy Spirit, touching testimonies were shared by quiet teens, finally opening up about what was going on inside their broken heart. On a couple of occasions, one of the brave individuals who got up in front to speak, gave an invitation to receive Jesus into their hearts, John 3:16-17. This is what Jesus envisioned 2000 years ago as he spoke the words above to Nicodemus, offering an invitation to faith.

by Jay Mankus

Leave a comment

Posted in Truth and tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.

Kindled Wrath

Posted on September 13, 2023 by expressyourself4him

As a former Boy Scout for a few years, I’m familiar with gathering kindling before starting a campfire. The drier the wood, the quicker you’ll be preparing a hot meal in the wilderness. However, Moses uses kindling in the context of anger. When Potiphar’s wife showed him Joseph’s garment that smelled like it was in his wife’s arms, Potiphar’s wrath was kindled up.

And when [Joseph’s] master heard the words of his wife, saying to him, This is the way your servant treated me, his wrath was kindled. 20 And Joseph’s master took him and put him in the prison, a place where the state prisoners were confined; so he was there in the prison, Genesis 39:19-20.

Perhaps, the words of the apostle Paul in Ephesians 4:26-27 serve as a warning against kindling up wrath before it explodes. However, the apostle Paul focuses on anger, not wrath. Paul suggests if you let the sun go down without addressing your anger in a positive manner, you give the Devil a foothold. When this foothold is allowed to linger in your life, anger continues to build and grow.

Be still and rest in the Lord; wait for Him and patiently lean yourself upon Him; fret not yourself because of him who prospers in his way, because of the man who brings wicked devices to pass. 8 Cease from anger and forsake wrath; fret not yourself—it tends only to evildoing, Psalm 37:7-8.

David addresses kindled wrath in the passage above. Sometimes you can be our own worst enemy, slowly filling human hearts with a spirit of impatience. Rather than let impatience simmer, place your trust fully in the Lord. Therefore, the next time you feel like you’re going to unload on someone, following King David’s advice in the passage above so that civility will reign.

by Jay Mankus

Leave a comment

Posted in Truth and tagged , , , , , , , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.

The Crossover Connection Week 14: The Kings of Punk Rock

Posted on May 6, 2023 by expressyourself4him

When I was in eighth grade, certain rock bands possessed a cult following. Tee shirts from the most recent concerts were worn as a badge of honor, an allegiance to their fandom. Debates broke out daily about which band was the G.O.A.T., greatest of all time. As an entry level novice of music at this time, die hearts tried to persuade me with certain songs and classic albums to join their side. Unfortunately, I never really got excited about music until high school, using lyrics, rhythms and tunes to run faster as a cross country runner.

Now there was a certain man among the Pharisees named Nicodemus, a ruler (a leader, an authority) among the Jews,2 Who came to Jesus at night and said to Him, Rabbi, we know and are certain that You have come from God [as] a Teacher; for no one can do these signs (these wonderworks, these miracles—and produce the proofs) that You do unless God is with him, John 3:1-2.

During college, one Christian band spoke to my heart like Jesus spoke to Nicodemus. When one of my college roommates introduced me to the Altar Boys, I was immediately drawn to their Punk Rock. The Altar Boys is like a combination of the Clash and David Bowe with their own unique style. The Altar Boys’ Gut Level Music album made me a fan for life. The attached You Tube provides a good mix of original, classic and hardcore songs from the Altar Boys. As you listen to their music this week, I pray that the lyrics will speak to your heart like Life Begins at the Cross. Enjoy this hang banging band.

by Jay Mankus

Leave a comment

Posted in Truth and tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.

The Bible’s Version of All In

Posted on April 25, 2023 by expressyourself4him

As children grow up and mature, simple card games like Go Fish and War are replaced by more complex ones. I was introduced to Cribbage in high school, moved on to Hearts in college and graduated to Euchre and Spades in my twenties. However, it wasn’t until watching the World Series of Poker on television, Texas Hold’em style, that I truly understood going All In. When your chips deteriorate, and a decent hand is dealt, desperation forces many professional card players to go All In.

And Abraham said to his servants, Settle down and stay here with the donkey, and I and the young man will go yonder and worship and [a]come again to you. 6 Then Abraham took the wood for the burnt offering and laid it on [the shoulders of] Isaac his son, and he took the fire (the firepot) in his own hand, and a knife; and the two of them went on together. 7 And Isaac said to Abraham, My father! And he said, Here I am, my son. [Isaac] said, See, here are the fire and the wood, but where is the lamb for the burnt sacrifice? 8 Abraham said, My son, [b]God Himself will provide a lamb for the burnt offering. So the two went on together, Genesis 22:5-8.

The Bible has its own version of All In. Two analogies illustrate this point: driving a car and reading a newspaper. The driver of a vehicle knows where they want to go and how long it will take thanks to GPS. Going all in spiritually means handing the wheel over to Jesus, yielding complete control to God. Meanwhile, every paper has multiple sections that may bore, entertain or interest you. Yet, going all in requires Christians to live their lives as an open book to God, not hiding, holding back or tearing out any unpleasant page from your life.

When they came to the place of which God had told him, Abraham built an altar there; then he laid the wood in order and [c]bound Isaac his son and laid him on the altar on the wood. 10 And Abraham stretched forth his hand and took hold of the knife to slay his son. 11 But the [d]Angel of the Lord called to him from heaven and said, Abraham, Abraham! He answered, Here I am. 12 And He said, Do not lay your hand on the lad or do anything to him; for now I know that you fear and revere God, since you have not held back from Me or begrudged giving Me your son, your only son. 13 Then Abraham looked up and glanced around, and behold, behind him was a ram caught in a thicket by his horns. And Abraham went and took the ram and offered it up for a burnt offering and an ascending sacrifice instead of his son! – Genesis 22:9-13

When you study the life of Abraham, it took him a while for him to truly place his trust in God. I truly believe that asking Abraham to sacrifice Isaac, his promised child, forces him to go All In. Some scholars claim that Abraham came to the conclusion that somehow Isaac would be raised from the dead if he was fulfill to God’s calling. King Solomon chimes in on this topic, explaining the Bible’s version of All In, Proverbs 3:5-6. As you mature spiritually, don’t be afraid to join Abraham by placing your trust fully in the Lord.

by Jay Mankus

Leave a comment

Posted in Truth and tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.

There’s No Need for Disinformation

Posted on June 4, 2022 by expressyourself4him

The Department of Homeland Security recently announced news of a new Disinformation Governance Board. When an old Tiktok video of the individual selected to oversee this board surfaced, the credibility of this Disinformation Board was immediately put into question. Meanwhile, a tweet by Jeff Bezos called out President Biden for his own disinformation about a false statement on Covid-19 vaccines.

I have no greater joy than this, to hear that my [spiritual] children are living their lives in the Truth, 3 John 1:4.

According to one of Jesus’ former disciples, the Bible has its own plan for dealing with disinformation. At the beginning of one of his last recorded letters, John’s greatest joy as a Christian is to see people, he spiritually mentored to live their lives in the truth of the Bible. Since the Bible contains supernatural power as a living document, Hebrews 4:12, disinformation is exposed by the light of God’s Word.

So Jesus said to those Jews who had believed in Him, If you abide in My word [hold fast to My teachings and live in accordance with them], you are truly My disciples. 32 And you will know the Truth, and the Truth will set you free, John 8:31-32.

Years earlier, John was present when Jesus told his disciples that spiritual truth will set you free. While disinformation, gossip, and rumors continue today, Christians who shine the light and love of Jesus will convict the hearts of those trying to control your speech. Despite the algorithms designed by social media sites that favor progressive ideas, living your life in the Truth will expose disinformation as its espoused.

by Jay Mankus

Leave a comment

Posted in Truth and tagged , , , , , , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.

Carrying the Burdens of Others this Year

Posted on January 27, 2022 by expressyourself4him

One of Daniel’s friends from college received an urgent call from his mother a few weeks ago. Cristian’s father was taken to the hospital, battling for his life. Carrying the burden of his friend, Daniel jumped in his car and drove Cristian to Connecticut, only stopping for gas and food. While they were able to make it in time, the Coronavirus claimed another victim. This is one burden that other believers should carry.

Brethren, if any person is overtaken in misconduct or sin of any sort, you who are spiritual [who are responsive to and controlled by the Spirit] should set him right and restore and reinstate him, without any sense of superiority and with all gentleness, keeping an attentive eye on yourself, lest you should be tempted also. 2 Bear (endure, carry) one another’s burdens and [a]troublesome moral faults, and in this way fulfill and observe perfectly the law of Christ (the Messiah) and complete [b]what is lacking [in your obedience to it], Galatians 6:1-2.

I was introduced to concept of carrying the burdens of others while on a mission trip in college. One evening I took a walk with two friends. After a brief moment of small talk, a spirit of confession fell upon all three of us. Before the night was over, each of us shared secrets sins that we had kept buried deep inside of our hearts. This special conversation helped me realized the importance of laying our burdens at the feet of the cross, Matthew 11:28-30.

Clothe yourselves therefore, as God’s own chosen ones (His own picked representatives), [who are] purified and holy and well-beloved [by God Himself, by putting on behavior marked by] tenderhearted pity and mercy, kind feeling, a lowly opinion of yourselves, gentle ways, [and] patience [which is tireless and long-suffering, and has the power to endure whatever comes, with good temper]. 13 Be gentle and forbearing with one another and, if one has a difference (a grievance or complaint) against another, readily pardoning each other; even as the Lord has [freely] forgiven you, so must you also [forgive], Colossians 3:12-13.

Most people don’t bare their soul the first time you meet. Rather, healing takes time by becoming a consistent source of compassion. Instead of telling others that you know how they feel, the best thing you can do is listen attentively. As you develop and demonstrate the biblical qualities listed in the passage above, hurting people will open up when the timing is right. Until this day arrive, continue to carry the burdens of others this year.

by Jay Mankus

Leave a comment

Posted in Truth and tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.

Silently Setting the Scene for Christmas

Posted on December 24, 2021 by expressyourself4him

Franz Xaver Gruber composed Silent Night in 1818 using Oberndorf bei Salzburg, Austria as a back drop. When combined with Joseph Mohr’s lyrics, Silent Night was declared an intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO in 2011. In the past 200 years, this Christmas classic song has silently set the scene, preparing hearts and minds to worship Jesus, the Savior of the World.

In the beginning [before all time] was the Word ([a]Christ), and the Word was with God, and the Word was God [b]Himself. 2 He was present originally with God. 3 All things were made and came into existence through Him; and without Him was not even one thing made that has come into being John 1:1-3.

Yet, in the first century one of Jesus’ disciples introduces the concept of a Trinity. One God with three distinct personalities. If you use the Bible as a source for history, these qualities are displayed throughout 3 different eras. God the Father is the mastermind who laid out a back up plan in Genesis 3:15. Meanwhile, God the Son came to earth and seek and to save that which was lost, Luke 19:10.

In Him was Life, and the Life was the Light of men. 5 And the Light shines on in the darkness, for the darkness has never overpowered it [put it out or absorbed it or appropriated it, and is unreceptive to it], John 1:4-5.

Following Jesus’ resurrection and ascension into heaven, we now live in the age of the Holy Spirit. This invisible ghost serves as a counselor and guide throughout the days of our lives. According to one of the members of Jesus’ inner circle, God’s Spirit gives us everything we need for life, 2 Peter 1:3-4. Therefore, as another Christmas Day approaches, silently set your heart, soul and mind to be ready to worship Jesus.

by Jay Mankus

Leave a comment

Posted in Truth and tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.

A Cautionary Tale about the Worship of Angels

Posted on October 5, 2021 by expressyourself4him

According to the apostle Paul, the worship of angels was a common occurrence in the first century, Colossians 2:18. Based upon the vast number of patron saints in Catholicism, seen as hallow and heavenly protectors, the worship of angels continue today. While modern individuals may have experienced visions from God, setting up places of worship or statues in these locations is something you want to avoid.

[Taking a place and rank by which] He Himself became as much superior to angels as the glorious Name (title) which He has inherited is different from and more excellent than theirs. 5 For to which of the angels did [God] ever say, You are My Son, today I have begotten You [established You in an official Sonship relation, with kingly dignity]? And again, I will be to Him a Father, and He will be to Me a Son? 6 Moreover, when He brings the firstborn Son [d]again into the habitable world, He says, Let all the angels of God worship Him, Hebrews 1:4-6.

According to the author of Hebrews, a growing numbers of Christian began to equate angels on the same level with Jesus. This concern inspired the entire first chapter, dedicated to straightening out this misconception. Likely building upon the premise introduced by one of Jesus’ disciples in John 1:1-14, Jesus is elevated back to his correct status as much superior to angels. Yet, when testimonies are shared about encounters with angels that modern people have experienced, it’s easy to get carried away.

Like a mantle [thrown about one’s self] You will roll them up, and they will be changed and replaced by others. But You remain the same, and Your years will never end nor come to failure. 13 Besides, to which of the angels has He ever said, Sit at My right hand [associated with Me in My royal dignity] till I make your enemies a stool for your feet? 14 Are not the angels all ministering spirits (servants) sent out in the service [of God for the assistance] of those who are to inherit salvation? – Hebrews 1:12-14

At the conclusion of Hebrews 1, angels are compared with servants of God. Whether angels come to you in response to prayer or sent to encourage a trouble soul, angels continue to minister to human beings today. Other events are more subtle as you’re distracted to avoid that accident you just missed being a part of. Nonetheless, angels need to be kept in their proper perspective as an assistant to God by leading hearts to embrace eternal life. Yet, anytime you exchange worship for God toward angels, you’re missing the mark designed to exalt the Great I Am.

by Jay Mankus

Leave a comment

Posted in Truth and tagged , , , , , , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.

Praying for Participation and Sharing

Posted on September 24, 2021 by expressyourself4him

Early on in a new school year, trying to get students to participate and share their thoughts can be difficult. As a former high school teacher, the only willing participants tend to be the class clown and teacher’s pets trying to earn brownie points. When all of their curriculum, education, and teaching methods fail to produce increased participation, don’t be afraid to pray for students to open up their hearts in your classroom.

[And I pray] that the participation in and sharing of your faith may produce and promote full recognition and appreciation and understanding and precise knowledge of every good [thing] that is ours in [our identification with] Christ Jesus [and unto His glory], Philemon 1:6.

In an obscure first century epistle, the apostle Paul writes to one of his servants in the ministry. While writing from prison, Paul prays for the participation in and the sharing of testimonies. As Christians reflect upon how they came to faith in Christ, your personal story will strike a nerve with a specific audience. The more you find opportunities to weave your faith into daily conversations, other people will begin to appreciate and understand your relationship with God.

But in your hearts set Christ apart as holy [and acknowledge Him] as Lord. Always be ready to give a logical defense to anyone who asks you to account for the hope that is in you, but do it courteously and respectfully, 1 Peter 3:15.

One of Jesus’ former disciples chimes in on this topic as well. Simon Peter who was never afraid to voice his opinion appears to have gotten wiser in his later years. Based upon the passage above, Peter learned the necessity to be courteous and respectful when sharing his faith. One of my favorite hymns in college was Blessed Assurance which promotes sharing your faith. Whenever I hear the chorus, “this is my story, this is my song,” I am inspired to participate and share my faith. This continues to be a worthy cause to pray for daily.

by Jay Mankus

1 Comment

Posted in Truth and tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.

Why Hurt People Begin to Hurt Others

Posted on September 19, 2021 by expressyourself4him

Every day hurt people are like ticking time bombs. Depending upon the circumstances going on in their lives, once the wrong situation comes along, there are usually no warning signs. When a frustrated individual snaps, negative energy is unleashed upon everyone in the room where this unfortunate event takes comes. Like someone under the influence of alcohol, it may take hurt people a few days to realize the pain they’ve inflicted upon innocent souls.

When angry, do not sin; do not ever let your wrath (your exasperation, your fury or indignation) last until the sun goes down. 27 Leave no [such] room or foothold for the devil [give no opportunity to him]. 28 Let the thief steal no more, but rather let him be industrious, making an honest living with his own hands, so that he may be able to give to those in need, Ephesians 4:26-28.

During a letter to the Church at Ephesus, the apostle Paul begins to diagnose why emotional outbursts happen. The initial issue is anger that goes unresolved. Instead of explaining one’s frustration, this fury is swept under the rug temporarily. As days lead to weeks, a root of bitterness brews within human hearts. Meanwhile, this open door gives the Devil a foothold, an opportunity for hurt people to be used as a vessel of darkness.

I am the Door; anyone who enters in through Me will be saved (will live). He will come in and he will go out [freely], and will find pasture. 10 The thief comes only in order to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance (to the full, till it [b]overflows), John 10:9-10.

Jesus predicted this scenario 2000 years ago. Whenever someone can not distinguish the voice of God from whispers of the Devil, self fulfilled prophecies begin to occur. Hurt and negative people begin a steady decline as hope and joy seems to disappear. To those who reach this spiritual condition, the Devil will steal, kill and destroy the lives of hurt people. If you feel like your life is too far gone, remember the words of Paul so that in your own weakness, Christ will become strong, 2 Corinthians 12:7-12.

by Jay Mankus

Leave a comment

Posted in Truth and tagged , , , , , , , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.
← Older Posts
→