Tag Archives: minds

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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Don’t Take No For An Answer

Posted on June 19, 2015 by expressyourself4him

The woman was a Greek, born in Syrian Phoenicia. She begged Jesus to drive the demon out of her daughter, Mark 7:26.

Nai, Ne, Nee, Nei, Nein, Nej, Nem, Nie, Nil and Non.  Each of these terms are used to deny, refuse or negate a request.  Yet, not everyone gives up the first time they are rejected.  Children have a unique gift to beg, plead and wallow until they get their way.  Perhaps, the Lord has created each soul with a natural reflux to not take no for an answer.

“First let the children eat all they want,” he told her, “for it is not right to take the children’s bread and toss it to the dogs,” Mark 7:27.

This phenomena is best illustrated in what we know today as the parable of the Persistent Widow, Luke 18:1-8.  However, there is another biblical account which displays how desperation causes human minds to reason with God.  The woman in this passage found in Mark 7:24-30 demonstrates an uncanny wit, coming back with quick replies, one after the other.  Though most would have given up following Jesus’ initial comment, she refused to take no for an answer.

“Lord,” she replied, “even the dogs under the table eat the children’s crumbs,” Mark 7:28.

One of the most disappointing things anyone can experiencing is praying for a loved one to not die only to have their life cut short.  Trying to regroup after this loss can take years to recover.  Thus, the next time you pray, its common to be reluctant, gun shy about asking God for a specific request.  Inside your mind can play tricks on you as doubt whispers, “don’t waste your time.”  However, when worry enters your life, don’t forget the example set by this God fearing woman.  Therefore, as you approach the throne of grace, don’t take no for an answer when you pray.

Then he told her, “For such a reply, you may go; the demon has left your daughter.” She went home and found her child lying on the bed, and the demon gone, Mark 7:29-30.

by Jay Mankus

 

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Losing Your Edge

Posted on June 18, 2015 by expressyourself4him

Staying on top, being the best at any job, skill or trade isn’t easy.  If you are fortunate to reach the summit of a profession, there is always someone new, stronger or younger ready to take your position.  In the film Top Gun, Cougar was the number one fighter pilot in his squadron before a mid-air altercation with a bogey caused him to lose his edge.  Thus, Maverick played by Tom Cruise and Goose, Anthony Edwards, were waiting in the wings to take over.

“Are you so dull?” he asked. “Don’t you see that nothing that enters a person from the outside can defile them?” – Mark 7:18

In  the first century, the twelve disciples were the Cougar among spiritual leaders.  Although Luke 10:1 refers to 72 others, a minor league for training to become elite disciples, these twelve men were chosen to be part of Jesus’ flight school.  Nonetheless, their exposure to Jesus’ miracles, teaching and wisdom caused their hearts to become numb.  Thus, Jesus goes off on their flawed thinking, trying to reprogram their minds set on human traditions.  When Judas Iscariot lost his edge, committing suicide following his betrayal of Jesus, Matthias was selected to take his place in Acts 1:26.

For it is from within, out of a person’s heart, that evil thoughts come—sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, greed, malice, deceit, lewdness, envy, slander, arrogance and folly. All these evils come from inside and defile a person.” – Mark 7:21-23.

Today, America’s churches is searching for a new Top Gun, to soar above the sinful nature lurking to attack hearts.  This internal battle has caused many great rising stars to crash and burn before reaching their full potential, 1 Corinthians 10:1-6.  In the skies, there are spiritual bogeys, demons, evil spirits and powers of darkness hoping to shoot you down.  Despite these adversaries, Jesus has equipped his crew with spiritual weapons, 2 Corinthians 10:3-5.  May the leaders of the future be armed, 1 Peter 4:1, with the right stuff to maintain their edge fueled by strength in Christ,  Philippians 4:13.

by Jay Mankus

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O.C.D. in Religion

Posted on June 15, 2015 by expressyourself4him

Obsessive-compulsive disorder is a modern term to describe those who feel the need to anally repeat things over and over.  Activities can include locking doors, washing hands and thorough routines similar to a superstition.  This repetition serves as a method to ease anxious tensions.  Unfortunately, most individuals don’t rest until several minutes have past with some wasting an hour of their day displaying the same pattern of behavior.

The Pharisees and all the Jews do not eat unless they give their hands a ceremonial washing, holding to the tradition of the elders. When they come from the marketplace they do not eat unless they wash. And they observe many other traditions, such as the washing of cups, pitchers and kettles, Mark 7:3-4.

After reading through the gospels, Pharisees, religious leaders and teachers of the law in Jesus’ day appear to portray O.C.D. like tendencies.  Oblivious to their condition, Jesus brings this to their attention in Mark 7:6-9.  Somewhere along the way, these respected individuals began to over-emphasize human traditions by de-emphasizing God’s commands.  In the process, faith became legalistic, following a set of rules rather than purifying their hearts before a God full of grace.

Jesus replied, “Isaiah was right when he prophesied about you hypocrites; as it is written: “ ’These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me, ” Mark 7:6.

Not much has changed since AD 30 as a segment of Christian churches are more concerned about being a watch dog than converting hearts and minds to follow Christ, Romans 10:9-10.  Using their places of worship like a bully pulpit, sermons are forcefully preached to control their congregations, trying to maintain power as well as squash those with contrary views.  Unfortunately, theology can be divisive, leading some pastors to follow in the same footsteps of the Pharisees.  May those who struggle with religious OCD, see the error of their way, come to the light and be transformed by the Holy Spirit.

by Jay Mankus

 

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The Healing of the Mind

Posted on June 3, 2015 by expressyourself4him

The expression “I’m my worst own enemy” is supported by biblical truth.  The apostle Paul, one of the godliest men to walk the face of the earth, referred to himself as the greatest sinner of all, losing control of his body due to a sinful nature, Romans 7:15.  Thousands of people who saw the son of God heal and speak possessed blind eyes, numb hearts and deaf ears.  Somewhere inside their heads, a previous disappointment, failure or set back has convinced these individuals that healing and victory over their flesh will never come.

Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—of whom I am the worst, 1 Timothy 1:15.

This is the state of mind which confronted a woman within Mark 5:25-34.  After 12 years of doctor’s bills left her condition unchanged, doubt, hopelessness and self-pity likely filled her thoughts.  Broke and suffering, a light went on inside of her head, “if only I could touch Jesus’ cloak, then will I find healing.”  Battling the crowds, this woman fought until Jesus’ rabbinical robe was within her reach.  Like a dream come true, one touch released a powerful surge of energy throughout her body to cure her medical condition.

Then the woman, knowing what had happened to her, came and fell at his feet and, trembling with fear, told him the whole truth.  He said to her, “Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace and be freed from your suffering.” – Mark 5:33-34

Today, countless depressed souls are wondering, “are there any miracles leftover for me to experience?”  Downcast, pessimistic and skeptical, good things will not come until minds are transformed.  Sure, belief begins with the heart and mouth, Romans 10:9-10, yet victory is obtained by the renewing of the mind, Romans 12:1-12.  May the words of Colossians 3:1-4 serve as rehab until the healing of the mind is complete.

by Jay Mankus

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What’s Disrupting Your Life?

Posted on May 16, 2015 by expressyourself4him

Lawn movers, edgers, blowers and engines rev while the tired try to sleep in on Saturday morning.  In the car, pimped out stereos shake, rattle and roll, honking horns nudge you along and unexpected phone calls can take your eyes off the road.  In this high tech, high touch society, peace and quiet are hard to find as disruptions lurk around every corner.

He told them, “The secret of the kingdom of God has been given to you. But to those on the outside everything is said in parables so that, “ ’they may be ever seeing but never perceiving, and ever hearing but never understanding; otherwise they might turn and be forgiven! – Mark 4:11-12

While talking to a large crowd from the water’s edge, Jesus began to speak in parables.  Using farmers in the crowd as an example, Jesus gives four hypothetical situations that will happen over the course of a growing season.  According to Jesus, animals, the weather and soil conditions impact the harvest for each season.  However, when the crowd left, his disciples pondered the meaning of his teaching.

Some people are like seed along the path, where the word is sown. As soon as they hear it, Satan comes and takes away the word that was sown in them.- Mark 4:15

Their questions unveiled the source of life’s disruptions, Satan.  According to Paul, faith comes from hearing the message of truth, Romans 10:17.  Satan’s defense is to snatch or steal truth from the hearts and minds of curious souls through doubt, negativity and worldly mindsets.   As I’ve been told by mentors in the past, if you’re on the verge of something great, don’t be surprised by demonic activity to throw you off track.  In view of this, press on with the armor of God to protect you from these weekly disruptions.

by Jay Mankus

 

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Above the Treeline

Posted on May 11, 2015 by expressyourself4him

Towering above Delaware’s farmlands and tidal marshes, Mount Ebright stands 442 feet above sea level, a trailer park north of Concord High School.  Void of any real mountains, natives of this state must venture north, south or west to find a place above the tree lines.  Traveling along Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park on Sunday, I found myself in God’s country, imaging what it must have been like for Moses to come face to face with the Lord.

For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places, Ephesians 6:12.

While watching a new program on the Travel Channel, Mysteries in National Parks, I was reminded of the invisible realm that exists above the treeline.  According to the apostle Paul, a legion of angels and demons do battle daily, attempting to acquire strongholds.  Beyond the visible trials on earth, territorial wars are waged, seeking to alter the hearts, minds and souls of human beings.  Above the treeline, the devil prowls around like a lion snatching seeds of truth from new converts.

When anyone hears the message about the kingdom and does not understand it, the evil one comes and snatches away what was sown in their heart. This is the seed sown along the path, Matthew 13:19.

The only line of defense involves meditation, prayer and worship.  Thus, as the powers of darkness try to infringe upon church communities, families and institutions, Christians must be armed with the proper weapons to fight back, 2 Corinthians 10:3-5.  While the world will give credit for these phenomena to aliens, legends or mythical forces, don’t underestimate the influences of the devil.  Rather, put on the armor of God so that when activity above the treeline intensifies you won’t be caught off guard.  Draw strength from your knees, empowering angels above to take back any ground that has been lost.

by Jay Mankus

 

 

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The Compass of Prayer

Posted on April 30, 2015 by expressyourself4him

In the first season of Survivor Borneo contestants could bring one personal item to keep on their Island.  Depending upon the personality, individuals chose from a wide variety of possessions based upon wants and needs.  Dirk Been, the first person to ever be voted off the show during a tribal council brought his Bible.  Since editors have a way of slicing film to create stars, villains and proverbial losers, his decision to bring the Word of God wasn’t applauded.  Yet, for Dirk this book was like a compass for life.

If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you,  John 15:7.

The earliest accounts of Jesus highlight a morning routine, Mark 1:35-39.  While his disciples were sleeping, Jesus would arise early before sunset to a quiet location.  This solitary location provided ideal condition for the compass of prayer.  Meditating, Jesus began to listen to His heavenly Father, providing a road map for the next day.  Although the disciples had their own agendas and plans, the Holy Spirit lead Jesus to people of need, fulfilling God’s will daily.

Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words, Romans 8:26.

Today, obstacles to achieving a clear and open communication with God continue to increase.  Doubt, unanswered prayers and worry cause individuals to try to find their way alone.  Unlocking this veil begins and ends with the Bible.  Hearts, minds and soul touched, nurtured and inspired by words of truth are like an introduction to orienteering.  Comprehending the whole process takes time.  However, through trial and error, the compass of prayer will lead you to the light.

by Jay Mankus

 

 

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Seasoning for the Seasons

Posted on April 28, 2015 by expressyourself4him

The first step to properly seasoning meat starts by bringing a piece up to room temperature.  Similarly speaking, to prepare oneself spiritually begins by putting yourself in an ideal environment, surrounded by godly influences.  When the conditions are right, the seasoning process can commence.

You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot, Matthew 5:13.

If chicken, pork or steak is not full thawed, spices will not fully adhere, falling off during the cooking process.  Likewise, if hearts, minds or souls are hardened, the words of the Bible will fall upon deaf ears, unable to soak in God’s truths.  Therefore, the timing must not be rushed, waiting for tenderness to maximize each season applied.

For this people’s heart has become calloused; they hardly hear with their ears, and they have closed their eyes. Otherwise they might see with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their hearts and turn, and I would heal them, Matthew 13:15.

Finally, to secure seasons to any meat, lightly brush olive oil over the surface.  This process serves as a coating, like an adhesive that holds in the flavors while on a grill.  In the same way, individuals who want to please the Lord need to spend time in prayer which seals in God ‘s promises.  When you add Bible Study and worship to this daily practice, Christians will soak in the Spirit. becoming fully seasoned for that seasons that lie ahead in life.  Start these preparations now.

by Jay Mankus

 

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Setting the Table

Posted on April 25, 2015 by expressyourself4him

Prior to fast food dinners out, setting the table was a daily chore delegated by parents to teach their children about how to properly prepare before each meal.  Beyond laying out table arrangements, this term has been adopted by other avenues.  Baseball uses this analogy to encourage players to get into scoring position so that power hitters can drive them home.  After reading a passage of the Bible today, this saying also relates to a spiritual principle.

As it is written in Isaiah the prophet: “I will send my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way,” Mark 1:2.

If you want to change the hearts, minds and souls of other people, a foundation must be set.  There needs to be a beacon of light, pointing the way through their actions, behavior and words.  Although I never thought of it in this manner, John the Baptist set the table for Jesus.  Inspired by a chance to come clean, purge bad habits and verbally profess their shortcomings, John developed a large following who sought forgiveness.  Despite his success, John recognized that he was only a small piece to life’s puzzle, ready to pass the baton to the Savior of the world.

I baptize you with water, but he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit,” Mark 1:8.

Hidden within John’s words is the realization that his ministry was temporary, unable to permanently change individuals.  However, the real Messiah will offer an invisible power called the Holy Ghost in the King’s James Version.  While the power of sin will continue to cause the masses to fall prey to addiction, character flaws and poor decisions.  The hope of the Holy Spirit provides an anointing that can lead to freedom.  May the Lord’s prayer in Matthew 6:9-15 lead you to usher in heaven while living on earth as you set the table for future generations of faith.

by Jay Mankus

 

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