Tag Archives: music

Reruns, Rewind and Revive

Posted on July 28, 2016 by expressyourself4him

The summer tends to be a season for reruns.  As students and teachers take a break until the fall semester begins, there is time for late night binge watching.  While most use On Demand, Netflix or DVR’ed programs, the older generation still rely on television guides to plan their viewing pleasures.  Classic movies have a way of grabbing your attention.  Although you know the story, desires from within carry you away for hours at a time as a distraction from the stress and worries in life.

Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, Philippians 2:3.

For those of you who don’t spend much time watching television, perhaps you prefer reflection.  Either during a jog, walk or while doing yard work, its nice to rewind, taking an inventory of where you’ve been, where you are or where you want to go.  This practice is like setting goals in your mind, providing direction for the future.  One of the things I enjoy pondering about are those things in life which bring me the most joy.  Listening to music, playing sports, writing and working on projects around the house fill me with a sense of accomplish along with purpose and meaning in life.

Not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others, Philippians 2:4.

One of the final activities I engage in involves food for the soul.  Beyond a dose of daily Bible reading and prayer, hearts and minds need to be revived and refreshed to make it in life.  Thus, I have days where I soak in music while I rest.  Sometime I find a book on a topic that interests me, giving me a broader perspective on life.  Although I waste just as much time as the average American lounging around on a couch or sofa, I experience peace that surpasses understanding when I rewind my direction and revive my soul.

by Jay Mankus

 

 

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Remembering Those Who Refresh Souls

Posted on July 4, 2016 by expressyourself4him

Its unfortunate that most people wait until a funeral to thank someone for the imprint made of their life.  Instead of sharing an encouraging word, time has a way of distracting individuals from expressing how they really feel.  Thus, souls often perish without hearing or knowing the impact they had on others.

May the Lord show mercy to the household of Onesiphorus, because he often refreshed me and was not ashamed of my chains, 2 Timothy 1:16.

While writing a letter to one of his ministry partners, the apostle Paul urges believers to remember those who refresh souls.  To heed this call, I feel compelled to give a shout out for those people who have helped me along my faith journey.  The first was my high school swim coach, who also served as a science teacher and spiritual mentor.  To a student who was seeking for meaning in life, Ken Horne pointed me in the right direction as a Fellowship of Christian Athletes huddle leader at Concord High.

Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone, Colossians 4:6.

After helping me develop a solid foundation, several college friends inspired me to further my faith.  My roommate Mike introduced me to contemporary worship music, Phil showed me how to live life to the fullest and Dave led me to see the importance of accountability.  There are others who deserve additional credit, but there will be other blogs to address their deeds.  For now, don’t let time slip away on this July 4th before you remember those who have refreshed your soul.

by Jay Mankus

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Come and Give Me Wings

Posted on February 8, 2016 by expressyourself4him

At my age, I don’t wake up with the same fire and passion that I once possessed.  Beyond the spiritual realm, I find inspiration from music.  One of the more recent artists which touched me is Set My World on Fire by Britt Nicole.  On her Neon Feather Remix album, this song combines a great beat with moving lyrics.  The chorus asks God to come and give her wings to help fulfill her dreams in life.

For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways, Psalm 91:11.

According to the Psalmist, this isn’t as far fetched as you think.  However, what does it mean to command the angels and what method ensures that you will be able to usher angels into action?  Based upon the words of Moses, obedience to God is a major factor depending upon how careful you are in following the Lord’s commands.  Yet, asking angels to come and give you wings seems more like fantasy rather than reality.

The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear him, and delivers them, Psalm 34:7.

Perhaps, holy fear is the missing link, preventing Christians from seeing their prayers answered.  David is not the only one who made this connection.  King Solomon claimed fearing God is the beginning of wisdom.  Although I can’t recall a time I experienced angelic intervention, Jesus once said,”you don’t have because you haven’t asked.”  While this topic is foreign to me, in your time of need, don’t be afraid to cry out to God to come and give you wings to overcome the mountain standing in your way.

by Jay Mankus

 

 

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Make My Heart Like Yours

Posted on January 11, 2016 by expressyourself4him

Music can be similar to relationships.  The more open minded you are, the likelihood of you accepting and embracing someone or something increases.  Unfortunately, stereotypes about an artist, genre or musician cause individuals to give up on a certain sound after a few seconds of listening.  Subsequently, the careers of millions fail, far short of where they hoped, rejected before having a real shot to succeed.

And I will give you a new heart, and a new spirit I will put within you. And I will remove the heart of stone from your flesh and give you a heart of flesh, Ezekiel 36:26.

Such is the case of Linda Elias, wife of Rick whose own career far surpassed hers.  Rick spent a decade as a member of Rich Mullins Ragamuffin band and his music was featured in the 1996 Tom Hanks movie, That Thing You Do.  As for Linda, following in the Belinda Carlisle genre, I thought her 1991 album The Meaning of Life would jump start her career.  However, in Christian music industry, unless you’re Amy Grant, you’re not going to get the attention you deserve.  As a result, you can’t find any of Linda’s songs on Pandora or You Tube.

Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded, James 4:8.

Nonetheless, during my recent fast I have started listening to one hour of inspirational music a day.  While soaking in the lyrics to Make My Heart Like Yours, I was moved, touched by God.  This song is more like a prayer, wishing that one day our hearts will become more like Christ.  In this song, Linda confesses her failures and shortcomings.  Leaning on God’s grace, she yearns to be transformed.  As I am daily reminded of my own sins, I am eager, waiting for God to make my heart like his son’s, Jesus.

by Jay Mankus

Linda’s album the Meaning of Life is available at Amazon.com for those willing to give a promising artist a chance.

 

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The Mystery of Praise

Posted on April 21, 2015 by expressyourself4him

Unless you are a morning person, most people take time to wake up.  This lack of energy makes the likelihood of praise to be displayed as a natural occurrence.  As for me, only when the right kind of music is present or a tune prompts my heart does a spirit of praise arrive.  Beside this perfect setting, praising God is a mystery.

To carry out the sentence written against them— this is the glory of all his faithful people. Praise the LORD. – Psalm 149:9

According to the book of Hebrews, its impossible to please God without faith.  Thus, when you read the prophecies of the Bible, you can’t view each with skepticism.  Beyond the words from this ancient book, one must believe God will eventually fulfill each promise.  Although doubts will arise if a prolong time passes without any fulfillment, yet praise is conceived when individuals see the the Bible come true like the words of Psalm 149:9.

Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see, Hebrews 11:1.

If someone spends days, months or years praying for a miracle without any results, any desires to praise God often fade away.  Families who have lost a member to a killer disease experience arid periods, void of joy.  Subsequently, many venture off, putting God on hold until they can comprehend of what just happened.  Although the wait is agonizing, the hope of a prodigal returning to their senses brings angels to praise God in heaven and rejoicing souls on earth.  May the mystery of praise not serve as a stumbling block to pursuers.  Rather, may the Holy Spirit revive your heart with a new sense of appreciation for the hand of God at work in this life.

by Jay Mankus

 

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Losing the Battle of Forgiveness

Posted on April 4, 2015 by expressyourself4him

Salah, kapar and nasa are the three most common Hebrew words which express the English expression to forgive.  In the New Testament, aphiemi describes the act of forgiving, to separate blame from the guilty party inspired by sin.  Biblical forgiveness is achieved when an individual acquits, exonerates or pardons someone from an act which cause harm to one or more parties.  Unfortunately, for most churches, forgiving without truly forgetting results in a losing spiritual battle.

Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you, Colossians 3:13.

This reality hit home as a drove to the first church I served in as a youth pastor.  Every Sunday I passed by a former congregation, a beautiful brick building which had become a liquor store.  Ironic that a building once known as the Lord’s house was now a center for wines and spirits in my community.  Perhaps, a spirit of bitterness, jealousy or resentment is at fault.  A couple may not like the music, others profess their disdain for the preaching and some complain about the lame programing that exists.  Before long, seeds of discord, dissension and factions cause membership to dwindle.  In the end, churches die as the lukewarm hop over to another destination, going along for the ride until their own passion fades away.

I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith, 2 Timothy 4:7.

As a former elder of a now disbanded church, I hate to see the finality of it all.  Shattered dreams, broken homes and fragile souls try to move on, placing their pain on hold until the healing begins.  While fighting for a lost cause may seem futile, churches can be turned around when forgiveness arrives on the scene.  If only egos could be put on the sidelines, then the love of Jesus can permeate into the lives of churches.  Casting Crowns was right, “If we are the body, what aren’t our hands reaching out in love?”  May this blog create a spark, ignite forgiveness and rejuvenate churches on the verge of division or splitting.  Fight the good fight of faith!

by Jay Mankus

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Another Unsolved Mystery of God’s Provisions

Posted on March 17, 2015 by expressyourself4him

While attending a concert benefit for two organizations dear to my heart, Kay’s Kamp and Ashley’s Orphans, I was reminded of the miraculous accomplishments the Lord’s manifests.  Sponsored by the Raymond Lee Band and held at the Evervett Theater, the music led me to consider the stunning history of God’s provisions to needy charities throughout the world.  Fueled by prayer and inspired by the Holy Spirit, individuals continue to be touched, opening their purses and wallets giving to Christ centered causes.  Despite a struggling economy, the Lord knows how to raise funds to fulfill His will.

He said to them, “Because of your little faith. For truly, I say to you, if you have faith like a grain of mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move, and nothing will be impossible for you.”- Matthew 17:20

Although a spectator tonight, I still can’t believe how the Lord provided daily bread for me and my family when I was the desperate one.  My home church in Delaware took up a love offering to pursue a career in youth ministry after graduating from college, cutting a check for the exact amount that I needed without any communication?  Years later, with my wife and I unemployed over a two year stretch, some how, some way, food, clothing and shelter was provided, filling in the gaps we couldn’t afford.  Subsequently, if its happened before, it will occur again as another unsolved mystery of God’s provisions.

By the power of signs and wonders, by the power of the Spirit of God—so that from Jerusalem and all the way around to Illyricum I have fulfilled the ministry of the gospel of Christ;- Romans 15:19

Perhaps this blog finds you on the outside looking in, wondering when help will arrive.  A feeling of hopelessness is tough to overcome, especially if those who can offer support don’t know your needs.  Yet, this is where prayer can probe hearts, even when individuals are sleeping.  The Holy Spirit is living and active, able to touch the hearts of complete strangers, sending help in various unexpected forms.  While the world likes to search for tangible evidence for miracles on earth, I just chalk things up to another unsolved mystery of God’s provisions.

by Jay Mankus

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An Ideal Atmosphere called Harmony

Posted on March 7, 2015 by expressyourself4him

Although harmony is often associated with music, its one of the missing ingredients within society.  Defined as an orderly and pleasing combination of elements, harmony is established when various components exist together without destroying one another.  Unfortunately, rarely do strong personalities mesh without some type of power struggle.

How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity! – Psalm 133:1

The sustainability of any church, group or family is dependent upon the degree of harmony displayed.  From my vantage point, hidden agendas, control and wills create conflict.  Beneath the surface, demons, Satan and selfish desires are tugged in different directions, resulting in discord, dissension and factions.  These obstacles stand in the way of an ideal setting where harmony is achieved.

Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. – Colossians 3:13

No one is exempt from an outburst when you lose your composure or say something that you regret.  This is where forgiveness enters the equation.  Once harmony is shattered, common sense must lead individuals toward reconciliation.  Although no one is perfect, the apostle Paul provides tips for those communities seeking unity, Colossians 3:12-15.  May bad blood, hurt feelings and severed relationships be washed away, replaced by the transforming love of Jesus Christ.

by Jay Mankus

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To Fast or Not to Fast?

Posted on December 31, 2014 by expressyourself4him

In recent years, January 1st signifies the beginning of 21 day fasts for a growing number of churches across America.  Depending upon the congregation, this could mean a …

1) Daniel Fast: Eating vegetables and water based upon the events of Daniel 1:11-14.

2) Media Fast: Replacing listening and viewing habits for 3 weeks with Bible Study, prayer and soaking in worship music.

3) Traditional Fast: Limiting your diet to liquids, with stricter fasts allowing only water.

Before you jump into any commitment, you might want to consider the advice of Solomon.

When you make a vow to God, do not delay to fulfill it. He has no pleasure in fools; fulfill your vow. – Ecclesiastes 5:4

My advice is to take a more realistic approach.  If fasting is new to you or something you haven’t done in years, ease yourself into 21 days of fasting.  I recommend skipping 1 meal per day, the first week.  If your body is up for the challenge, limit your eating to one meal per day the second week.  However, if you find yourself gorging each meal, you might want to focus on skipping one meal per day the entire 21 days.  Make a vow you can keep, then honor it.

When I heard these things, I sat down and wept. For some days I mourned and fasted and prayed before the God of heaven. – Nehemiah 1:4

As for what to expect, the lack of food can make individuals grumpy.  Those with medical conditions may need to opt for a Media Fast to avoid health concerns.  Beyond the pain, the insight one receives from fasting can be life altering.  While fasting during my days of teaching, several messages of discernment came to me through the power of the Holy Spirit.  In addition, your perspective of food will change as fasting will heighten your sense of taste.  In the end, the choice is up to you: to fast or not to fast?

by Jay Mankus

 

 

 

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The Place of Silence

Posted on December 13, 2014 by expressyourself4him

When I arrived earlier than normal to school in my teaching years, I felt like I had time to converse before the first bell signaled the beginning of another hectic day.  Scanning the hallways, I discovered a place of silence.  Walking back to the teacher’s lounge, the students present were tuned out, listening to music with ear buds on,  preventing any chances for a meaningful conversation.

Modern parents have been convinced by government agencies that spanking is wrong.  Thus, fear has been replaced with the silent treatment.  Unfortunately, sending kids to time out isn’t always punishment.  While the social may feel like they have been sent to solitary confinement, quiet children enjoy the place of silence.

Psalm 115:7 introduces the Bible’s readers to a new concept of hell, the place of silence.  This imagery brings a new perspective of hell, combining loneliness with time out.  When your time on earth runs out, there only 2 possible destinations, heaven or hell.  Either you will find a destination where your cries for help go unheard.  Or you will enter a place where your tears will be wiped away.  Take the advice of Moses by choosing life today, Deuteronomy 30:15-17.

by Jay Mankus

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