Tag Archives: mental

The Power of Thanksgiving

The Hebrew word for thanksgiving is ydh, referring to a public acknowledgement.  Greek uses the term efcharisto meaning the sense of appreciation, inspiring an expression of gratitude.  When a spirit of thanksgiving is verbalized to the down trodden, hurting and needy, affirmations can uplift anyone feeling down in the dumps.

Praise the Lord! Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever! – Psalm 106:1

Unfortunately, there is a negative force at work in the world, breeding critics, complaining and condemnation.  Whenever human beings give into the sinful nature, acts of the flesh come forth, usually in a cruel and harsh manner.  This mental barrier prevents individuals from doing the right thing as the apostle Paul describes in Romans 7.  The only way to break free from this addictive habit is through Jesus Christ.

Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you, 1 Thessalonians 5:18.

As a former professional golfer, my mind always got in the way, preventing me from reaching my full potential on the golf course.  Yet, the mind also hampers those off the course, in real life, whispering doubts, failure and ungodly beliefs into your head.  Unless you confront this battle with spiritual weapons, 2 Corinthians 10:3-5, victories will be few and far between.  Despite this troubling reality, with God all things are possible.  Therefore, if you want to make a difference this holiday season, unleash the power of Thanksgiving by keeping in step with the Holy Spirit, Galatians 5:25.

by Jay Mankus

The Value of a Soul

One of Jesus’ commands made to first first century followers involves the human soul.  After the heart, the soul is placed in front of the mind as the second most important part of the human body.  The context of this passage summarizes the first and greatest commandment.  This message highlights the value of a soul.

Jesus replied: “ ’Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind,’ Matthew 22:37.

While talking to his disciples, Jesus suggests that its possible to forfeit your soul.  Maybe He was trying to warn Judas Iscariot of his initial thought of betrayal.  On the other hand, Jesus appears to recognize an unhealthy pattern within Peter.  Beginning to think like Satan, Jesus brings this concern front and center, afraid that one of his leaders could have their soul poisoned by evil.

What good will it be for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul? Or what can anyone give in exchange for their soul? – Matthew 16:26

This caution continues today with countless distractions to lure a soul away from God.  The Devil still uses the same temptations Jesus endured in Matthew 4.  Every day physical, mental and spiritual obstacles lurk around every corner.  The question is will you allow temporary pleasures to alter your standards?  Whatever your decision, may you embrace the value of a soul by resisting the Devil and drawing near to God.

by Jay Mankus

Under the Power of the Devil

Hollywood has a fascination with the Devil, casting roles played by both men and women.  Whether its Al Pacino in The Devil’s Advocate, Elizabeth Hurley in Bedazzled or Harvey Keitel in Little Nicky, the Devil’s powers vary in each film depending upon the character or title.  Ideas inside a producers mind, stereotypes about Lucifer and a screenwriters insight come together to illustrate the power of the Devil.

How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and power, and how he went around doing good and healing all who were under the power of the devil, because God was with him, Acts 10:38.

In the real world, demonic forces are usually invisible.  Beside haunted houses, paranormal activity and unusual events, attacks of the Devil are hidden.  To pull back this veil, its important to open the Bible to prepare yourself for the inevitable, a confrontation with temptation.  Jesus’ own encounter reveals three basic temptations: physical, mental and spiritual.  If you’re not ready, you are in danger of becoming under the power of the Devil.

Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their splendor.  “All this I will give you,” he said, “if you will bow down and worship me,” Matthew 4:8-9.

During my time in college, I had friends who went on mission trips overseas.  While I can’t speak on their behalf, their testimonies are riveting.  A roommate spoke of an ordeal with a warlord in the Caribbean.  A former teammate shared about stumbling upon a demonic stronghold in a third world nation, struggling to catch his breath in this one region.  While I’m not an expert in this area, I do know Satan presents a clear and present danger.  Therefore, make sure you don’t allow yourself to give the Devil a foothold on your life or you may become the next victim under the power of the Devil.

by Jay Mankus

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