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-November 5

Posted on November 5, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Alanis Morissette – Thank U (Lyrics)

Inspiration Behind Thank U:

Alanis Morissette took a break from music in 1997, traveling to India. This sabbatical lasted a year and a half, serving as a personal awakening that led to a spirit of gratitude. The silence and reflection she experienced in India was like being reborn as Alanis decompressed and re-evaluated her life. This time away inspired the words to Thank U.

Biblical Application:

And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him, Colossians 3:17.

Exegesis of Thank U:

How ’bout getting off of these antibiotics?
How ’bout stopping eating when I’m full up?
How ’bout them transparent dangling carrots?
How ’bout that ever elusive kudo?

Alanis shares about a medical condition which may have influenced her body and diet. Commenting on either India’s food or her new diet.

Thank you, India
Thank you, terror
Thank you, disillusionment
Thank you, frailty
Thank you, consequence
Thank you, thank you, silence

A brief summary of her 18 months overseas. Thanking India for all that she learned, the good and bad. Developing a new sense of appreciation for silence.

How ’bout me not blaming you for everything?
How ’bout me enjoying the moment for once?
How ’bout how good it feels to finally forgive you?
How ’bout grieving it all one at a time?

What Alanis learned about herself. Perhaps a glimpse of internal struggles, blaming herself and not enjoying her music career. Learning to forgive herself and others. Learning to grieve and heal.

Thank you, India
Thank you, terror
Thank you, disillusionment
Thank you, frailty
Thank you, consequence

Repeating her gratitude for this unique experience in India.

Thank you, thank you, silence

A new appreciation for silence, time to think.

The moment I let go of it
Was the moment I got more than I could handle
The moment I jumped off of it
Was the moment I touched down

A poetic description of how this time in India led to emotional and internal healing.

How ’bout no longer being masochistic?
How ’bout remembering your divinity?
How ’bout unabashedly bawling your eyes out?
How ’bout not equating death with stopping?

Alanis was searching for answers to life, questioning God, crying and struggling to figure out these questions before moving on with her life and music career.

Thank you, India
Thank you, Providence
Thank you, disillusionment
Thank you, nothingness
Thank you, clarity
Thank you, thank you, silence

This chorus changes slightly, using God’s providence as if to realize that spending 18 months abroad was enough time to heal.

Yeah, yeah
Oh, oh, oh
Yeah, oh, oh
Yeah, oh, oh, whoa
Yeah, no, oh, oh

Acknowledging that clarity was found in India.

No, oh, oh, oh
No, oh, no, oh
No, oh, no, no
No, oh
No, oh, oh
Oh, oh, oh
Ooh

Perhaps doubting that she is ready to move on with her life.

Thank you
Everybody, thanks
Alanis Morissette
We love you

Overwhelmed with gratitude and thankful for being able to take this once in a lifetime trip.

Final Thoughts:

Back in 1992, I said goodbye to my friends in Delaware as I traveled to Minnesota to attend a Youth Ministry Tradeschool. Just like Alanis trip to India changed her life, these 7 weeks in the twin cities transformed mine. Communication, public speaking and relationship skills that I learned through Tentmakers Youth Ministry became a building block which I have taken into every future job. The confidence developed during this special time has made me into who I am today.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-November 4

Posted on November 4, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Louis Armstrong – What A Wonderful World (Official Video)

Inspiration Behind What a Wonderful World:

This song was conceived in 1967 by Bob Thiele and George David Weiss as a hopeful, uplifting musical piece. Seeking to heal a culture struggling with racial strife, the Vietnam War, and social unrest of this time, What a Wonderful World was designed to put a positive spin on life. Louis Armstrong recorded this song in 1967, connecting deeply with the themes of What a Wonderful Life, drawing from his own personal experiences.

Biblical Application:

But do not forget this one thing, dear friends: With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day. 9 The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead, he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance, 2 Peter 3:8-9.

Exegesis of What a Wonderful Life:

I see trees of green, red roses too
I see them bloom for me and you
And I think to myself what a wonderful world

Providing a positive image and perspective of life. Unfortunately, we take the obvious signs of wonder for granted.

I see skies of blue and clouds of white
The bright blessed day, the dark sacred night
And I think to myself what a wonderful world

The writers are pointing out blessings of a sunny day following by a night sky filled with stars. These are the things in life that are overlooked until you slow down to appreciate the wonder of earth.

The colors of the rainbow so pretty in the sky
Are also on the faces of people going by
I see friends shaking hands saying how do you do
They’re really saying I love you

After the rain stops, a rainbow is a sign of God’s covenant made with Noah. Do you see the faces of a great American melting people. Focus on what we have in common instead of what divides. Being kind and nice to one another is a sign of love for one another.

I hear babies crying, I watch them grow
They’ll learn much more than I’ll never know
And I think to myself what a wonderful world
Yes, I think to myself what a wonderful world

The joy of a newborn entering this world and watching them grow up. Observing the growth of human beings as society evolves. This moves Louis Armstrong to declare, “what a wonderful world.”

Oh, yes

Affirming his belief of a wonderful world.

Final Thoughts:

As long as I can remember, I have always been a deep thinker, slowing down to reflect upon the mysteries of life. While I haven’t received answers to all of my questions, the Bible and the power of the Holy Spirit have opened my eyes to countless blessings that get overlooked daily. This is the message that Louis Armstrong proclaimed in this song, this world is a wonderful place to live.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-November 3

Posted on November 3, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Natalie Merchant – Kind and Generous

Inspiration Kind and Generous:

The idea for Kind and Generous came from a sentiment Natalie said was from her own experiences and direct influences from her family. Natalie’s upbringing encouraged positive virtues to be shared with those around her. Kind and Generous was initially written as a thank-you note to her fans, acknowledging their support and kindness. Yet, the roots of this song date back to a conversation with her mother about being grateful for the nice people she encountered in life.

Biblical Application:

A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed, Proverbs 11:25.

Exegesis of Kind and Generous:

[Verse 1]
You’ve been so kind and generous
I don’t know how you keep on giving
For your kindness, I’m in debt to you
For your selflessness, my admiration
For everything you’ve done
You know I’m bound
I’m bound to thank you for it

Stopping to acknowledge someone special. Overwhelmed and grateful for her family and fans. Natalie is moved to express her thankfulness.

[Verse 2]
You’ve been so kind and generous
I don’t know how you keep on giving
For your kindness, I’m in debt to you
And I never could have come this far without you
For everything you’ve done
You know I’m bound
I’m bound to thank you for it

Natalie truly feels blessed to be surrounded by a loving family, musical team and supporters. Natalie credits their words of encouragement which has made her musical dreams come true. Thankful to all.

[Bridge]
Oh, I want to thank you
For so many gifts
You gave with love and tenderness
I want to thank you

Likely a reference to her parents and extended family. Feeling blessed and supported.

I want to thank you
For your generosity
The love and the honesty
That you gave me

Thankful for the tough love and feedback that she received in life.

I want to thank you
Show my gratitude
My love and my respect for you
I want to thank you
Oh, I want to

This song serves as a form a gratitude, love and respect for her support team.

[Outro]
Thank you
Thank you
Thank you
Thank you
Thank you
Thank you
Thank you
Thank you
Thank you
Thank you
(Ooooh)
Thank you
Thank you
Thank you
(I wanna thank you)
Thank you
Thank you
I want to
(I want to thank you)
Thank you
Thank you
Thank you
Thank you
(I wanna thank you)
Thank you
Thank you
Thank you
Thank you

Words cannot express how thankful and blessed that Natalie feels.

Final Thoughts:

One of the things that I learned early on as a manager at Amazon is the importance of verbally thanking people for their hard work. By using affirmations, encouragement, and words of praise, this develops a positive culture and place where human beings feel appreciated. This is the power of being kind and generous with uplifting words. As long as this atmosphere and climate are maintained, workers feel like their dedication and hard work are not overlooked. These are the positive vibes that I try to bring each day so that individuals feel appreciated and recognized.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-November 2

Posted on November 2, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Led Zeppelin – Thank You (Official Audio)

Inspiration Behind Thank You:

Thank You was conceived out of Robert Plant’s personal love for his wife Maureen Wilson. The concept of this song was spawn from Plant’s poetic experience in Wales. Subsequently, the lyrics blend a spirit of gratitude with Led Zeppelin’s classic sound.

Biblical Application:

Rejoice always, 17 pray continually, 18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus, 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18.

Exegesis of Thank You:

If the sun refused to shine
I would still be loving you
When mountains crumble to the sea
There will still be you and me

Robert using a hypothetical situation to express his love for his wife. He refuses to allow anything to separate their love for one another.

Kind a woman, I give you my all
Kind a woman, nothing more
Little drops of rain, whisper of the pain
Tears of love’s lost in the days gone by

How Robert views his wife, a kind woman. Despite the trials they have endured, they had each other to lean on.

My love is strong, with you there is no wrong
Together we shall go until we die, my, my, my
Inspiration’s what you are to me
Inspiration, look ‘n’ see

Robert remembers his wedding vows, living together until death. His wife is his inspiration and joy.

And so, today my world it smiles
Your hand in mine, we walk the miles
Thanks to you, it will be done
For you to me are the only one
Alright, yeah

A reflection of the joy his wife has brought Robert. Holding hands and smiling. Thanking her for all that she means to him.

Happiness, no more be sad

Happiness, I’m glad

The joy that his wife has brought him.

If the sun refused to shine
I would still be loving you
Mountains crumble to the sea
There will still be you and me

Ending the same way this song began.

Final Thoughts:

I wrote of similar Thank You note to my wife Leanne in our Wedding bulletin. I explained what love meant to me in the Bible, writing a short poem of what our relationship meant to me. Unfortunately, in this age of social media, words of encouragement and thanksgiving are often withheld. As a new month starts, be a vessel of thanks by expressing uplifting words to anyone who deserves your praise.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-November 1: A Season of Thankfulness

Posted on November 1, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Prayers of the Saints

Monthly Theme:

In the United States, families take a brief break from life each November to celebrate Thanksgiving. Based upon surviving a rough winter during the Colonization of America, the Plymouth Colony in 1621 joined 90 Wampanoag men in a harvest celebration. This special time of reflection would become a national holiday after the Revolutionary War. Subsequently, Americans continue this tradition today, thanking God, family and others for providing for their daily bread and needs in the form of a Thanksgiving meal.

Inspiration Behind Prayers of the Saints:

November first celebrates All Saints Day, remembering special people of faith from the past and present. Rick Elias’ version of Prayers of the Saints is a personal and spiritual reflection rooted in his lifelong faith. This journey began as a member of Rich Mullins’ group, A Ragamuffin Band, sharing his own experiences of gratitude and resilience. Rich Mullins died in a car crash in the prime of his music career, known as a worship leader who incorporated various instruments like a hammer dulcimer into his songs. Rick sets the tone for November’s season of Thankfulness.

Biblical Application:

I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— 2 for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. 3 This is good, and pleases God our Savior, 4 who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. 5 For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus, 1 Timothy 2:1-5.

Exegesis of Prayers of the Saints:

Oh, the prayers of the saints
Have kept me alive
Even when I could not find my way
Through the darkest night
Yes, the prayers of the saints
Have surely kept me alive

Spiritual mentors like Rich Mullins kept Rick alive spiritually during the tough times in life. Prayer warriors in his local church helped Rick survive the trials in life that he endured.

And so, late in the evening
When my soul lies down, riddled and torn
As the day’s defeats
Indignities and delights encircle my heart
Like a crown of thorns
Oh, yes, the night is a cold, cruel mistress
For whom many a better man
Has givеn his life
So tonight it’s your prayers, my friend
That keep mе alive

Possibly a reference to a childhood prayer “and so I lay my soul to speak.” A glimpse into how Rick ends his evening before going to sleep. Pouring out his heart and soul in prayer. Likely a reference to Rich Mullins spiritual impact on his life.

Oh, the prayers of the saints
Have kept me alive
Even when I could not find my way
Through the darkest night
Yes, the prayers of the saints
Have surely kept me alive

Prayers lifted up in silent strengthen others through the power of the Holy Spirit. In times of uncertainty, crossroads and indecision, prayers kept people pressing in life.

In this hour of forsaking and madness
Your voice is heard
You will lead me to Your promised land
I will cling to Your breast
And pray as this fever burns
You have been my journey and someday
You’ll be my journey’s end, my friend
But tonight it’s your prayers
That guide me around this road’s bend, yeah

Prayers do not fall upon deaf ears. Just like the Israelites in the Old Testament, God will lead you to the promise of eternal life. The power of prayers from modern-day saints that give doubting people of faith hope.

Oh, the prayers of the saints
Have kept me alive, yeah
Even when I could not find my way
Through the darkest night
Yes, the prayers of the saints
Have surely kept me alive

This is the impact of the Prayers of the Saints. Providing light and guidance during periods of darkness. This is the guiding force for people of faith.

Even now, I still crawl
Through these shadows and dreams
Jesus, I’m weary
From all these eyes have seen
But I can see, yeah

Rick pours out his heart to God in prayer. Afterward, Rick sees the progress of answered prayers.

The prayers of the saints
Have kept me alive
Even when I could not find my way
Through the darkest night
Yes, the prayers of the saints
Have surely kept me alive

The power of prayer continues today. While saints do backslide into sinners, praying keeps the lost and lonely on the straight and narrow, Matthew 7:13-14.

Final Thoughts:

I met Rick after a concert about a decade ago. There was a question-and-answer session at church as Rick shared his journey as a Christian Artist. Rick’s wife Linda is the Cindy Lauper of Christian music. Unfortunately, many aspiring artists often live paycheck to paycheck, driving all over the country to share their music ministry with others. This is why many popular Christian bands end up crossing over to a secular audience to make more money so that their ministry continues. However, the Prayers of the Saints are the wind beneath the wings of Christians.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-October 31

Posted on October 31, 2026 by expressyourself4him

The Afters – I Will Fear No More (Official Music Video)

Inspiration Behind I Will Fear No More:

This song was conceived out of band members’ personal struggles with anxiety. I Will Fear No More also addresses a desire to create an anthem of trust in God. When things begin to fall apart in life, human nature want to try to stay in control. However, when your life starts to fall apart, placing your full trust in God is the solution for calming your fears.

Biblical Application:

“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” – John 16:33

Exegesis of I Will Fear No More:

Every anxious thought that steals my breath
It’s a heavy weight upon my chest
As I lie awake and wonder what the future will hold
Help me to remember that You’re in control

The emotionAl state that several members of the Afters found themselves in. An oppressive spirit wore down these musicians. A prayer when you’re losing control.

You’re my courage when I worry in the dead of night
You’re my strength ’cause I’m not strong enough to win this fight
You are greater than the battle raging in my mind
I will trust You, Lord
I will fear no more

Reaching out to God for divine intervention. Leaning on Jesus in times of weakness. Taking your thoughts captive by trusting in the power of God to improve your situation.

I will lift my eyes
I will lift my cares
Lay them in Your hands
I’ll leave them there
When the wind and waves are coming
You shelter me
Even though I’m in the storm, the storm is not in me

Likely a reference of Jesus’ wprds in Matthew 11:28-30 by laying your burdens at the feet of Jesus.

You’re my courage when I worry in the dead of night
You’re my strength ’cause I’m not strong enough to win this fight
You are greater than the battle raging in my mind

Leaning on God in times of need. Jesus is the cure for battling anxiety.

I will trust You, Lord
I will fear no more
(Oh-oh-oh-ohh, oh-oh-oh-ohh) I will fear no more
(Oh-oh-oh-ohh, oh-oh-oh-ohh) I will fear no more

Learning to let go of control, trusting in God so that your fears will cease.

No power can come against me
‘Cause You have overcome
No darkness can overwhelm me
‘Cause You’ve already won
No power can come against me
‘Cause You have overcome
(Oh-oh-oh-ohh, oh-oh-oh-ohh)
No darkness can overwhelm me
‘Cause You’ve already won
(Oh-oh-oh-ohh, oh-oh-oh-ohh)

Appears to reference the apostle Paul’s words in Romans 8. This demonstrates the power and love of God.

You’re my courage when I worry in the dead of night
You’re my strength ’cause I’m not strong enough to win this fight
You are greater than the battle raging in my mind
I will trust You, Lord (Trust You, Lord)
I will fear no more (Fear no more)

You can go to God at anytime, especially at night. Trusting in God allows you to give the Lord the reigns so that your battle with anxiety becomes God’s battle. This process casts your concerns and fears at the feet of Jesus.

(Oh-oh-oh-ohh, oh-oh-oh-ohh)
I will fear no more (Fear no more)
(Oh-oh-oh-ohh, oh-oh-oh-ohh) I will fear no more
(Oh-oh-oh-ohh, oh-oh-oh-ohh) I will fear no more
(Oh-oh-oh-ohh, oh-oh-oh-ohh) I will fear no more

Repeating this 3 times as if to speak this into existence, no longer holding on to fear. Handing this over to God.

Final Thoughts:

I was afraid of numerous things when I was young. My coaches growing up would have considered me soft, an emotionally wreck and mentally weak. However, as I developed a will to succeed, I learned to persevere. While my biggest fear was failure, this is when Jesus entered my life, Romans 10:9-11. Although most of my fears have subsided, I press on to work out my salvation with fear and trembliong.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-October 30

Posted on October 30, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Hallow’s Eve, by Holy Soldier

Inspiration Behind Hallow’s Eve:

Holy Soldier transitioned to a crossover band as preparations for their second album began. This move from an evangelical rock band toward reaching a secular audience by creating their own version of Gimme Shelter, a Rolling Stones classic hit. Hallow’s Eve blends Halloween imagery with a spiritual message. The lyrics contain Halloween images of blood‑red moon, whispering winds, scarlet web, and hallowed spirits. Each of these symbols serve as an apocalyptic warning of end times.

Biblical Application:

I am coming soon. Hold on to what you have, so that no one will take your crown. 12 The one who is victorious I will make a pillar in the temple of my God. Never again will they leave it. I will write on them the name of my God and the name of the city of my God, the new Jerusalem, which is coming down out of heaven from my God; and I will also write on them my new name. 13 Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches, Revelation 3:11-13.

Exegesis of Hallow’s Eve:

Oh, the memories that follow me beneath a blood-red moon,
Shadows of the morning; the end is coming soon,
I gaze into the evening sky, a jaded refugee,
I know he’s out the somewhere, and he’s coming back for me.

The color of an evening sky triggers memories of the past. Subtle signs instill a sense of urgency that the end of the world is near. A reference to Jesus’ second coming.

Hallow’s Eve, look into the eye of the storm,
Hallow, Hallow’s Eve, and know that you were warned,
Hallow’s Eve, look into the eye of the storm,
Hallow, Hallow’s Eve.

Perhaps reflecting upon Jesus’ prophetic words in Matthew 24. Uses signs of the times as a reference point to predict what is going to happen in the future.

From the east, crimson dawn weaves a scarlet web,
As hallowed spirits fill the sky, the Earth gives up her dead,
I see the last of long ago, though waking from a dream,
A thief is coming in the night; the door is opening.

Halloween imagery mixed with spiritual prophecy to warn others of the Rapture, Jesus; second coming to earth.

Hallow’s Eve, look into the eye of the storm,
Hallow, Hallow’s Eve, and know that you were warned,
Hallow’s Eve, look into the eye of the storm,
Hallow, Hallow’s Eve, the whispering winds forewarn,
Hallow, Hallow’s Eve.

Matthew 24 serves as a checklist to follow so that you have a better idea of when end times draw near.

Hallow’s Eve, look into the eye of the storm,
Hallow, Hallow’s Eve, well you know that you were warned,
Hallow’s Eve, look into the eye of the storm,
Hallow, Hallow’s Eve, the whispering winds forewarn,
Hallow, Hallow’s Eve.

Ending with identical stanzas. A call to observe the horizon, then check the Bible to see if this visible sign is consistent with Jesus; words in Matthew 24.

Hallow’s Eve,
Die.

Living each day as if today was your last.

Final Thoughts:

There are numerous theories about what the end times on earth will look like. However, over the years, I have learned not to get caught up in potential theories. Rather, I follow the 1 Thessalonians 4:12 principle by living my life guided by Scripture. Instead of being overwhelmed by what’s wrong in life, be a light for Christ so that the Holy Spirit shines through the life that you live.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-October 29

Posted on October 29, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Zach Williams – Fear Is a Liar (Official Lyric Video)

Inspiration Behind Fear is a Liar:

Futurist Jim Carroll uses the line “Fear is a liar“as a call to resilience: Carroll provided an alternative option, “Choose courage instead.” However, the song by Zach Williams’ was inspired by personal struggles with fear, anxiety, addiction, and self‑doubt. Zach’s faith journey led him to understand the power of Scripture to enable him to see God’s truth over the lies of fear.

Biblical Application:

I sought the Lord, and he answered me;  he delivered me from all my fears, Psalm 34:4.

Exegesis of Fear is a Liar:

When he told you you’re not good enough

When he told you you’re not right 

When he told you you’re not strong enough

To put up a good fight 

When he told you you’re not worthy 

When he told you you’re not loved

When he told you you’re not beautiful

That you’ll never be enough 

These are a list of thoughts planted inside your mind supernaturally from the Devil to hold you captive, paralyzed by fear.

Fear he is a liar 

He will take your breath

Stop you in your steps 

Fear he is a liar

He will rob your rest

Steal your happiness 

Cast your fear in the fire 

Cause fear he is a liar

Zach quoting the words of Jesus in John 8:44 where the Devil is revealed as the father of all lies.

When he told you were troubled 

You’ll forever be alone

When he told you you should run away

You’ll never find a home

When he told you you were dirty

And you should be ashamed

When he told you you could be the one

That grace could never change

Zach again appears to be quoting Jesus. this time in John 10:10. This list of doubt is used by the Devil to kill, steal and destroy your joy for living.

Fear he is a liar

He will take your breath

Stop you in your steps 

Fear he is a liar

He will rob your rest

Steal your happiness 

Cast your fear in the fire 

Cause fear he is a liar

The spirit of fear is designed to inflict emotional anguish inside of human souls. Until you begin to overcome fear through the knowledge and insight of 1 John 4:18, your life will be robbed of all joy.

Let Your fire fall and cast out all my fears

Let Your fire fall Your love is all I feel

Fear he is a liar 

He will take your breath

Stop you in your steps 

Fear he is a liar

He will rob your rest

Steal your happiness 

Cast your fear in the fire 

Cause fear he is a liar

Zach does a deep dive on the source of fear, using his own personal experiences as a former addict to finally break free from this unhealthy spirit.

Final Thoughts:

I became afraid of snakes while living in Delaware. Living behind a stream that was a tributary fpr a large creek, I was surrounded by them. I mowed over snakes while cutting the grass, had snakes slither between my legs and once had a snake fall out of a tree right in front of me. While in college, I had a series of nightmares that intensified this fear until I began to use the Bible as the Sword of the Spirit. Being proactive like the words of Fear is a Liar is the best way that I know to stop fear in its tracks.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-October 28

Posted on October 28, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Paramore: crushcrushcrush [OFFICIAL VIDEO]

Inspiration Behind Crush Crush Crush:

This song was inspired by the raw, chaotic emotions of teenage infatuation. Lead singer Hayley Williams drew from her own experiences growing up to address a mix of thrill, insecurity, and obsession. The lyrics capture the awkwardness, excitement, and vulnerability of a young crush. As young hearts race, you feel both electric and fragile emotions.

Biblical Application:

A hot-tempered person stirs up conflict, but the one who is patient calms a quarrel, Proverbs 15:18.

Exegesis of Crush Crush Crush:

II’ve got a lot to say to you
Yeah, I’ve got a lot to say
I noticed your eyes are always glued to me
Keeping them here
And it makes no sense at all

Hayley notices that another boy has a crush on her. This attraction doesn’t make sense.

They taped over your mouth
Scribbled out the truth with their lies
You little spies

Gossip started this distortion of the truth.

They taped over your mouth
Scribbled out the truth with their lies
You little spies

Repeated as if to express her frustrations.

Crush, crush, crush
Crush, crush
(Two, three, four)

The issue of dealing with crushes.

Nothing compares to
A quiet evening alone
Just the one, two
I was just counting on

The silence of being alone can be refreshing.

That never happens
I guess I’m dreaming again
Let’s be more than this

However, this rarely occurs, more than a dream.

If you want to play it like a game
Well, come on, come on, let’s play
‘Cause I’d rather waste my life pretending
Than have to forget you for one whole minute

The raw emotions of dealing with a crush and flirting with the one you like.

They taped over your mouth
Scribbled out the truth with their lies
You little spies

Your crush was revealed to the person you like.

They taped over your mouth
Scribbled out the truth with their lies
You little spies

Girls frustrated by gossip.

Crush, crush, crush
Crush, crush
(Two, three, four)

How crushes can be draining.

Nothing compares to
A quiet evening alone
Just the one, two
I was just counting on

Wanting to be alone with the person that you like.

That never happens
I guess I’m dreaming again
Let’s be more than this now

Disappointment from not having this crush lead to anything.

Rock and roll, baby
Don’t you know
That we’re all alone now?
I need something to sing about

Trying to find something positive in life.

Rock and roll, hey
Don’t you know, baby
We’re all alone now?
I need something to sing about

Wanting a relationship to work but it nerver materialized.

Rock and roll, hey
Don’t you know, baby
We’re all alone now?
Give me something to sing about

Third straight stanza is repeated as if to express disappointment.

Nothing compares to
A quiet evening alone
Just the one, two
I was just counting on

Wanting something to happen so bad.

That never happens
I guess I’m dreaming again
Let’s be more than
No ohh

A glimpse of reality.

Nothing compares to
A quiet evening alone
Just the one, two
I was just counting on

Still wanting to dream.

That never happens
I guess I’m dreaming again
Let’s be more than
More than this


Trying to press on.

Final Thoughts:

I had a crush on a good friend from high school who was in a serious relationship for most of high school. When her relationship ended, I started dating a new girl in college. The crush we had on each other never materialized due to timing. These are likely some of the experiences that inspired Hayley to craft Crush Crush Crush.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-October 27

Posted on October 27, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Monster Mash (Lyrics)

Inspiration Behind Monster Mash:

This song was inspired by Boris Karloff’s iconic Frankenstein’s Monster. This experiment in a lab that led to the creation of Frankenstein was later combined with 1960s dance crazes like the Mashed Potato. Aspiring actor Bobby “Boris” Pickett was also the front man for a group called The Cordials. Bobby used his ability to mimic Boris Karloff’s voice, singing the Monster Mash as if Boris was the lead singer of The Cordials.

Biblical Application:

In that day, the Lord will punish with his sword—his fierce, great and powerful sword—
Leviathan the gliding serpent, Leviathan the coiling serpent; he will slay the monster of the sea, Isaiah 27:1.

Exegesis of Monter Mash:

I was working in the lab late one night
When my eyes beheld an eerie sight
For my monster, from his slab, began to rise
And suddenly, to my surprise

A reference from Frankenstein’s creation from the movie.

(He did the Mash) he did the Monster Mash
(The Monster Mash) it was a graveyard smash
(He did the Mash) it caught on in a flash
(He did the Mash) he did the Monster Mash

In this version, the monster created is dancing to the mashed potato as well as free styling.

From my laboratory in the Castle east
To the master bedroom, where the vampires feast
The ghouls all came from their humble abodes
To get a jolt from my electrodes

Boris describes in detail the atmosphere inside his haunted castle.

(They did the Mash) they did the Monster Mash
(The Monster Mash) it was a graveyard smash
(They did the Mash) it caught on in a flash
(They did the Mash) they did the Monster Mash

The chorus is designed to appeal to the dance craves of the 1960’s.

The zombies were having fun
The party had just begun

Setting the scene inside this dance for monsters.

The guests included Wolf-Man, Dracula, and his son

The who’s who list of the monsters on the dance floor.

The scene was rocking, all were digging the sounds
Igor on chains, backed by his baying hounds
The coffin-bangers were about to arrive
With their vocal group, The Crypt-Kicker Five

A vivid image of a Halloween costume party where all the guests are dancing.

(They played the Mash) they played the Monster Mash
(The Monster Mash) it was a graveyard smash
(They played the Mash) it caught on in a flash
(They played the Mash) they played the Monster Mash

The audience digged the live band at this castle.

Out from his coffin, Drac’s voice did ring
Seems he was troubled by just one thing
Opened the lid and shook his fist
And said, “Whatever happened to my Transylvania twist?”

A funny complaint leads to a new song and dance.

(It’s now the Mash) it’s now the Monster Mash
(The Monster Mash) and it’s a graveyard smash
(It’s now the Mash) it’s caught on in a flash
(It’s now the Mash) it’s now the Monster Mash

All the monsters are breaking down to the sound of this music.

Now everything’s cool, Drac’s a part of the band
And my Monster Mash is the hit of the land
For you, the living, this Mash was meant too
When you get to my door, tell them Boris sent you

Bobby speaks in third person as Boris, amazed at how popular this song became.

(And you can Mash) then you can Monster Mash
(The Monster Mash) and do my graveyard smash
(Then you can Mash) you’ll catch on in a flash
(Then you can Mash) then you can Monster Mash

The Mash. possibly the Mash Potato dance continues.

Mash good!
Easy, Igor, you impetuous, young boy
Mash good! (Monster Mash)

Igor is getting too excited, caught up in the excitement of this dance.

(Monster Mash)
(Monster Mash)
(Monster Mash)
(Monster Mash)

Everyone on the dance floor is singing along with the band.

Final Thoughts:

Like the film Footloose, dancing is how each generation expresses themselves. While not all dances make sense or catch on, the Alley Cat and Fox Trot are still being performed today. My wife and I took a ballroom dancing class at Dupont Country Club while I was still teaching. Although I don’t remember all the moves, dancing to good music makes any evening that much more enjoyable.

by Jay Mankus

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