Tag Archives: peace

Resting in Hope

Posted on September 13, 2015 by expressyourself4him

Fifty years ago, most families consisted of a husband, wife and children.  In those days, moms stayed at home, taking care of the kids while the father was usually the main bread winner.  Over the last half century, this sight is rare, like a species of animals on the verge of extinction.  Subsequently, adults are now working nights, weekends or two jobs just to keep up with their monthly bills.  The idea of resting in hope is a fantasy for many tired souls.

Therefore my heart is glad and my tongue rejoices; my body also will rest in hope, Acts 2:26.

On the Day of Pentecost, Peter was filled with peace.  Looking back on the last few months, the hand of God on Jesus’ life, death and resurrection began to make sense.  This clarity boosted the spirits of the disciples.  Despite Jesus’ absence following his ascension into heaven, a metamorphosis was ongoing in the hearts and minds of God’s people.  Peter attributes this reformation due to resting in hope.

Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times in every way. The Lord be with you all, 2 Thessalonians 3:16.

Stress has an opposite effect on individuals, leading to restless nights.  A by product of stress, worry induces doubt, causing minds to wonder if things will ever improve.  This is where I am from time to time, struggling to remain optimistic.  Nonetheless, when I reach low points in life, I am reminded of the promises in the Bible.  The more I hear and read these words, I begin to rest in hope.

by Jay Mankus

Leave a comment

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

The Place of Restless Souls

Posted on August 27, 2015 by expressyourself4him

In Episode 3 of Project Afterlife, a patient goes to a nearby hospital for a routine procedure.  When an infection is found, this surgery turns into a nightmare, leading to an unexpected death.  During a 45 minute period, this man saw a river, separating two worlds.  To his left, restless souls cried out for help.  On his right, peace, joy and love is displayed.  Before facing judgment, relatives wrestled with God until his soul was resurrected through prayer.

I am the gate; whoever enters through me will be saved. They will come in and go out, and find pasture, John 10:9.

Near death experiences are nothing new.  However, now books are being replaced by you tubes, pod casts and testimonies of those who died momentarily.  As time seems to stand still, individuals recount vivid encounters of heaven.  In this realm, science is replaced by faith.  Though some may embellish to get attention, too many people have had similar experiences which point to another life after this world is through.

The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full, John 10:10.

Perhaps reflecting on this present life may provide insight and direction in the future.  Leaders of the past have proclaimed life is what you make it.  To an extent this is true, but this doesn’t explain countless souls who are restless, searching for the meaning to life.  Better to ponder now than after your life is gone.  Therefore, as you meander through good and bad times, ask Jesus to help you find an abundant life, void of restless souls.

by Jay Mankus

 

Leave a comment

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

Are You Ready to Jump In?

Posted on August 24, 2015 by expressyourself4him

Every so often I will come face to face with a crisis.  Usually, its a mom or dad not paying attention to their children, wondering off into trouble.  Sometimes I become the good Samaritan, reaching out just in time to prevent an accident or fall.  Unfortunately, this is rare, often consumed with my own life, oblivious to everything else around me.  Thus, I’m not ready to jump in.

A certain man from Cyrene, Simon, the father of Alexander and Rufus, was passing by on his way in from the country, and they forced him to carry the cross, Mark 15:21.

One Friday morning, a man was minding his own business, possible thinking about what he was going to do over the weekend.  Suddenly, commotion from the crowds standing along the street peeked his curiosity.  Going over to see what was going on, a soldier called out, demanding his help.  Though its unclear if he was a willing participant, Simon jumped into action, carrying a cross for a pitiful soul, full of blood, bruises and open flesh.

Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil, Ephesians 5:15-16.

The term Christian was first derived in the town of Antioch.  Faith wasn’t just a spoken word.  Rather, the followers of Jesus displayed the same love, peace and servanthood of their former leader.  Pleasantly surprised by these acts, citizens began to say, “hey, you must be one of those Christ followers?”  Overtime this phrase was condensed to simply Christian.  In view of this historical fact, may you be compelled to jump into action, following in the footsteps of Jesus, 1 John 2:6.

by Jay Mankus

 

Leave a comment

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

Moving On After Tragedy

Posted on June 28, 2015 by expressyourself4him

The human mind can act like a sponge, absorbing scenes from life like a file on a computer.  Depending upon what you encounter, a number of cues can trigger each stored event to your memory in an instant.  Unfortunately, the bad and ugly thoughts can haunt individuals, making it difficult to move on after tragedy strikes.  During a late night conversation in college, a classmate began to reveal a dark secret from her past.

If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you, James 1:5.

A year earlier, she had heard an explosion behind her house, which backs up to the New Jersey Turnpike.  Immediately, her nursing student instincts took over, running down a steep embankment to help anyone in need of medical attention before emergency assistance arrived.  Not ready for what came next, she helped two kids escape from a car which had caught on fire.  However, both parents were trapped so all she could do was shield these children from the image of mom and dad burning to death in the flames.

Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him, James 1:12.

We can’t change the past, but after the mourning process, its time to move on.  Similar to an injury, healing differs from one person to the next.  Although scars will always remain, with Christ all things are possible to get over.  Yet, finding hope, peace and joy is not guaranteed.  This is where faith comes into play, trusting in the Lord to guide your steps.  Whatever mountain that you have to climb, may you find strength to move on after the trials you endure.

by Jay Mankus

 

Leave a comment

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

The Pain of Death

Posted on June 4, 2015 by expressyourself4him

A member of St. George’s 2014 golf team died in a car accident while driving home from school Tuesday afternoon.  A parent’s worst nightmare came true for the Leonzio family.  In a flash, before you can say goodbye for the final time, Tim’s life was snuffed out.  This is the pain of death.

He pleaded earnestly with him, “My little daughter is dying. Please come and put your hands on her so that she will be healed and live.” – Mark 5:23

In Mark 5:22-42, a concerned father reaches out to Jesus.  Jairus, a synagogue leader turned to Jesus as a last resort as doctors could not improve his daughter’s condition.  Despite what any Pharisees thought about Jesus, Jairus had a feeling deep down inside his heart his daughter would be healed.  On their way home, his efforts were a little too late as Jairus received the bad news.

While Jesus was still speaking, some people came from the house of Jairus, the synagogue leader. “Your daughter is dead,” they said. “Why bother the teacher anymore?” – Mark 5:35

Unfortunately, Jesus can’t bring Tim back to life like Jairus’ daughter.  Now, whenever my own son doesn’t come home on time, I start to worry, imaging a worst case scenario.  This is where faith must take over.  Although death in inevitable, belief in Christ, the promise of salvation and eternity in heaven can ease your pain.  May the prayer of the Psalmist provide comfort, healing and peace when the pain of death knocks on your door, Psalm 34:18.

by Jay Mankus

 

Leave a comment

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

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

Leave a comment

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

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

 

Leave a comment

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

A Hostage of Peace

Posted on March 27, 2015 by expressyourself4him

Words like captive, pawn and victim are often associated with a hostage.  Despite this negative connotation, hostages can find a state of mind where peace is achieved.  Such is the case for a pastor arrested in communist China, sentenced to a prison camp for proselytizing where a cess pool became his home.  Days led to weeks, weeks to months and months to years, forced to dwell in a place which most gagged on the stench.  Yet, in this living hell, this man of God imagined the words of the Bible he read throughout his years of ministry.  Overtime, a transformation conceived a hostage of peace.

You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you, Isaiah 26:3.

In August of 2012, Tenth Avenue North released The Struggle, an album that featured several songs with powerful lyrics.  One of my favorites is Hostage of Peace, commences with the idea earthly battles begin in the heart.

Feel the silence
There’s a war beneath our skin
Let it begin
It’s hard to fight
It’s hard to lead resistance
It’s our hearts we’re up against

Although the world around human beings may fall apart, Ten Avenue North encourages individuals to cling to the promises in the Bible.  When danger approaches, the author of this song suggests to cry out to in prayer to find the loving arms of our heavenly Father.  This is where an individual can become a hostage of peace.

Strive for peace with everyone, and for the holiness without which no one will see the Lord, Hebrews 12:14.

Decades following this pastor’s travails, would modern Christians be able to survive if stripped away from their spiritual foundation?  With temptations lurking around every corner, waiting to pounce on unprepared souls, could a strong faith endure without access to the Bible?  God willing, American believers won’t have to experience the trials of nations in spiritual bondage.  However, if the culture continues to embrace and lean toward leftist beliefs, church leaders will need to prepare their congregations to obtain a hostage of peace.

by Jay Mankus

Leave a comment

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

Inside a Humbled Heart

Posted on March 21, 2015 by expressyourself4him

When things are going well in life, one’s mood will tend to become more talkative.  Reveling in the good times promotes conversation, chatting about the blessings God has bestowed upon you.  However, as the tide turns, bringing in trials, turmoil and suffering, joy quickly leads to silence.

He leads the humble in what is right, and teaches the humble his way. – Psalm 25:9

Like seasons of change, humility is a natural way of purging any arrogance or pride inside the human soul.  Yet, when unfortunate events linger beyond a normal period of time, hearts become troubled.  While tongues may speak of their misery, the sound of good news is a distant memory.

For when they are humbled you say, ‘It is because of pride’; but he saves the lowly. – Job 22:29

Wounded souls often withdraw, waiting for something positive to discuss.  If nothing approves, the pain inside will scream out through body language.  Unless family, friends or strangers are observant, depression will form, creating a downward spiral.  Inside any humbled heart, patients long for healing, hoping humility will be replaced by love, joy and peace.  May this blog inspire to reach out to the humbled hearts which surround you.

by Jay Mankus

Leave a comment

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

A Prayer for the Verbally Assaulted

Posted on February 9, 2015 by expressyourself4him

Canadian born Rock Star Bryan Adams was right when he sang “love cuts like a knife.”  Lesser known contemporary singer Wes King added to this concept, focusing on Sticks and Stones which wound human souls.  Whether you hear it through the grapevine, feel it through dirty looks or experience harsh words first hand, no one likes to be verbally assaulted.

Save me, LORD, from lying lips and from deceitful tongues, Psalm 120:2.

When gossip spreads, innuendos fly and rumors begin to sway people against you, helplessness can consume your heart.  Thus, if no one has your back to set the record straight, a supernaturally intervention is often necessary.  Although the context may be different, desperate individuals cry out to the heavens asking for a shell of protection against the flaming arrows of evil spewed from the mouths of bitter people.

Too long have I lived among those who hate peace.  I am for peace; but when I speak, they are for war. – Psalm 120:6-7

Although verbal attacks will continue throughout your lifetime, make sure you don’t lower yourself to others’ standards or begin to stoop to a level of pettiness.  Rather, as the curses come forth, place your trust in God above, leaning on the Lord in times of distress, Psalm 120:1.  The moment you sense an urge to retaliate, make sure you choose your words wisely.  As difficult as it may be, follow the Golden Rule, doing unto others as you want others to do unto you.  If successful, your act of kindness will fulfill the words of Proverbs 25:22, heaping coals on the heads of those you verbally assault you.

by Jay Mankus

Leave a comment

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