Tag Archives: Israel

Restrained From Giving

Posted on March 4, 2014 by expressyourself4him

Recent history suggests that immediately following the next devastating earthquake, massive hurricane or destructive tornado, a request for immediate aid will be communicated using the media.  Commercials, hotlines and organizations will use death tolls, images of desolation and pictures of orphans left behind to stir the hearts of Americans to give.  While the money collected does help some, corruption, mishandling of these funds and scam artists prevent these needs from becoming 100 % satisfied.  Thus, a lack of trust has restrained many from giving to these noble causes.

In the Old Testament, Israel appears selfish after enduring 400 years of slavery in Egypt.  Despite receiving manna from heaven and quail, their hearts lacked gratitude, always wanting more.  Subsequently, their faith wavered, eventually creating a golden calf to worship once a rumor that Moses had died spread throughout their camp.  Perhaps, God’s punishment and the deaths of 3,000 countrymen finally got their attention.  Between Exodus 33 and 35, a transformed took place within the hearts of God’s chosen people, from restraint to generosity.

When Moses expressed God’s plan for the Tabernacle, Ark of the Covenant, Courtyard and all the resources necessary for construction of each sacred item, entire families were moved by the Spirit of the Lord.  According to Exodus 36:3, a free will offering was received every morning during the building process.  Instead of giving once, the spirit of giving flowed day after day, inspired by the big picture, seeing God’s plans completed.  The workers received so many supplies that Moses had to announce an order to stop giving, Exodus 36:5-6.  If only this Spirit could be recaptured today, the poor, needy and helpless would be eliminated, restraining giving until the next crisis.

by Jay Mankus

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The Purging of Fools

Posted on February 9, 2014 by expressyourself4him

According to Webster, a fool demonstrates imprudence, silly behavior and unwise acts.  Today, it doesn’t take much effort to recognize foolishness in our culture.  Idiots, imbeciles and morons are making millions as reality TV stars.  Whether its the annoying person on Survivor, the American Idol contestant who can’t sing a lick or drunks on Moonshiners, some where along the way being foolish is now cool, especially if you can amuse others with laughter.

If there was an uncensored version of the Bible, I’m sure Moses muttered numerous things under his breath as he tried to lead a nation of fools into God’s promised land.  As Moses and Joshua listened to God for 40 days, providing guidelines for life, Aaron was holding down the fort as the high priest of Israel until they returned.  Like the blind leading the blind, Aaron panicked, failed to demonstrate leadership and broke the first 2 commandments by creating a golden calf in Exodus 32.  While most pastors stop their sermons here, I’ve never heard anyone speak of the purging of fools.

When the principle enters a classroom unannounced, students usually settle down, putting on their best behavior to avoid getting in trouble.  Unfortunately, when Moses rolled back into camp in Exodus 32:25-28, thousands of Israelites ignored Moses’ entrance, partying like it was 1999.  Like a coach or teacher trying to see who’s paying attention in class, Moses makes a challenge that is answered by the Levites, the priestly tribe, seemingly the only group disturbed by Israel’s reckless behavior.  Subsequently, God purged Israel of 3000 fools, who were not willing to obey or respect God’s commands.

In the New Testament, we find a kinder, gentler God, who offers His grace to those who believe in Jesus, Ephesians 2:4-8.  However, not much has changed since the days of Moses as millions are still living for the day, partying each weekend and are redefining foolishness with acts that  would make Sodom and Gomorrah blush.  As a circus of fools spread throughout America and across the world, may God have mercy, open the eyes of the spiritually blind and transform their lives before foolish acts result in death and destruction.

by Jay Mankus

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The Promised Angel

Posted on December 12, 2013 by expressyourself4him

Dramas like Touched by An Angel and Joan of Arcadia brought to light the concept of guardian angels.  From 1993 to 2004, Hollywood used Monica, Tess and Andrew to portray  what it would be like to encounter one of God’s servants.  As one show faded, another took its place in prime time, inspired by the song What if God was One of Us? Airing from 2003-2005, Joan of Arcadia gave teenagers a glimpse of how obeying God’s advice could impact the lives of an entire community.

The Bible introduces readers to a promised angel in Exodus 23:20-33.  According to Moses, God’s plan included a guardian angel for the nation of Israel.  The purpose of this heavenly visitor was to guide God’s people toward the promised land.  However, like anything else in life, freewill is in play, allowing individuals to choose to listen or disregard this angel’s directions.  It’s no wonder that Israel took 40 years to make it to a land flowing with milk and honey.  Taking God’s messenger seriously may have cut their time in half or possibly reduced their journey to 1 month, if only they had believed and obeyed.

While angelic stories continue today, Jesus promised to send a mighty counselor to earth after his ascension into heaven, John 16:5-15, known as the Holy Ghost.  Following Pentecost in Acts 2, an angel freed Peter from prison like a scene from a modern movie in Acts 12:5-14.  Unfortunately, faith is wavering today as unbelief has caused many to doubt God has the power to repeat history by ushering angels onto the scene and into our lives.  May the Spirit of Christmas transform your soul, helping you realize the wonderful life you have thereby embracing the angel by your side.

by Jay Mankus

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The First Thanksgiving

Posted on November 28, 2013 by expressyourself4him

According to the Plimoth Plantation, 4 different states claim they were the site of America’s first Thanksgiving.  Florida, Texas, Maine and Virginia each have historical documents to support their claims.  Since Native Americans made it a tradition to hold celebration feasts whenever God had given their tribe a successful harvest long before the arrival of the Mayflower, its hard to know who’s right.  Thus, its not important who get’s the credit for this holiday, as long as individuals make it a point to display their gratitude to the Creator of life each Thanksgiving Day.

In ancient times, Moses records Israel’s first Thanksgiving, nearly 3 months following the miracle at the Red Sea, Exodus 19:1.  After Israel’s first triumph since their exodus from Egypt, husbands were reunited with their wives and children, Exodus 18:2-8.  As Moses shared all that God had done for Israel to his father in law Jethro, this statesman was moved to celebrate the great news.  Gathering the elders of Israel, Jethro organized the first recorded Thanksgiving feast, Exodus 18:9-12, offering burnt sacrifices to the Lord and breaking bread together.

The brother of Jesus urges modern believers to continue this tradition in James 1:17-18.  Instead of taking sole credit for the good things in life, James reminds Christians to thank God for the blessings bestowed upon us.  Although blessings are not always equally dispersed, your actions can influence the amount you receive, Deuteronomy 28:1-2.  Despite our sinful state, Romans 5:8, Jesus died so that we might become born again, John 3:3-5.  May the true meaning of Thanksgiving be revealed to you as you open God’s word, Romans 10:17, during this Christmas season.

by Jay Mankus

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Faith Like A Bread Crumb

Posted on November 24, 2013 by expressyourself4him

In many avenues of life, a person of faith may be viewed as a dreamer, with good intentions yet far from reality.  Other optimistic individuals may be seen as crazy, with loose wires some where in their brains.  Although opinions may not be shared or spoken to their face, skepticism abounds as many have given up hope of believing in a God who does not meet their expectations or perceived needs.

Matthew 15:21-28 introduces the world to an outsider, a Canaanite whose culture was known for worshiping the devil.  Without any background about her, it appears that her nation’s god, Baal, had not been able to heal her child.  Thus, hearing that the circus was in town, Jesus’ earthly ministry, she pushes her way through the crowd.  Like a union boss during a strike at his plant, this desperate woman made her way to Jesus’ disciples, demanding a face to face encounter.  Not taking no for an answer, the disciples throw their hands up in the air, giving up, encouraging Jesus to send this woman on her way.

Jesus gave this Canaanite every opportunity to go home.  Jesus kindly reminds her that his initial mission was to come for the lost sheep of Israel.  Considered dogs by Jewish culture, he bluntly asks, “why should I waste my time with you,” possibly referencing his earlier words in Matthew 7:6.  Yet, each time she came back with a reply more determined than before, refusing to take no for an answer.  Finally, with faith like a bread crumb, this persistent woman receives the answer so longed to hear.  Living out the words of Matthew 7:7-12, she specifically asked God, seeking Jesus day after day and when no or not now was the answer, she kept knocking until her daughter was healed.  As you start tomorrow, don’t forget to seek a faith like a bread crumb.

by Jay Mankus

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The First Touch Down Celebration

Posted on November 15, 2013 by expressyourself4him

Although Notre Dame often takes credits for their Touchdown Jesus mural directly behind the north end zone in Irish Stadium, there is another celebration that takes precedent.  Before the game of football, war was the main sport, battling for survival on open fields to see who was superior.  Yes, even prior to Goliath’s surprise collapse to David’s slingshot, there was a noteworthy day not to be forgotten.

According to Exodus 17:8-15, the Israelites met the Amalekites in the valley at Rephhidim.  Similar to a civil war battle, swords replaced muskets and canons.  High above the action, stood Moses, Aaron and Hur, praying for God’s side to be victorious.  As long as Moses’ hands were held high, Israel stayed in the lead, Exodus 17:11.  The moment he lowered his hands, the Amalekites began to take back momentum.  Unable to lift his hands high on his own, Moses called on Aaron and Hur to prop his arms up in a steady position.  By night fall, Israel delivered the knock out punch, spurred on to victory by the prayers and lifted hands of 3 men.

No, this isn’t a beer commercial about superstitions.  Nor is this a football game that ended on a last second field goal in overtime.  This is simply the first touchdown celebration, 2 hands held up high to the heavens, thanking God for today’s victory.  The Lord thought so much of this day that he urged Moses to write an account of this event so that those not in attendance could one day marvel at the power of the Almighty God, Exodus 17:14-15.  Instead of creating a statue like Touchdown Jesus, Moses built an altar for Jehovah Nissi, which means, “the Lord is my Banner!”  The next time your favorite team scores a field goal or touchdown, remember to lift your hands high like Moses, thanking God for the good things on earth, James 1:17.

by Jay Mankus

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Squashing Any Attempts of Mutiny

Posted on October 16, 2013 by expressyourself4him

When a teenager earns the trust of their parent or teacher, this individual often receives a little slack.  Depending upon their response to freedom, this teen will either acquire more or lose these privileges based upon their behavior.  The essence of trust is an assurance that when left alone, a person will continue to walk in credible and reliable ways, 1 Thessalonians 4:1-2.  If trust is broken or respect lost due to unforeseen acts bent on evil, authority figures can step in to squash any attempts at mutiny.

 

Near of end of Israel’s 400 years of slavery in Egypt, Pharaoh became paranoid once his magicians could no longer duplicate the plagues made by the power within Moses’ staff, Exodus 8:18-19.  In fact, the sight of Moses in Pharaoh’s presence became like bad news, probably thinking to himself, “okay, what’s the next plague God is going to send my way?”  While Pharaoh kept promising Moses that he would allow Israel to worship the Lord in the desert, in the back of his mind he doubted their motives, Exodus 10:8-11.  Ticked off by a 3 day plague of darkness, Pharaoh lost his cool, banishing Moses from his presence, Exodus 10:27-29.  As a last ditch effort to squash the mutiny he believed Israel was planning, Pharaoh threatened to kill Moses if he ever entered the king’s presence again.

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One thing I have learned in life, if God is up to something, no human hand, leader or nation can hold back His power.  Unfortunately, God’s timing is different from man’s timing, Ecclesiastes 3:11, causing mankind to scratch their heads, confused by righteous causes that are squashed and evil which prospers.  However, in these moments of frustration, one must remember the wisdom of Job 42:1-6.  Therefore, as you make the best of the hand God has dealt you, don’t fold until you have planned the game of life with every ounce of your heart, Colossians 3:17.

by Jay Mankus

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No Mas

Posted on October 10, 2013 by expressyourself4him

When boxing was in its hay day in America, Sugar Ray Leonard and Roberto Duran were in their prime, slugging it out in 3 title bouts.  On November 25th, 1980, the Louisiana Super Dome hosted their first rematch as Leonard tried to regain the WBC Welterweight belt he lost in their first fight.  Nicknamed Manos de Piedra by his native Panama, Duran’s hands of stone  appeared mortal.  Near the end of the 8th round, Roberto gave up, waving his gloves in the air, signaling his surrender to the referee.  A stunned crowd and opponent, waited for an explanation.  In response, Duran replied, “no mas, no mas; no more boxing!”

Sometime around 1465 B.C. a similar duel took place in Egypt.  When Aaron and Moses threatened Egypt with a series of plagues if their king, Pharaoh did not allow the descendents of Israel to offer sacrifices to God in the desert, tensions flared, Exodus 7:8-13.  To counter God’s power, Pharaoh called on the magicians and sorcercer’s of his day, who relied on secrets arts passed down to them, Exodus 7:11.  These wise men went toe to toe with God for 3 rounds equaling each miracle performed by Aaron using the staff God gave Moses.  However, when the 4th plague began, Exodus 8:16-19, the magicians knew they were beaten.  Instead of saying No Mas like Duran, they broke the bad news to Pharaoh in Exodus 8:19, “this is the finger of God that can’t be duplicated.”

 

Within the pages of John 15:1-8, Jesus uses a parable to help people understand a secret to life.  On your own, you are limited, powerless to reach your full potential, John 15:6.  However, if you choose to stay connected to the vine, Jesus, by making time for prayer, study and worship, you will bear great amounts of spiritual fruit, John 15:5.  In order to obtain this spiritual state, you have to reach a breaking point like Roberto Duran and Pharaoh, proclaiming “no mas!”  Just as the apostle Paul learned the hard way, 2 Corinthians 12:7-10, when you are at your weakest, Christ is strongest, ready at a moment’s notice to come to your rescue.

by Jay Mankus

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Amish Aid

Posted on September 25, 2013 by expressyourself4him

 

The concept of Amish aid is a 300 year tradition brought to Lancaster County, Pennsylvania by Amish immigrants who settled in this portion of the country.  An Amish Aid Society was founded by church members, serving as insurance in case disaster strikes someone in their community.  This practice has been illustrated by the hit television series Amish Mafia, produced by the Discovery Channel, often using Lebanan Levi to collect money from the Amish community.  However, the origin of Amish Aid may very well be found in Genesis 50:24-25.

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During the Great 7 year Famine in the days of Pharaoh, Israel was forced to relocate his family to Egypt, supported by his son Joseph who was governor.  When every Egyptian citizen was forced to become the slaves of Pharaoh, selling their land and labor for food, the only remaining land owners were the priests, Genesis 47:22 and 70 descendents of Israel, Exodus 1:5.  Prior to his death, Joseph forces his grandchildren to make an oath to God.  Based upon the slavery that follows in Exodus, God appears to have given Joseph one more glance into the future.  Thus, Joseph convinces his family to believe “God will surely come to your aid!” – Genesis 50:25.

When trials come, like experiencing 400 years of slavery in Egypt, Nazi death camps under Hitler and imminent attacks from terrorists today, God’s remnant has no other option but rely on the promise of Genesis 50:25.  These severe conditions make individuals realize quickly that you can’t help yourself.  Yet, the prayers of the dead, dying and imprisoned were answered by people like Oskar Schindler whose life story is revealed in the 1983 epic film Schindler’s List.  Therefore, whether you are Amish, Catholic, Jewish or Presbyterian, cry out to God and believe that He will come to your aid!

by Jay Mankus

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Brought to Tears

Posted on September 12, 2013 by expressyourself4him

 

From time to time, even the stoic have moments where they can’t hold back their tears.  Depending upon how you were raised as a child, you are either less or more likely to cry based upon the principles instilled within you by parents.  However, when confronted by the past, death or disappointment, any of these elements of pain can trigger the flood gates to open.

I tend to go through arid periods, numb to the emotions deep inside my soul.   Although, I do experience an annual rainy season, when the lyrics to a song, a touching scene or I am moved by a conservation, unleashing a steady flow of tear drops.  May be this is why the Holy Spirit inspired Solomon to say “a sad face is good for the heart” within Ecclesiastes, made famous by the Choir’s 1988 song from their Chase the Kangaroo album.

This is where we find Joseph, son of Israel in Genesis 45:1-2.  Moved by Judah’s plea,  suggesting that coming home without Benjamin, the youngest boy in the family, will likely result in the death of his father, Genesis 44:18-34.  Afraid that his childish act of toying with his brothers out of vengeance will cause his own father to die of a broken heart, Joseph finally relents.  Possibly holding a grudge, mistreated by them 20 years earlier, wailing aloud serves as a source of healing.  Once he composes himself, Joseph conveys God’s plan to his brothers in Genesis 45:3-8, brought to tears by God’s providence.

by Jay Mankus

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