Tag Archives: Bible

THANKFUL- Josh Groban

Inspiration Behind Thankful:

“Thankful” was written by David Foster, Carole Bayer Sager, and Richard Page. Besides being acclaimed song writers, Josh was moved by Thankful’s transformative power of gratitude. This theme resonated with Josh’s own beliefs and life experiences.

Biblical Application:

For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all God’s people, ¹⁶ I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. ¹⁷ I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit^[f] of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. ¹⁸ I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people, Ephesians 1:15-18.

Exegesis of Thankful:

Somedays, we forget to look around us
Somedays, we can’t see the joy that surrounds us
So caught up inside ourselves
We take when we should give

Busyness causes individuals to become self-absorbed. This selfish state of mind results in taking, not giving.

So for tonight we pray for
What we know can be
And on this day we hope for
What we still can’t see
It’s up to us, to be the change
And even though we all can still do more
There’s so much to be thankful for

A change in focus, praying for who God wants us to be. Hopeful to be transformed into an agent of thankfulness.

Look beyond ourselves
There’s so much sorrow
It’s way to late to say, I’ll cry tomorrow
Each of us must find our truth
It’s so long overdue

Stop and look around you. Help those in need by becoming vessels of love and truth.

So for tonight we pray for
What we know can be
And everyday, we hope for
What we still can’t see

Praying to become the person God created you to be. Hoping that change will come for the better.

It’s up to us, to be the change
And even though we all can still do more
There’s so much to be thankful for

Enjoy the moment as you wait to become the person you desire to be. Be thankful for the little things in life.

Even with our differences
There is a place we’re all connected
Each of us can find each other’s light

Focus on what we have in common, not our differences. Be a light in a world full of darkness.

So for tonight, we pray for
What we know can be
And on this day, we hope for
What we still can’t see
It’s up to us, to be the change
And even though this world needs so much more
There’s so much to be thankful for

Turn to God in prayer to be transformed into a vessel of thankfulness. Believe and hope as you wait for God to make you into a more thankful person.

Final Thoughts:

One of my first Christian friends in high school, Mindy, introduced me to Christian music. Although we were never in the same group of friends, she was a light for Jesus in my high school. Mindy and her friend Michelle weren’t preachy. Rather, both were encouraging, hopeful and positive people. I believe these are the individuals that Josh was referring to as he sung Thankful. As you wait for God to transform you, be thankful for each new day God provides.

by Jay Mankus

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

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

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

Evanescence – My Immortal (Official HD Music Video)

Inspiration Behind My Immortal:

My Immortal was inspired by an emotional story of loss and memory. The fictional story guided two teenagers, Ben Moody to write the lyrics while Amy Lee composed the music. My Immortal was eventually updated for Evanescence, refined into a haunting power ballad about a lingering spirit. When you are young, teens think they are invincible until human tragedy opens your eyes to mortality.

Biblical Application:

I declare to you, brothers and sisters, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God, nor does the perishable inherit the imperishable. ⁵¹ Listen, I tell you a mystery: We will not all sleep, but we will all be changed— ⁵² in a flash, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed. ⁵³ For the perishable must clothe itself with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality. ⁵⁴ When the perishable has been clothed with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality, then the saying that is written will come true: “Death has been swallowed up in victory,” 1 Corinthians 15:50-54.

Exegesis of My Immortal:

[Verse 1]
I’m so tired of being here
Suppressed by all my childish fears
And if you have to leave
I wish that you would just leave
‘Cause your presence still lingers here
And it won’t leave me alone

A teenager who is worn down by anxiety, fear and worry. Losing the will to press on in life. Tormented by a demonic spirit overwhelming her soul, possibly the demon of depression.

[Pre-Chorus]
These wounds won’t seem to heal
This pain is just too real
There’s just too much that time cannot erase

The spirit is suffocating any joy left for living.

[Chorus]
When you cried, I’d wipe away all of your tears
When you’d scream, I’d fight away all of your fears
And I held your hand through all of these years
But you still have all of me

A reference to the fictional story that inspired this song. Two friends helping one another get through the pain of growing up.

[Verse 2]
You used to captivate me by your resonating light
Now I’m bound by the life you left behind
Your face, it haunts my once pleasant dreams
Your voice, it chased away all the sanity in me

A positive influence which uplifted this teenage soul. Reference to a death, possible suicide. Struggling to accept this reality, wondering why this had to happen.

[Pre-Chorus]
These wounds won’t seem to heal
This pain is just too real
There’s just too much that time cannot erase

Time still haven’t healed the pain deep inside their heart.

[Chorus]
When you cried, I’d wipe away all of your tears
When you’d scream, I’d fight away all of your fears
And I held your hand through all of these years
But you still have all of me

Recalling a caring friend who is no longer around. A best friend who either passed away or was forced to move.

[Bridge]
I’ve tried so hard to tell myself that you’re gone
But though you’re still with me
I’ve been alone all along

Their friend is alive but is not the same. Subsequently, this woman feels alone with no one to share her pain.

[Chorus]
When you cried, I’d wipe away all of your tears
When you’d scream, I’d fight away all of your fears
And I held your hand through all of these years
But you still have all of me, ah

I’m still here for you if you let me back in.

[Outro]
Me, ah
Me, ah

A loss for words or a call for help.

Final Thoughts:

I lived in the same house for 16 years so when my father was forced to transfer to Ohio, this was tough. Although I was in college at the time, the friends that I grew close to were now hundreds of miles away. I did write letters for a couple of years until most of these relationships faded away. I was able to make new friends at work, but this close fellowship that I shared slowly grew cold. I pray that one day I’ll be reunited with many of these individuals in heaven. However, for now as a grapple with my own mortality, I’m taking one day at a time to see what God has in store for me.

by Jay Mankus

Casting Crowns – Waiting on the Night to Fall (Official Lyric Video)

Waiting on the Night to Fall was conceived from a real-life encounter that Mark Hall had with a former addict in his church. The lyrics address the concept that sin often occurs under the cover of darkness. Whether outside at night or in a secluded room, human begins think that no one is watching as they give into temptation. Unfortunately, the more you give into fleshly desires, the hardest it becomes to break this addiction.

Biblical Application:

What shall we say, then? Is the law sinful? Certainly not! Nevertheless, I would not have known what sin was had it not been for the law. For I would not have known what coveting really was if the law had not said, “You shall not covet.”^{[b] 8} But sin, seizing the opportunity afforded by the commandment, produced in me every kind of coveting. For apart from the law, sin was dead. ⁹ Once I was alive apart from the law; but when the commandment came, sin sprang to life and I died. ¹⁰ I found that the very commandment that was intended to bring life actually brought death. ¹¹ For sin, seizing the opportunity afforded by the commandment, deceived me, and through the commandment put me to death. ¹² So then, the law is holy, and the commandment is holy, righteous and good, Romans 7:7-12.

Exegesis of Waiting on the Night to Fall:

There’s an old man livin’ in the back of your woods tonight
You forgot he was even there, but you’ve never slipped his mind
He’s livin’ off of scraps of you, you never knew you left behind
And as the sun goes down, he rises with a smile

This is either referring to a man recovering from addiction or a source of temptation that you haven’t purged from your life. Stumbling blocks that were never removed. Illustrating the power of addiction, going back time after time.

He’s waiting on the night to fall
The old man’s comin’ to call
But you don’t see the writing on the wall
He’ll never step out in the light
No, he’s just biding time
And while you slumber, he’s gonna come and take it all
He’s waiting on the night to fall
He’s waiting on the night to fall

Symbolic of the demonic influences that exist in an addict’s life. They do fine most of the day, but when they are alone at night, temptation is too strong to resist, falling prey to this spiritual slumber.

He knows you have the answers, but truth lies dusty on your shelf
And the sword that you could slay him with has become an ornament and nothin’ else
You could put him back down in his hole in the ground, but he knows you never will
He’s been around so long, you got used to the smell

A Christian who has stopped reading the Bible, forgetting how God wants him to live. The Sword of the Spirit isn’t activated as this Christian merely plays defense with the Devil. Addiction and bad habits have been around so long that he doesn’t realize how bad his faith stinks.

He’s waiting on the night to fall
The old man’s comin’ to call
But you don’t see the writing on the wall

A wake-up call for this addict.

He’ll never step out in the light
No, he’s just biding his time
And as you slumber, he’s gonna come and take it all
He’s waiting on the night to fall
He’s waiting on the night to fall

This trend must be halted, or you’ll continue to fall prey to addiction.

He knows he’ll never have your soul
But he will gladly rob you blind
While you’re feasting at his table, he’ll tie your hands and numb your mind
He’ll take you farther than you wanna go
He’ll keep you longer than you wanna stay
And it will cost you more than you ever thought you’d pay

Images of the spiritual battle for this man’s soul. Once you indulge sin, it always sticks around much longer than expected. These poor decisions get costlier as this sinful pattern continues.

He’s waiting on the night to fall
The old man’s comin’ to call
But you don’t see the writing on the wall
He’ll never step out in the light
He’s just biding his time
And as you slumber, he’s gonna come and take it all
He’s waiting on the night to fall
He’s waiting on the night to fall

Another warning to this man repeating the same bad habits day after day. You have to wake up from this spiritual slumber so that you are set free from addiction.

He’s waiting on the night
He’s waiting on the night to fall
The old man’s comin’ to call
But you don’t see, you don’t see the writing on the wall
Oh, he’s waiting on the night
He’s waiting on the night to fall
He’s waiting on the night to fall

A last call, warning this man to get ready for the temptations that you’ll likely encounter tonight. Be alert, awake and sober so that this time you’ll refrain from backsliding.

Final Thoughts:

One of my spiritual mentors in college shared a similar message as Waiting on the Night to Fall. Tommy shared that sin is like an unwelcomed friend who stays around much longer than expected. Sin then becomes an accepted part of your life where you feel like you can’t live without. Finally, the cost of sinful endeavors can have lasting consequences. This includes losing your family, friends, fortune and your dignity. This is what Jesus meant by John 10:10 where the thief, the Devil, seeks to steal your joy, kill all your dreams and destroy your life.

by Jay Mankus

Silverline ** “Voices in the Night” **Official Music Video**

Inspiration Behind Voices in the Night:

Voices in the Night addresses everyday struggles encountered by being “in the world, not of the world.” Outside of church doors, there are various voices in the form of conforming to societal norms, peer pressure, and temptation. Silverline uses their second album to highlight the distractions that Christians will encounter in life. How you respond to these voices will ultimately dictate your eternal future.

Biblical Application:

For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God. ¹⁵ The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship.^[f] And by him we cry, “Abba,^[g] Father.” ¹⁶ The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children. ¹⁷ Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory, Romans 8:14-17.

Exegesis of Voices in the Night:

In a world created
Dreams are replaced with fear
Truth gone up in flames
Smells like death in thee air
Forsake it all for nothing
He carried his cross and rein

The voices in your head and from this world can replace dreams with nightmares. Truth can be watered down or destroyed. This is why God sent Jesus to die on a cross.

We are the chosen few
Rise it up to say
We are the voices in the night
We will not be silent
We won’t back down
We’ll stand and fight

A call to stand up to these evil, negative and supernatural voices. Stand up to become the light of the world.

We are the voices in the night
All the fields are for harvest
All day and they waste away
You hear the voice of God
But still you’re unchanged
Forsake what you created
Why are you running away
The daylights fading fast now
Rise up and say

Quoting the words of Jesus that there is a spiritual harvest ready but the servants are few. When God speaks to you through the power of the Holy Spirit, how are you not transformed. Instead you are abandoning God like the prodigal.

We are the voices in the night
We will not be silent
We won’t back down
We’ll stand and fight

A call to Christians to become positive voices in the night to guide people toward Jesus.

We are the voices in the night
Truth is not created
Its all around
Seek the Lord
Why he may be found
We will not be silent
We won’t back down
We’ll stand and fight
We are the voices in the night

Truth comes from God’s Word, the Bible. Christians should be voices for God, no longer sitting quietly or standing on the sidelines of life. This is the call.

Final Thoughts:

In this world of political correctness and the fear of being cancelled, churches and Christians have decided to be silent on controversial issues. Rather than risking offending others, Christians have fled to secure places. When you know something is wrong and you don’t speak up, you’ll failing to obey your calling as a concerned citizen. Christians need to become beacons of light to guide the lost toward Jesus, Matthew 5:14-16.

by Jay Mankus