Tag Archives: mind

Constantly in Prayer

Posted on September 7, 2015 by expressyourself4him

The word constantly refers to a continuous act, repetitive in a persistent manner, over and over again.  Meanwhile, prayer is a solemn attempt for help, requesting God’s assistance, hoping and wishing for a quick response.  When you put the two together, this cry of the heart often touches souls, inspiring others to join.

They all joined together constantly in prayer, along with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brothers, Acts 1:14.

Whenever you talk to someone for the last time, emotions are stirred, causing some to tear up.  Yet, others may be moved by this last conversation, motivated to act or do what you promised.  Thus, in the hours and days following Jesus’ ascension into heaven, the stage was set for a unified movement.  Known as a concert of prayer, those close to Jesus felt an urge to participate in a prolonged period of prayer.

Is anyone among you in trouble?  Let them pray. Is anyone happy?  Let them sing songs of praise, James 5:13.

I must confess, prayer is something that doesn’t come naturally to me.  In fact, if I don’t write my prayers down into a journal, I find myself distracted, with my mind wandering in circles.  Nonetheless, in those rare occasions in which I have prayed continuously, the results have been amazing.  Prayers were answered, healing occurred and lives were transformed.  Therefore, don’t settle for an average life.  Rather, call out to an extraordinary God, constantly in prayer, waiting for the Holy Spirit to arrive on the scene.

by Jay Mankus

 

Leave a comment

Posted in Truth and tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.

Who Will Roll the Stone Away?

Posted on August 29, 2015 by expressyourself4him

When facing a challenge, there are two ways to approach any dilemma, with an open or closed mind.  The optimistic see potential, envisioning that somehow or someway the job or task will be completed.  The skeptic will bring doubt to the table, often rejecting or questioning every possible solution that is brought up.  Thus, when an obstacle is blocking your way, the minds wonders, “how will roll the stone away?”

And they asked each other, “Who will roll the stone away from the entrance of the tomb?” – Mark 16:3

On a Sunday morning during the first century, a few women headed for a tomb to anoint Jesus’ dead body with spices.  Caught up in all their preparations, none of these women stopped to think about how they were going to enter the tomb.  Guarded by Roman soldiers and protected by a boulder which weighed over a ton, the odds were against them.  However, in this unique case, God cancelled the funeral, arriving to an empty tomb.

For no word from God will ever fail, Luke 1:37.

Every miracle should empower people of faith to believe.  Yet, a disciple named Thomas doubted, another committed suicide and a prophet named Elijah wanted to die after receiving a death threat.  Stones are placed into the paths of our lives on a daily basis.  Unfortunately, most people like me complain, “God why are you allowing this or that to happen?  Or you up there?  Do you care about me anymore?”  These are all good questions, but the answer is easy,  In the Lord’s timing, the Holy Spirit will roll the stones in your life away.

by Jay Mankus

 

 

Leave a comment

Posted in Truth and tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.

Where Did all the Time Go?

Posted on August 28, 2015 by expressyourself4him

On the first weekend in February 2012, a thought entered my mind, “why don’t you start writing a blog?”  Unsure of where to go or what to do, I consulted a few close friends with similar aspirations.  After receiving their insight, I needed to clear one last hurdle, a name which would define the reason for my blog’s existence. 1300 blogs later, I’m astonished wondering, where did all the time go?

But do not overlook this one fact, beloved, that with the Lord one day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day, 2 Peter 3.8.

There is an old adage that all good things must come to an end.  However, when you find something that you enjoy like an activity, hobby or relaxing pastime, time has a tendency to fly by.  Whenever individuals invest in leisure forms of recreation, the soul is re-energized.  Serving as a distraction from the stresses and worries in life, writing is an oasis for me.  Although I occasionally spend too much time on a blog, going in circles without any progress, I find joy in the journey.

So teach us to number our days that we may get a heart of wisdom, Psalm 90:12.

If there was a prayer or wish that would make this world a better place, it would be helping people locate jobs that they love.  Unfortunately, love doesn’t always pay the bills.  Nonetheless, there is something to be said about discovering an occupation or position that you were born to do.  The pressure of making decisions causes many to lower their standards, settling for less than ideal.  Therefore, as you wait for the clock to reach quitting time, may God direct your steps so that your dreams will come true.  Then, you too will wonder, “where did all the time go?”

by Jay Mankus

 

Leave a comment

Posted in Truth and tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.

Eloi, Eloi, Lema Sabachthani

Posted on August 22, 2015 by expressyourself4him

One of the worst things you can endure in life is knowing that you’re right, but not being able to prove it right away.  Thus, those who disagree with you will mock, prod and roast you publicly.  This is the fate Jesus experienced while suffering on a cross.  All the doubters and haters came out to disgrace Jesus until God turned out the lights.

And at three in the afternoon Jesus cried out in a loud voice, “Eloi, Eloi, lema sabachthani?” (which means “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?”). – Mark 15:34

Today, many individuals feel as if God has forsaken them.  For one reason or another, trials are mistaken with abandonment.  When individuals suffer for an extended period of time, the human mind blames God rather than correctly diagnose the situation.  Instead of learning from the storms of life, most regress crying out, “my God, my God, why have you forsaken me?”

For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. – Romans 8:38-39.

One thing that I have discovered in life is not to overreact.  Although things may not always turn out as I expect, time has a way of sorting out the truth.  Hindsight may reveal that God hasn’t abandoned you.  Rather, the Lord is pruning you, removing the unproductive areas of your life.  Therefore, the next time you’re tempted to complain, remember the promise of Romans 8:38-39.

by Jay Mankus

 

Leave a comment

Posted in Truth and tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.

Overwhelmed by the Future

Posted on August 19, 2015 by expressyourself4him

There are several variables which can produce anxiety, stress or worry.  Anticipation can make the mind race, questioning all the possible scenarios, often starting with the worst first.  Fear of the unknown adds a feeling of uncertainty, producing a myriad of emotions.  Thus, it doesn’t take much for an individual to become overwhelmed by the future.

“My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death,” he said to them. “Stay here and keep watch,” Mark 14:34.

Those who possess discernment, keen insight and the gift of prophecy can sense when bad things are about to happen.  In the case of Jesus, he knew when and how he was going to die.  Thus, as  the hours drew closer, Jesus’ soul was consumed with sorrow.  To make matters worse, the twelve men he invested the last three years of his life into were about to abandon, betray or deny him publicly.  The human side of Jesus was also overwhelmed by the future.

In your struggle against sin, you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding your blood, Hebrews 12:4.

As Jesus entered the Garden of Gethsemane, he asked his disciples to keep watch and pray.  In the hours that followed, the author describes a level of stress which is unprecedented, suggesting his sweat was like blood.  Whether this happened or not doesn’t matter, the key is Jesus died for all sinners, Romans 5:8.  Therefore, if you are stressed out about today or the future, prepare yourself just like Jesus: keep watch and pray so temptation doesn’t hold you hostage.

by Jay Mankus

 

 

Leave a comment

Posted in Truth and tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.

I Know More Than You Do

Posted on August 5, 2015 by expressyourself4him

Human nature does different things to the soul.  To some comparison occurs, trying to find weaker individuals than oneself.  Others are persuaded to attack and destroy, tearing down others to build up their own self-esteem.  Thus, no matter where you go or what you do, you will always meet people who believe, “I know more than you do.”

“Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?” Jesus replied: “ ’Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ – Matthew 22:36-37

Despite performing countless miracles, teaching with superior authority and outwitting religious leaders of his day, Jesus regularly encountered prideful men.  In their cunning minds, each thought, “surely I can trick Jesus into making a fool of himself.”  Not learning anything from the one before, each crashed and burned, trying to hide after their embarrassing moment.  Finally, Jesus’ enemies came to a realization in Matthew 22.

No one could say a word in reply, and from that day on no one dared to ask him any more questions, Matthew 22:46.

I don’t know if there is a perfect strategy to cope more with those who think “I know more than you do,” but its vital to stay true to yourself.  Your shouldn’t have to enter a pissing conest every day at school or work.  Rather, major in the majors and let the minor issues roll off your shoulders.  There is only One who is right.  Therefore, make Colossians 3:17,23 your daily goal so that in the end your efforts won’t be wasted in vain.

by Jay Mankus

 

Leave a comment

Posted in Truth and tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.

Human Inspired or from Above?

Posted on August 1, 2015 by expressyourself4him

When an individual wakes up, the day can dictate one’s degree of excitement.  Anticipation for an activity, event or the weekend can produce adrenaline, enthusiasm and vigor for life.  However, sometimes the energy burst you receive may come from above?

“By what authority are you doing these things?” they asked. “And who gave you authority to do this?” – Mark 11:28

In the days of Jesus, his ministry was always under scrutiny.  Whether he was feeding the masses, performing a miracle or outwitting the Pharisees, religious leaders doubted his authenticity.  It wasn’t until Jesus used John the Baptist as an illustration to prove inspiration can come from above.

.John’s baptism—was it from heaven, or of human origin? Tell me!”- Mark 11:30

Following a milestone or success story, individuals will give a myriad of responses.  Some will credit their coach, trainer or parents.  Others may reference their discipline, re-dedication  or state of the art training program.  However, a few will profess of a higher power, strength from above which ultimately led to their victory.  Although the media may not show all those who give glory to God, I believe human inspiration only takes you so far.  With this in mind, tap into the Holy Spirit to help reach your full potential.

by Jay Mankus

 

Leave a comment

Posted in Truth and tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.

Forced to Conform or Else

Posted on July 8, 2015 by expressyourself4him

There was a time in my youth when news anchors were believable, reliable and trusted by those who tuned in to watch.  Sometime over the past twenty five years, news have become altered by hidden agendas seeking to convince the masses of a specific ideology.  Today, every daily event is examined, filtered and portrayed in such a manner as to control the headlines.  Unfortunately, media outlets are forcing viewers to believe their worldview or face the wrath of negative press.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths, Proverbs 3:5-6.

Like a bully, opposing individuals and groups are targeted.  Sometimes to prove a point, expose a religious belief or brought on by a poorly timed comment.  In Oregon, Sweet Cakes by Melissa was forced to close after refusing to prepare a wedding cake for a gay couple about to get married.  Since closing, the state has decided to fine the owner 125,000K, setting an example for anyone else who dares to discriminate against homosexual couples.  In other words, if you want to run a business in America, you better keep your religious convictions to yourself or face the consequences.

So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ, Romans 10:17.

The event from March of 2015 in Indiana seems more like a set-up unless having pizza at wedding receptions is now the new in food.  Anyway, Memories Pizzeria was also forced to close following their denial of another gay couple.  Perhaps each of these businesses could have come to a happy medium or maybe they did but it was not reported.  Yet, in their hearts, mind and soul, neither could betray their religious beliefs detailed in Leviticus 18:22 and Leviticus 20:13.  Unfortunately, their freedom of religion and speech was not honored since it is now politically incorrect.

And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him, Hebrews 11:6.

There are two ways to view this ongoing persecution of Christians.  First, God has given every individual free will.  The Lord doesn’t force anyone to believe in the Bible.  Rather, the Word has been written so that those who hear or read may come to faith in Christ.  The second perspective relates to the days of Daniel when a decree made it illegal to pray in public.  Despite the threat of being thrown into a den of lions, Daniel chose to obey God rather than adhere to man’s law.  This is where faith is put to the test, separating the genuine from who are blown and tossed by changing tides.  As the world continues to change, may every person of faith be prepared to overcome the challenges and trials of the future.

by Jay Mankus

 

 

Leave a comment

Posted in Truth and tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.

Has God Left America Yet?

Posted on July 4, 2015 by expressyourself4him

You don’t have to be a historian to recognize the United States of America aren’t so united.  Sure, negative news overshadows any decent, encouraging or trace of optimism out there.  Nonetheless, even if a positive news network did exist, remaining realistic in this time of hate crimes, moral decay and political hypocrisy would be difficult.  In my mind, there’s only one thing left to ask, “has God left America?”

Then the Israelites did evil in the eyes of the LORD and served the Baals, Judges 2:11.

If the Supreme Court is a foreshadowing of the future, its only a matter of time before the Lord removes his blessing.  In recent days, Oklahoma courts have ruled the 10 Commandments monument outside the state capitol must be removed.  While atheists, progressives and revisionist historians will say, “what’s the big deal,” the founding fathers are shaking in their graves at the removal of one of the last beacons of truth in America.  Though history goes in cycles, when you eliminate concrete absolutes, leaders of this country are opening the doors to a chaotic society.

They forsook the LORD, the God of their ancestors, who had brought them out of Egypt. They followed and worshiped various gods of the peoples around them. They aroused the LORD‘s anger, Judges 2:12.

No one likes to be told what to do, except for the government who is regulating what you eat, say and so on.  In the past, God allowed Israel to be taken captive, living in exile for hundreds of years.  Despite these tangible lessons, individuals still strayed from the Lord, only turning back during the tough times.  The events of 9/11 did the trick for a little while, but now the hearts of many have turned cold.  Has God left America completely, probably not.  Yet, if the cultural trends continue, there won’t be any room left for freedom of speech, religion or worship.

by Jay Mankus

 

 

Leave a comment

Posted in Truth and tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.

Taking a Closer Look at the Meaning of Life

Posted on June 29, 2015 by expressyourself4him

An apostle of Jesus once made a distinction between the Bible and all other books.  According to Hebrews 4:12, the Bible is living and acting.  This passage suggests that each time you open up any of the 66 books inside, the Holy Spirit will teach you something different or new depending upon what you are going through or have recently experienced.  Unfortunately, many readers succumb to pride with thoughts such as “been there done that, heard that before or how many times do I have to hear the same old story?”

For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me and for the gospel will save it, Mark 8:35.

As I was minding my own business this weekend, God awakened me, providing discernment to take a closer look at the meaning of life.  The verse above struck a nerve as if to say to me, “you’re going down the wrong track, trying to hold on to your life.”  Immediately, I was confronted with my current situation, trusting in my own abilities and talents to provide for my family rather than solely rely on Jehovah-Jireh, the Lord who provides.  I know this may sound crazy to some or many of my readers, yet listen to the case study below.

What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul? – Mark 8:36

From 2002-2012, I spent a decade losing my life as a high school Bible teacher, placing everything into God’s hands.  Subsequently, despite making much less than public school teachers, the Lord supernaturally provided daily bread.  Checks came in the mail at the perfect timing, secret donors paid for my children’s tuition and relative strangers handed me cash to stay out of debt.  Whereas the past 3 years since leaving youth ministry, trying to save my life has resulted in mounting debt.  It shouldn’t make sense, yet in biblical terms it does.

Or what can anyone give in exchange for their soul? – Mark 8:37

Nobody wakes up one day and says, “I’m going to forfeit my soul.”  Rather, this is a gradual process of choosing to save your own life instead of laying it down into your heavenly Father’s hands.  Sure, it feels good to be in the driver’s seat, maintaining control.  However, in the long run, lives are wasted in exchange for the temporary pleasures in life.  Though my testimony may be unbelievable, I pray that the next time you open the Bible, your heart, mind and soul will possess a teachable spirit so that the Holy Spirit will help you to embrace this living and active book.

by Jay Mankus

Leave a comment

Posted in Truth and tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.
← Older Posts
Newer Posts →