Tag Archives: trusting God

Interpretations Belong to God

Posted on September 16, 2023 by expressyourself4him

Dreams are something that people who have been talking about from the beginning of time. Modern dreams are often inspired by horror movies and or shows individuals have watched prior to going to sleep. Yet, according to Moses, dreams can be signs from God that can reveal a glimpse of the future. When a butler and baker each have a dream one night in prison, they both seem depressed as there wasn’t a dream interpreter present. However, Joseph reminds these 2 men that interpretation comes from the Lord.

 And Pharaoh was angry with his officers, the chief of the butlers and the chief of the bakers. 3 He put them in custody in the house of the captain of the guard, in the prison where Joseph was confined. 4 And the captain of the guard put them in Joseph’s charge, and he served them; and they continued in custody for some time. 5 And they both dreamed a dream in the same night, each man according to [the personal significance of] the interpretation of his dream—the butler and the baker of the king of Egypt, who were confined in the prison, Genesis 40:2-5.

Whenever anyone is desperate, people may turn to a complete stranger for help. As Pharaoh’s Chief Butler and Baker scan this dungeon for a reliable source, Joseph is the only logical choice to consult. However, before giving any kind of advice, Joseph is clear about where his wisdom comes from. Joseph isn’t making this information up to impress Pharaoh’s servants. Rather, Joseph clarifies that interpretation comes from the Lord.

When Joseph came to them in the morning and looked at them, he saw that they were sad and depressed. 7 So he asked Pharaoh’s officers who were in custody with him in his master’s house, Why do you look so dejected and sad today? 8 And they said to him, We have dreamed dreams, and there is no one to interpret them. And Joseph said to them, Do not interpretations belong to God? Tell me [your dreams], I pray you, Genesis 40:6-8.

When Joseph provides a happy ending to the butler’s dream, the baker is eager to hear a similar fate for his dream. Unfortunately, the baker only has a few days to live, prior to being publicly hung. According to Moses, everything happened exactly like Joseph said it would. This wasn’t a lucky shot in the dark prediction from Joseph like unsuccessful professional gamblers. Rather, Joseph placed his full trust in the Lord as interpretations belong to God.

by Jay Mankus

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A Sojourner Seeking To Find Genuine Faith

Posted on August 3, 2023 by expressyourself4him

The term sojourner refers to a temporary resident. From a biblical context, a sojourner is someone going through a transition in life, moving from their original home to a place yet to be determined by God. Moses highlights the lives of Abraham and Isaac who were called by God to visit foreign lands to fulfill God’s calling and will for their lives.

And Jacob came to Isaac his father at Mamre or Kiriath-arba, that is, Hebron, where Abraham and Isaac had sojourned. 28 Now the days of Isaac were 180 years. 29 And Isaac’s spirit departed; he died and was gathered to his people, being an old man, satisfied and satiated with days; his sons Esau and Jacob buried him, Genesis 35:27-29.

While I have now resided in South Carolina for over one year, I too feel like a sojourner, unsure of where to go and what to do. The apostle Paul suggests that discovering God’s will can be a lengthy process, Romans 12:1-2. This process always begins by offering your body as a holy sacrifice to God. However, without meditating upon the words of the Bible, this transformation isn’t possible.

But seek ([z]aim at and strive after) first of all His kingdom and His righteousness ([aa]His way of doing and being right), and then all these things [ab]taken together will be given you besides. 34 So do not worry or be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will have worries and anxieties of its own. Sufficient for each day is its own trouble, Matthew 6:33-34.

If today’s blog finds you living a life similar to a sojourner, may the words of Jesus in the passage above comfort you. King Solomon touches on these words in Proverbs 3:5-6. Trusting God is crucial to finding a genuine faith. Like any practice for a sport designed to improve your mechanics, seeking God first in your life results in the belief that God will provide for your needs. As you draw close to the Lord, may you find a peace that surpasses all understanding, Philippians 4:6-7.

by Jay Mankus

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The Bible’s Version of All In

Posted on April 25, 2023 by expressyourself4him

As children grow up and mature, simple card games like Go Fish and War are replaced by more complex ones. I was introduced to Cribbage in high school, moved on to Hearts in college and graduated to Euchre and Spades in my twenties. However, it wasn’t until watching the World Series of Poker on television, Texas Hold’em style, that I truly understood going All In. When your chips deteriorate, and a decent hand is dealt, desperation forces many professional card players to go All In.

And Abraham said to his servants, Settle down and stay here with the donkey, and I and the young man will go yonder and worship and [a]come again to you. 6 Then Abraham took the wood for the burnt offering and laid it on [the shoulders of] Isaac his son, and he took the fire (the firepot) in his own hand, and a knife; and the two of them went on together. 7 And Isaac said to Abraham, My father! And he said, Here I am, my son. [Isaac] said, See, here are the fire and the wood, but where is the lamb for the burnt sacrifice? 8 Abraham said, My son, [b]God Himself will provide a lamb for the burnt offering. So the two went on together, Genesis 22:5-8.

The Bible has its own version of All In. Two analogies illustrate this point: driving a car and reading a newspaper. The driver of a vehicle knows where they want to go and how long it will take thanks to GPS. Going all in spiritually means handing the wheel over to Jesus, yielding complete control to God. Meanwhile, every paper has multiple sections that may bore, entertain or interest you. Yet, going all in requires Christians to live their lives as an open book to God, not hiding, holding back or tearing out any unpleasant page from your life.

When they came to the place of which God had told him, Abraham built an altar there; then he laid the wood in order and [c]bound Isaac his son and laid him on the altar on the wood. 10 And Abraham stretched forth his hand and took hold of the knife to slay his son. 11 But the [d]Angel of the Lord called to him from heaven and said, Abraham, Abraham! He answered, Here I am. 12 And He said, Do not lay your hand on the lad or do anything to him; for now I know that you fear and revere God, since you have not held back from Me or begrudged giving Me your son, your only son. 13 Then Abraham looked up and glanced around, and behold, behind him was a ram caught in a thicket by his horns. And Abraham went and took the ram and offered it up for a burnt offering and an ascending sacrifice instead of his son! – Genesis 22:9-13

When you study the life of Abraham, it took him a while for him to truly place his trust in God. I truly believe that asking Abraham to sacrifice Isaac, his promised child, forces him to go All In. Some scholars claim that Abraham came to the conclusion that somehow Isaac would be raised from the dead if he was fulfill to God’s calling. King Solomon chimes in on this topic, explaining the Bible’s version of All In, Proverbs 3:5-6. As you mature spiritually, don’t be afraid to join Abraham by placing your trust fully in the Lord.

by Jay Mankus

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God is with You in Everything you Do

Posted on April 22, 2023 by expressyourself4him

I was a big fan of Bryan Adams growing up. When you consider that I was born in August of 1969, Adams song the Summer of 69 cemented my appreciation for this Canadian born artist. Adam’s most famous piece, the theme song for the new Robinhood movie at the time, Everything I Do (I Do For You) is a moving ballad. However, when I sing the lyrics, I replace a temporary relationship on earth with God.

At that time Abimelech and Phicol the commander of his army said to Abraham, God is with you in everything you do. 23 So now, swear to me here by God that you will not deal falsely with me or with my son or with my posterity; but as I have dealt with you kindly, you will do the same with me and with the land in which you have sojourned, Genesis 21:22-23.

If you’re a critical person like me, it’s hard to believe that God is with me in everything I do. However, I have met individuals in college and beyond who were truly blessed by God. This is the observation that King Abimelech makes about Abraham based upon his initial interactions. While Abraham definitely wasn’t perfect with his tendency to lie, he must have matured and grown closer to the Lord at this point in his life.

I know how to be abased and live humbly in straitened circumstances, and I know also how to enjoy plenty and live in abundance. I have learned in any and all circumstances the secret of facing every situation, whether well-fed or going hungry, having a sufficiency and enough to spare or going without and being in want. 13 I have strength for all things in Christ Who empowers me [I am ready for anything and equal to anything through Him Who [g]infuses inner strength into me; I am [h]self-sufficient in Christ’s sufficiency], Philippians 4:12-13.

While writing a letter to the Church at Philippi, the apostle Paul explains the secret to having God with you in everything you do. Paul provides a similar illustration in 2 Corinthians 12:7-12 as the weaker human beings become, it opens the door for God to become strong. From a New Testament perspective, the deeper your faith and trust in God become, the better your chances are for God to be with you in everything you do.

by Jay Mankus

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Go Yonder and Worship

Posted on April 16, 2023 by expressyourself4him

Every generation has their own way of expressing themselves. Meanwhile, each high school clique contains their own vocabulary, a secret language which is often unrecognized by other students. Whether this is the lingo of jocks, cheerleaders or valley girls, these expressions don’t mean much unless you identify with a specific group. In Old Testament terms, go yonder and worship appears to refer to going off to follow God’s calling.

On the third day Abraham looked up and saw the place in the distance. 5 And Abraham said to his servants, Settle down and stay here with the donkey, and I and the young man will go yonder and worship and [a]come again to you, Genesis 22:4-5.

After waiting several decades to receive God’s promise of becoming the father of a great nation, there’s a slight chance in plans. God wants Abraham to sacrifice his son Isaac on Mount Moriah at an appointed place that God will choose. Rather than explain God’s decision to Sarah his wife, Abraham gets up well before sunrise to leave for this destination under the cover of darkness. Upon arriving, Abraham tells his two servants, “stay here as my son and I go yonder and worship.”

And Isaac said to Abraham, My father! And he said, Here I am, my son. [Isaac] said, See, here are the fire and the wood, but where is the lamb for the burnt sacrifice? 8 Abraham said, My son, [b]God Himself will provide a lamb for the burnt offering. So the two went on together, Genesis 22:7-8.

As Abraham quietly climbed and scaled Mount Moriah, Isaac’s curiosity gets the best of him. Unaware of what is about to happen, Abraham came to the conclusion that God would somehow provide an offering, Matthew 6:33.-34. Without ever meeting Jesus, Abraham trusted fully in God for the first time in his life. Proverbs 3:5-6. Perhaps, when modern Christians are struggling to figure out what to do for the rest of their lives, go yonder and worship the Lord and you’ll be led to exactly where God wants you, Romans 12:1-2.

by Jay Mankus

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Falling on Your Face in Disbelief

Posted on March 17, 2023 by expressyourself4him

Disbelief is the inability or refusal to accept that something is true or real. Most of the time, disbelief comes in the form of unexpected results like an accident, crippling condition or shocking outcome. From my perspective, most of the times in life that I’ve experienced disbelief has been due to disappointing events. However, sometimes there are positive moments of disbelief like when the Philadelphia Eagles finally won the Super Bowl in 2017.

And I will make My covenant (solemn pledge) between Me and you and will multiply you exceedingly. 3 Then Abram fell on his face, and God said to him, Genesis 17:2-3.

The context of the above passage appears to be brought on by humility as Abram is overwhelmed by the covenant God makes with him. This emotional display occurs when God’s grace and mercy is poured out upon you. I’ve attended several spiritual retreats where I couldn’t believe what God was doing in my life or in the life of a friend. Despite being an old man with a barren wife, Abran trusted God to figure out all the necessary details to make this a reality.

[Urged on] by faith Abraham, when he was called, obeyed and went forth to a place which he was destined to receive as an inheritance; and he went, although he did not know or trouble his mind about where he was to go. 9 [Prompted] by faith he dwelt as a temporary resident in the land which was designated in the promise [of God, though he was like a stranger] in a strange country, living in tents with Isaac and Jacob, fellow heirs with him of the same promise. 10 For he was [waiting expectantly and confidently] looking forward to the city which has fixed and firm foundations, whose Architect and Builder is God, Hebrews 11:8-10.

The author of Hebrews reflects upon Abraham’s spiritual maturity in the passage above. While Abraham struggled with telling the truth early in his faith journey, falling on his face in disbelief served as a spiritual turning point. This simple act of humility prepared Abraham for God’s test in Genesis 22 where he’s asked to sacrifice his promised son Isaac. While everyone experiences moments of disbelief, don’t forget that Jesus holds keys to God’s kingdom, John 14:3.

by Jay Mankus

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What Can God Give You?

Posted on March 4, 2023 by expressyourself4him
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pL0_Au2fnV8

Giving is one those traits which either comes naturally or has to be acquired. As the son of an immigrant, I was taught to be frugal and thrifty. My grandmother on my dad’s side of the family always kept the plastic on the outside of couches and mattresses so that these items would last as long as possible. While I grew up with a couple of rich neighbors who got whatever they wanted, I had to work at giving. Over time, God tested me, providing opportunities for me to give which I passed and failed.

And Abram said, Lord God, what can You give me, since I am going on [from this world] childless and he who shall be the owner and heir of my house is this [steward] Eliezer of Damascus? – Genesis 15:2.

The context of the passage above occurs as Abram begins to doubt that he will become the father of a great nation. From a logical perspective, Abram’s wife Sarai was unable to have children and their biological clock for having children at their old age was becoming less likely. This dire situation prompted Abram to ask, “what can you give me God?” If I was placed in this situation, I’d probably ask God a similar question.

And He said to him, I am the [same] Lord, Who brought you out of Ur of the Chaldees to give you this land as an inheritance. 8 But he [Abram] said, Lord God, by what shall I know that I shall inherit it? – Genesis 15:7-8

Up until this point in their relationship, God blessed Abram with possessions and great wealth, but no children. Based upon Sarai’s irrational decision in Genesis 16, this issue was driving a wedge into their marriage. While human beings struggle to see beyond today, God is a supernatural being who is often multiple steps ahead of us. Therefore, the next time you doubt’s ability to provide, Matthew 6:33, recall the vast miracles in the Bible to calm anxiety, any concerns, or worry about your own future.

by Jay Mankus

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An Image of Leadership in Progress

Posted on February 18, 2023 by expressyourself4him

First impressions can be powerful and disappointing. Whenever an individual doesn’t live up to your expectation, there will be a permanent strain on this relationship. This is how I felt about Abram who eventually changed his name to Abraham. Shortly after Abram is introduced by Moses in Genesis 12, he chooses lying rather trusting God, Proverbs 3:5-6. Based upon the actions of his son Isaac when placed into a similar situation, Genesis 26:7, one of Abram’s spiritual legacies is as a liar.

And they also took Lot, Abram’s brother’s son, who dwelt in Sodom, and his goods away with them. 13 Then one who had escaped came and told Abram the Hebrew [one from the other side], who was living by the oaks or terebinths of Mamre the Amorite, a brother of Eshcol and of Aner—these were allies of Abram. 14 When Abram heard that [his nephew] had been captured, he armed (led forth) the 318 trained servants born in his own house and pursued the enemy as far as Dan, Genesis 14:12-14.

Yet, my perception of Abram began to change after reading Genesis 14. While every human being has fallen short of God’s glory, Romans 3:23, Abram’s swift action in the passage above paints a different picture than just someone who struggles to tell the truth. When a family member was placed into immediate danger, Abram jumps into action by forming a squadron of 318 men. Although Moses is silent on their training prior to battle. Moses presents Abram as a leader in progress.

He divided his forces against them by night, he and his servants, and attacked and routed them, and pursued them as far as Hobah, which is north of Damascus. 16 And he brought back all the goods and also brought back his kinsman Lot and his possessions, the women also and the people, Genesis 14:15-16.

The apostle Paul writes about the unfinished work among members of the Church in Philippi, Philippians 1:6. Another letter to the Church at Ephesus compares Christians to God’s craftsman, called to act, built and complete what God has called you to do, Ephesians 2:10. Abraham doesn’t become a member of the Hall of Faith, Hebrews 11, for lying. Rather, Abram was a work in progress just like you and me. May we all learn from Abram’s faith journey so that we become obedient to God’s calling in 2023.

by Jay Mankus

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Concentrate on the Right Direction Rather than Destinations in 2023

Posted on January 25, 2023 by expressyourself4him

The younger brother of Jesus learned an important life lesson from his big bro, “tomorrow isn’t guaranteed,” James 4:13-15. While there is no record of praising their eldest son in the Bible, Mary and Joseph likely told James that Jesus would go places in life as a carpenter and man of God. James was likely one of the 500 people who spoke with Jesus following his resurrection and before his ascension into heaven, 1 Corinthians 15:1-11. One snippet from their discussion might have been centered on proceeding in the right direction in life rather than a specific destination.

Lean on, trust in, and be confident in the Lord with all your heart and mind and do not rely on your own insight or understanding. 6 In all your ways know, recognize, and acknowledge Him, and He will direct and make straight and plain your paths, Proverbs 3:5-6.

While writing a letter to warn his children about the dangers of life, King Solomon turns his attention toward trusting God. Similar to James’ warning about making plans for the future, Solomon emphasizes the need to place your heart, soul and mind into God’s hands. Though you may think that you should go to a particular place to work in a certain field in a specific city, the Lord knows what’s best for you. Unfortunately, when I moved to Aiken last summer, I was so sure of my future that I forget to lean on the Lord for my future position in South Carolina.

For this [forgiveness] let everyone who is godly pray—pray to You in a time when You may be found; surely when the great waters [of trial] overflow, they shall not reach [the spirit in] him. 7 You are a hiding place for me; You, Lord, preserve me from trouble, You surround me with songs and shouts of deliverance. Selah [pause, and calmly think of that]! 8 I [the Lord] will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with My eye upon you, Psalm 32:6-8.

If I would have concentrated on going in the right direction spiritually, day by day, I’d be in a better place in my life as 2023 begins. Like the parable of the Prodigal Son, Luke 15:11-24. I had to learn the hard way, coming to my senses following a grueling day at work. It would be nice to know where you’ll be in a couple of weeks or months, but right now I’m clearly living outside of God’s will for my life. Therefore, it’s time to take the walk of shame back to my heavenly father to confess, “you were right, and I was wrong.” After confession comes clarity, one step at a time as God makes everything beautiful in His time.

by Jay Mankus

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The Connection Between Fear and Faith

Posted on September 28, 2021 by expressyourself4him

When I get bored of listening to music, I turn to Podcasts for entertainment. As an aspiring screen writer, I often turn to Alex Ferrari’s Bulletproof Screenplay Podcast for inspiration. I recently clicked on one covering how Hollywood incorporates the nature of fear into films. The guest writer spoke about the Samaritans from the Bible which peaked my interest. This author explained how Samaritan parents created numerous gods to scare their children into obedience.

There is no fear in love [dread does not exist], but full-grown (complete, perfect) love [g]turns fear out of doors and expels every trace of terror! For fear [h]brings with it the thought of punishment, and [so] he who is afraid has not reached the full maturity of love [is not yet grown into love’s complete perfection], 1 John 4:18.

According to the American Psychiatric Association, fears are broken down into three different categories. Social phobias, agoraphobia and specific object phobias are like fingerprints that make one individual different from another. Whether your fears consists of animals, heights or public speaking, trusting God to confront and face these phobias is the first step toward experiencing freedom and peace. Yet, if fears are not faced, you will be limited in what you can do and where you can go in life.

But they have not all heeded the Gospel; for Isaiah says, Lord, who has believed (had faith in) what he has heard from us? 17 So faith comes by hearing [what is told], and what is heard comes by the preaching [of the message that came from the lips] of Christ (the Messiah Himself). 18 But I ask, Have they not heard? Indeed they have; [for the Scripture says] Their voice [that of nature bearing God’s message] has gone out to all the earth, and their words to the far bounds of the world, Romans 10:16-18.

One of my favorite Christian songs of all time is from the group David and the Giants. I was so moved by their classic ballad “Perfect Love,” I incorporated this song into my wedding ceremony more than a quarter of a century ago. The lyrics are based upon 1 John 4:18. While every human being is afraid of dying at some point in their lives, only one was able to conquer death. Jesus faced his sentence of death on a cross with perfect love. The connection between fear and faith is yielding control over to God by allowing Jesus to take the wheel and guide you through life.

by Jay Mankus

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