Tag Archives: preserve

A Begrudging Host

Posted on January 5, 2017 by expressyourself4him

As a son of an immigrant, I learned to be frugal.  My grandmother kept all of her beds and couches in their original plastic to preserve these pieces of furniture as long as possible.  Eating out was not a regular option, only done on special occasions a few times each year.  The notion of wasting money was a foreign concept to me.

Do not eat the food of a begrudging host, do not crave his delicacies; Proverbs 23:6.

Now as I parent, I have softened some of my childhood beliefs.  Yet, one of my biggest struggles occurs while on vacation.  After working hard to save enough money for Spring Break, a week in Florida can break the bank quickly.  Whether its taking the family to a Phillies game in Clearwater, going out to a nice restaurant or visiting an amusement park, it doesn’t take much to blow a quick $500.  When I do, I become a begrudging host.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding, Proverbs 3:5.

For the needy, poor and unemployed, knowing where the money will come from for your next bill, meal or mortgage is scary.  Any kind of uncertainty can move the unstable into a state of panic.  In view of this, its essential to remember the words of Solomon by placing your trust in a firm foundation.  Though not everyone will be blessed with riches, when you do have the opportunity to give, do so with a cheerful heart.

by Jay Mankus

 

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The Invisible Bank

Posted on February 3, 2015 by expressyourself4him

From an early age, piggy banks teach children the importance of saving money.  Although a full compartment filled with coins may not add up to much initially, the discipline of being a good steward of your possessions can last a lifetime.  Until this quality is acquired or obtained, checking into the invisible bank is a must.

Look on my suffering and deliver me, for I have not forgotten your law. – Psalm 119:153

The Bible is like an international financial center, full of promise notes, waiting to be cashed in by faith.  Available 24/7, unless you check in regularly, you don’t know what you’re missing out on.  On loan from God, the Word is living and active, rich in nuggets of truth.  Previous readers have compared these principles to be greater than silver and gold, Psalm 12:6.

Defend my cause and redeem me; preserve my life according to your promise. – Psalm 119:154

Despite these beliefs, when the storms of life engulf you, this bank becomes invisible.  Skeptics often look in a different direction, trusting in what they can see.  This stance causes minds to become closed, turning God’s truths into fiction.  Subsequently, a generation may never enter the spiritual door of this invisible place.  Therefore, the next time you encounter a bitter soul, you may want to point them in the direction of the invisible bank.

by Jay Mankus

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Don’t Waste Your Breath

Posted on January 15, 2015 by expressyourself4him

When cold weather arrives each winter, its not uncommon to see each breath you take.  In the context of a conversation, every now and then you will encounter an individual who is not teachable, disregarding your advice.  Thus, instead of wasting your breath, you have to learn to move on until the timing is right.

Stay away from a fool, for you will not find knowledge on their lips. – Proverbs 14:7

Whether you are a coach, parent or teacher, it won’t be long until one of your pupils questions your authority.  Ignorance, pride and self-confidence are the usual suspects, making children think they know it all.  Rather than talking in vain, sometimes you how to wait until humility arrives before your words will be heard.

In the mouth of the foolish is a rod of pride: but the lips of the wise shall preserve them. – Proverbs 14:3

However, when the fall does come, responding with “I told you so” won’t win you any fans.  As the opportunity arises, make sure your words are full of grace, Colossians 4:5-6, softening harden hearts.  In the meantime, don’t waste your breath until this day arrives, when the prodigal comes to their senses, Luke 15:17.

by Jay Mankus

 

 

 

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When Your Soul is Weary

Posted on January 8, 2015 by expressyourself4him

As the newness of 2015 wears off, I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but it won’t be long until you experience a tired and weary soul.  Whether its the cold and rainy weather on the East Coast or a lack of sunlight to brighten my day, it took less than a week for me to reach this state.  Looking for a boost of energy, the Psalmist provides a message of hope.

My soul is weary with sorrow; strengthen me according to your word. – Psalm 119:28

The secret to overcoming this condition begins with searching for answers in the right place.  Although advisers, counselors and friends may offer meaningful advice, there is one book that is living and active, Hebrews 4:12.  When opened, the Bible possesses spiritual natural power to replace sorrow with faith, Romans 10:17.  The more individuals begin to listen, mediate and study principles of truth inside, Joshua 1:8, souls become revitalized.

Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word about Christ. – Romans 10:17

In his farewell address as Israel’s leader, Moses simplifies the choices you have when you become weary in Deuteronomy 30:15.  You can either spend your time on earth doing things that invigorate your life or focus on the negative, resulting in a slow death to your soul.  Though you may be tempted by bitterness to complain, be wise in your response to suffering, 1 Peter 3:17-18.  May God’s promises in the Bible lift you up whenever you face a tired and weary soul.

Turn my heart toward your statutes and not toward selfish gain.  Turn my eyes away from worthless things; preserve my life according to your word. – Psalm 119:36-37

by Jay Mankus

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