Tag Archives: history
Thrills That Kill
One of my favorite summer pastimes is visiting amusement parks across the country. Whether its Cedar Point, Kings Island or one of the 6 Flags venues, there is nothing like the thrill of riding on a roller coaster. This rush of adrenaline creates a sensation that makes you feel like you’re flying through the air. However, for the paranoid, history serves as a notice that some rides can kill.
According to an NBC News report from July of 2014, most amusement accidents occur to children, roughly 4,400 per year or 20 per week during the peak season. The most recent investigation on amusement park death found 52 individuals died over a 15 year people, with the latest victim a woman from Texas who fell out of a 14 story wooden coaster. Despite strict safety regulations, there is no guarantee when the next malfunction will end in disaster.
From a spiritual perspective, there is a reason why God includes guidelines for life in the Bible. If ignored, its easy to wander into trouble, just ask Eve. Meanwhile, the acts of the sinful nature have been added for New Testament readers, warning people of the dangers of indulging in Turkish delights, Galatians 5:19-21. Just as Peter explored Narnia, attractive to the promises of the White Witch, most human beings can’t resist the pleasures of earth. Thus, if you’re not careful, you might develop a taste for thrills that can kill.
by Jay Mankus
Inches From Adultery
In a chapter entitled, Anatomy of Adultery, Dr. James Dobson addresses a shocking trend in America. Although men were more guilty of committing adultery in previous decades, today married women 29 years of age and younger have turned the tables on their spouses, indulging in significantly more affairs than men. Another study from Dr. Kelly Bonewell reveals 4 out of 10 Americans believe adultery is morally acceptable. If this is true, many adults are inches away from adultery.
The topic of adultery is nothing new. During his famous Sermon on the Mount, Jesus threw a curve ball to those in attendance. Formerly regarded as something only a married man or woman could commit, Jesus introduces a spiritual element to adultery in Matthew 5:27-30. This perspective has no limitations, including all ages, who are also vulnerable to temptation. Adultery isn’t just a sin, its a byproduct of lust. Therefore, if flirting gives birth to lust, James 1:13-15, even Christians can draw close, inches away from adultery.
The first time I read Jesus’ comments in Matthew 5:29-30, I thought He was being unreasonable. However, once I did a little research, I discovered Jesus was referencing the Old Testament principle of purging. When someone removes the atmosphere, environment and traces of lust, thoughts of adultery will fade from their minds. However, if you put yourself into a compromising position one too many times, the line will be crossed so that inches become reality. May the words of 1 Thessalonians 4:3-8 serve as a warning before its too late to alter history.
by Jay Mankus
Prayers of Change
For the helpless, hurting and poor, change is something that can’t come soon enough. These desperate souls are searching for the secret to getting God’s attention to alter their circumstances. When waiting becomes excruciating, what should you say to obtain prayers of change?
In the days of the Old Testament, the heart and its spiritual condition directly influenced God’s response to mankind, Isaiah 1:15-18. Meanwhile, the mind is a terrible thing to waste, especially when doubt blocks faith from taking root, Matthew 21:18-22. If you don’t believe God can transform your situation, miracles will cease to exist. Thus, what can I do to be heard?
History provides a benchmark, a series of success stories in life. When you desire wisdom, pray to possess the knowledge of Solomon. If discernment is what you need, ask for the insight of the sons of Issachar. Is it faith that you lack, claim the double portion the Lord gave Elisha. Do you struggle to love? Lean on Jesus to fill this void. Finally, if the favor of God seems distant, persist in prayer to experience the blessings of Joseph. May the words of Matthew 7:7-12 inspire you to offer up prayers for change.
by Jay Mankus