The Department of Homeland Security recently announced news of a new Disinformation Governance Board. When an old Tiktok video of the individual selected to oversee this board surfaced, the credibility of this Disinformation Board was immediately put into question. Meanwhile, a tweet by Jeff Bezos called out President Biden for his own disinformation about a false statement on Covid-19 vaccines.
I have no greater joy than this, to hear that my [spiritual] children are living their lives in the Truth, 3 John 1:4.
According to one of Jesus’ former disciples, the Bible has its own plan for dealing with disinformation. At the beginning of one of his last recorded letters, John’s greatest joy as a Christian is to see people, he spiritually mentored to live their lives in the truth of the Bible. Since the Bible contains supernatural power as a living document, Hebrews 4:12, disinformation is exposed by the light of God’s Word.
So Jesus said to those Jews who had believed in Him, If you abide in My word [hold fast to My teachings and live in accordance with them], you are truly My disciples. 32 And you will know the Truth, and the Truth will set you free, John 8:31-32.
Years earlier, John was present when Jesus told his disciples that spiritual truth will set you free. While disinformation, gossip, and rumors continue today, Christians who shine the light and love of Jesus will convict the hearts of those trying to control your speech. Despite the algorithms designed by social media sites that favor progressive ideas, living your life in the Truth will expose disinformation as its espoused.
The lyrics of Here I Go Again were conceived out of David Coverdale’s personal experiences following the breakup and subsequent divorce from his first wife. While staying in Portugal, loneliness and depression led David to compose a song about resilience and self-discovery. While reflecting upon this emotional journey, Here I Go Again has become an anthem for anyone facing adversity in life.
Biblical Application:
But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. 8 We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; 9 persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed, 2 Corinthians 4:7-9.
Exegesis of Here I Go Again:
I don’t know where I’m going But, I sure know where I’ve been Hanging on the promises In songs of yesterday And I’ve made up my mind I ain’t wasting no more time Here I go again Here I go again
David has finally made a decision to let go of his first marriage. Rather than continue to dwell on what he lost, he’s ready to move on, stop wasting time and start a new relationship.
Though I keep searching for an answer I never seem to find what I’m looking for Oh Lord, I pray You give me strength to carry on ‘Cause I know what it means To walk along the lonely street of dreams
David is tired of being alone. After a time of healing and reflection, he is ready to start over again. With God’s help, David will be able to follow the dreams that he has put on hold for now.
And here I go again on my own Going down the only road I’ve ever known Like a drifter I was born to walk alone And I’ve made up my mind I ain’t wasting no more time
David doesn’t mind being single. Possessing a strong sense of individualism, he’s a leader who has a certain way that he wants to live his life now.
I’m just another heart in need of rescue Waiting on love’s sweet charity And I’m gonna hold on for the rest of my days ‘Cause I know what it means To walk along the lonely street of dreams
David acknowledges that his heart isn’t fully recovered from his divorce. David wants to wait on love rather than force himself into another relationship.
And here I go again on my own Going down the only road I’ve ever known Like a drifter I was born to walk alone And I’ve made up my mind I ain’t wasting no more time But here I go again
The chorus repeats David’s decision to move on.
Here I go again Here I go again Here I go
Despite being single, David is going to press on with his life.
‘Cause I know what it means To walk along the lonely street of dreams
There is a certain stubbornness that rock stars exhibit. Despite being alone, David is going to keep on living life like he did before getting married.
And here I go again on my own Going down the only road I’ve ever known Like a drifter I was born to walk alone And I’ve made up my mind I ain’t wasting no more time
David is tired of wasting time.
And here I go again on my own Going down the only road I’ve ever known Like a drifter I was born to walk alone
David has accepted his current situation.
‘Cause I know what it means To walk along the lonely street of dreams
Waiting for your dreams to come true can be frustrating.
And here I go again on my own Going down the only road I’ve ever known Like a drifter I was born to walk alone
David accepts being single and doesn’t mind doing and going where he wants.
Final Thoughts:
Although the end of Here I Go Again contains repetitive lyrics, this song explores recovering from a divorce. Being out on tour traveling the country and world keeps your mind busy. Yet, the key to a full recovery is making sure you’ve done everything in your power to salvage a relationship. Once you’ve done all that you can do, this is in God’s hands. From here it’s time to heal and move on.
Back in the early 1980’s, top artists and bands were expected to release a new album every other year after finishing their current tour. Subsequently, as Billy Joel was in the middle of working on The Nylon Curtain album, he experienced an extended period of Writer’s Block. This anxiety and stress become obvious to Billy Joel’s secretary who tried to intervene saying, “wow, you look like you’re under a lot of pressure.” Following this conversation, Billy Joel’s creativity was revitalized, composing a song about the pressure to succeed and psychological turmoil brought on by Writer’s Block.
Biblical Application:
Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4 and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade. This inheritance is kept in heaven for you, 5 who through faith are shielded by God’s power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time. 6 In all this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. 7 These have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed, 1 Peter 1:3-7.
Exegesis of Pressure:
You have to learn to pace yourself (Pressure) You’re just like everybody else (Pressure) You’ve only had to run so far, so good But you will come to a place Where the only thing you feel Are loaded guns in your face And you’ll have to deal with pressure
As deadlines approach, procrastinators often do their best work. However, when you’re suffering from Writer’s Block and your creative ideas have vanished, you sense that time is running out.
You used to call me paranoid (Pressure) But even you cannot avoid (Pressure) You turn the tap-dance into your crusade Now here you are with your faith And your Peter Pan advice You have no scars on your face And you cannot handle pressure
When you are the one under a severe time crunch, advice from colleagues usually doesn’t help. Creativity and inspiration take time. Snapping your fingers doesn’t suddenly compose a song. I’ve written 19 songs, but 16 of them came to me in a few months.
All grown up and no place to go Psych one, psych two What do you know? All your life is Channel 13 Sesame Street What does it mean?
Perhaps Billy Joel is mentioning a selection of ridiculous advice that he received during his Writer’s Block. College friends with a background in psychology didn’t improve his situation.
I’ll tell you what it means Pressure, pressure
Billy Joel’s friends didn’t understand the pressure of being a song writer. The fear of being a one hit wonder may have crossed Billy Joel’s mind as well.
Don’t ask for help, you’re all alone (Pressure) You’ll have to answer to your own (Pressure) I’m sure you have some cosmic rationale Well, here you are, in the ninth Two men out and three men on Nowhere to look, but inside Where we all respond to pressure
With the deadline to complete the Nylon Curtain album looming over his head, Billy Joel is forced to look inside himself. Like a baseball closer trying to finish a game with the bases loaded, all he needs is one out to get the save. In these situations, in life, you have to dig deep to complete your task.
Pressure
All your life is Time Magazine I read it too What does it mean?
Billy Joel uses sarcasm to express to others, “you’re not Billy Joel.”
Pressure!
I must meet this challenge and rise above this pressure.
I’m sure you have some cosmic rationale But here you are with your faith And your Peter Pan advice You have no scars on your face And you cannot handle pressure
Using sarcasm once again, Billy Joel is essentially saying if it was that easy, I’d already be done my album and ready to record the Nylon Curtain in studio.
The pressure
Pressure One, two, three, four, pressure!
Time is ticking away. Just get ur done.
Final Thoughts:
If you never face any ordeals or trials in life, you wouldn’t be as sharp and toughened up for future events. When the heat is on in pressure packed situations, Tin Cup would say either you define the moment or the moment defines you. Faith is refined by pressure and on the other side when this storm is over, you’ll be equipped to handle greater trials in the future.
Sting wrote Every Breath You Take while staying at Ian Fleming’s estate in Jamaica. Sting had just gone through a difficult divorce with Frances Tomelty. Based upon the lyrics, it appears that Sting did not want this relationship to end. When you are the individual who still holds out hope, you are eager to check to see if a second chance is possible. Unfortunately, when someone is unwilling to let go of a relationship, jealousy rears its ugly head. These are the emotions and feelings which conceived Every Breath You Take.
Biblical Application:
Stone is heavy and sand a burden, but a fool’s provocation is heavier than both. 4 Anger is cruel and fury overwhelming, but who can stand before jealousy? 5 Better is open rebuke than hidden love, Proverbs 27:3-5.
Exegesis of Every Breath You Take:
Every breath you take and every move you make Every bond you break, every step you take I’ll be watching you Every single day and every word you say Every game you play, every night you stay I’ll be watching you
Sting appears to be obsessed with his former wife. When you miss someone so much, you can become irrational. This possessive nature conceived a stalker mentality.
Oh, can’t you see you belong to me? How my poor heart aches with every step you take Every move you make with every vow you break Every smile you fake, every claim you stake I’ll be watching you
Like any loving husband, Sting misses his former wife. Sting vents his frustration through his lyrics as a root of bitterness has filled his heart.
Since you’ve gone, I’ve been lost without a trace I dream at night, I can only see your face I look around, but it’s you I can’t replace I feel so cold, and I long for your embrace I keep crying, baby, baby, please
Sting can’t keep his former wife off his mind. He thinks about her so much that she is becoming part of his dreams at night. Sting is unable to let go of her, crying for and hoping she returns.
Mm, mm, mm, mm Mm, mm
Oh, can’t you see you belong to me? How my poor heart aches with every step you take Every move you make and every vow you break Every smile you fake, every claim you stake I’ll be watching you Every move you make, every step you take I’ll be watching you
Depression fuels the lyrics. This obsession leads to surveillance and a desire to stay in control of this relationship.
I’ll be watching you (every breath you take, every move you make) (Every bond you break, every step you take) I’ll be watching you (Every single day, every word you say) (Every game you play, every night you stay) I’ll be watching you (Every move you make, every vow you break) (Every smile you fake, every claim you stake) I’ll be watching you (every single day, every word you say) (Every game you play, every night you stay) I’ll be watching you (Every breath you take, every move you make) (Every bond you break, every step you take) I’ll be watching you (every single day, every word you say)
Love has a way of making people crazy. Loneliness and frustration is leading Sting to bear his soul.
(Every game you play, every night you stay) I’ll be watching you (Every move you make, every vow you break) (Every smile you fake, every claim you stake) I’ll be watching you (every single day, every word you say) (Every game you play, every night you stay) I’ll be watching you
At some point in time, you have to let go of the past and move on. The time this take varies depending upon the individual and their situation.
Final Thoughts:
I had my heart broken on numerous occasions in high school. This led me to only date individuals in college that I could see myself marrying. Unfortunately, time changes everyone, sometimes for the better and others for the worse. This is why this vow is adopted into most Christian weddings. Nonetheless, if you do endure a divorce like Sting, ask God for healing and understanding. Once this is complete, you can begin to move on in life in a more constructive and positive manner.
Lead singer and song writer Kerry Livgren added Carry On Wayward last minute to Kansas’ Leftoverture album. Although band members weren’t pleased that they needed to learn a new song just before heading into the studio to record Leftoverture, there was something special about this tune. When asked if Carry On Wayward Son was inspired by Jesus’ parable of the Prodigal Son, Kerry referred to the lyrics as his autobiography. This spiritual sojourn that Kerry began in the music industry led him to search for truth and meaning in life. After leaving Kansas, Livgren went on to sing for AD and pursue a solo career where biblical themes inspired many of his songs.
Biblical Application:
Jesus continued: “There was a man who had two sons. 12 The younger one said to his father, ‘Father, give me my share of the estate.’ So he divided his property between them. 13 “Not long after that, the younger son got together all he had, set off for a distant country and there squandered his wealth in wild living. 14 After he had spent everything, there was a severe famine in that whole country, and he began to be in need. 15 So he went and hired himself out to a citizen of that country, who sent him to his fields to feed pigs. 16 He longed to fill his stomach with the pods that the pigs were eating, but no one gave him anything. 17 “When he came to his senses, he said, ‘How many of my father’s hired servants have food to spare, and here I am starving to death! 18 I will set out and go back to my father and say to him: Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. 19 I am no longer worthy to be called your son; make me like one of your hired servants.’ 20 So he got up and went to his father. “But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him. 21 “The son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.’ 22 “But the father said to his servants, ‘Quick! Bring the best robe and put it on him. Put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. 23 Bring the fattened calf and kill it. Let’s have a feast and celebrate. 24 For this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’ So they began to celebrate, Luke 15:11-23.
Exegesis of Carry On Wayward Son:
Carry on my wayward son There’ll be peace when you are done Lay your weary head to rest Don’t you cry no more
Even if you don’t have any type of religious background, a sense of conviction and guilt will let you know when you are going down the wrong path in life.
Since God doesn’t force human beings to do anything, free will is offered to allow individuals to learn on their own. Whenever a season of rebellion ends, peace can be found through open and honest confession. Livgren appears to quote Jesus’ words in Matthew 11:28-30 about finding rest for a weary soul.
Once I rose above the noise and confusion Just to get a glimpse beyond this illusion I was soaring ever higher But I flew too high
Life as a famous musician can bring amazing highs and lows in life. Perhaps, the words of this stanza were inspired by a few moments of solitude while on tour. During a live performance, emotions can get so high that you lose a sense of reality.
Though my eyes could see, I still was a blind man Though my mind could think, I still was a mad man I hear the voices when I’m dreaming I can hear them say
Kerry appears to be restless when he wrote Carry On Wayward Son. Kerry could see glimpses of who God wanted him to be, but he wasn’t ready to change. The human conscience was gnawing at Kerry when he rested like God’s still small voice Elijah experiences in 1 Kings 19.
Carry on, my wayward son There’ll be peace when you are done Lay your weary head to rest Don’t you cry no more
Instead of listening to a nagging adult telling you what you shouldn’t be doing, God trusted Kerry that he would eventually figure out on his that that he was on the wrong path, Matthew 7:13.
Masquerading as a man with a reason My charade is the event of the season And if I claim to be a wise man, well It surely means that I don’t know
People often try to become who others want them to be instead of who they truly are. This charade continues today as many individuals are afraid to ask for advice, direction or help in life.
On a stormy sea of moving emotion Tossed about, I’m like a ship on the ocean I set a course for winds of fortune But I hear the voices say
Like a ship without a rudder, unexpected storms in life result in an emotional roller coaster. If you don’t have a clear vision like the prodigal son, you’ll continue down a path of self-destruction until you finally hit rock bottom, starving for something true and real.
Carry on, my wayward son There’ll be peace when you are done Lay your weary head to rest Don’t you cry no more No!
This stanza is symbolic of an individual who finally comes to their senses. Instead of repeating the same mistakes over and over again, Livgren has decided that enough is enough, no more.
Carry on, you will always remember Carry on, none can equal the splendor Now your life’s no longer empty Surely heaven waits for you
Kerry appears to have had a spiritual breakthrough like the words of Romans 10:9-11. Although there isn’t a clear description of this change, the mention of heaven supports 1 John 5:11-13.
Carry on, my wayward son There’ll be peace when you are done Lay your weary head to rest Don’t you cry (don’t you cry no more)
No more
Like the parable of the Prodigal Son, Kerry is finally ready to change for the better. This journey and search for truth came to an end with Jesus, John 3:16-17.
Final Thoughts:
When the CW show Supernatural adopted Carry On Wayward Son as its theme song, the legacy of Kansas continues today. Wherever you are in life, keep searching for the questions in life that you are looking for. Don’t allow others to determine or dictate what you believe. Instead, test and see what is true in the world, always discovering, growing and learning. This is the journey of the wayward son.
While drummer Alan White wrote the passage at the beginning of Changes and led singer Jon Anderson contributed some lyrics, Trevor Rabin is the main composer. Changes is essentially the journey that Trevor experienced trying to break into the music industry. This South African songwriter, guitarist, and producer bounced around with Cinema, Foreigner and Yes, with many telling Trevor what they wanted him to do. After moving to America, Trevor was depressed as these emotions are expressed within this classic Yes song.
Biblical Application:
I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do. 16 And if I do what I do not want to do, I agree that the law is good. 17 As it is, it is no longer I myself who do it, but it is sin living in me. 18 For I know that good itself does not dwell in me, that is, in my sinful nature.[c] For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out, Romans 7:15-18.
Exegesis of Changes:
I’m moving through some changes I’ll never be the same Something you did touched me There’s no one else to blame
Trevor could be referring to an opportunity that he passed on. Members of the band Foreigner wanted him to write songs that fit the genre and style of their band. Despite rejecting their offer, perhaps Trevor began to realize that he had potential and a bright future in America.
The love we had has fallen The love we used to share We’ve given up pretending As if you didn’t care
Trevor is either referring to a past relationship in South Africa or about former band members prior to his departure.
Change, changing places Root yourself to the ground Capitalize on this good fortune One word can bring you round Changes
Trevor had 3 opportunities with bands: Cinema, Foreigner and Yes. As one member is asked to leave, this opens the door for a new member to take their place. Perhaps, this is the good fortune that Trevor is writing about.
I look into the mirror I see no happiness All the warmth I gave you Has turned to emptiness
The tone of this stanza reflects the depression that Trevor was dealing with when he wrote Changes. The lyrics suggest a lack of happiness within the band or within his own life.
The love we had has fallen The love we used to share You’ve left me here believing In love that wasn’t there
Trevor appears to be referring to a relationship with another woman. Then again, the remark about you left me here believing could be a promise a band made to him that was never kept.
Change, changing places Root yourself to the ground Word to the wise Well, you get what’s coming One word can bring you round Changes
Trevor mentions the concept of becoming grounded. I’m not sure if he’s thinking about staying humble, realistic or if he’s referring to the principle you reap what you sow. While you endure changes in your life, watch what you do or say so that you don’t regret this.
But when I look into your eyes And try to find out how There’s no way to save it now And everything I feel Changes Keep looking for Changes, changes
Changes can be good and healthy for you as long as you learn from your past mistakes.
For some reason you’re questioning why I always believe it gets better One difference between you and I Your heart is inside your head
Trevor sings about a relationship where this individual is emotionally unstable, wearing their emotions on their sleeves. Trevor is learning about himself during this time of transition.
One word from you, one word from me A clear design on your liberty Who could believe when love has gone How we move on like everyone
Relationships change as people change. When someone wants their freedom, Trevor has reached a point in his life where he’s willing to walk away by moving on with his life.
Only such fools Only such jealous hearts Only through love changes come
Jealousy and immaturity has a way of ending relationships. Yet, the love inside of one person can alter the course of a relationship, holding things together.
Change, changing places Root yourself to the ground Capitalize on this good fortune One word can bring you round Changes
Seize the moments and opportunities that you have in life.
One road to loneliness It’s always the same One road to happiness It’s calling your name Change, changing places, changes Root yourself to the ground Capitalize on this good fortune One word can bring you round Changes Change, changing places, changes Root yourself to the ground Word to the wise Well, you get what’s coming One word, one word can bring you round Changes
As you go through changes in life, you can become depressed or develop a more positive outlook on life. The choice of how you handle change is up to you.
Final Thoughts:
At the start of any New Year, it’s important to take an assessment of where you are in life. During this time of reflection, you may feel compelled to reach out to someone from your past either to apologize or just catch up with. As C.S. Lewis once wrote, “success is the process of arriving, not actually arriving.” Maintaining this outlook on life prevents apathy and overconfidence. Change is good as long as you continue to evolve by drawing closer to God,
The lyrics of Free Fallin’ coincide with the first time Tom Petty stepped away from his band the Heart Breakers in 1988. As Tom begins his first attempt at a solo career on his own, the words to Free Fallin’ express the emotions of steeping away from the stable structure of the Heartbreakers. Free Fallin’ is the first song completed on Tom’s Full Moon Fever album. Petty viewed Free Fallin’ as a map for everything that follows on this album.
Biblical Application:
For the director of music. A psalm of David. When the prophet Nathan came to him after David had committed adultery with Bathsheba. 1 Have mercy on me, O God, according to your unfailing love; according to your great compassion blot out my transgressions.2 Wash away all my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin.3 For I know my transgressions, and my sin is always before me.4 Against you, you only, have I sinned and done what is evil in your sight; so you are right in your verdict and justified when you judge, Psalm 51:1-4.
Exegesis of Free Fallin’:
She’s a good girl, loves her mama Loves Jesus and America too She’s a good girl, is crazy ’bout Elvis Loves horses and her boyfriend too
Petty uses symbolism in Free Fallin’ to compare his own actions of leaving the Heart Breakers to a man breaking up with his girlfriend for selfish reasons.
And it’s a long day livin’ in Reseda There’s a freeway runnin’ through the yard And I’m a bad boy, ’cause I don’t even miss her I’m a bad boy for breakin’ her heart
Either Tom is reflecting upon a recent relationship where he broke a woman’s heart or he’s blaming himself, calling himself a bad boy for ditching the Heart Breakers.
And I’m free Free fallin’ Yeah, I’m free Free fallin’
Now on his own, Tom doesn’t have his old band members to fall back on for support. Rather, Tom expresses his fears of failure as well as the emotional toll this decision has taken on his soul.
And all the vampires walkin’ through the valley Move west down Ventura Boulevard (Ventura Boulevard) And all the bad boys are standin’ in the shadows And the good girls are home with broken hearts
The Vampires are likely symbolic of the greedy members of the music industry who have a history of feeding on vulnerable band members, singers and songwriters. Whoever these evil indivudals are, they are hiding in the darkness to pounce on their next victim. These actions break the hearts of men and women.
Free fallin’, now I’m free fallin’, now I’m Free fallin’, now I’m free fallin’, now I’m
Being in unfamiliar territory as a solo artist, Petty is in a free fall, unsure of the future or where he may land after his first solo album post the Heart Breakers.
I wanna glide down over Mulholland (oh-ah) I wanna write her name in the sky (oh-ah) I’m gonna free fall out into nothin’ (oh-ah) Gonna leave this world for a while (oh-ah)
Tom refers to cities or towns from his past, hoping for a smooth landing. Yet, Tom hints at reuniting with the Heart Breakers sometime in the future.
And I’m free (free fallin’, now I’m free fallin’, now I’m) Free fallin’ (free fallin’, now I’m free fallin’, now I’m) Yeah, I’m free (free fallin’, now I’m free fallin’, now I’m) Free fallin’ (free fallin’, now I’m free fallin’, now I’m)
Free fallin’, now I’m free fallin’, now I’m Yeah, I’m free, free fallin’
Oh! (Free fallin’, now I’m free fallin’, now I’m) Free fallin’ (free fallin’, now I’m free fallin’, now I’m) And I’m free (free fallin’, now I’m free fallin’) oh! (Now I’m)
Being on your own can be scary especially when you’re unsure that you made the right decision. These are the emotions that Tom Petty endured as he thought about his future.:
Free fallin’ (free fallin’, now I’m free fallin’, now I’m) Free fallin’, now I’m free fallin’, now I’m Free fallin’ (free fallin’, now I’m free…)
Like anything in life, sometimes you have to hit rock bottom before you change your mind.
Final Thoughts:
If you haven’t seen Tom Petty’s documentary, it’s worth the watch, similar to the ordeals highlighted in Straight Out of Compton. Facing the future can be scary on your own. However, with God in your life, you have an advocate and friend to guide you along the way, 2 Peter 1:3-4. Yet, when you do stumble and fall like today’s Bible lesson, immediately seek reconciliation like David. However, if pride gets in the way, you’ll find yourself free falling like Tom Petty’s chorus.
Originally written by Daryl Hall of Hall & Oates, Paul Young’s soulful rendition of Every Time You Go Away has made this song stand the test of time. Young explores themes of love, longing, and emotional vulnerability which human beings can relate to as they grow old. As you listen to the lyrics, Paul’s serious tone addresses the relationship between separation and the emotional anguish felt by your heart. Every Time You Go Away resonates with the shared human experience of longing for intimacy during times of physical separation with a close friend or partner.
Biblical Application:
Solomon’s Song of Songs.2 Let him kiss me with the kisses of his mouth— for your love is more delightful than wine. 3 Pleasing is the fragrance of your perfumes; your name is like perfume poured out. No wonder the young women love you! 4 Take me away with you—let us hurry! Let the king bring me into his chambers, Song of Solomon 1:1-4.
Exegesis of Every Time You Go Away:
Hey, if we can solve any problem Then why do we lose so many tears? Oh, and so you go again When the leading man appears
The Lyrics begin with a rhetorical question, if we can solve any problem together, why do we make each other cry?
Always the same thing Can’t you see we’ve got everything goin’ on and on and on?
This outcome is caused by a specific repetitive behavior. When the leading man appears is likely referring to an old flame (heart throb) from your past.
Everytime you go away You take a piece of me with you Everytime you go away You take a piece of me with you, ooh
The lyrics suggest an emotionally unstable relationship where someone is always look back at their past instead of the relationship right in front of you.
Once separated, Paul can’t keep this woman off his mind. The expression “taking a piece of me with you” refers to the biblical term “soul ties.” Every intimate moment you have from as little as holding hands, to a long embrace or passionate kiss creates a bond with this significant other.
The apostle Paul warns members of the Church at Corinth against having one-night stands in 1 Corinthians 6:15-17. Any type of intimate interaction with a partner leaves behind a sexual bond.
Go on and go free, yeah Maybe you’re too close to see I can feel your body move It doesn’t mean that much to me
This is the connection Paul is singing about in the chorus of Every Time You Go Away.
This pain of separation Paul sings about can be triggered by a song, a special place where you first met, the physical location of your first kiss or images of your first sexual encounter.
“Maybe you’re too close to see” touches on the complexity of relationships. If an individual is stuck in their past, they can’t see what is clearly in front of them.
Can’t go on sayin’ the same thing Just, “Can’t you see we’ve got everything?”, baby even know, you know
Meanwhile, some relationships become stagnant. When relationships are centered around the physical and not relationally, people can become numb, not as excited as your initial moments.
Everytime you go away, yeah You take a piece of me with you, oh-oh Everytime you go away You take a piece of me with you, ooh
As the chorus repeats itself several times at the end, sometimes people run out of things to talk about. When a relational ship lacks direction or vision, conversation often becomes stale.
I can’t go on sayin’ the same thing ‘Cause baby, can’t you see We’ve got everything goin’ on and on and on?
Everytime you go away You take a piece of me with you Everytime you go away You take a piece of me with you
Everytime you go away (oh-oh) You take a piece of me with you (everytime you go) Everytime you go away You take a piece of me with you
Everytime you go away (everytime you go away) You take a piece of me with you (don’t leave me all alone) Take another piece of me
Nonetheless, the individual Paul is singing and thinking about has created a bond that he doesn’t want to end. This is the driving force behind emotional connections that you don’t want to end.
Final Thoughts:
This is why having a will to love your spouse is essential to get through the hard times in life. While emotions and feelings are usually unstable, the will to love has gotten me through times of separation with my wife Leanne. Relationships don’t have to end if they are rooted in love.
John Lennon recalls the song Yesterday being kicked around for months. Band members referred to this song as Scrambled Eggs, a tune without a title. This all changed when Paul McCartney woke up with the lyrics and melody in his head. Before this day was over, Paul recorded Yesterday alone on his acoustic guitar. When Paul brought Yesterday to the Beatles, (John, Ringo and George), they thought another guitar would serve as a distraction. Subsequently, Yesterday became a solo.
Biblical Application:
Now listen, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money.” 14 Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. 15 Instead, you ought to say, “If it is the Lord’s will, we will live and do this or that.” 16 As it is, you boast in your arrogant schemes. All such boasting is evil. 17 If anyone, then, knows the good they ought to do and doesn’t do it, it is sin for them, James 4:13-17.
Exegesis of Yesterday:
Yesterday, all my troubles seemed so far away Now it looks as though they’re here to stay Oh, I believe in yesterday
Yesterday was written at 57 Wimpole Street in London, England.
This is where Paul lived, staying in an attic room above his girlfriend’s family’s house.
Waking up with this song in his head, Paul begins Yesterday with a time of reflection.
Thinking about obstacles and troubles from his past, Paul learned lessons from former mistakes.
Suddenly, I’m not half the man I used to be There’s a shadow hanging over me Oh, yesterday came suddenly
Paul suddenly realized that he’s changed. Has fame and fortune influenced him negatively?
Something from Paul’s past is gnawing at him like karma coming back to haunt him.
Why she had to go I don’t know, she wouldn’t say I said something wrong Now I long for yesterday
Paul opens up either about a broken relationship from his past or a recent death.
Paul clarifies this loss was an old girlfriend who severed their relationship without explanation.
Paul wishes he could go back in time to alter how he treated her and change what he said to her.
Yesterday, love was such an easy game to play Now I need a place to hide away Oh, I believe in yesterday
When Paul was younger, loving his girlfriends was much easier and natural for him.
The loss of Paul’s previous relationship has taken a toll on him, wanting to go back in time.
Why she had to go I don’t know, she wouldn’t say I said something wrong Now I long for yesterday
Since Yesterday was inspired by a dream, Paul is revisiting a broken relationship from the past.
Paul writes about needing time to heal before entering another relationship.
Yesterday, love was such an easy game to play Now I need a place to hide away Oh, I believe in yesterday
Music has a way of taking human beings back in time when life was less complicated and free.
Final Thoughts:
Yesterday was written before Paul McCartney’s divorce with Linda as well as before the Beatles broke up in 1970. Some suggest that Paul felt the members of the Beatles slowly drifting apart. Fame, fortune and greed have a long history of band breakups in the past. Whatever Paul’s true intentions, reflecting upon the past this time of year is essential to avoid making the same mistakes over and over again. Finally, before rushing into any relationship, take time to heal so that you become a vessel of love and not of regret.
Bono was following the oppressive Polish government in the 1980’s. After declaring martial law throughout Poland, Nobel Peace Prize winner Lech Walesa challenged this decision. On July 22nd, 1983, Martial law in Poland was lifted, opening the door for democracy the following year. Using these current events to guide his lyrics, the music video highlights a war-torn country.
Biblical Application:
I remember my affliction and my wandering, the bitterness and the gall.20 I well remember them, and my soul is downcast within me.21 Yet this I call to mind and therefore I have hope: 22 Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. 23 They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.24 I say to myself, “The Lord is my portion; therefore I will wait for him.” 25 The Lord is good to those whose hope is in him, to the one who seeks him; Lamentations 3:19-25.
Exegesis of New Year’s Day:
An exegesis is a critical explanation accomplished by analyzing what an author is trying to communicate. This thorough interpretation of a text is often applied to verses of the Bible. However, this exegesis over the next year will seek to extract the message behind each song.
All is quiet on New Year’s Day A world in white gets underway I want to be with you, be with you, night and day Nothing changes on New Year’s Day On New Year’s Day
A winter storm has blanketed the landscape of Poland, silencing the sound of war.
Bono is referring to a family member or significant other who he wants to be with every moment.
This desire hasn’t changed as the calendar changes to commence a new year.
I will be with you again (oh-oh) I will be with you again (oh-oh, oh-oh)
Bono vows to keep his promise to see this special individual on New Year’s Day.
Under a blood-red sky A crowd has gathered in black and white Arms entwined, the chosen few The newspaper says, says
The blood red sky is a symbol of passion and vitality or a majestic sunset, the sign of a new day.
A nation of all races is waiting to see if anything changes on New Year’s Day.
The signs of martial law still exist as a chosen few control the media trying to suppress the truth.
Say it’s true, it’s true And we can break through Though torn in two We can be one
As the Polish people wait for democracy, they are waiting for a sign of hope, that change is possible.
Despite what has happened, the citizens of Poland desperately want to become united once again.
However, Bono could be speaking of a relationship that has separated him due to martial law.
I, I will begin again (oh-oh) I, I will begin again (oh-oh, oh-oh)
Yeah, oh Oh-oh-oh
Ah, maybe the time is right Oh, maybe tonight
I will be with you again (oh-oh, oh-oh) I will be with you again (oh-oh, oh-oh)
New Year’s Day is a time for fresh starts, to begin again with a clean slate.
And so we’re told this is the golden age And gold is the reason for the wars we wage Though I want to be with you, be with you, night and day Nothing changes New Year’s Day On New Year’s Day On New Year’s Day
Repeating the same expression again, Bono believes that things will change this year.
Making up his mind, Bono will make this happen. Being reunited will happen this year.
Final Thoughts:
Nearly 40 years have passed since the song New Year’s Day was released. The one line in Bono’s lyrics that rings true today is that a chosen few dictate what is passed on through the media. Until journalists stop being pawns for their media outlets, truth will continue to be suppressed and withheld. My prayer for 2026 is that God will raise up fearless writers that won’t stop until the truth of what is going on behind the scenes is finally unveiled.
Video of the Day: Clip from the 1946 movie “It’s a Wonderful Life”
Bible Verse of the Day:
“Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? 26 Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? 27 Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life[e]? 28 “And why do you worry about clothes? See how the flowers of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. 29 Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. 30 If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you—you of little faith? 31 So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ 32 For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. 33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own, Matthew 6:25-34.
Biblical Connection:
George Bailey begrudgingly put his dreams on hold whenever a family emergency arose. When George is the one who needs help this time, bitterness consumed his heart. George went out to drink, yelled at a man and wrecked his car. Upon arriving back home following his interaction with a guardian angel, God brings the people of Bedford Falls together to help George in his time of need.
Worry is one thing in life that makes you age. Stress can consume you so much that all you do is focus on the obstacles in front of you rather than the power of God before you, 2 Peter 1:3-4. Jesus teaches a large first century crowd to look up for assistance. If God provides the basic essentials for nature, why wouldn’t God provide for you? This is where faith and trust in God is conceived.
Closing Song:
The last 365 days have been an amazing journey. As I transition to a new series entitled the Message Behind the Music, may the anchor of faith, Jesus, hold you together until the Lord provides daily bread for your life.
ExpressYourself4Him 