Tag Archives: truth

A Selective Society

Posted on August 7, 2015 by expressyourself4him

As the 2016 Presidential election kicks off Thursday night with the first major debate, don’t be surprised by the responses you hear.  For this is the season of persuasion, a makeover to present a much broader perspective of each candidate.  Hoping the audience forgets any selective memory of their past, “if you vote for me I will speak for you, the little guy.”  Yet, like any season, campaign promises will come to an end as soon as each ballet has been counted.  Just as birds fly south for the winter, politicians will return to their normal routine, to a selective society, embracing those who share a similar worldview.

And the gospel must first be preached to all nations, Mark 13:10.

Perhaps this facade turns most people off, causing a growing number of citizens to stay home on Election Day.  This is what made Jesus so attractive to the masses during the first century.  His message wasn’t limited to the rich and famous.  Rather, Jesus’ focus extended beyond party lines, seeking to reach individuals in every nation.  Thus, as he teaches disciples about the future, one thing is clear, a selective society is unacceptable.

He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation, Mark 16:15.

When I look at myself in the mirror, the truth hurts.  Despite what I believe, I find myself gravitating toward those who like me and distancing myself from those with different opinions.  This is not the image Jesus paints in the Bible.  The gospel is not based upon feelings.  Rather, everyone is given an opportunity, a chance to accept or reject faith.  Therefore, whether you’re a politician or average person, avoid the temptation of remaining in a selective society by stepping out in faith to fulfill the great commission.

by Jay Mankus

 

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Your Best… Your Very Best

Posted on August 3, 2015 by expressyourself4him

In the film Facing the Giants, coach Grant Taylor played by Alex Kendrick, is stuck in a rut.  Staring at another mediocre season and concerned about getting fired, Grant turns to the Lord, praying for a possible solution.  After a sleepless night, this coach receives a revelation from God.  This answer reveals a new team motto, giving God your very best.

They came to him and said, “Teacher, we know that you are a man of integrity. You aren’t swayed by others, because you pay no attention to who they are; but you teach the way of God in accordance with the truth. Is it right to pay the imperial tax to Caesar or not?- Mark 12:14

Prior to his crucifixion, Jesus faced an onslaught of questions from religious leaders.  Their goal was to trick Jesus with a series of hypothetical scenarios to publicly stump him.  This leads me to Jesus’ response to whether or not Jews should pay taxes.  The answer is priceless; not a Master Card commercial.  Rather, these words of wisdom speak to a greater truth.  Dedicating your life to the One who has instilled within you special gifts and talents.

They brought the coin, and he asked them, “Whose image is this? And whose inscription?” “Caesar’s,” they replied.  Then Jesus said to them, “Give back to Caesar what is Caesar’s and to God what is God’s.” And they were amazed at him, Mark 12:16-17.

In a society that loves to keep score, sometimes your best is overshadowed by the winner or winners.  In fact, some may get discouraged, starting to think that you’re efforts are worthless or a failure.  Despite what others may do or say, Coach Taylor’s message to his team applies today to everyone.  Don’t let a lack of recognition stop your quest of discovering God’s will.  Instead, be still, mediate on the Bible and ask the Holy Spirit to spur you on to give God your best, your very best.

by Jay Mankus

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Waking Up to a Whole New World

Posted on July 21, 2015 by expressyourself4him

Twenty years ago, adult, controversial and risque commercials appeared after dark, when most children were asleep.  The culture was much more conservative, careful not to corrupt the innocence of youth.  Unless you are living in denial, today everything is fair game, waking up to a whole new world.

But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us, Romans 5:8.

Social media is setting the pace daily, led by what’s trending on Twitter, followed by the latest eye catching video on Youtube.  Subsequently, a new generation lives by an entirely new set of standards, distant from the ethics of the Bible.  What once was wrong has become mainstream, normal to an accepting society, open to news ways of thinking.

If anyone, then, knows the good they ought to do and doesn’t do it, it is sin for them, James 4:17.

Caught in the middle, the church is forced to balance grace with truth.  Although kinder and gentler, its difficult for those raised in the Fire and Brimstone Era to get past obvious sins.  Thus, when a microphone is put in front of a pastor’s face or as the camera rolls, its hard not to portray these individuals as judgmental, void of the love of Christ.  Despite what Christians believe about abortion, homosexuality and divorce, its better to demonstrate faith rather than shoving your beliefs in someone’s face.  Waking up to a whole new world will require an emphasis on living examples of Jesus to reverse these trends and possibly inspire a revival throughout the land.

by Jay Mankus

 

 

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Sinning, Stupidity and a Slippery Slope

Posted on July 10, 2015 by expressyourself4him

You don’t have to be Forrest Gump to say something that you regret.  It only takes a careless word, foolish act or fopa caught on film to ruin one’s reputation.  Perhaps, this is the difficult lesson Donald Trump is learning following his generalization of Mexican immigrants.  Whether you are blatantly sinning or do something stupid, is the media ready for the slippery slope for those who are politically incorrect?

“So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets,” Matthew 7:12.

I wouldn’t call the band Ratt prophetic, yet their classic song Round and Round reveals a simple truth, “what comes around goes around.”  Or as the apostle Paul proclaims, “you reap what you sow,” Galatians 6:7.  Taking this one step farther, Jesus makes the finger pointers aware of their actions, “you will be judged in the same manners that you judge others,” Matthew 7:2.  Therefore, before you pick up a stone to throw, jump on the pile of bashers or incite a mob, be careful what you wish for.

And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself, Matthew 22:39.

Currently, Donald Trump is the media’s whipping boy.  However, tomorrow it could be you.  Sure, the elite do control the bully pulpit, yet the Lord controls the universe.  Subsequently, no one is perfect and stupidity is not immune to the wise.  I’m not sure what source or standard cultural leaders are following today, but when the shoe is on the other foot, a ground swell of forgiveness will likely emerge.  Therefore, follow the golden rule by treating others as you want to be treated.

by Jay Mankus

 

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Somebody’s Gotta Be Right?

Posted on June 1, 2015 by expressyourself4him

If you unravel the earth’s history, forefathers, prophets and religious leaders have made some bold statements.  These claims have shaped and formed the beliefs of worship centers throughout the world.  Founders like Buddha, Moses, Mohammad and Jesus have inspired generations of followers.  However, how do you know the one that is right from those who have slightly strayed from the truth?

Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me,” John 14:6.

According to C.S. Lewis, each belief system possesses ethics, morals and prudent principles.  A former atheist,  Lewis wrote Mere Christianity to explain his journey from unbelief to faith.  Using apologetics, logic and theology, Lewis methodically separates Jesus from all other individuals.  Despite his findings, a progressive culture has forgotten about Lewis, professing there are many paths to heaven.

Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved, Acts 4:12.

At this point of contention, do you go along with the crowd, confront naysayers or examine the scriptures to ascertain the correct road to heaven?  While critics may call you intolerant, narrow minded or old fashioned, most would rather be safe rather than sorry, spending eternity in hell.  Thus its essential for inquiring minds to test everything, 1 Thessalonians 5:21-22, so that in the end the truth will set you free.

by Jay Mankus

 

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What’s Disrupting Your Life?

Posted on May 16, 2015 by expressyourself4him

Lawn movers, edgers, blowers and engines rev while the tired try to sleep in on Saturday morning.  In the car, pimped out stereos shake, rattle and roll, honking horns nudge you along and unexpected phone calls can take your eyes off the road.  In this high tech, high touch society, peace and quiet are hard to find as disruptions lurk around every corner.

He told them, “The secret of the kingdom of God has been given to you. But to those on the outside everything is said in parables so that, “ ’they may be ever seeing but never perceiving, and ever hearing but never understanding; otherwise they might turn and be forgiven! – Mark 4:11-12

While talking to a large crowd from the water’s edge, Jesus began to speak in parables.  Using farmers in the crowd as an example, Jesus gives four hypothetical situations that will happen over the course of a growing season.  According to Jesus, animals, the weather and soil conditions impact the harvest for each season.  However, when the crowd left, his disciples pondered the meaning of his teaching.

Some people are like seed along the path, where the word is sown. As soon as they hear it, Satan comes and takes away the word that was sown in them.- Mark 4:15

Their questions unveiled the source of life’s disruptions, Satan.  According to Paul, faith comes from hearing the message of truth, Romans 10:17.  Satan’s defense is to snatch or steal truth from the hearts and minds of curious souls through doubt, negativity and worldly mindsets.   As I’ve been told by mentors in the past, if you’re on the verge of something great, don’t be surprised by demonic activity to throw you off track.  In view of this, press on with the armor of God to protect you from these weekly disruptions.

by Jay Mankus

 

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Rich in Love

Posted on April 9, 2015 by expressyourself4him

The LORD is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and rich in love. – Psalm 145:8

Blessed, fortunate and wealthy are terms associated with being rich.  For some this status is achieved by the luck of the draw, born into it.  Others acquire possessions through years of discipline, hard work and perseverance.  Meanwhile, a few receive this by surprise, like a will as illustrated by Jason, the main character in the Ultimate Gift.

If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing. – 1 Corinthians 13:3

However, one aspect of wealth that is often overlooked is becoming rich in love.  Unfortunately, several obstacles stand in the way: bitterness, impatience and unforgiveness to name a few.  These spiritual barriers prevent souls from passing on the love of Jesus.  Thus, poverty is not only a financial state, it’s also a condition of a wounded heart, a casualty of a fallen world.

Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. – 1 Corinthians 13:6

The presence of love can be a difference maker.  If genuine, love can transform the angry, pissed off and unlovable.   Perhaps this explains the words of the apostle Paul known as the love chapter is regularly quoted in weddings.  Attributed as one of three theological virtues, love is conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit, available to anyone who calls on the name of the Lord.  May the words of today’s blog inspire you to become rich in love.

by Jay Mankus

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Thorns of the Flesh

Posted on April 1, 2015 by expressyourself4him

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NEWmu-FcmuY

And twisting together a crown of thorns, they put it on his head and put a reed in his right hand. And kneeling before him, they mocked him, saying, “Hail, King of the Jews!” – Matthew 27:29

In the passage above, Jesus’ head endured excruciating pain when Roman soldiers forced a crown of thorns into his head.  This particular species of thorn is only found in Israel.  The tips of each extend beyond two inches in length.  Similar crowns can be purchased online as even an inch of cardboard padding can not keep the longest thorns from breaking through their box.  If the slightest contact can draw blood from a finger, imagine the flow that poured forth fooling this cruel act thousands of years ago.

So to keep me from becoming conceited because of the surpassing greatness of the revelations, a thorn was given me in the flesh, a messenger of Satan to harass me, to keep me from becoming conceited. –        2 Corinthians 12:7

Although recent persecution of Christians in the Middle East has brought back crucifixion, most face a new type of danger.  According to the apostle Paul, some face spiritual anguish in the form of illness, physical limitations or oppression from demons.  While you won’t draw blood, these moments, periods or trials can be extremely draining, sucking the lives out of souls.  In your weakness, you must lean on Christ to keep you strong.

Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits. – Proverbs 18:21

Meanwhile, some may be wounded by words, cut to the heart and pierced by those whom you love.  When you reach this point or experience the pain of disappointment, remember the message of Hebrews 4:14-16.  Jesus has been tempted in every way just as we are, but did not sin.  In view of this truth, when the thorns of the flesh are pressed against your mind, cry out to Jesus for help.  Pray the prayer in 2 Corinthians 12:9-12 so that in your weak moments Christ will be strong!

by Jay Mankus

 

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A Quest for Truth

Posted on March 8, 2015 by expressyourself4him

Verifying facts is a daily responsibility for educators.  However, when the truth conflicts with one’s beliefs, theories or worldview, accuracy may be altered to coincide with your ideology.  Therefore, as individuals search for absolutes on the internet, don’t be surprise if truth is being suppressed.

When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come. – John 16:13

Recently, Google has changed their algorithm for their search engine.  Initially, Google listed web sites based upon how many hits each received.  Thus, the most popular and trending topics would appear from highest to lowest.  In an opening monologue, Rush Limbaugh illustrated how Google caved after Chinese authorities complained about receiving negative press.  Subsequently, Google’s new algorithm runs based upon which sites their company believes to be most truthful.  Unfortunately, this once great company has been corrupted by declining ethics, now a pawn for the liberal media.

Think over what I say, for the Lord will give you understanding in everything. – 2 Timothy 2:7

Whether you are in the process of beginning a research paper, sorting through controversial issues or trying to broaden your understanding about life, make sure you do your due diligence.  According to 1 Thessalonians 5:21-22, test everything that you see, hear or read.  As your quest for truth continues, cling to that which is true, yet avoid any kind of evil.  Although skeptics may question or scoff at your findings, ask the Lord to direct your steps as this journey proceeds. Thus, you can go to sleep with a clear conscience, knowing the conclusion you reached derived from a quest for truth.

by Jay Mankus

 

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When Things Don’t Add Up

Posted on February 21, 2015 by expressyourself4him

Parents who have grown up in the same area or town where their children attend school develop perspective.  Depending upon their memory, adults can compare their education with the current system.  Taking time to read modern textbooks may shock some, yet the informed aren’t surprised.  The dumbing down of information attempts to sway young minds full of mush to buy into the liberal agenda being dished out daily.  However, when things don’t add up like recently implemented Common Core curriculum, even public school teachers are waking up to this debauchery of education.

But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God’s holy people. – Ephesians 5:3

Back in my day, several teachers were like personal trainers, pushing you beyond what you could handle.  A few were like drill sergeants, mean S.O.B.’s until you graduated, when you saw the logic behind their madness.  These adults instilled in me a discipline, life skills and a work ethic I have exchanged for monthly pay checks.  Although, I wish it was larger, being challenged has made me a better person.  I only wish my children could escape the coddling that exists today for a taste of what I endured in school.  Nonetheless, when things don’t add up, a parent must intervene to steer their kids in the right direction.

Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving. – Ephesians 5:4

Whether you are watching a commercial, public service announcement or some new television show, it doesn’t take long to notice flaws.  Though the world view you possess may alter or blind you in same ways, consciences scream out the truth, pointing you in the way you should go.  However, if you begin to buy into the lies sold daily, your logic may not begin to add up.  This is where rationalization takes over, trying to justify your error in judgment with thoughts like “everybody does it.”  As you make your way through life, don’t forget to stop and think about the choices you are making.  Or else you may wake up one morning to a soul that doesn’t add up to the will God wanted for your life, Romans 12:2.

by Jay Mankus

 

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