Tag Archives: persecution

Merry ???

Posted on December 22, 2016 by expressyourself4him

Earlier in the week I went Christmas shopping for my wife.  Due to the nature of the gift, I was forced to rely on the expertise of sales associates.  After finding two similar items, I wanted to know which would be the best purchase for the long haul.  When I was finally convinced on the best brand name to buy, I approached the check out counter.  On my way out, I replied, “Merry Christmas,” that was followed by an awkward silence.

For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control, 2 Timothy 1:7.

Sometime in the last few decades, Christians have become afraid of offending other people of faith.  Due to political correctness, retailers are now training new staff to avoid expressing specific phrases or words.  Subsequently, Merry Christmas has become like cheap greeting cards, X’ed out and replaced with Happy Holidays.  It’s no wonder that this cashier was uneasy, not sure how to respond to my seasonal greeting.

There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear. For fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not been perfected in love, 1 John 4:18.

The apostle Paul witnessed a spirit of timidity in his day.  When persecution broke out against the early church, fear consumed many believers.  This environment initially hampered the growth of the Way as described in the book of Acts.  Yet, as soon as fear was replaced by the love of Christ, the tides began to turn.  May this wave of the Holy Spirit arrive on the scene today to inspire people to share two special words, “Merry Christmas.”

by Jay Mankus

 

 

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Where Do You Go From Here?

Posted on July 22, 2016 by expressyourself4him

Everyone will hit that proverbial bump in the road at some point in life.  This moment of inconvenience could be a quick pit stop, a rough stretch or turn into a dead end.  If the latter is you, its hard to start over, especially if you’re not sure where to go from here.

Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me, Philippians 3:12.

Upon receiving the news of my most recent rejection from Hollywood, fourth in five years, I’m starting to have second thoughts on my writing career.  Part of me truly believed my latest script Dragged Behind the Devil’ s Door would be a box office hit, but now that reality is setting in I wonder if I’m on the right track or simply chasing some improbable fantasy.

Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, Philippians 3:13.

Perhaps the apostle Paul went through a similar phase during his first century mission trips throughout the Middle East.  Instead of seeing progress, Paul experienced failure, persecution and suffering.  While writing a letter to one of his favorite churches, Paul had a vision that gave him direction for the last portion of his life.  May the words above serve as a message of hope to those ready to give up, quit or abandon your calling.  Although I’m not sure what role writing will play in the next stage of my life, I need to forget past disappointments by straining toward what is ahead, eternal life with Christ my Lord.

by Jay Mankus

 

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The Daughters of Prophecy

Posted on February 3, 2016 by expressyourself4him

A forecast, prediction or prognostication are words synonymous with prophecy.  In this age of cynicism the majority of people I know have their doubts.  In fact, some may place these individuals in the same category as mediums, palm readers or psychics.  However, the apostle Paul refers to four woman in Ephesus as daughters of prophecy.

He had four unmarried daughters who prophesied, Acts 21:9.

This concept is foreign territory for most people.  During a few stints of unemployment four years ago, I met a stranger in a Christian bookstore.  This man came up to me at the counter and began to claim I would soon be blessed with a high paying job, beyond my wildest dreams.  When you’re desperate, sometimes you cling to any positive news, no matter how outlandish it appears.  Unfortunately, I got sucked in, was set up for failure and as time flew by without an answer to my prayers, I lost hope in the idea of prophecy.

And in the last days it shall be, God declares, that I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh, and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams; even on my male servants and female servants in those days I will pour out my Spirit, and they shall prophesy, Acts 2:17-18.

Nonetheless, I can’t overlook Paul’s claims.  Based upon the context, these girls did not make up prophecies or try to impress Paul.  Rather, they only shared what God revealed to them.  While not a woman, Agabus accurately recounts Paul’s persecution in Jerusalem before it happens.  Luke was so impressed that he makes sure this prophet is mentioned in Acts.  I  can’t explain this rare spiritual talent, yet the Bible is clear, four daughters living in Ephesus possessed the gift of prophecy.

by Jay Mankus

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Earnest Prayers

Posted on December 11, 2015 by expressyourself4him

Grave, serious and solemn describe the emotions connected to the term earnest.  Tragic events like the San Bernardino terrorist attack on a company Christmas party sent shock waves across the United States last week.  Like the nation of France following their own recent encounter, the news of death tends to bring people to their knees.

So Peter was kept in prison, but the church was earnestly praying to God for him, Acts 12:5.

Although less and less people annually consider themselves to be born again Christians, crying out to God is like a natural response in the face of desperation.  Unfortunately, earnest prayers usually arrive after disaster occurs.  Thus, for God to answer most prayers miracles are necessary or else people will go home disappointed and disenfranchised.  This wasn’t always the case, especially during the first century.

When she recognized Peter’s voice, she was so overjoyed she ran back without opening it and exclaimed, “Peter is at the door!”  “You’re out of your mind,” they told her. When she kept insisting that it was so, they said, “It must be his angel,” Acts 12:14-15.

Persecution was a way of life for early Christian as many leaders were martyred for their faith.  Hopeful that Peter didn’t face the same fate of James of Zebedee in Acts 12:2, a spirit of earnest prayer spread.  This sober mood spawned an angel into action.  The ultimate goal of any prayer to receive the answer that you’re hoping for.  However, sometimes God answers quicker than you expect.  Thus, before the morning sunrise, Peter was set free, arriving at their front door.  Initially shocked like a dream too good to be true, this earnest prayer was blessed immediately.  In view of this account, be proactive to form a hedge of protection as you participate in a modern example of earnest prayer.

by Jay Mankus

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Worthy of Suffering

Posted on October 11, 2015 by expressyourself4him

During my time at the University of Delaware, I was fortunate enough to meet several missionaries.  Through campus groups like Campus Crusade, Fellowship of Christian Athletes and Intervarsity, opportunities arose to interact with individuals from different countries, cultures and dynamic characters.  In biblical terms, several of these people I met are worthy of suffering.

The apostles left the Sanhedrin, rejoicing because they had been counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the Name, Acts 5:41.

It’s interesting how people define success in various ways.  The poor may say a good day is having enough money to feed the whole family.  The middle class might suggest its making more than you spend.  Meanwhile, the upper class base success on property, possessions and power.  Yet, for first century Christians, enduring public persecution for their faith was like a badge of courage.

The apostles left the Sanhedrin, rejoicing because they had been counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the Name, 1 Peter 1:7.

Beyond any physical or verbal abuse martyrs experienced, a nugget of truth has been passed on from generation to generation.  While you may suffer for your beliefs, trials serve as a vehicle for growth.  Just as a furnace uses fire to remove imperfections from clay, persecution strengthens faith.  Thus, while the world is dumbfounded by those willing to risk death, imprisonment or public beatings, devout Christians continue to embrace suffering for the sake of Christ.

by Jay Mankus

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Living on Life Support

Posted on September 11, 2015 by expressyourself4him

Several years ago my Aunt Tonya was diagnosed with an aggressive form of ALS.  Three months later, she was hanging on by a thread, living on life support.  Whenever you experience the frailty of life up close, a helpless feeling consumes one’s soul.  Less than four months after her first doctor’s visit, Tonya passed away.

Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me, John 15:4.

From a spiritual perspective, meditation, prayer, reading the Bible and worship are four food groups for the human soul.  Unfortunately, like trying to eat healthy, it doesn’t take much to stray off course.  Before you know it, each poor decision can sap bodies of their energy.  Thus, if human beings do not receive a daily dose of spiritual soul food, it won’t be long until these individuals will be clinging to a different kind of life support.

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.

Anyone who is tuned in to current events, may make an additional connection.  As the Middle East battles for control, refuges are crossing the borders into Europe to escape death, persecution and turmoil.  While segments of society are doing okay, the rest of the world is falling apart.  People are searching for hope, peace and love without much success.  Therefore, if you want to possess the ability to breathe on your own again, ask the Holy Spirit to fill your empty cup with the abundant life.

by Jay Mankus

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When the Holy Spirit Takes Over

Posted on August 9, 2015 by expressyourself4him

There are several theories about what will occur in the end times on earth.  Known as eschatology, this term refers to the theological interpretations of biblical content on this subject.  Although movies have portrayed some of  these views, few writers have touched one of the teachings of Jesus.  A sign of the last days is a supernatural phenomena where the Holy Spirit literally falls upon Christians and takes over their conversations.

Whenever you are arrested and brought to trial, do not worry beforehand about what to say. Just say whatever is given you at the time, for it is not you speaking, but the Holy Spirit, Mark 13:11.

The context of the passage above will take place during a period of persecution of believers, when the world will hate Christianity.  At the looks of the current cultural climate, this day may not be far off; possibly in its infancy stage.  Often buried in the news, crucifixions, imprisonment and  mass executions of Christians is occurring throughout the world, weekly in Africa and the Middle East.

Everyone will hate you because of me, but the one who stands firm to the end will be saved, Mark 13:13.

In my life, I’ve experienced two moments where I blacked out, not knowing what I said during a conversation.  However, based upon others who came to me afterward, the only logical explanation I can come up with is the Holy Spirit took over.  During the first sermon I ever preached, crowds of people came to the altar to accept Christ and confess their sins.  I only remember my first and closing sentence, the rest is a blur.

Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit, Galatians 5:25.

The only other experience similar to Jesus’ words occurred when I helped my spiritual mentor,Ken Horne, a youth pastor in Wilmington, with an overnight lock in.  After bowling at a local alley, the youth group spent the night at church.  However, one individual was a distraction, an evil presence, affecting the morale of the others.  Not sure what to do, I took him aside when the Holy Spirit took over.  The next thing I knew we were praying as this rebellious teenager was accepting Jesus as his Lord and Savior.  Therefore, the next time you find yourself with your back against the wall, draw near to God and perhaps the Holy Spirit will take over.

by Jay Mankus

 

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What Am I Suppose to Do Now?

Posted on June 26, 2015 by expressyourself4him

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LeU6ugY75lQ

After his suffering, Jesus presented himself to them and gave many convincing proofs that he was alive. He appeared to them over a period of forty days and spoke about the kingdom of God, Acts 1:3.

Without the resurrection, followers of Jesus would have disbanded, fearful of the same fate Jesus endured.  However, common sense, logic and eyewitness accounts of a risen Jesus weeks after his death suggest the disciples were emboldened.  When the Holy Spirit fell upon these individuals on the Day of Pentecost, this guiding light and mighty counselor laid the foundation for the modern Christian church to build upon.

All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them, Acts 2:4.

Unfortunately, revisionist historians, time and persecution have caused many churches to disown parts of the Bible like Peter who denied his association with Jesus.  As atheistic and liberal groups turn up the heat, believers are abandoning their convictions, trying to please mankind rather than God.  Afraid of having their tax exempt status revoked, recent trials are producing a generation of wimpy Christians.  Although some are fighting on the front line, many are disenfranchised, floating from one house of worship to another.

Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ, Galatians 1:10.

Struggling to find my place in this world, one question is staring me in the face, “what I am suppose to do now?”  Although writing this blog is a good start, its independent of any church.  Thus, the church is not failing; its servants like me who are sitting on the sidelines playing Monday Morning Quarterback.  In view of this, I need to get off the bench, exercise my spiritual gifts and get back in the game.  Join me in flaming into flame the gifts and talents God has blessed you with.

by Jay Mankus

 

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The Endangered Species List

Posted on January 11, 2015 by expressyourself4him

Though small in stature, the state of Delaware contains nearly 50,000 acres of Wildlife refuges protecting birds like the American Oystercatcher, Red Knot and Piping Plover.  Nationwide, 758 designated wilderness areas exist amassing more than 109 million acres of land.   Seven of the top 10 endangered species in North America are land animals: wolf, ferret, ocelet, bison, condor, jaguar and panther.  The remaining sea creatures include the right whale, hammerhead shark and sea turtle.  Yet, one obvious individual is missing from this list.

One of the most endangered species in the United States are conservative Bible believing Christians.  The main perpetrators are atheists, democrats and liberal media members who have stereotyped this group as terrorists.  Classified as Tea Party Members, a negative portrayal has caused many to go into hiding.  Others like a modern day Peter, have disowned this status, wanting to steer clear of persecution.  Thus, most have disappeared, going under ground until this war on faith is over.

Turn my eyes away from worthless things; preserve my life according to your word. – Psalm 119:37

According to Khaled Abu Toameh of the Gatestone Institute, a Muslim Genocide of Christians overseas is going mostly unreported.  Persecution of Christians in Arab nations has been replaced by execution, slaughtered for not confirming to Islam.  Jihad is not limited to Jews anymore, but Christians as well are being swept off the face of the earth.  As Whale Wars enters its 7th season, perhaps a new reality show needs to enter prime time as the war on faith is heating up.  Will the masses have compassion on Christians similar to pleas against animal cruelty or will silence reign like unborn babies placed into dumpsters without remorse after abortions are completed?  Only time will time who will come to the rescue.

by Jay Mankus

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The End of Days

Posted on December 6, 2014 by expressyourself4him

Whether you pick up a news paper to read, watch headline news or listen to daily conversations, life is full of opinions.  Each voice filters current events through their own worldview, trying to sway others to embrace their beliefs.  However, some arguments deviate from the truth, based upon emotions rather than the facts.  The only conclusion I have come to recently is we are living in the end of days.p

Jesus first gave initial warning signs in Matthew 24:6-15.  The end of days is compared to a pregnant woman enduring labor pains.  Contractions will begin with false Messiahs, followed by wars and rumors of war.  In addition, earthquakes and famines will bring death, suffering and trials to the ends of the earth.  As these pains intensify, persecution, hatred and wickedness will spread.  One of Jesus’ final statements rings true today, “the love of most will grow cold.”

I’m no prophet nor will I make any predictions.  Yet, as I look to the Bible to try to understand what’s going on in the world, the apostle Paul builds upon Jesus’ words, 2 Thessalonians 2:3-9.  In the last days before Jesus returns, Satan will influence human being to believe lies.  As soon as minds become deceived, lawlessness will reign.  Once a baby is ready to come out, you can’t stop this natural process.  However, if these signs are a precursor to the end of days, prepare your life now or you may be left behind.

by Jay Mankus

 

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