There’s No Need for Disinformation

Posted on June 4, 2022 by expressyourself4him

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.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-August 1: A Season of Travel

Posted on August 1, 2026 by expressyourself4him

John Parr – St. Elmo’s Fire (Man In Motion) (Official Music Video)

Monthly Theme:

While some states start school in August, this is the final month of summer. The last time families can spend time together before another school year is set in motion. Travel may take you to visit relatives, return home to reconnect with old friends or make new memories in your favorite vacation destination. This season of travel is your last shot at rejuvenating a tired and weary soul, boosting your moral to finish 2026 off strong. Subsequently, August will feature songs with places in the title.

Inspiration Behind St. Elmo’s Fire:

 John Parr co-wrote Man in Motion with producer David Foster. While the initial inspiration came from the 1985 film St. Elmo’s Fire, the man in the lyrics is Canadian athlete Rick Hansen. After a spinal cord injury left Hansen paralyzed from the waist down, Rick began his own tour, a 26‑month wheelchair journey across 34 countries to raise awareness and funds for this cause. Subsequently, part of this song is about the movie and the other is about Rick’s recovery.

Biblical Application:

Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you,” Deuteronomy 31:6.

Exegesis of St. Elmo’s Fire:

Growin’ up, you don’t see the writin’ on the wall
Passin’ by, movin’ straight ahead, you knew it all
But maybe sometime if you feel the pain
You’ll find you’re all alone, everythin’ has changed

“St. Elmo’s Fire” follows seven recent college graduates navigating their way through life. These seven individuals confront realities of post-college such as career pressures, relationships and maturity issues. These growing pains result in loneliness, pain and uncertainty.

Play the game, you know you can’t quit until it’s won
Soldier on, only you can do what must be done
You know in some way you’re a lot like me
You’re just a prisoner and you’re tryna break free

While this stanza could apply to the movie, the game suggests this is about Rick Hansen and his road to recovery. Getting used to life in a wheelchair is like a soldier coming back from war with permanent injuries. Rick’s wheelchair tour likely served as a way to help the paralyzed see that they weren’t a prisoner to a wheelchair..

I can see a new horizon underneath the blazin’ sky
I’ll be where the eagle’s flyin’ higher and higher
Gonna be your man in motion, all I need is a pair of wheels
Take me where my future’s lyin’, St. Elmo’s fire

A duel purpose stanza that touches on Rick’s journey to one day walk again as well as the characters within the movie as they mature from students to adults.

Burnin’ up, don’t know just how far that I can go (just how far I go)
Soon be home, only just a few miles down the road
I can make it, I know I can
You broke the boy in me but you won’t break the man

The lyrics suggest this is referring to Rick, broken after his life altering injury. Yet Rick’s wheelchair tour pushed his physical limits, helping him realize that living in a wheelchair for the rest of his life won’t break him.

I can see a new horizon underneath the blazin’ sky
I’ll be where the eagle’s flyin’ higher and higher

An introduction to the chorus relates to the characters in St. Elmo’s Fire as they reach for their dreams in life.

Gonna be your man in motion, all I need is a pair of wheels
Take me where my future’s lyin’, St. Elmo’s fire

Pair of wheels could refer to a new car, but is focused on Rick’s wheelchair and how he now rolls on with life.

I can climb the highest mountain, cross the wildest sea
I can feel St. Elmo’s fire burnin’ in me, burnin’ in me

St. Elmo’s is a bar where these college friends try to catch up on life. After meeting together, some conversations ignite fire and passion to keep pursuing specific goals in life.

Just once in his life a man has his time
And my time is now, I’m comin’ alive

A motivational stanza to come alive by seizing the moment.

I can hear the music playin’, I can see the banners fly
Feel like a man again, I’ll hold my head high
Gonna be your man in motion, all I need is a pair of wheels
Take me where my future’s lyin’, St. Elmo’s fire

Rejuvenated spirits after a night out at the bar. The final portion of this chorus speaks to Rick Hansen’s recovering from his spinal cord injury, giving hope to those who feel their life is over after not being able to walk.

I can see a new horizon underneath the blazin’ sky
I’ll be where the eagle’s flyin’ higher and higher
Gonna be your man in motion, all I need is a pair of wheels
Take me where my future’s lyin’, St. Elmo’s fire

Repeating the chorus as if to reignite hope into those on the verge of giving up on life.

I can climb the highest mountain, cross the wildest sea
I can feel St. Elmo’s fire burnin’ in me
Burnin’, burnin’ in me, I can feel it burnin’
Ooh, burnin’ inside of me

Life isn;t over until you quit. If you keep fighting, you’ll be amazed at what you can accomplish.

Final Thoughts:

I was in high school when I watched St. Elmo’s Fire. I recall the ending being disappointing, America’s version of Rick Hansen was Chucky Mullins, a defensive back for Ole Miss football. After being paralyzed like Rick, Chucky became a motivational speaker until his death. I once served as a Chaplin, giving a pregame speech at a University of Delaware football game. I spoke about Chucky is his new life motto after being bound to a wheelchair. “Don’t quit! Don’t ever quit! And never give it! I adopted this in my final years as an athlete fighting back after doctors told me my athletic career was over. This is the fire that still drives me today.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-July 31

Posted on July 31, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Alan Jackson – Amazing Grace (Official Music Video)

Inspiration Behind Amazing Grace:

After his devout Christian mother passed away, John Newton became a prodigal, becoming a ship captain in the slave trade. During one of his trips, a massive a violent North Atlantic storm, was about to sink his ship. crying out to God in an act of desperation. After surviving, John’s life was transformed, eventually quitting the slave trade to become a minister. As Newton began to lose his sight, conviction, guilt and remorse consumed his soul. Writing Amazing Grace was like an act of penance, deeply grieved by his role in the English Slave Trade.

Biblical Application:

In the same way, count yourselves dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus. 12 Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body so that you obey its evil desires. 13 Do not offer any part of yourself to sin as an instrument of wickedness, but rather offer yourselves to God as those who have been brought from death to life; and offer every part of yourself to him as an instrument of righteousness. 14 For sin shall no longer be your master, because you are not under the law, but under grace, Romans 6:11-14.

Exegesis of Amazing Grace:

Amazing grace
How sweet the sound
That saved a wretch like me
I once was lost, but now I’m found
Was blind, but now I see

John Newton realized that he didn’t deserve God’s grace. Yet, upon becoming a minister in the Church of England, John realized that this grace was for him too, despite the sinful live he lived. This is great news of being lost in the past but now having purpose and meaning in life. Although blind in his last days on earth, John was now able to see the Good News inside the Bible.

‘Twas grace that taught my heart to fear
And grace my fears relieved
How precious did that grace appear
The hour I first believed

This amazing grace, Romans 6:23, transformed John’s life. Relieving his fears of his eternal destiny. This grace appeared to John as soon as he rededicated his life to Jesus, Romans 10:9-11.

When we’ve been there ten thousand years
Bright shining as the sun
We’ve no less days to sing God’s praise
Than when we first begun

A glimpse of heaven, praising God because of this amazing grace. John is eternally grateful to God.

Amazing grace
How sweet the sound
That saved a wretch like me
I once was lost, but now I’m found
Was blind, but now I see

This final chorus is a reflection of John’s testimony, how God’s grace transformed his life on earth.

Final Thoughts:

Watching Amazing Grace, the 2006 movie, opened my eyes and mind to the meaning of this song. Understanding the role that William Wilberforce played in ending the British transatlantic slave trade, helped me realize how hard it is to make changes in any government when power and wealth are on the line. You have to be relentless, playing the long game before your dreams and goals can finally be realized. When a Christian faith is on fire, ignited by the Holy Spirit, anything is possible with God.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-July 30

Posted on July 30, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Kid Rock – Born Free [Official Music Video]

Inspiration Behind Born Free:

Kid Rock wrote Born Free to celebrate the freedom and the privileges of being born in a country that values liberty. While the lyrics speak to strong patriotic overtones, he intended it to resonate beyond the United States, thinking of soldiers serving in Afghanistan and Iraq. “Born Free” became more than just a personal anthem, MLB adopted this song as their Tribute to the Troops.

Biblical Application:

Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, 2 because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you[a] free from the law of sin and death. 3 For what the law was powerless to do because it was weakened by the flesh,[b] God did by sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh to be a sin offering.[c] And so he condemned sin in the flesh, 4 in order that the righteous requirement of the law might be fully met in us, who do not live according to the flesh but according to the Spirit, John 8:1-4.

Exegesis of Born Free:

Fast on a rough road riding
High through the mountains climbing
Twistin’, turning, further from my home

The image of troops going into active service, traveling overseas.

Young like a new moon rising
Fierce through the rain and lightning
Wandering out into this great unknown

Metaphor using a lit-up night sky to highlight what a soldier must be thinking before their tour begins.

And I don’t want no one to cry
But tell ’em if I don’t survive

The military know what they sign up for, making it home alive isn’t guaranteed.

I was born free
I was born free
I was born free
Born free

First chorus, referring to the freedom within the United States.

Free like a river raging
Strong as the wind I’m facing
Chasing dreams and racing Father Time

Seize the day as you chase your dreams before your time on earth is up.

Deep like the grandest canyon
Wild like an untamed stallion

Go for it! Dream big while you’re young.

If you can’t see my heart, you must be blind

Soldiers pour out their hearts for their country.

You can knock me down and watch me bleed
But you can’t keep no chains on me

Keep getting back up despite the pain as eager soldiers can’t be restrained.

I was born free
I was born free
I was born free
Born free

This is the freedom of being born in America.

And I’m not good at long goodbyes
But look down deep into my eyes
I was born free

This is what freedom looks like.

Hey, yeah, yeah
Yeah, yeah, yeah
Ooh, ooh

The joy of being free,

Calm, facin’ danger
Lost like an unknown stranger
Grateful for my time with no regrets

What soldiers face and the mindset necessary to confront war.

Close to my destination
Tired, frail and aching
Waiting patiently for the sun to set

About to finish your goal, tired yet waiting for night to fall.

And when it’s done, believe that I
Will yell it from that mountain high

When your mission is complete, shout it out!

I was born free
I was born free
I was born free
Born free

Serving in the military is not forced, this is a choice due to freedom.

And I will bow to the shining seas
And celebrate God’s grace on thee

Thanking God for the opportunity to serve.

I was born free
I was born free
I was born free
Born free

Fighting to persevere freedom.

Oh, oh, oh, oh, oh
Oh, oh, oh, oh, oh
Oh, oh, oh, oh, oh
Oh, oh, oh, oh, oh
Oh, oh, oh, oh, oh
Oh, oh, oh, oh, oh
Oh, oh, oh, oh, oh, yeah

That’s right.

Oh, oh, oh, oh, oh
Oh, oh, oh, oh, oh
Oh, oh, oh, oh, oh
Oh, oh, oh, oh, oh
Oh, oh, oh, oh, oh
Oh, oh, oh, oh, oh

Fighting to persevere freedom.

Final Thoughts:

Due to reconstructive surgery during my junior year of high school, I wasn’t able to join the military like my two close friends, Carl and Paul. While they were becoming men, I was trying to figure out my major in college. My dad told me stories of being a Captain in the Army at the beginning of Vietnam, but I never was able to serve my country. Instead, I’ve spent the last 30 years serving my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Writing is just one of my calls to action as I wait for the Holy Spirit’s next phase in my life.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-July 29

Posted on July 29, 2026 by expressyourself4him

George Michael – Freedom! ’90 (Official Video)

Inspiration Behind Freedom:

Freedom was conceived from George Michael’s deep personal reckoning with fame, identity, and creative control. After the success of Faith in 1987, Michael’s felt trapped by the expectations of having to produce another hit song. Subsequently, Freedom served as a confession and a declaration, reaching a point in his life where he could create content, perform and just be himself.

Biblical Application:

Jesus replied, “Very truly I tell you, everyone who sins is a slave to sin. 35 Now a slave has no permanent place in the family, but a son belongs to it forever. 36 So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed, John 8:34-35.

Exegesis of Freedom:

I won’t let you down
I will not give you up
Gotta have some faith in the sound
It’s the one good thing that I’ve got
I won’t let you down
So please don’t give me up
Because I would really, really love to stick around
Oh, yeah

George is feeling pressure to perform. Previous success has instilled faith within George that he won’t let his agent, producer and record company down. George isn’t ready to retire, wanting to keep his singing career going.

Heaven knows I was just a young boy
Didn’t know what I wanted to be (Didn’t know what I wanted to be)
I was every little hungry schoolgirl’s pride and joy
And I guess it was enough for me (And I guess it was enough for me)

Looking back to his past to see where he came from. Being a heartthrob was good enough for George.

To win the race, a prettier face
Brand new clothes and a big fat place
On your rock and roll TV (Rock and roll TV)
But today the way I play the game is not the same, no way
Think I’m gonna get me some happy

As you get older, it’s harder to maintain your image. George has become wiser with age, content with who he is now.

I think there’s something you should know
(I think it’s time I told you so)
There’s something deep inside of me
(There’s someone else I’ve got to be)
Take back your picture in a frame
(Take back your singing in the rain)
I just hope you understand
Sometimes the clothes do not make the man

This is the confessional part of the lyrics. George reached a point in his life where he stopped carrying about his image. He is trying to explain that there is more to a person than the clothes you wear.

All we have to do now
Is take these lies and make them true somehow
All we have to see
Is that I don’t belong to you and you don’t belong to me, yeah yeah

Image isn’t what you think it is. While George was and may still be viewed as a sex symbol, he is trying to explain that I don’t belong to you and you don’t belong to me.

Freedom (I won’t let you down)
Freedom (I will not give you up)
Freedom (Gotta have some faith in the sound)
You’ve got to give what you take (It’s the one good thing that I’ve got)
Freedom (I won’t let you down)
Freedom (So please don’t give me up)
Freedom (‘Cause I would really)
You’ve got to give what you take (really love to stick around)

The opening chorus is another confession. Meanwhile, this also reads like a self-help pep talk. Freedom is the spark which will enable George to maintain his stardom.

Heaven knows we sure had some fun, boy
What a kick just a buddy and me (What a kick just a buddy and me)
We had every big-shot goodtime band on the run, boy
We were living in a fantasy (We were living in a fantasy)

George looks back at his start as the lead singer of Wham. Looking back, this was like living a dream.

We won the race, got out of the place
Went back home, got a brand new face for the boys on MTV (Boys on MTV)
But today the way I play the game has got to change, oh yeah
Now I’m gonna get myself happy

George was successful with Wham, but the time came for George to leave, starting his solo career. While the days on MTV were great, Goerge does things different now, content with his new life outside of a band,

I think there’s something you should know
(I think it’s time I stopped the show)
There’s something deep inside of me
(There’s someone I forgot to be)
Take back your picture in a frame
(Don’t think that I’ll I be back again)
I just hope you understand
Sometimes the clothes do not make the man

When everyone told George about his great looks and image, it appears that he didn’t have a friend who was real with him, demonstrating tough love. This led to an identity crisis trying to figure out the man behind his clothes.

All we have to do now
Is take these lies and make them true somehow
All we have to see
Is that I don’t belong to you and you don’t belong to me, yeah yeah

George is sorting things out, trying to figure out the truth behind the lies he was told as an artist.

Freedom (I won’t let you down)
Freedom (I will not give you up)
Freedom (Gotta have some faith in the sound)
You got to give what you take
(It’s the one good thing that I’ve got)
Freedom (I won’t let you down)
Freedom (So please don’t give me up)
Freedom (‘Cause I would really)
You got to give what you take (really love to stick around)

Freedom came as George began to figure out who he is and what’s really important in life.

Well, it looks like the road to heaven
But it feels like the road to hell
When I knew which side my bread was buttered
I took the knife as well
Posing for another picture
Everybody’s got to sell
But when you shake your ass
They notice fast
And some mistakes were build to last

George is looking for direction in life, what to do in the future. However, he still hasn’t figured things out. Poor decisions in the past, using his body as a sex symbol, has led to regret. Yet, sex sold his music for years.

(That’s what you get)
That’s what you get
(That’s what you get)
I say that’s what you get
(I say that’s what you get for changing your mind)
That’s what you get for changing your mind
(That’s what you get)
(That’s what you get) And after all this time
I just hope you understand
Sometimes the clothes do not make the man

A stanza about regret, possibly referring to his song I Want Your Sex. George is having image problems, trying to explain to his fans that he is not the man behind his former image.

All we have to do now
Is take these lies and make them true somehow
All we have to see
Is that I don’t belong to you
And you don’t belong to me, yeah yeah

George is trying to sort things out to improve his self-esteem.

Freedom (Oh)
Freedom
(My) Freedom
You’ve gotta give for what you take
Freedom (I’ll hold on to my)
Freedom
(My) Freedom
You got to give what, to give what, give what you take
Yeah!
You got to give what, give to what, to give

Freedom comes from being true to yourself and who you are.

May not be what you want from me
Just the way it’s got to be
Lose the face now
I’ve got to live

George is searching for the type of person that he has to be moving forward in life.

Final Thoughts:

I loved Wham when I was in high school. However, when George Michael began his solo career, he started to push the envelope through his dance moves and lyrics. George was like the Madonna of male artists, not going over the top in his music videos like Madonna. The lyrics of Freedom give me hope that George may be maturing and transforming his life as he grows old.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-July 28

Posted on July 28, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Some Gave All-Billy Ray Cyrus Lyrics

Inspiration Behind Some Gave All:

Some Gave All ended up fulfilling two purposes: a commercial breakthrough and a heartfelt tribute to military service. Billy Ray Cyrus and his first wife, Cindy Smith, wrote Some Gave All in 1991. The idea came during a conversation with a Vietnam veteran. Billy and Cindy were both moved to create a song that honored the sacrifices of those who served.

Biblical Application:

When the ten heard about this, they became indignant with James and John. 42 Jesus called them together and said, “You know that those who are regarded as rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. 43 Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, 44 and whoever wants to be first must be slave of all. 45 For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many,” Mark 10:41-45.

Exegesis of Some Gave All:

I knew a man, called him Sandy Kane
Few folks even knew his name
But a hero, yes, was he
Left a boy, came back a man
Still, many just don’t understand
About the reasons we are free

The Vietnam vet that Billy and Cindy met. So many Vietnam veterans went unrecognized. Sandy left as a teenager and returned to America as a man, full of deep wounds to his soul.

I can’t forget the look in his eyes
Or the tears he cried
As he said these words to me

These stories are heart breaking, making others cry. Sandy poured out his heart to Billy and Cindy.

All gave some, and some gave all
And some stood through for the red, white, and blue
And some had to fall
And if you ever think of me
Think of all your liberties and recall
Some gave all

While not everyone died in action, many returned scarred for life. However, when you consider the freedom within America, remember that some gave all.

Now Sandy Kane is no longer here
But his words are, oh, so clear
As they echo throughout our land
For all his friends who gave us all

Sandy passed away before this song was finished. Yet the words spoken to Billy and Cindy remain loud and clear. This song is for the service men and women who gave us all they had.

Who stood the ground and took the fall
To help their fellow man

These individuals died for freedom that America still possesses.

Love your country and live with pride
And don’t forget those who died
America, can’t you see?

A call for patriotism, remembering the sacrifices that were made in the past.

All gave some, and some gave all
And some stood through for the red, white, and blue
And some had to fall
And if you ever think of me
Think of all your liberties and recall
Some gave all

Another chorus with images of laying your life down, standing up for the American flag and what it represents. Don’t take your liberties for granted as someone gave their life for freedom.

And if you ever think of me
Think of all your liberties and recall
Yes, recall
Some gave all
Some gave all

Sandy wanted to be remembered instead of heckled like other Vietnam vets. Don’t forget about my friends who gave up their lives for freedom.

Final Thoughts:

One of my former high school teammates, Tom Carr, recently passed away. I had lunch with Tom before moving to South Carolina. The Gulf War really messed him up, suffering from PTSD. While Tom made it back home after fulfilling his years of service, he was never the same. May Some Gave All remind you of all the Tom Carr’s in your life.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-July 27

Posted on July 27, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Hope For A Broken Heart ~ Kenny Marks ~ lyric video

Inspiration Behind Hope for a Broken Heart:

While there wasn’t a specific event or moment mentioned, hope comes from the belief that even in the deepest pain of heartbreak, there is potential for healing, growth, and renewal.  Kenny writes about a high school student who feels alone, not into the weekly party scene sweeping up teenagers in America. The only hope comes on Sunday, when a message in a church service sparks a glimmer of hope within her soul.

Biblical Application:

By faith Moses, when he had grown up, refused to be known as the son of Pharaoh’s daughter. 25 He chose to be mistreated along with the people of God rather than to enjoy the fleeting pleasures of sin. 26 He regarded disgrace for the sake of Christ as of greater value than the treasures of Egypt, because he was looking ahead to his reward. 27 By faith he left Egypt, not fearing the king’s anger; he persevered because he saw him who is invisible. 28 By faith he kept the Passover and the application of blood, so that the destroyer of the firstborn would not touch the firstborn of Israel, Hebrews 11:24-27.

Exegesis of Hope for a Broken Heart:

Another Friday night in America
And everyone’s made their plans
To be partying hard in America
Till the weekend slips through their hands
But it’s hard to laugh when you’re dancing
To the beat of a broken heart

Another weekend rolls around as plans have been made. College and high school students spend their time partying. Unfortunately, alcohol is simply a way to numb the pain inside human hearts. Dancing is a way to hide a broken heart.

Another Saturday night in America
It’s just like the night before
Oh, you search the faces of all your friends
What are they smiling for?
‘Cause it’s hard to laugh when you’re dancing
To the beat of a broken heart

Without much creativity, Saturday night isn’t much different than Friday. What do you see when you look into the eyes and faces of teenagers? Are they having a good time or simply following the crowd, afraid to rock the boat?

Heartaches come and heartaches go
And broken hearts still need to know
That though you may be sinking low
There is hope for a broken heart
Hope for a broken heart

Broken hearts are part of growing up. Although you may be sinking into depression, there is hope for a broken heart.

Sunday morning in America
But it’s not just another day

The last day of the weekend is here, but Sunday is different.

There’s a girl alone who spent the weekend home
She’s come to her church to pray
Yeah, it’s hard to pray when you’re lonely
But there’s hope for a broken heart
Yeah, there’s hope for a broken heart

When you don’t fit in, some teens will opt to stay home all weekend. This girl came to church to pray to heal her broken and lonely heart.

Heartaches come and heartaches go
And broken hearts still need to know
That though you may be sinking low
There is hope for a broken heart
Hope for a broken

When you find yourself struggling with life, the easy thing to do is become depressed. However, there is a cure, hope for a broken heart in the person of Jesus, Romans 10:9-11.

Heartaches come and heartaches go
And broken hearts, they need to know
That though you may be sinking low
There is hope for a broken heart
Hope for a broken heart

The chorus repeats itself, perhaps a reminder that there is hope for the broken, crushed and lonely heart.

Friday night
In America
Friday night
In America
Friday night

Friday night doesn’t have to be an endless cycle of numbing your pain with alcohol. Seek the promise of an abundant life, John 10:10.

Final Thoughts:

I was a social misfit throughout Junior High and the beginning of High School. One night I was invited to a party with a few friends from school who got arrested for public intoxication. For one reason or another, I decided not to go, opting to be a sub in a Friday night bowling league. This was the best I ever bowled in a 3 games series: 551. I had a chance for 200 in 2 games but was unable to get a strike, settling for a 199. The other I failed to convert a spare in the 10th frame. This was God’s way of letting me know that I could spend my time wisely, blessed this Friday night by choosing bowling over drinking.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-July 26

Posted on July 26, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Sister Sledge – We Are Family (Official Music Video)

Inspiration Behind We Are Family:

When Atlantic Records president Jerry. Greenberg introduced Niles Rodgers and Bernard Edwards to the members of Sister Sledge, there was an instant connection. Despite being strangers prior to meeting, it was like Niles and Bernard was part of their extended family. Subsequently, when We Are Family was written, this song was about sisters, and the universal idea of unity.

Biblical Application:

I appeal to you, brothers and sisters,[a] in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another in what you say and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly united in mind and thought, 1 Corinthians 1:10.

Exegesis of We Are Family:

We are family
I got all my sisters with me
We are family
Get up everybody and sing

Introducing the group as sisters in the same family. A call to sing and dance.

We are family
I got all my sisters with me
We are family
Get up everybody and sing

Repeating as if to get their audience involved in singing along.

Everyone can see we’re together
As we walk on by
(And!) and we fly just like birds of a feather
I won’t tell no lie
(All!) all of the people around us they say
Can they be that close
Just let me state for the record
We’re giving love in a family dose

We treat each other as family. Meanwhile, get along, sharing common interests. While some people question if we are really close, we’re telling the truth. This is made possible with daily doses of love.

We are family (a-a-a-ay a)
I got all my sisters with me (oh-ah-oh-ah, ah)
We are family

This is who we are, family.

Get up everybody and sing

Join us as we sing.

We are family
I got all my sisters with me
We are family
Get up everybody and sing

Repeating the chorus to make it easier to sing along.

Living life is fun and we’ve just begun
To get our share of the world’s delights
(High!) high hopes we have, for the future
And our goal’s in sight
(We!) no we don’t get depressed
‘Cause here’s what we call our golden rule
Have faith in you and the things you do
You won’t go wrong, oh no
This is our family jewel

We’ve just begun living as we enjoy the fruits of our labor singing. We still have future dreams and goals in our sight. Depression doesn’t faze us as we live by a golden rule: having faith and things will go well with you. This family motto is like a jewel.

We are family (a-a-a ayy-a)
I got all my sisters with me (oh-ah, oh-ah-ah)
We are family (i got my sisters with me)
Get up everybody and sing (every body a-a)

Wrapping up with several choruses. Putting juice in the crowd to encourage participation.

We are family (na-na-na, ay-a)
I got all my sisters with me (tell him come home and see me too)
We are family (say it, say it you better)
Get up everybody and sing

Don’t drift apart. Come home and stay awhile. Speak family into existence by saying it.

We are family (a-a-a ay-a)
I got all my sisters with me (oh-ah, oh-ah-ah)
We are family (na-na-na no-o)
Get up everybody and sing

This is who Sister Sledge is, family.

We are family
I got all my sisters with me
We are family
Get up everybody and sing

Stick with your family members.

Final Thoughts:

The 1979 Pittsburgh Pirates adopted this song on their way to winning the World Series. Since my Phillies won their first title a year later, I didn’t mind waiting one more season. In this day and age, family members come on go, caught up in life, trying to survive. However, the more you promote family by making this a priority, the more likely you will be in staying together in the future. While celebrating Thanksgiving and Christmas may be a drag for individuals without a strong family, these 2 holidays provide an opportunity to get caught up with how everything is going. Reach out to family in their living years.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-July 25

Posted on July 25, 2026 by expressyourself4him

John Denver – Take Me Home, Country Roads (Official Audio)

Inspiration Behind Take Me Home Country Roads:

While driving along Clopper Road in Maryland, songwriters Bill Danoff and Taffy Nivert were inspired to write Take Me Home, Country Roads. On the way to a family reunion, they began to create a song about winding country roads. However, since Maryland didn’t fit into their chorus, Bill and Taffy both imagined West Virginia to be just as beautiful. John Denver added his input as this song was later released in 1971.

Biblical Application:

In his hand are the depths of the earth, and the mountain peaks belong to him.5 The sea is his, for he made it, and his hands formed the dry land, Psalm 95:4-5.

Exegesis of Take Me Home, Country Roads:

Almost heaven, West Virginia
Blue ridge mountains, Shenandoah river
Life is old there, older than the trees
Younger than the mountains, blowing like a breeze

Viewing the mountains from winding country roads provided heavenly views of Maryland, replaced by West Virginia. As someone who lives 5 miles from the Blue Ridge Mountains and drove by Shenandoah National Park every day after work, this area is beautiful.

Country roads, take me home
To the place I belong
West Virginia, mountain mamma
Take me home, country roads

Imagery like a scene from the first Cars movie of the back roads. Seeing this scenery makes you want to find a place to call home.

All my memories gather ’round her
Miner’s lady, stranger to blue water
Dark and dusty, painted on the sky
Misty taste of moonshine, teardrop in my eye

Imagines of life in the mountains: coal mining, logging the mountains and moonshine. The sights of these mountains are breathtaking, making some emotional.

Country roads, take me home
To the place I belong
West Virginia, mountain mamma
Take me home, country roads

Repeating the chorus. Embracing the mountains, calling this special place home.

I hear her voice, in the morning hour she calls me
Radio reminds me of my home far away

Who needs a television when you can look up at the mountains.

Driving down the road I get a feeling
That I should have been home yesterday, yesterday

There is something special about traveling through the mountains.

Country roads, take me home
To the place I belong
West Virginia, mountain mamma
Take me home, country roads

Mountain mamma could refer to generations who refuse to move away from their home in the mountains.

Country roads, take me home
To the place I belong
West Virginia, mountain mamma
Take me home, country roads

Going back home brings back memories from your childhood.

Take me home, country roads
Take me home, country roads

The desire to go back where you grew up, eager to see how things have changed and how they have remained the same.

Final Thoughts:

My first teaching position was at a boarding school in the Monongahela National Forest. Living at a summer camp, students were removed from a bad home situation and were able to thrive without any distractions except the mountains. Sitting outside during limited free time, I began writing poetry, inspired by the scenery surrounding me. Before this semester ended, I even began writing songs, finishing 12 that were inspired by this beautiful setting in West Virginia.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-July 24

Posted on July 24, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Darius Rucker – Wagon Wheel (Lyrics)

Inspiration Behind Wagon Wheel:

Wagon Wheel was inspired by his daughter’s talent show at her school. This rendition rekindled Rucker’s appreciation for Bob Dylan’s demo that was completed by Ketch Secor of the Old Crow Medicine Show. Upon hearing the faculty band perform “Wagon Wheel,” Darius turned to his wife saying, “I need to cut this song.” This set into motion Rucker’s version of Wagon Wheel.

Biblical Application:

Some time later God tested Abraham. He said to him, “Abraham!” “Here I am,” he replied. 2 Then God said, “Take your son, your only son, whom you love—Isaac—and go to the region of Moriah. Sacrifice him there as a burnt offering on a mountain I will show you.” 3 Early the next morning Abraham got up and loaded his donkey. He took with him two of his servants and his son Isaac. When he had cut enough wood for the burnt offering, he set out for the place God had told him about, Genesis 22:1-3.

Exegesis of Wagon Wheel:

Heading down south to the land of the pines
I’m thumbing my way into North Caroline
Staring up the road and pray to God I see headlights
I made it down the coast in 17 hours
Picking me a bouquet of dogwood flowers
And I’m a-hoping for Raleigh, I can see my baby tonight

Traveling south to North Carolina. Daruis is driving all night to avoid traffic, hoping he doesn’t fall asleep. After 17 hours in a car, Darius stops off to pick up flowers. Darius is driving home to see his wife and or newborn child.

So rock me, mama, like a wagon wheel
Rock me, mama, any way you feel
Hey, mama, rock me
Rock me, mama, like the wind and the rain
Rock me, mama, like a southbound train
Hey, mama, rock me

Darius transitions from his version to the original chorus. It appears to be a mother is holding and rocking a newborn baby. A train is compared with a wagon wheel, impacted by the weather.

Running from the cold up in New England
I was born to be a fiddler in an old-time string band
My baby plays the guitar, I pick a banjo now
Oh, north-country winters keep a-getting me down
Lost my money playing poker, so I had to leave town
But I ain’t turning back to living that old life no more

Since Darius was born in South Carolina, this is either about Bob Dylan or Ketch Secor. While Dylan was born in Minnesota, this stanza could be about him or another musician who learned to play a guitar early on. Gambling stalled his career initially.

So rock me, mama, like a wagon wheel

Rock me, mama, any way you feel
Hey, mama, rock me
Yeah, rock me, mama, like the wind and the rain
Rock me, mama, like a southbound train
Hey, mama, rock me

The chorus is repeated. There is something comforting about being held and rocked. The child inside doesn’t care how he is rocked, as long as he is held by his mom.

Walking to the south out of Roanoke
I caught a trucker out of Philly, had a nice long toke
But he’s a-headed west from the Cumberland gap
To Johnson City, Tennessee
And I got to get a move on before the sun
I hear my baby calling my name, and I know that she’s the only one
And if I die in Raleigh, at least I will die free

Hitch hiking led to a pleasant ride in Virginia and Tennessee. Then a call from his girlfriend or wife leads him back to North Carolina.

So rock me, mama, like a wagon wheel
Rock me, mama, any way you feel
Hey, mama, rock me
Oh, rock me, mama, like the wind and the rain
Rock me, mama, like a southbound train
Hey, hey, mama, rock me, oh

If you haven’t been on a horse and carriage before, it’s hard to get a sense for the opening of this chorus. Yet, being held by a parent provides a sense of security within a child.

So rock me, mama, like a wagon wheel
Rock me, mama, any way you feel (oh, I wanna feel)
Hey, hey, mama, rock me
Mama, rock me, mama, rock me
Rock me, mama, like the wind and the rain (oh)
Rock me, mama, like a southbound train
Hey, yeah-yeah, mama, rock me
You can rock me, rock me

The final chorus made me visualize a mother on her front porch, sitting in a rocking chair, rocking a child back to sleep.

Final Thoughts:

The Wagon Wheel takes me back to the first time I rode on a horse and carriage in Williamsburg, Virginia. Yet, growing up in Delaware, every house had a front porch where you would sit and talk every evening in the summer. Nearly every porch had at least one rocking chair. These are the memories that came racing back to my mind as I listened to Wagon Wheels.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-July 23

Posted on July 23, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Pharrell Williams – Freedom (Official Video)

Inspiration Behind Freedom:

Freedom emerged in 2015 as part of the Despicable Me 3 soundtrack. However, when you study the lyrics, Freedom is a universal anthem of liberation blending personal empowerment with human rights and equality. Pharell uses nature as a metaphor with the imagery of cheetahs, elephants, and the wild to drive home the untamed nature of freedom.

Biblical Application:

The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it. 16 And the Lord God commanded the man, “You are free to eat from any tree in the garden; 17 but you must not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, for when you eat from it you will certainly die,” Genesis 2:15-17.

Exegesis of Freedom:

La, la la la la la, la la la
La, la la la la la, la la la
La, la la la la la, la la la
La, la la la la la, la la la

A fun start for song designed for children, the Despicable Me 3 soundtrack.

Hold on to me
Don’t let me go
Who cares what they see?
Who cares what they know?

A desire to be close to and hold freedom. Don’t worry about what other people think.

Your first name is Free
Last name is Dom
We choose to believe
In where we’re from

A reminder of who you are, where you’re from and what you choose to believe.

Man’s red flower
It’s in every living thing
Mind, use your power
Spirit, use your wings

A reference to the movie. Deep inside this flower is like the original motto of the YMCA: mind, body and spirit.

Freedom!
Freedom!

Freedom!
Freedom
Freedom
Freedom

Flying around to find and catch freedom.

Hold on to me
Don’t let me go
Cheetahs need to eat
Run, antelope

An inner desire to keep freedom near like the primal nature of animals.

Your first name is King
Last name is Dom
‘Cause you still believe
In everyone

The quest for all animals, finding out where they belong on the food chain, with the strongest eager to be on top.

When a baby first breathes
When night sees sunrise
When the whale hunts the sea
When man recognizes

The force of human nature for people as well as natural inclinations within animals.

Freedom!
Freedom!
Freedom!
Freedom
Freedom
Breathe in

Slow down to breathe in freedom.

We are from heat
The electric one
Does it shock you to see
He left us the sun?

Another reference to Despicable Me 3. Viewing the sun as the earth’s heater. The electric one is the Creator God.

Atoms in the air
Organisms in the sea
Sun and yes, night
Are made of the same things

Viewing science from a secular worldview.

Freedom!
Freedom!
Freedom!
Freedom
Freedom
Freedom
Freedom
Freedom

All human beings and animals crave freedom.

Final Thoughts:

Freedom means different things to different people. As the United States begins to embrace socialism under the guise of communism, the history of past attempts has been ignored. When you stop to examine the history of most governments throughout the world, the only wealthy people are the leaders. The majority of their citizens are poor, starving to death or struggling each week to put food on the table. To me, freedom is securing your eternal destiny in heaven, 1 John 5:11-13. Everything thing else in life is a bonus.

by Jay Mankus

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