Tag Archives: rest

Take My Hand

Posted on February 3, 2013 by expressyourself4him

As a youngster, I recall wrestling with other kids from my neighborhood in Delaware.  These matches continued until someone said uncle, often resulting in complaining, cursing or cries for help afterward.  The losers remained on the ground for several minutes, needing a hand to get back on their feet.

Today, Christians across America are fighting a similar battle with sin.  Unfortunately, instead of finding a helping hand, their friend has joined them, caught in the grasp of  addictive habits.  These spiritual headlocks are leaving believers choking, wheezing and nearly unconscious.  Knocked to the mat, taken down and pinned by their sinful nature, Galatians 5:17, lost and weary souls are running out of time.

Jesus steps in as the chief official of this match in Matthew 11:28-30.  Calling time up, Jesus lends his hands to the fallen.  With a promise of rest, Jesus isn’t forcing anyone to get up.  Yet, this offer is an open invitation, “if you are willing, take my hand?”

To be continued…

by Jay Mankus

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Searching for a Place of Rest

Posted on January 17, 2013 by expressyourself4him
Mary Joseph and Baby Jesus 03MaryJosephbabyJesus.jpg photo

During a majority of 2012, I spent most of my free time filling out job applications, combing the internet for new opportunities and stressing over the reduced income my wife and I were bringing home monthly.  Although I am usually laid back when it comes to finances, I forced myself to forgo the luxuries of life until I obtained a new full time position.  Since I am still waiting, my search for a place of rest continues in 2013, draining my energy like heat and humidity on a warm summer day.

5 days ago

At an oasis, a morning meeting at Dunkin Donuts, my good friend Spencer shared a story which led me in the right direction.  Last Sunday, Ray Lewis, a linebacker for the Baltimore Ravens, played his final home game, announcing his retirement at the end of this NFL season.  Following the Ravens 24-9 victory over the Indianapolis Colts, cameras surrounded Ray, recording his final moments on the field at M&T Bank Stadium.  When Ray took off his Ravens jersey, he was wearing a Black T-Shirt with a passage of the Bible, Psalm 91.  Aware of this chapter, I couldn’t wait to refresh my memory of the truth inside on my way home.

Psalm 91:1 states He who dwells in  the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.  As I was trying to find rest, I was looking in all the wrong places.  I searched for satisfaction through employment.  I dedicated 2 months, sacrificing time away from my family to earn as much money as possible to try to get caught up on bills.  Yet, I was dwelling in the wrong house.  In the silence of no work, its time to find my way back toward God’s fortress.  The moment I enter this refuge for burdened and weary souls, Matthew 11:28-30, I will rest my head in peace in the shadow of the Almighty God.  There is plenty of room in this inn, retreat now while there is still time!

by Jay Mankus

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A Day of Rest

Posted on March 25, 2012 by expressyourself4him

God created the earth in 6 days according to Genesis 1.  After completing His most prized creature, man, God rested.  While receiving the 10 commandments from God, Moses was the first to communicate to Israel the concept of a Sabbath Day’s rest, Exodus 20:8.  If you summarize the first 4 commandments, keeping the Sabbath holy is one of 4 ways you can demonstrate your love for God.

From January 2nd to March 20th, I was restless, worried about how I was going to provide for my family.  Although I attended church almost every Sunday, my mind was constantly racing, worried about what I was going to do, where I was suppose to be working and how is this going to affect my family.  Night after night I wrestled with these thoughts, resulting in a few hours of sleep each night.

Today will be my first Sunday in church all year knowing I have a place to go to work on Monday.  God has revealed a piece of the puzzle, with others pieces that still need to be put together.  However, I now have a different perspective of the Sabbath.  A profound appreciation for work and God’s desire to be still before His presence, Psalm 46:10.  So join me today, resting in God’s divine providence.

by Jay Mankus

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