Tag Archives: terrorism

Running Out of Safe Places

Posted on June 9, 2017 by expressyourself4him

When I was younger, a parents mentality was much different.  Summers were spent outside exploring the woods in the neighborhood with other boys.  The concept of terrorism wasn’t even a thought.  Sure, there were boundaries, areas or places to avoid, but the friends in my development had plenty of safe places to play.

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go, Joshua 1:9.

When you fast forward to modern times, parents don’t have the luxury of a generation ago.  Today, concerts, malls and schools have been targets of terrorism.  Some are motivated by a chance for 15 minutes of fame.  Meanwhile, others have been deceived by evil to attack areas once thought to be safe.

In peace I will both lie down and sleep; for you alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety, Psalm 4:8.

In the midst of terror, God is the only one who can restore peace.  The element of freewill has ushered in a new era of turmoil, not knowing the next safe space to be targeted.  Yet, when chaos subsides the only source of hope is Jesus.  Therefore, don’t allow the frenzy stirred up by the media to dictate your mood.  Rather, cry out to the Lord in prayer so that you may dwell in safety.

by Jay Mankus

 

Leave a comment

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

The Rise of the Sons of Ishmael

Posted on August 3, 2016 by expressyourself4him

This summer has seen an increase in acts of terror across the country and throughout the world.  Before the shock of one tragedy sets in, another takes its place, taking the lives of innocent children, men and women.  Cable news experts on terrorism tend to blame the overflow of refuges from Syria taking Jihad into other foreign countries in the name of Isis.  However, the Bible suggests the root of this axis of evil is the rise of the sons of Ishmael.

The angel of the LORD also said to her: “You are now pregnant and you will give birth to a son. You shall name him Ishmael, for the LORD has heard of your misery, Genesis 16:11.

Rarely, does one selfish act of lust result in long lasting consequences.  Yet, when Sarah refused to believe that she would be the grandmother of Israel, panic set in, allowing her husband to have a one night stand with a concubine.  Subsequently, Hagar becomes pregnant, conceives and gives birth to Ishmael, the father of all Arab nations.  This opened the door for the sons of Israel to be haunted and hunted by the descendants of Ishmael.  This was the day that terrorism was born.

He will be a wild donkey of a man; his hand will be against everyone and everyone’s hand against him, and he will live in hostility toward all his brothers,” Genesis 16:12.

The events of today are merely the fulfillment of this prophecy made by an angel of the Lord.  The Bible does not say or suggest that Sarah could have reversed this curse upon the Jews.  Rather, this passage is a painful reminder of how one careless act can impact an entire generation of citizens.  In view of this upsetting news, one of the best things you can do is pray for God’s mercy.  Although everyone will eventually die, prayers for safety can serve as a hedge of protection as the sons of Ishmael continue to rise.

by Jay Mankus

 

Leave a comment

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

The Unbreakable Theory

Posted on February 7, 2015 by expressyourself4him

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_8etYwG0uN8

In the realm of Super heroes, there are usual two polar opposites who become arch enemies.  Like characters within Marvel Comics, it takes time for each individuals’ hidden powers to become realized.  Through trial and error, supernatural abilities are developed, harnessed and put into action to either better the world or pursue evil.  Although appearing unbreakable, every hero and villain possess a weakness, invisible until their Kryptonite sucks away their strength.

For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other, so that you are not to do whatever you want. – Galatians 5:17

In the 2000 film Unbreakable, Samuel L. Jackson and Bruce Willis portray a modern day relationship between a villain and superhero.  However, each character appears lost, unaware of their purpose in life.  Inspired by a love for comic books, Samuel L. Jackson resorts to terrorism, searching for someone who is unbreakable.  Meanwhile, Bruce Willis plays a security guard, unaware of his unique gift until he passes Jackson’s test, the lone survivor of a deadly train wreck.

As it is, it is no longer I myself who do it, but it is sin living in me. – Romans 7:17

In the spiritual world, a similar force is at work, resulting in an unseen battle between good and evil.  C.S. Lewis tackles this subject in Mere Christianity within chapter 1 of Book 2, entitled the Invasion.  Known as dualism in theology, there are two independent powers in the universe that are in conflict with one another.  These competing forces of good and evil require a third party, a judge to determine who is to blame or at fault.  This war rages on in the human body daily as the sinful nature and worldly desires entice souls through temptation to choose wrong over right.  Although there aren’t superheroes in this life, may the power of the Holy Spirit keep you from becoming forever broken.

by Jay Mankus

Leave a comment

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

Inside The Mind of A Terrorist

Posted on April 17, 2013 by expressyourself4him

10 hours ago

In the infancy of America, terrorism was fought on the shores of Tripoli, as supply ships bound for the Atlantic were held hostage or sunk .  Since 9/11/01, the war on terror has shifted to sneak attacks on our own soil.  With the bombing at yesterday’s Boston Marathon, many Americans want to know, what’s inside the mind of a terrorist.

16 hours ago

Like Japanese pilots during World War II, there is a kamikaze mindset within most terrorists as some do change their mind.  Nonetheless, this willingness to die to accomplish a Jihad, Holy War, is often unstoppable for public officials.  The term kamikaze literally means God wind or divine wind.  Unfortunately, once a terrorist buys into this notion, the unthinkable is played out on television like yesterday’s 2 bombings near the finish line in Boston.

However, what makes any terrorist like a fire cracker waiting to explode is the belief that by dying they are actually doing God’s will.  While recent movies on terrorism have suggested a terrorist is promised 72 virgins in heaven for their sacrifice on earth, it doesn’t matter whether this its fact or fiction.  Once the idea to commit suicide or set off bombs in the name of Allah is conceived, the process of James 1:13-15 is set into motion.

17 hours ago

May God help all of us in America and anyone else in the world currently battling terrorism.  My hope is that anyone thinking of such destruction will be convicted in their hearts and be led toward peace.  Freewill is a powerful weapon, yet prayer can still penetrate the mind of a terrorist by altering their future acts.  Pray for your enemies as Jesus called to his disciples and followers to do in Matthew 5:43-48.

by Jay Mankus

Leave a comment

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