Tag Archives: logic

What Can Faith Do For You?

Posted on April 18, 2016 by expressyourself4him

If you watch sports on television, the games are still the same but the responses by those on the court, rink or field have changed drastically.  Reality TV shows haven’t helped, giving obnoxious parents a platform to treat their children like a lottery ticket almost ready to be cashed in.  Beyond common sense, logic and morals, there should be something in our soul that makes a clear distinction between right and wrong behavior.  Something so clear that the average person says, “yeah, I see it!”

And what more shall I say? I do not have time to tell about Gideon, Barak, Samson and Jephthah, about David and Samuel and the prophets, Hebrews 11:32.

The author of Hebrews spends an entire chapter highlighting people who demonstrated faith.  While some were more outspoken than others, the majority let their actions speak for themselves.  This is what leads the writer to suggest, “do I need to say anymore?”  Verses 33-38 go on to detail what faith did for these individuals.  The question today is do you believe these miracles still exist or like the movie is God dead?

Women received back their dead, raised to life again. There were others who were tortured, refusing to be released so that they might gain an even better resurrection, Hebrews 11:35.

From the outside looking in, many modern Christians have stained and tarnished the image of faith.  The world sees a bunch of hypocrites whereas the genuine people of faith get overlooked.  For those who still believe have their chance to make a difference, to inspire a new generation to seek God.  What can faith do for you?  You’ll never find out until you take the leap, plunging into the unknown, waiting for spiritual fruits to blossom.

by Jay Mankus

 

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Witnesses of the Holy Spirit

Posted on October 13, 2015 by expressyourself4him

If you have ever witnessed an accident, there are several things which must take place before you can leave.  The police must be contacted, vehicles must be moved off to the side and witnesses need to give their account of what happened.  The authorities are trying to create a 360 degree picture of the scene.  When all of the accounts are written down, an accurate perspective is usually derived.

We are witnesses of these things, and so is the Holy Spirit, whom God has given to those who obey him, Acts 5:32.

When it comes to testifying about that which is unseen, accumulating information is much more difficult.  Perhaps a prayer spoken up to heaven is answered in a relatively quick time.  Or a financial need is met in a supernatural manner.  Some may even see a miracle unfold which defies logic.  If you have encountered any of these scenarios, maybe you have been a witness of the Holy Spirit.

Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, 1 Corinthians 6:19.

The apostle Paul puts a different spin on this topic.  Relying on Jesus’ words to his disciples in John 16, Paul suggests this counselor can actually enter your body.  This Holy Ghost transformed his brethren from scaredy cats to bold evangelists.  This display of faith likely inspired a generation of believers.  Although the presence of the Holy Spirit may be rare in these days and times, don’t be surprised if you become a witness to the Holy Spirit.

by Jay Mankus

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What Am I Suppose to Do Now?

Posted on June 26, 2015 by expressyourself4him

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LeU6ugY75lQ

After his suffering, Jesus presented himself to them and gave many convincing proofs that he was alive. He appeared to them over a period of forty days and spoke about the kingdom of God, Acts 1:3.

Without the resurrection, followers of Jesus would have disbanded, fearful of the same fate Jesus endured.  However, common sense, logic and eyewitness accounts of a risen Jesus weeks after his death suggest the disciples were emboldened.  When the Holy Spirit fell upon these individuals on the Day of Pentecost, this guiding light and mighty counselor laid the foundation for the modern Christian church to build upon.

All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them, Acts 2:4.

Unfortunately, revisionist historians, time and persecution have caused many churches to disown parts of the Bible like Peter who denied his association with Jesus.  As atheistic and liberal groups turn up the heat, believers are abandoning their convictions, trying to please mankind rather than God.  Afraid of having their tax exempt status revoked, recent trials are producing a generation of wimpy Christians.  Although some are fighting on the front line, many are disenfranchised, floating from one house of worship to another.

Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ, Galatians 1:10.

Struggling to find my place in this world, one question is staring me in the face, “what I am suppose to do now?”  Although writing this blog is a good start, its independent of any church.  Thus, the church is not failing; its servants like me who are sitting on the sidelines playing Monday Morning Quarterback.  In view of this, I need to get off the bench, exercise my spiritual gifts and get back in the game.  Join me in flaming into flame the gifts and talents God has blessed you with.

by Jay Mankus

 

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Somebody’s Gotta Be Right?

Posted on June 1, 2015 by expressyourself4him

If you unravel the earth’s history, forefathers, prophets and religious leaders have made some bold statements.  These claims have shaped and formed the beliefs of worship centers throughout the world.  Founders like Buddha, Moses, Mohammad and Jesus have inspired generations of followers.  However, how do you know the one that is right from those who have slightly strayed from the truth?

Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me,” John 14:6.

According to C.S. Lewis, each belief system possesses ethics, morals and prudent principles.  A former atheist,  Lewis wrote Mere Christianity to explain his journey from unbelief to faith.  Using apologetics, logic and theology, Lewis methodically separates Jesus from all other individuals.  Despite his findings, a progressive culture has forgotten about Lewis, professing there are many paths to heaven.

Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved, Acts 4:12.

At this point of contention, do you go along with the crowd, confront naysayers or examine the scriptures to ascertain the correct road to heaven?  While critics may call you intolerant, narrow minded or old fashioned, most would rather be safe rather than sorry, spending eternity in hell.  Thus its essential for inquiring minds to test everything, 1 Thessalonians 5:21-22, so that in the end the truth will set you free.

by Jay Mankus

 

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You’re Not Welcome Here Anymore

Posted on May 13, 2015 by expressyourself4him

Strong personalities can be polarizing, often ruffling the feathers of the elite.  The controlling, power hungry and religious leaders of the first century tried to destroy anyone who was a threat.  Subsequently,  as Jesus arrived onto the scene, his logic, miracles and teaching rubbed the Pharisees the wrong way.  As Jesus’ fame grew, envy, fear and jealousy inspired unwholesome thoughts.

Then the Pharisees went out and began to plot with the Herodians how they might kill Jesus, Mark 3:6.

Jesus went from a wedding day hero in John 2:1-11 to a marked man a few healings later.  Sensing something wasn’t right, Jesus tried to keep a low profile by withdrawing to a remote location with his disciples.  Nonetheless, his fans couldn’t get enough, walking mile after mile to have their own personal encounter with Jesus.  Unfortunately, public events were no longer an option, not welcomed anymore by the Jews.

As soon as the chief priests and their officials saw him, they shouted, “Crucify! Crucify!” – John 19:6a

Today, politics continue to shape worldviews, drastically altering the perception of churches.  Although once the center of communities on the East Coast, Christian worship centers are now under attack.  Offended by biblical teaching, liberals have turned to the Supreme Court to legalize homosexuality and gay marriage.  If successful, the very future of Bible based churches may be in danger.  Like the days of Jesus, an increasing number of opposing voices are proclaiming, “you’re not welcome here anymore!”

by Jay Mankus

 

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Healing or Forgiveness?

Posted on May 8, 2015 by expressyourself4him

Whenever a trend setter comes along in a generation, there is always resistance to change.  People are creatures of habit so when someone breaks from the norm, audiences don’t always join in initially.  However, if a genuine individual arrives on the scene with an entirely new mindset with actions that back up one’s beliefs, hearts will begin to embrace their message.

Which is easier: to say to this paralyzed man, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Get up, take your mat and walk’? – Mark 2:9

In the season premiere of Lost, Season 2 begins with an episode entitled Man of Science, Man of Faith.  Matthew Fox plays a doctor named Jack, the main character who has two encounters with a stranger.  The doctor in Jack struggles to accept the concept of miracles, impossible to comprehend through his scientific mind.  However, when these two are reunited lost on an island, they switch roles as the seed of faith is implanted within Jack.

But I want you to know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins.” So he said to the man, “I tell you, get up, take your mat and go home.” – Mark 2:10-11

Nearly two thousand years ago, doctor’s didn’t appreciate the message Jesus brought to the sick and sinners.  This new teaching suggested physical healing could be dependent upon forgiveness not science, Matthew 6:14-15.  Using logic, Jesus confronts their skepticism.  Although most denominations reject Jesus’ words today, the sick, sinners and needy are left to wonder, “does permanent healing come from science or forgiveness?”  While the gift of healing is an abused and dying spiritual gift, the Lord’s prayer does suggest that a lack of forgiveness can prevent healing.  As this debate continues today, perhaps the only thing keeping you from experiencing complete healing is unconfessed sin? – James 5:16

by Jay Mankus

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When Things Don’t Add Up

Posted on February 21, 2015 by expressyourself4him

Parents who have grown up in the same area or town where their children attend school develop perspective.  Depending upon their memory, adults can compare their education with the current system.  Taking time to read modern textbooks may shock some, yet the informed aren’t surprised.  The dumbing down of information attempts to sway young minds full of mush to buy into the liberal agenda being dished out daily.  However, when things don’t add up like recently implemented Common Core curriculum, even public school teachers are waking up to this debauchery of education.

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

Back in my day, several teachers were like personal trainers, pushing you beyond what you could handle.  A few were like drill sergeants, mean S.O.B.’s until you graduated, when you saw the logic behind their madness.  These adults instilled in me a discipline, life skills and a work ethic I have exchanged for monthly pay checks.  Although, I wish it was larger, being challenged has made me a better person.  I only wish my children could escape the coddling that exists today for a taste of what I endured in school.  Nonetheless, when things don’t add up, a parent must intervene to steer their kids in the right direction.

Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving. – Ephesians 5:4

Whether you are watching a commercial, public service announcement or some new television show, it doesn’t take long to notice flaws.  Though the world view you possess may alter or blind you in same ways, consciences scream out the truth, pointing you in the way you should go.  However, if you begin to buy into the lies sold daily, your logic may not begin to add up.  This is where rationalization takes over, trying to justify your error in judgment with thoughts like “everybody does it.”  As you make your way through life, don’t forget to stop and think about the choices you are making.  Or else you may wake up one morning to a soul that doesn’t add up to the will God wanted for your life, Romans 12:2.

by Jay Mankus

 

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Prepared by the Past… One Dot at A Time

Posted on September 4, 2013 by expressyourself4him

Life is like a dot to dot picture given to children at many sit down restaurants in America, part of the kid’s meal, keeping young people occupied until the meal is served.  However, instead of having 10 numbers, your life puzzle have thousands, too many to keep on one page without any numbers to follow.  Thus, when you try to comprehend God’s logic of why this or that happened, you can’t make any sense of the dots, unable to get a clear picture of how your past fits into the present and future.  Nonetheless, some people throughout history have experienced moments in time when God revealed how their dots fit together.

Genesis 41:9-40 is one of these occasions where faithfulness, patience and prayer met.  The second youngest of 12 brothers, God gave Joseph the gift of dream interpretation.  Humbled by his previous days of bragging to his brothers, Joseph gives God the sole credit in Genesis 41:15-16.  Before the days of resumes and cover letters, the positive words of Pharaoh’s chief cup bearer served as a reference, giving Joseph a face to face meeting with the leader of Egypt.  Beginning in Genesis 41:28-36, Joseph turns this opportunity into an interview, sharing his previous work experience along with what he would do if in charge.  Impressed by Joseph’s presentation, Joseph goes from the dungeon to the penthouse, second in command to Pharaoh.  Joseph’s dot to dot puzzle is completed in Genesis 45:5-8, using words to explain the picture, God’s plan for his life.

Tomorrow, I start my first day as an ambassador with Amazon.  Receiving this promotion last Saturday, I haven’t been this excited since managing a store for Michael Jordan Golf back in 1997.  As the dots in my life begin to take shape, I am beginning to see how God has prepared me by previous positions.  Teaching for a decade will help me train new hires in my department, insuring their success God willing.  While I am far from completing my own dot to dot, I am confident that one day, God will make everything clear, Ecclesiastes 3:11.  If you are struggling with your own puzzle, frustrated by a lack of progress, do not fret.  May you find comfort and rest from in the words of Solomon in Ecclesiastes 3:12-14.

by Jay Mankus

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Angel #9

Posted on August 10, 2013 by expressyourself4him

If you have ever seen something that defies logic, you might rationalize this occurrence due to chance, coincidence or dumb luck.  However, when similar events begin to multiple, echoes of the supernatural must be brought into your discussion.  Such is the case of my experiences in youth ministry, with one particular encounter, early on a Monday morning in the fall of 1993.

As a result of the mini-revival taking place in Columbus, Indiana, during the summer of my first year there, students requested several ministry opportunities to grow their faith.  A leadership team and weekly training began, an accountability group started in the fall as did a Life Application Bible Study at the local McDonald’s near school.  One student leader mentioned the importance of starting off each week on the right foot with God’s Word.  Like anything, the crowds were higher in the beginning, squeezing 20 students in the back corner of this restaurant.  However, time whittled the group down to 6-12 regular attenders.  This core had the honor to encounter the woman I call angel number 9.

At this point of the year, student’s had begun to fall back into bad habits, struggling to find time for God.  Thus, like a reality show with weekly eliminations, only the true believers stuck it out til the end.  Roughly halfway through my lesson, a woman in her late 40’s politely asked if she could interrupt me for a moment.  With a heavenly voice, full of joy, she commended each student for their commitment to studying the Bible.  Although her message lasted only a minute, the encouraging words she shared lifted up those in attendance.

After the study, a few students students stayed behind for a few minutes taking about this woman.  No one had ever seen her, strange for a small town of 25,000 people.  Before I left a year later, no one that I know had scene her since.  This dilemma led several to question, was she real or a messenger from God?  Out of no where, 9 minutes past of the hour, these teenagers were blessed to receive a divine message.  Who else could this stranger be except for Angel #9.

by Jay Mankus

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Remind Me of Your Miracles

Posted on May 19, 2013 by expressyourself4him

Doom and gloom, pity parties and a spirit of doubt doesn’t exemplify the heart of a true believer.  Rather, one must ascribe to the Lord the glory and honor He deserves, Psalm 96:7-9.  Thus, one option is to recall the miracles God has done in your life.  This perspective should eradicate pessimism from your thought life by opening your mind to the ongoing transformation process overseen by sanctification.

In my own life, 3 miracles stand alone, things I can’t take credit for or rationally explain.  One is a medically related, another defies logic and the last was gradual.  When I was 16, I was told by doctors I would never be able to run again, limited to walking with a limp.  After the reconstructive surgery on my ankle, twisted 180 degrees in the wrong direction, no rod or screws were necessary.  Three months later I was swimming in a pool, competing in the state championships, with my 200 Individual Medley team earning a Bronze Medal.

The second miracle the Lord brought to my attention is my 21 battle with stammering and stuttering.  Thought to be untreatable by 2nd grade, I gave up hope of ever being able to verbally express myself.  Despite years of anguish, embarrassment and heartache, God used a series of events during my junior year of college to release me from these chains.  A decade long span as a high school teacher testifies to this work of the Holy Spirit.

Finally, self esteem, especially during my early years was a constant struggle.  Playing sports helped somewhat, yet depression drew me into years of isolation, hiding my pain.  Mood swings were common place, living with a peaks and valleys mentality.  Beside repeated intervention from close associates and friends, God worked his spiritual magic, gradually leading me to become confident in His strength, 2 Corinthians 12:9-10.

While I recognize not everyone has had life altering miracles happen directly to them, the Bible illustrates the amazing like Acts 12:5, 8-11.  When God senses an earnest spirit of prayer, He is moved toward action, ushering angels to intervene.  Though I can’t guarantee exactly when and where the next miracle of God will occur, I do believe its right around the corner.  Therefore, don’t allow disbelief to dictate or lead you to expect hollow expectations.  Rather, dig down deep to enable the faith of a mustard seed to prosper like miracles from the past, Matthew 13:31!

by Jay Mankus

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