Tag Archives: vigor

Worn

Frayed, ragged, shabby and tattered are synonyms for worn.  While most people will visualize a physical condition, there are other ways to become worn.  Counselors, psychologists and therapists can become emotionally overwhelmed by a patients life.  Meanwhile, clergy, pastors and spiritual leaders may be shaken by the problems of their flock.

“Man is also chastened with pain upon his bed, and with continual strife in his bones;” Job 33:19.

When disease, illness or sickness strike individuals, just getting up for a moment can make someone exhausted.  Depending upon the severity of a condition, physically features may be altered.  Without a cure or medicine to improve, bodies will continue to deteriorate.  In the passage below, time has a way of wasting away bodies.

His flesh is so wasted away that it cannot be seen; and his bones which were not seen stick out, Job 33:21.

Currently, I find myself in a different state of worn.  One that involves a loss of energy, passion and vigor for life.  Trying to keep any type of positive momentum is a grind.  Thus, I struggle to experience joy in this life.  Perhaps I need to remember the words of the apostle Paul in 2 Corinthians 12 embracing my weakness so that Christ may be strong.

by Jay Mankus

 

Getting Old

The optimist suggests age is merely a number, a state of mind.  Meanwhile, realists proclaim father time is undefeated as age will eventually catch up to you.  Wherever you may fall on this spectrum, the secret to getting old is maintaining a positive attitude.

You will come to the grave in full vigor, Like the stacking of grain in its season, Job 5:26.

Unfortunately, when I wake up with aches, bruises and pain, motivation is the last thing on my mind.  Anyone who has endured injuries and surgeries in the past may be in a rude awakening if you bend, stretch or turn in the wrong direction.  Although I broke two ribs a few years ago, I usually cringe once a week, a sign that I am getting old.

Let his flesh become fresher than in youth, Let him return to the days of his youthful vigor; Job 33:25.

The saying time is the great equalizer applies to growing old.  When you are young, the vigor of youth energizes adults.  Yet, at some point in life desire tends to fade.  Instead of delighting in the moment, struggling individuals have a tough time experiencing joy.  Therefore, as times continues to speed up the older you get, may the vigor of the Holy Spirit empower you to possess the heart of a child.

by Jay Mankus

The Power of Diligence

A couple of weeks ago, I listened to a talk show about the impact mojies and texting is having on the English language.  Initially, I was unfazed, not seeing the connection between the two.  However, the more I think about it, social outlets like Instagram and Twitter are enabling slang to steal the power of words.

We want each of you to show this same diligence to the very end, so that what you hope for may be fully realized, Hebrews 6:11.

Subsequently, dynamic vocabulary is fading away, becoming extinct like dinosaurs of the past.  One of these terms is diligence, referring to an attentiveness, motivated by vigor to carry something to completion.  This trait once made the United States a great nation, igniting the Industrial Revolution.  Yet for now, those who possess this quality is limited.

We do not want you to become lazy, but to imitate those who through faith and patience inherit what has been promised, Hebrews 6:12.

According to the author of Hebrews, those who lack diligence tend to fall prey to laziness.  The solution to this potential snag is to imitate the faith of Israel, willing to wait up to 400 years before finally possessing God’s promised land.  When diligence is exhibited in the hearts and minds of individuals, God’s promises don’t feel so far away.  Yet, when doubt causes God’s people to lose hope, the fruits of diligence disappear.  Therefore, the next time an urge to walk away from your dreams arises, fight back with the power of diligence.

by Jay Mankus

Human Inspired or from Above?

When an individual wakes up, the day can dictate one’s degree of excitement.  Anticipation for an activity, event or the weekend can produce adrenaline, enthusiasm and vigor for life.  However, sometimes the energy burst you receive may come from above?

“By what authority are you doing these things?” they asked. “And who gave you authority to do this?” – Mark 11:28

In the days of Jesus, his ministry was always under scrutiny.  Whether he was feeding the masses, performing a miracle or outwitting the Pharisees, religious leaders doubted his authenticity.  It wasn’t until Jesus used John the Baptist as an illustration to prove inspiration can come from above.

.John’s baptism—was it from heaven, or of human origin? Tell me!”- Mark 11:30

Following a milestone or success story, individuals will give a myriad of responses.  Some will credit their coach, trainer or parents.  Others may reference their discipline, re-dedication  or state of the art training program.  However, a few will profess of a higher power, strength from above which ultimately led to their victory.  Although the media may not show all those who give glory to God, I believe human inspiration only takes you so far.  With this in mind, tap into the Holy Spirit to help reach your full potential.

by Jay Mankus

 

The Cure to an Eroding Soul

Whether you call it depression, a funk or unhappiness, whenever things start going in the wrong direction, it’s hard to snap yourself out of it.  Sometimes a vacation, getting away from the mundane will do the trick.  Other people try to allot time from busy schedules for activities which bring them joy.  If these attempts fail, your condition likely involves an eroding soul.

After dwelling upon my current situation, I tried to back track to ascertain where this all began.  I only had to go back a few months to discover that my life has become void of goals, planning and vision.  Subsequently, I am aimlessly wandering without any direction, purpose or vigor for life.  To stop the bleeding so to speak, I must begin to reconsider my priorities, restructure my schedule and seek discernment from God.

The prophet Hosea proclaimed that people without wisdom or vision will perish, Hosea 4:6.  Modern motivational speakers claim, “if you fail to plan, you plan to fail!”  Meanwhile, a tiny voice in my head suggests that if I invest my time in what I was created to do, I will once again be able to say, “it is well with my soul.”  If you find yourself in a similar stage in life, may the Lord answer your cry for help by healing your eroding soul.

by Jay Mankus