Tag Archives: music

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

 

Leave a comment

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

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

Leave a comment

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

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

1 Comment

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

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

Leave a comment

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

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

 

 

 

Leave a comment

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

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

Leave a comment

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

A Spiritual Break Dance

Posted on November 18, 2014 by expressyourself4him

Back in the 1970’s, a new movement was born in the inner cities across America.  While theories exist as to whom, where and how this form of expression began, one thing is known.  Rap music was the inspiration behind break dancing.  Although this style has faded in popularity, don’t be surprised if you see intricate footwork, spinning headstands, tumbling and elaborate improvised movements.

Over the weekend, I was listening to music for several hours, trying to find something to fall asleep to.  Before I collapsed into a peaceful state of bliss, the lyrics to one song struck me, Love Break Me by Ocean’s Above.  This song may not lead you to dance, but it will urge curious souls to contemplate a spiritual transformation.  When the love of Jesus enters a human heart, a spiritual break dance commences.

Ravi Zacharias grew up in India.  After unsuccessfully attempting suicide, a Christin hospital worker reached out to him and gave his mother a Bible to read to Ravi out loud before being released.  These words touched his heart, Romans 10:19, leading to a life of service to God.   Now a successful author, motivational speaker and ministry founder, Ravi is performing a spiritual break dance on his way to heaven.  Don’t sit on the sideline.  Rather, get up, go to the dance floor and a bust a new move today!

by Jay Mankus

 

 

 

Leave a comment

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

The Noise Inside of Heaven

Posted on November 17, 2014 by expressyourself4him

As Thanksgiving Day approaches, Christmas Classics won’t be far behind, airing in the next month.  One of my favorites, “It’s a Wonderful Life,” tries to explain how angels can influence human beings.  Henry Travers, plays Clarence, an angel longing to earn his wings by helping George, played by Jimmy Stewart, see how great his life is despite the financial woes of the Great Depression.  This film portrays the noise inside of heaven, ringing bells, as angels complete their assignment thereby earning their wings.

According to the Bible, heaven is compared to a party, similar to a wedding reception, Matthew 22:1-14.  From an eyewitness, the son of God, rejoicing occurs every time a sinner repents, Luke 15:7.  While there are certain stereotypes linked to born again Christians, this doesn’t mean that a church service can’t turn into a football frenzy audience.  In additional, beyond the emotions of any celebration, there will be no tears in heaven, Revelation 21:4, wiped away by Jesus

On earth, the sound of gun shots, screams and violence make heaven seem like an eternity away.  Instead of letting a doom and gloom mentality cause you to give up hope, take advantage of the coming Christmas Spirit.  May believers bring Joy to the World as the sweet sound of worship music revive souls, bringing the noise inside of heaven down to earth.

by Jay Mankus

Leave a comment

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

A Jukebox of Memories

Posted on October 22, 2014 by expressyourself4him

Before the days of cell phones and personal computers, a jukebox connected individuals at local restaurants.  Portrayed in sitcoms like Happy Days, placing a coin in the jukebox and selecting a hip song  often inspired young people to join the dance floor.  Thus, music enhanced the life of teens creating jukebox memories.

As technology advanced, diners began to install miniature jukeboxes in each booth, enabling guests to interact while listening to their favorite songs.  Over time, music became associated, linked and tied to special moments in time.  Whether you were traveling somewhere on vacation, going out on a date or enjoying your prom, music etches memories within our minds.

Today, I can be shopping in a local grocery store, driving in my car or walking down Main Street when I hear a song from my past.  Within seconds, my mind takes me back in time, reminiscing about where I was, who I was with and the friends I made along the way.  Through the good and bad, music is like a recipe to cure the blues in life.  Regardless of what you use to access modern music, may these devices provide soothing jukebox memories.

by Jay Mankus

Leave a comment

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

Imprints on Heaven

Posted on September 28, 2014 by expressyourself4him

While listening to a sermon over the weekend, I was challenged to reflect on what if any impact I’ve had during my days on this planet.  Jesus and the apostle Paul, shared a similar message, urging their listeners to begin to store up treasures on earth, Matthew 6:19-21 and Colossians 3:1-4.  If heaven does exist and Jesus went ahead to prepare the way, John 14:2, then its time you and I begin the imprinting process.

Although minor in many ways, my first mark involved music.  Inspired by the Holy Spirit, I felt compelled  to inform people of God’s love.  Sorting through a vast collection of Christian music in college, I created a mix that I began to give to individuals, just as a high school friend did for me.   Trying to introduce people to contemporary artists, one particular creation entitled A Father”s Love struck a cord with several friends and strangers.  In the days of writing letters, words of encouragement appeared in the mail box, confirming that I was on the right track.

My greatest inscription occurred during a Lay Witness Mission, a fancy name for a retreat geared toward reviving souls for a  spiritually dead or dying congregation.  Beside being an active participant during youth group activities, my main responsibility was to share a brief testimony, what God was teaching me or doing in my life.  At a moment’s notice, I was suppose to be ready.  Well, I waited and waited and waited.  Finally, on Saturday night, I was told I would be talking to the entire congregation.  After praying with my roommate that night, the Lord took over so when the appointed time came, I opened my mouth and the Holy Spirit spoke.  Before finishing, I offered up a call for action, then played a song.  As I looked up, some were actually running to the altar, dedicating their lives to Jesus.

Since this day, I guess I can include my wife, kids and a decade as a Bible teacher.  However, in between the victories, there have been plenty of moments of failure, idleness and periods of self-indulgence.   When you taste defeat, the best pill to swallow is humility, an important practice to keep you on the narrow path to heaven, Matthew 7:13-15.  As the second coming of Jesus draws near, don’t forget to leave your imprints on earth while heaven awaits for those who call on the name of the Lord, Romans 10:9-11.

by Jay Mankus

 

Leave a comment

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