Tag Archives: lust

The Place of No Return

Posted on August 15, 2016 by expressyourself4him

Deep inside of every individual, a confidence exists whispering “I can do this.”  No matter how dire a situation may get, hope exists giving those on the verge of disaster an optimistic perspective on the future.  Unfortunately, some go too far, reaching the point of no return.

Surely her house leads down to death and her paths to the spirits of the dead, Proverbs 2:18.

Solomon’s kryptonite was women.  While Don Juan’s move from one partner to the next as if playing a game is impressive, Solomon set the bar high, acquiring over 1000 women as king of Israel.  Somewhere along this accumulation process, Solomon reached a point of no return.  This lustful passion carried him over the edge, creating a wedge between God and the sinful nature.

So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh, Galatians 5:16.

If you ever find yourself in a similar situation, the apostle Paul offers a word of hope.  The only way to withdraw from the place of no return involves the Holy Spirit.  This invisible counselor can help you come back to your senses.  On your own, expect failure.  Yet, with the Lord on your side, you can find your way back home soon.  Start now.

by Jay Mankus

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The Rise of the Sons of Ishmael

Posted on August 3, 2016 by expressyourself4him

This summer has seen an increase in acts of terror across the country and throughout the world.  Before the shock of one tragedy sets in, another takes its place, taking the lives of innocent children, men and women.  Cable news experts on terrorism tend to blame the overflow of refuges from Syria taking Jihad into other foreign countries in the name of Isis.  However, the Bible suggests the root of this axis of evil is the rise of the sons of Ishmael.

The angel of the LORD also said to her: “You are now pregnant and you will give birth to a son. You shall name him Ishmael, for the LORD has heard of your misery, Genesis 16:11.

Rarely, does one selfish act of lust result in long lasting consequences.  Yet, when Sarah refused to believe that she would be the grandmother of Israel, panic set in, allowing her husband to have a one night stand with a concubine.  Subsequently, Hagar becomes pregnant, conceives and gives birth to Ishmael, the father of all Arab nations.  This opened the door for the sons of Israel to be haunted and hunted by the descendants of Ishmael.  This was the day that terrorism was born.

He will be a wild donkey of a man; his hand will be against everyone and everyone’s hand against him, and he will live in hostility toward all his brothers,” Genesis 16:12.

The events of today are merely the fulfillment of this prophecy made by an angel of the Lord.  The Bible does not say or suggest that Sarah could have reversed this curse upon the Jews.  Rather, this passage is a painful reminder of how one careless act can impact an entire generation of citizens.  In view of this upsetting news, one of the best things you can do is pray for God’s mercy.  Although everyone will eventually die, prayers for safety can serve as a hedge of protection as the sons of Ishmael continue to rise.

by Jay Mankus

 

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Creatures of Instinct

Posted on May 16, 2016 by expressyourself4him

If you have ever read about or studied the spiritual climate prior to previous great awakenings, morality tends to move in cycles.  When individuals experience the happier days in life, human beings can forget about the Creator above who brought good tidings and great joy.  If this trend continues, it won’t be long before your flesh leads you to become creatures of instinct.

But these people blaspheme in matters they do not understand. They are like unreasoning animals, creatures of instinct, born only to be caught and destroyed, and like animals they too will perish, 2 Peter 2:12.

Although each previous generation claim they had it harder, those who lived during periods of self-control were likely spared from the beast of lust.  For those born in ages of disobedience or sexual revolutions, the forces of temptation are magnified.  As complacency, justification and rationalization kick in, the desire to indulge intensifies.  Thus, many become pawns of the sinful nature.

For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world, 1 John 2:16.

When the dust settles, creatures of instinct find a valley of sin standing in their way from God’s hands of forgiveness.  As the apostle Paul states in Galatians 5, an opposing force acts as a sparing partner.  Free will adds to this equation, placing a priority on decision making.  Thus, if you follow in the footsteps of Moses, choose life before a creature of instinct leads you down the wrong road.

by Jay Mankus

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The Allure of Money

Posted on March 28, 2016 by expressyourself4him

If you are a fan of reality television, then you likely understand the allure of money.  Shows like Insane Pools, Tanked and Treehouse Masters help Americans visualize what a couple of hundred of thousand dollars can buy you.  Thus, if you’re not careful, the eternal can be replaced by temporary treasures, distracting individuals for a life time.

For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evils. It is through this craving that some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many pangs, 1 Timothy 6:10.

Money in itself is okay, used to provide the needs of life.  The love of money is what is harmful.  This love refers to a lust, craving and coveting what you neighbors have instead of being thankful for what God has given you.  This obsession often leads to deception as individuals are lured away from the faith.  For many, they don’t recovery, dragged behind the devil’s door.

Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you,” Hebrews 13:5.

The author of Hebrews provides the solution to the allure of money.  The key is maintaining a level head by staying content with the hand God has dealt you.  This is accomplished through a spirit of thankfulness.  When you possess this quality, individuals recognize God is the source behind your wealth.  Therefore, don’t be tempted by what you don’t have.  Rather, embrace the little things in life so that the allure of life won’t hold you down.

by Jay Mankus

 

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Missing Your Destiny

Posted on December 2, 2015 by expressyourself4him

One of the more common ways to become successful is setting goals.  Depending upon how motivated the individual, time lines are set in the form of dreams, serving as a road map for the next several years.  During this journey, there will be many barriers, obstacles and mountain peaks to climb.  Anyone who gives up along the way is in danger of missing their destiny, purpose and reason for being born.

In which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient, Ephesians 2:2.

Depression is like a valley or place which holds you down, sucking your desire and will to move on.  According to the apostle Paul, there is a force, a spiritual presence in the air who feeds on disobedience.  The Bible lists a series of mountains that can prevent individuals from discerning and living out God’s will on earth.

  1. Distractions – Lust for treasures cost Achan and his family their lives, Joshua 7:25-26.
  2. Doubt – Caused the Israelites to second guess God’s promised land, Numbers 32:9.
  3. Hurt – Pain has a way of leading individuals to tap out, losing all hope, Psalm 34:18.
  4. Dryness – Arid periods in life can numb souls, questioning life’s purpose, Ezekiel 37:1.
  5. Guilt – David, Judas and Peter all were consumed by this spirit, 2 Samuel 12:7.
  6. Decisions – Poor decisions can poison and ruin lives, 1 Corinthians 15:33.
  7. Sin – Those who deny the presence of disobedience walk in darkness, 1 John 1:8-10.

See, I set before you today life and prosperity, death and destruction, Deuteronomy 30:15.

During his farewell address, Moses provides a blueprint to fulfill your destiny in this life.  The key to success in this life lies in one’s ability to obey God.  People are not forced to believe and follow.  Rather, its up to you to choose wisely.  The future is in your hands by either choosing life through obedience to God or death by embracing the ways of the world.  How you respond will dictate whether you fulfill or miss your destiny.  Choose life.

by Jay Mankus

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Held Captive by Sin

Posted on October 21, 2015 by expressyourself4him

One of the most dangerous jellyfish is known as a Portuguese man-of-war.  Although only twelve inches long and five inches wide, tentacles can extend to up to thirty feet.  Contact with any of these strands will inflict poison and pain to those who get pushed into its path by ocean currents.   Since a synonym for captive is prisoner of war, anyone who wanders out into unknown waters is at risk to becoming captive to sin.

But each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their own evil desire and enticed, James 1:14.

One popular idiom refers to curiosity killing the cat.  This old saying suggests that following human nature can place you into harmful situations.  Experimenting, flirting or indulging in sin can have lasting effects.  While individuals may think, I can handle this or that, lust can intensify resulting in addiction, bad habits or poor choices.  A weak spirit just might cause you to become captured by sin.

Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death, James 4:15.

In this high tech high touch culture, temptation is only a click away.  Cell phone, computers and electronic devices provide unlimited access to the misguided.  The byproduct of this oppression to sin has breed war zones in some communities.  Meanwhile, others hide their problems until the next explosive story exposes and uncovers secret sins.  For anyone still fighting a losing battle, may God show you the way out of your dire situation, 1 Corinthians 10:13.

by Jay Mankus

 

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Taste Test

Posted on July 31, 2015 by expressyourself4him

Young people tend to break into the work force at some sort of restaurant.  The idea of free food, drinks or both is enticing.  One of my favorite parts in this occupation was taste testing, giving out samples to customers as well as trying new items on the menu.  Only when you take a bite can you explain to others what to expect.

Now the serpent was more crafty than any of the wild animals the LORD God had made. He said to the woman, “Did God really say, ‘You must not eat from any tree in the garden’?”- Genesis 3:1

In the case of Eve, one item was forbidden, banned from her daily diet of fruit and vegetables.  Despite this knowledge, an evil voice whispered, promising enlightenment for those who indulge.  After considering this, a second glance planted the seed of lust within her heart.  Without any resistance from her husband, Eve participated in the first taste of sin.

“For God knows that when you eat from it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.”- Genesis 3:5

While the settings have changed, a similar voice exists today.  However, the message isn’t focused on food for the soul.  Rather, this taste test involves a flesh hungry for pleasure.  Unfortunately, this experience is only temporarily satisfied, craving more and more with each encounter.  Guilt, shame and sorrow are common aftertastes.  However, only when you gather the courage to say no, can you escape the trial of destruction awaiting the addicted.  May you have the resolve to avoid the second glance and experience victory over temptation.

by Jay Mankus

 

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What Is Causing So Many To Pull the Trigger?

Posted on July 27, 2015 by expressyourself4him

In the hours following the latest mass shooting, it’s hard to believe that Thursday night’s tragedy at a Lafayette, Louisiana movie theater is becoming a normal occurrence.  Although the scene may vary between a business, mall or school, the outcome is the same, leaving behind a trail of death, injuries and scarred souls.  These weekly acts make me wonder “what’s causing these individual’s to pull the trigger?”

Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them, 1 John 2:15.

The alarmist might blame this on Shoot Em Up Video games.  Psychologists may point toward stress, troubled emotions or unsettled issues from the past.  Preachers will likely reference a culture turning away from God, a sign of the end of days.  Yet, something inside of me thinks demons are preying on vulnerable hearts and minds searching for a way to take out their frustrations on a life that hasn’t turned out the way they hoped.

For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world, 1 John 2:16.

Though no one will know the actual answer until this is revealed in heaven or on Judgement Day, it’s difficult for me not to overlook powers of darkness.  Cain killed his brother over jealousy.  David planned the death of Uriah out of lust for a married woman.  Judas Iscariot committed suicide brought on by guilt.  If all this happened in the past, why isn’t it logical to believe that spirits are planting seeds of evil inside human beings.  While not every situation is the Devil’s fault, fleshly desires, pride and worldly influences all play a role in causing individual to exercise free will by pulling the trigger.

The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever, 1 John 2:17.

by Jay Mankus

 

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When Sin is Consensual

Posted on May 5, 2015 by expressyourself4him

It seems like every year there is some famous professional athlete, Hollywood star or politician involved in a scandal.  Cable news, the tabloids and twitter often explode over battles between he said, she said.  In the end, it takes two to tango, reaching a state where sin is consensual.

So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall! – 1 Corinthians 10:12

From a spiritual perspective, every day if like walking through a room with multiple doors.  On the way out, sometimes you might chose the wrong door, ending up in a bathroom or closet.  When danger arrives on the scene, those who stick around to see what will happen might just be an accomplice to sin.

No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it. – 1 Corinthians 10:13

According to the apostle Paul, God provides an emergency exit for every sort of temptation.  This isn’t like the game show Let’s Make a Deal, having a choice between door number one, two or three.  Rather, the Lord has provided every human being with a conscience to follow the way out.  Conviction, guilt and uneasiness serve as a global positioning system to avoid evil.

But each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their own evil desire and enticed. – James 1:14

Nonetheless, the moment freewill is exercised, opting to indulge your fantasies, sin is consensual.  Instead of heeding the warning signs, enticement draws people toward temporary pleasures.  One of Jesus’ disciples uses the analogy of a fish lured out of hiding toward an attractive bait.  While some fish may see the attached hook, the grips of lust is too powerful.  This is where desire trumps common sense, leading saints and sinners to do the unthinkable.  The next time temptation calls your name, listen for God’s still small voice to find the way out of a difficult situation.

by Jay Mankus

 

 

 

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Fifty Shades of Grey

Posted on February 16, 2015 by expressyourself4him

The twentieth century wasn’t ready for the film Fifty Shades of Grey based upon E. L. James’ best selling novel.  However, the Hot Tub Time Machine generation welcomed this erotic romance, on pace to make over sixty million dollars during its opening weekend at the box office.  Fueled by declining absolutes in society, a wide range of patrons came out in droves, not caring whether or not their support was right or wrong.

In those days Israel had no king; all the people did whatever seemed right in their own eyes.             Judges 21:25

Similar to Eve in the Garden, curiosity, enticing fantasies and lust led people to taste that which was once forbidden.  Now passe, kissing and telling is the rage, posting selfies on Instagram and the like.  Thus, the envelope continues to be pushed, with no restrictions in sight.  Go big or go home evolves with each flick, taking viewers where grandma and grandpa never imagined.

A wise person chooses the right road; a fool takes the wrong one. – Ecclesiastes 10:2

Despite what preachers may say, free will is offered to all human beings.  No one, especially God, is forcing you to stay home on the weekends to watch reruns of Little House on the Prairie.  Nonetheless, each decision you make on earth does have consequences.  Living life from a Fifty Shades of Grey perspective will leave you further and further from the truth, John 18:38.  May this blog speak to the Jonah’s of today, running in the compete opposite direction of God so that Fifty Shades of Grey doesn’t lead to an eternity in hell.

by Jay Mankus

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