Tag Archives: faith

The Message Behind the Music-February 14

Posted on February 14, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Inspiration Behind Higher Love:

Higher Love was co-written by Steve Winwood and Will Jennings. The source of this higher love comes from childhood flashbacks of sinning Christian hymns in church. The goal for Higher Love was to create a modern-day hymn that would resonate with the spiritual condition of his generation. Steve isn’t looking for an earthly feeling that is temporary. Rather, he is searching for an eternal love that will last the test of time.

Biblical Application:

They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. 43 Everyone was filled with awe at the many wonders and signs performed by the apostles. 44 All the believers were together and had everything in common. 45 They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need. 46 Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, 47 praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved, Acts 2:42-47.

Exegesis of Higher Love:

Think about it, there must be higher love
Down in the heart or hidden in the stars above
Without it, life is wasted time
Look inside your heart, I’ll look inside mine

Steve and Will are searching for a higher power. Whether this exists inside your heart or in the skies above, life without this higher love is a waste of time. Each begin this quest to find a higher power.

Things look so bad everywhere
In this whole world, what is fair?
We walk blind and we try to see
Falling behind in what could be

When you look around, this world seems to be falling apart. The blind often leads the blind, falling behind the ideal life where a higher love exists.

Bring me a higher love
Bring me a higher love, oh
Bring me a higher love
Where’s that higher love I keep thinking of?

Steve is thinking about growing up in church as a child. Now as an adult, the absence of this higher love is fading from his memory.

Worlds are turning, and we’re just hanging on
Facing our fear and standing out there alone
A yearning and it’s real to me
There must be someone who’s feeling for me

The world is changing as most people are hanging on by a thread. Facing these fears alone, Steve is yearning for a higher love that is real.

Things look so bad everywhere
In this whole world, what is fair?
We walk blind and we try to see
Falling behind in what could be

The chorus points to current events filled with bad news. This lack of fairness makes the world blind from what is really going on with most failing to reach their full potential in life.

Bring me a higher love
Bring me a higher love, oh
Bring me a higher love
Where’s that higher love I keep thinking of?

This stanza serves as a prayer to God for higher love.

Bring me a higher love
Bring me a higher love, oh
Bring me a higher love
I could rise above on a higher love

Access to this higher love would make a difference in life.

I will wait for it
I’m not too late for it
Until then, I’ll sing my song
To cheer the night along, bring it

Love doesn’t happen immediately. You have to wait for it. Until this arrives, stay hopeful.

I could light the night up with my soul on fire
I could make the sun shine from pure desire
Let me feel that love come over me
Let me feel how strong it could be

Steve points to a spiritual event where God ignited his soul with passion. This excitement filled Steve’s life, overflowing and making him stronger in his faith.

Oh-oh, bring me a higher love
Bring me a higher love, oh
Bring me a higher love
Where’s that higher love I keep thinking of?
Alright

Since Steve knows higher love exists, he is praying for this higher power to return to his life.

Bring me a higher love
Bring me a higher love, oh
Bring me a higher love
Oh, bring me a higher love, oh

This is what Steve’s soul craves.

Bring me a higher love (yes, I know, bring me a higher love)
Bring me a higher love, oh (bring me a higher love)
Bring me a higher love (yes, I know, bring me a higher love)
Bring me a higher love, oh

Steve is persistent in his request for higher love.

Bring me a higher love (yes, I know, bring me a higher love)
Bring me a higher love, oh
Bring me a higher love (yes, I know, bring me a higher love)
Bring me a higher

Steve is searching for a spiritual spark.

Thank you, thank you so much
Thank you

Steve appears to be thanking God in advance for answering his prayer.

Final Thoughts:

Most of my encounters with God as a young person was either a youth group or on retreats. This is where I was first introduced to the concept of a living God. During events in college, this living God began to dwell in my heart, bringing me joy. Yet like Steve, we all experience spiritual dry spells, longing for this higher power to return, John 10:10. May this February revive your soul and bring you into fellowship with a higher love, Romans 10:9-11.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-February 13

Posted on February 13, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Inspiration Behind Greatest Love of All:

The song Greatest Love of All was first recorded in 1977 by George Benson. The lyrics of Greatest Love of All were co-written by Michael Masser and Linda Creed. Michael wrote this as a love song to Linda who battled breast cancer throughout her life. The lyrics were fueled by Linda’s own experiences of resilience and determination to stay alive. However, Whitney Houston’s interpretation of Greatest Love of All in 1986 steered this song in a new direction, reaching new heights as one of her top songs ever recorded.

Biblical Application:

In those days Hezekiah became ill and was at the point of death. The prophet Isaiah son of Amoz went to him and said, “This is what the Lord says: Put your house in order, because you are going to die; you will not recover.” 2 Hezekiah turned his face to the wall and prayed to the Lord, 3 “Remember, Lord, how I have walked before you faithfully and with wholehearted devotion and have done what is good in your eyes.” And Hezekiah wept bitterly. 4 Before Isaiah had left the middle court, the word of the Lord came to him: 5 “Go back and tell Hezekiah, the ruler of my people, ‘This is what the Lord, the God of your father David, says: I have heard your prayer and seen your tears; I will heal you. On the third day from now you will go up to the temple of the Lord. 6 I will add fifteen years to your life. And I will deliver you and this city from the hand of the king of Assyria. I will defend this city for my sake and for the sake of my servant David,’” 2 Kings 20:1-6.

Exegesis of Greatest Love of All:

I believe the children are our future
Teach them well and let them lead the way
Show them all the beauty they possess inside
Give them a sense of pride to make it easier
Let the children’s laughter remind us how we used to be

The lyrics reference the wisdom of King Solomon in Proverbs 22:6. When children learn to see the good inside of human hearts and souls, this world will become a better place. Give kids opportunities to lead, but allow time to laugh, reminding adults of how simple life was as a child.

Everybody’s searching for a hero
People need someone to look up to
I never found anyone who fulfilled my needs
A lonely place to be
And so I learned to depend on me

This world is eager to find someone to follow. A trustworthy individual who you believe in. During Whitney’s life, she never found someone who fulfilled her needs. Despite being lonely, Whitney become self-reliant, turning toward rugged individualism.

I decided long ago
Never to walk in anyone’s shadows
If I fail, if I succeed
At least I’ll live as I believe
No matter what they take from me
They can’t take away my dignity

Whitney decided to be a leader long ago, never following. Any failure was on her, following her beliefs and convictions in life. Whatever people think about her, they can’t steal her dignity.

Because the greatest love of all
Is happening to me
I found the greatest love of all
Inside of me
The greatest love of all
Is easy to achieve
Learning to love yourself
It is the greatest love of all

The chorus points to a place in life where Whitney became content with who she was. Instead of beating herself up with criticism, she learned to love and forgive herself. This is Whitney’s interpretation of the greatest love of all.

I believe the children are our future
Teach them well and let them lead the way
Show them all the beauty they possess inside
Give them a sense of pride to make it easier
Let the children’s laughter remind us how we used to be

This repetitive stanza points to Whitney ‘s belief that human beings should invest their time in children as they are the world’s future.

I decided long ago
Never to walk in anyone’s shadows
If I fail, if I succeed
At least I’ll live as I believe
No matter what they take from me
They can’t take away my dignity

Whitney has no regrets about the decisions and paths she has chosen in life.

Because the greatest love of all
Is happening to me
I found the greatest love of all
Inside of me
The greatest love of all
Is easy to achieve
Learning to love yourself
Is the greatest love of all

Learning to love yourself is not easy if you come from a broken home. Perfectionists and individuals verbally abused as a child are often self-critical and have a hard time of accepting who they are. Reaching a stage in life of being content and loving who you are takes time.

And if, by chance, that special place
That you’ve been dreaming of
Leads you to a lonely place
Find your strength in love

This closing stanza serves as a clause, “what if you never learn to love yourself?” If your dreams in life don’t turn out as you expect, find strength in love.

Final Thoughts:

I disagree with Whitney about the greatest love of all. This love is described by the apostle Paul in Romans 5:6-8. Jesus dies for all the errors, failures and mistakes made by mankind. This love is expressed by Jesus in John 3:16-17 and reinforced by the words of 1 John 5:11-13. This is the greatest love of all.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-February 10

Posted on February 10, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Inspiration Behind the Power of Love:

Huey Lewis had a desire to create a song that would capture the essence of love as a transformational force. The composition of the Power of Love became a collaboration between Huey and two members of the News: Chris Hayes and Johnny Colla. These 3 men aimed to craft a song that would fit into the upcoming film Back to the Future. Subsequently, themes of adventure, human connection and travel were engraved into the lyrics.

Biblical Application:

This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters. 17 If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person? 18 Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth, 1 John 3:16-18.

Exegesis of the Power of Love:

The power of love is a curious thing
Make a one man weep, make another man sing
Change a hawk to a little white dove
More than a feeling, that’s the power of love

Love alters the actions, behaviors, and choices of individuals. Love brings a wide range of emotions. Love can transform a predator into a gentle and innocent human being. Love is more than a feeling. Love has the power to transform you.

Tougher than diamonds, rich like cream
Stronger and harder than a bad girl’s dream
Make a bad one good (mm), make a wrong one right
Power of love that keeps you home at night

This stanza reminds me of the old onion analogy. People can be rough on the edges, but when you start peeling off layers, you’ll be surprised by what you will find. The power of love keeps a married man home at night.

You don’t need money, don’t take fame
Don’t need no credit card to ride this train
It’s strong, and it’s sudden, and it’s cruel sometimes
But it might just save your life
That’s the power of love
That’s the power of love

While superficial love may be bought in the early stages of a relationship, real love rises above fame and fortune. Love can be cruel, strong or unexpected, but the power of love can alter your life.

First time you feel it, it might make you sad
Next time you feel it, it might make you mad
But you’ll be glad, baby, when you’ve found
That’s the power makes the world go ’round

When love is confused with lust, you’ll be sad. Love may be jealousy as well. Yet, when you find the person of your dreams, you’ll be glad that you waited. A loving relationship brings the best out of people.

And it don’t take money, don’t take fame
Don’t need no credit card to ride this train
It’s strong, and it’s sudden, it can be cruel sometimes
But it might just save your life

True love can’t be forced or manufactured. You have to let love happen naturally.

They say that all in love is fair
Yeah, but you don’t care
(Ooh) but you know what to do (what to do)
When it gets hold of you
And with a little help from above

Love can make people do the craziest things. Yet, when you meet the person that God created you marry, its amazing.

You feel the power of love
You feel the power of love
Can you feel it?
Hmm

The power of love is displayed through individuals who have been transformed by God and through a loving relationship.

It don’t take money, and it don’t take fame
Don’t need no credit card to ride this train
Tougher than diamonds and stronger than steel
You won’t feel nothin’ ’til you feel
You feel the power, just feel the power of love
That’s the power, that’s the power of love

When the right person comes along, you’ll know for sure if you know what you’re looking for.

You feel the power of love
You feel the power of love
Feel the power of love

The power of love is finding a soul mate for life.

Final Thoughts:

In a leadership class that I taught for Juniors and Seniors in high school, one unit was entitled Finding Your Soul Mate. This unit began with a section on Self-Discovery. This involved creating a checklist of activities, hobbies, personality traits, and qualities students were looking for in a significant other. While there were other building blocks, the ultimate goal was for students to have a good ideal of people that they wanted to date in college. One of my former students, Dallas Saylor, who ended up as the valedictorian of his graduating class, used this information to find his wife in college. For me, this is the power of love.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-February 3

Posted on February 3, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Inspiration Behind It Must Have Been Love:

Gessle wanted to convey a message within a song with Roxette that love may be lost, but it is never forgotten. It Must Have Been Love was a perfect fit for the film Pretty Woman starring Richard Gere and Julia Roberts. This song addresses the theme of love and loss, especially when human beings become vulnerable by opening up about past failures in life. This timeless classic resonates with individuals who have endured the painful reality of lost love.

Biblical Connection:

If I speak in the tongues[a] of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. 2 If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. 3 If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast,[b] but do not have love, I gain nothing, 1 Corinthians 13:1-3.

Exegesis of It Must Have Been Love:

It must have been love
But it’s over now
Lay a whisper
On my pillow
Leave the winter
On the ground
I wake up lonely
There’s air of silence
In the bedroom
And all around
Touch me now
I close my eyes
And dream away

Whenever a relationship ends, there is a noticeable difference. You grow so accustomed to being together and having someone in your life that you forget what it’s like to be alone. The lyrics in the opening stanza illustrate this eerie silence.

It must have been love
But it’s over now
It must have been good
But I lost it somehow

The feeling of love vanished when this significant other left ia brought up. This relationship seemed like true love, but was lost for some unknown reason.

It must have been love
But it’s over now
From the moment we touched
Till the time had run out

The love this song is referring to is based upon emotions, focused too much on the physical aspect of a relationship.

Make believing
We’re together
That I’m sheltered
By your heart
But in and outside
I turned to water
Like a teardrop
In your palm

Sometime a relationship can begin like a Hollywood movie, too good to be true. When the honeymoon period is over, you have to work at a relationship to keep it going. If you don’t, everything you dreamed of can fall apart.

And it’s a hard
Winter’s day
I dream away

Dreaming is getting her through his absence.

It must have been love
But it’s over now
It was all that I wanted
Now, I’m living without
It must have been love
But it’s over now
It’s where the water flows
It’s where the wind blows

Love requires action. Anyone can say, “I love you,” but true love is lived out like the analogy shared by the apostle Pail in 1 Corinthians 13.

It must have been love
But it’s over now
It must have been good
But I lost it somehow
It must have been love
But it’s over now
From the moment we touched
Till the time had run out
Yeah, it must have been love
But it’s over now
It was all that I wanted
Now, I’m living without
It must have been love
But it’s over now
It’s where the water flows
It’s where the wind blows
It must have been love
But it’s over now

This extended chorus is searching for answers to why this relationship ended.

It must have been love
But it’s over now

Perhaps, watching Pretty Woman will provide further insight into the complexities of love.

Final Thoughts:

I had to write a research paper for a Philosophy class in college on Pretty Woman. I had to use philosophical terms to explain why a woman would turn to prostitution. While I don’t recall my final conclusion, I do see a lack of genuine love lived out by members of society. Instead of being doers of the Word of God by emulating the love of Jesus, too many people are all talk and no action. May today’s blog inspire you to demonstrate acts of love daily to give hope to others who have given up on love.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-February 1: Theme for Week 1 – Overcoming the Pain of Love

Posted on February 1, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Inspiration Behind Just Once:

James Ingram was searching for a perfect moment in a relationship where love lasts. Based upon the lyrics of Just Once, James never found what he was looking for. James was longing for an emotional connection that endured the test of time, hoping that his love for one woman would move beyond just a feeling. Finally, James conveys the sadness of love where two individuals can’t get on the same page, eventually going their separate ways.

Week 1 Theme:

Although Valentine’s Day is celebrated throughout the world, many people struggle to overcome the heartbreak of a failed relationship. The next 7 days will highlight the barriers, obstacles, and pain associated with falling in and out of love.

Biblical Application:

We love because He first loved us. 20 Whoever claims to love God yet hates a brother or sister is a liar. For whoever does not love their brother and sister, whom they have seen, cannot love God, whom they have not seen. 21 And he has given us this command: Anyone who loves God must also love their brother and sister, 1 John 4:19-21.

Exegesis of Just Once:

I did my best
But I guess my best wasn’t good enough
‘Cause here we are back where we were before
Seems nothin’ ever changes
We’re back to bein’ strangers
Wonderin’ if we ought to stay
Or head on out the door

Human effort only takes you so far in a relationship. No matter how hard you try to love someone, the other person must have a mutual interest. While the easy way out is to suggest, “if this was meant to be, we’d still be together.” Yet, love is much more complicated. As individuals change, they either grow closer or further apart. This is how the first stanza ends. When couples don’t share common goals, ideals, and interests, daily conversations become superficial and fade away.

Just once
Can we figure out what we keep doin’ wrong?
Why we never last for very long
What are we doin’ wrong?
Just once
Can we find a way to finally make it right?
To make the magic last for more than just one night?
If we could just get to it
I know we could break through it

James is referring to someone he is dated more than once. This on again off again relationship is taking an emotional toll on James. This connection appears to be built upon the physical. Subsequently, the magic of one date doesn’t last. Perhaps, due to a lack of vision for the future, this couple falls into the same unhealthy patterns that led to their initial break up.

Hmm-hmm

I gave my all
But I think my all may have been too much
‘Cause Lord knows we’re not getting anywhere
Seems we’re always blowin’
Whatever we’ve got goin’
And it seems at times with all we’ve got
We haven’t got a prayer

When you want something so badly, you try to become the person whom you love wants you to be. Then when the true you is revealed, there is resistance. If you’re honest with yourself like James, you’ll realize that the two of you aren’t compatible. This may explain the comment “we haven’t got a prayer.”

Just once
Can we figure out what we keep doin’ wrong?
Why the good times never last for long
Where are we goin’ wrong?
Just once
Can’t we find a way to finally make it right?
To make the magic last for more than just one night?
I know we could break through it
If we could just get to it

James is doing everything in his power to save this relationship, hoping for some sort of spark to reignite love. The only question is do both sides want to fight and save this relationship?

Just once
I want to understand
Why it always comes back to goodbye
Why can’t we get ourselves in hand
And admit to one another
We’re no good without each other?
Take the best to make it better
Find a way to stay together

When you are about to get dumped, these are the thoughts of someone who doesn’t want to let go of love. Common sense doesn’t work in relationships when the other person has already made up their mind.

Just once
Can we find a way to finally make it right?
(Whoa!)
Make the magic last for more than just one night?
I know we could break through it
If we could just get to it
Just once

Whoa-oh
We can get through it
Just once

This final portion of the lyrics is like saying a Hail Mary, hoping that God will somehow salvage and save your relationship.

Final Thoughts:

Just Once is part of one of the saddest movie endings. In the final scene of the 1982 film The Last American Virgin, a high school student finds his girlfriend making out with another boy. As he abruptly leaves this party in tears, Just Once plays as he drives home. Unless you’re a rock star or super model, this one scene demonstrates the pain of love that James sings about and most human beings have personally endured.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-January 23

Posted on January 23, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Inspiration Behind Let the Day Begin:

This song was conceived out of a desire to acknowledge and celebrate all of the diverse contributions made by various individuals throughout society. Let the Day Begin is a secular version of the Christian song Thank You by Ray Boltz. Let the Day Begin is similar to keeping a gratitude journal, but you are expressing these thanks verbally to occupations who are usually overlooked in our culture. This song serves as an anthem for new beginning as well as aspirations for achieving personal dreams in life.

Biblical Application:

We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your[a] faith; 7 if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; 8 if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead,[b] do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully, Romans 12:6-8.

Exegesis of Let the Day Begin:

Here’s to the babies of a brand new world
Here’s to the beauty of the stars
Here’s to the travellers on the open road
Here’s to the dreamers in the bars
Here’s to the teachers in the crowded rooms
Here’s to the workers in the fields
Here’s to the preachers of the sacred word
Here’s to the drivers at the wheel

The opening stanza provides a glimpse of the people working quietly behind the scenes. Hospital staff, astrologers, the retired living in RV’s, young dreamers, teachers, farmers, preachers,and truck drivers are recognized.

Here’s to you my little love
With blessings from above
Now let the day begin
Here’s to you my little love
With blessings from above
Now let the day begin
Let the day begin

This opening chorus acknowledges family men and women praying for their children.


Here’s to the winners of the human race
Here’s to the losers in the game
Here’s to the soldiers of the bitter war
Here’s to the wall that bears their name

The second group of individuals mentioned involve current events. Instead of focusing solely on the winners, the losers are thought of as if referring to the Little League motto spoken out loud by players before each game. The military are given a shout out despite the outcome of a war.


Here’s to you my little love
With blessings from above
Now let the day begin
Here’s to you my little love
With blessings from above
Now let the day begin
Let the day begin
Let the day begin
Let the day… start

After living in South Carolina for 3 years, some people didn’t like to plan, flying by the seat of their pants, making things up as they go. Yet, as I have learned over the years, “if you fail to plan, you plan to fail.” Therefore, before you day begins, shower it with prayer.


Here’s to the doctors and their healing work
Here’s to the loved ones in their care
Here’s to the strangers on the streets tonight
Here’s to the lonely everywhere
Here’s to the wisdom from the mouths of babes
Here’s to the lions in the cage
Here’s to the strugglers of the silent war
Here’s to the closing of the age

Doctors, nurses, retirement home employees, the homeless, lonely, wise young children, zookeepers, the struggling and the elderly are all reflected upon. If you don’t slow down enough to be aware of your surroundings, you’ll miss the opportunity to help someone in need.


Here’s to you my little love
With blessings from above
Now let the day begin
Oh!
Here’s to you my little loves
With blessings from above
Now let the day begin
Here’s to you my little loves
With blessings from above
Now let the day begin
Here’s to you my little loves
With blessings from above
Now let the day begin
Let the day begin
Let the day… start

As 2026 starts to speed up, take time every morning and night to reflect upon your own life. Thank God for all that you have been blessed with and continue to pray for your children. When this time of prayer and reflection is complete, a new day can begin.

Final Thoughts:

There were other more up-tempo rock songs that I could have highlighted from the Call, but the message of Let the Day Begin fit into this calendar slot. Don’t allow yourself to become consumed with the hustle and bustle of work. Rather, take time to thank the people who have impacted your life today, this week and throughout the year.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-January 22

Posted on January 22, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Inspiration Behind All You Zombies:

Rob Hyman and Eric Bazilian were working on a new sound by combining genres. When a vision for All You Zombies came to Rob and Eric, they immediately wrote this in a small studio in Philadelphia. The Zombies in this song are symbolic of people wearing masks, moving without awareness, swayed by invisible forces to conform. Biblical imagery is used to compare the Israelites to Zombies who made irrational decisions by following human nature instead of God. The line “you don’t have to hide anyone” is a call to action for anyone living in shame, fear or silence.

Biblical Application:

When the woman saw that the fruit of the tree was good for food and pleasing to the eye, and also desirable for gaining wisdom, she took some and ate it. She also gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it. 7 Then the eyes of both of them were opened, and they realized they were naked; so they sewed fig leaves together and made coverings for themselves. 8 Then the man and his wife heard the sound of the Lord God as he was walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and they hid from the Lord God among the trees of the garden. 9 But the Lord God called to the man, “Where are you?” 10 He answered, “I heard you in the garden, and I was afraid because I was naked; so I hid.” 11 And he said, “Who told you that you were naked? Have you eaten from the tree that I commanded you not to eat from?” – Genesis 3:6-11.

Exegesis of All You Zombies:

Holy Moses met the Pharaoh
Yeah, he tried to set him straight
Looked him in the eye
“Let my people go”

Moses was called by God to confront King Pharaoh, seeking freedom for Israel after living as slaves in Egypt for 400 years.

Holy Moses on the mountain
High above the golden calf
Went to get the Ten Commandments
Yeah, he’s just gonna break ’em in half

After God unleashed 10 plagues upon Egypt, Israel was given their freedom. While living in the wilderness, Moses went up to Mount Sinai to receive the Ten Commandments. The longer that Moses was gone, the Israelites began to think that he was dead. Israel then pressured Aaron to create a god that they could see. When Moses received news about the creation of this golden calf, Moses was so angry that he broke the tablet that the Ten Commandments was written on.

All you zombies hide your faces
All you people in the street
All you sittin’ in high places
The pieces gonna fall on you

The chorus speaks to a middle class oppressed by government officials sitting in high places. The proud will eventually be humbled.

No one ever spoke to Noah
They all laughed at him instead
Workin’ on his ark
Workin’ all by himself

According to Genesis 2:5-6, the earth’s initial atmosphere did not include rain. Rather, a system of springs around the world, just underneath the ground sprung up to water the earth. Subsequently, concept of rain was foreign, not invented yet. This is why residents of the earth laughed at Noah.

Only Noah saw it comin’
40 days and 40 nights
Took his sons and daughters with him
Yeah, they were the Israelites

Once the ark was completed, only Noah saw the approaching storm. Noah boarded the ark with his family once all the animals were safely onboard.

All you zombies hide your faces
All you people in the street
All you sittin’ in high places
The rain’s gonna fall on you

This chorus speaks to the masses who are oppressed by the leaders in charge. However, if these officials live by the motto “do as I say, not as I do” will be humbled by God.

Holy Father, what’s the matter?
Where have all your children gone?
Sittin’ in the dark
Livin’ all by themselves
You don’t have to hide anymore

The lyrics fast forward to modern-day, when All You Zombies was written. When faith is lost, people stop going to church, staying home to find a substitute for God. A call to action is sent out to those hiding their beliefs and faith.

All you zombies show your faces
All you people in the street
All you sittin’ in high places
The pieces gonna fall on you

The Bible contains a consistent theme that God humbles the proud and uplifts the meek.

All you zombies show your faces (I saw you out there)
All you people in the street (let’s see you)
All you sittin’ in high places
It’s all gonna fall on you

The time has come to face your fears by leaving this Zombie like malaise.

Final Thoughts:

The Hooters took a chance by creating a song centered around biblical themes. This one hit song vaulted a local band in Philadelphia to become famous internationally. Whenever a person of faith takes a stand spiritually, blessings often follow. May this be your goal for 2026.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-January 16

Posted on January 16, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Inspiration Behind Free Bird:

Although Lynyrd Skynyrd did dedicate Free Bird to Duane Allman following his death, this song was inspired by a conversation following a fight between guitarist Allen Collins and his wife Kathy. Collins’ opening line is a hypothetical question, “what would happen if I leave here tomorrow?” This one line stuck with lead singer Robbie Van Zant who turned this question into one of Lynyrd Skynyrd’s greatest songs. Thinking about the free spirits of this era, Robbie writes about breaking free from social constraints. Free Bird addresses a desire for freedom and quest for self-discovery.

Biblical Application:

 It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery. 2 Mark my words! I, Paul, tell you that if you let yourselves be circumcised, Christ will be of no value to you at all. 3 Again I declare to every man who lets himself be circumcised that he is obligated to obey the whole law. 4 You who are trying to be justified by the law have been alienated from Christ; you have fallen away from grace. 5 For through the Spirit we eagerly await by faith the righteousness for which we hope. 6 For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision has any value. The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love. 7 You were running a good race. Who cut in on you to keep you from obeying the truth? 8 That kind of persuasion does not come from the one who calls you, Galatians 5:1-8.

Exegesis of Free Bird:

If I leave here tomorrow
Would you still remember me?
For I must be traveling on now
‘Cause there’s too many places I’ve got to see

No idea is neutral. Every choice has a consequence. If you pick up and leave, human nature causes you to wonder if you;ll be missed or remembered. Whether you’re talking about a band on tour ready to travel to their next destination or someone who simply wants to travel to see what else is out there, self-discovery must continue.

But if I stay here with you, girl
Things just couldn’t be the same

If Allen stays with his wife, things must change to avoid these heated arguments.

‘Cause I’m as free as a bird now
And this bird you cannot change
Oh-oh-oh-oh-oh

Robbie writes about an individual’s inner desire for freedom.

And the bird you cannot change
And this bird you cannot change
Lord knows I can’t change

Perhaps Robbie is thinking about how people want you to become someone that can be controlled to be conformed into what they desire instead of who you truly are as a person.

Bye-bye, baby, it’s been a sweet love, yeah, yeah
Though this feeling I can’t change
But, please, don’t take it so badly
‘Cause Lord knows I’m to blame

Selfish desires based upon impulses often cause relationships to end.

But if I stay here with you, girl
Things just couldn’t be the same

Let me be who I am instead of who you want me to become.

‘Cause I’m as free as a bird now
And this bird, you’ll never change
Oh-oh-oh-oh-oh
And the bird you cannot change

Stubborn people won’t change unless some sort of life crisis arises.

And this bird you cannot change
Lord knows I can’t change
Lord, help me, I can’t change

Robbie seeks a higher power, crying out to God in prayer to change.

Lord, I can’t change
Won’t you fly high, free bird, yeah

Like an alcoholic who doesn’t think they have a problem, self-admission, recognizing that you have a problem is the first step to change, being healed.

Final Thoughts:

As someone who loved taking spontaneous road trips in college, I understand the Free Bird spirit. Yet, as I have grown older and become a grandfather twice now, there is nothing like the feeling of being home. I still pursue freedom and self-discovery, but I do so in making sure that I find my place in this world. As the world evolves, you must adjust if you want to be effective engaging culture in a productive manner.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-January 14

Posted on January 14, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Inspiration Behind Therapy:

Following the breakup with his finance, Matt Thiessen secluded himself in a cabin. Matt ended up staying in Winchester, Tennessee for 3 months as he tried to process what went wrong. Matt did some deep soul searching, crying out to God in prayer for answers. This cabin and time of solitude served as therapy. a therapeutic place to work out his emotions which conceived the lyrics of Therapy.

Biblical Application:

 “And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. 6 But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you,” Matthew 6:5-6.

Exegesis of Therapy:

I never though I’d be driving through the country just to drive
With only music and the clothes that I woke up in

People heal in different ways. For Matt, driving to this cabin began his time of reflection.

I never thought I’d need all this time alone it goes to show
I had so much yet I had need for nothing but you
But you

Matt didn’t plan on spending 3 months in Tennessee. Yet, he needed this time to reconnect with God.

This is just therapy
Just call it what it is
With a death-grip on this life always transitioning
This is just therapy
Cause you won’t take my calls
And that makes God the only one who’s left to listen in to me

Matt tried to reach out to his ex-girlfriend hoping to get back to together, but she didn’t pick up the phone to talk. Subsequently, God was the only one who would listen to him.

Letting it all sink in
It’s good to feel the sting now and again
I hope it’s one less woeful thing there is to fight through
Forgetting it all begin
Fresh paper and nice expensive pen
The past can not subtract a thing from what I might do
For you
Unless that’s what I let it do

This pain allowed Matt to reflect upon this trial, hoping this is one less thing that he has to worry about in life. Matt appeared to write his ex but it appears this was unsuccessful.

This is just therapy
Just call it what it is
With a death-grip on this life always transitioning
This is just therapy
Cause you won’t take my calls
And that makes God the only one who’s left to listen in

Matt has come to the realization that his relationship is over and it’s time to transition by moving on with life.

Loneliness and solitude are two things not to get confused
Cause I spend my solitude with you
I gather all the questions of the things I just can’t get straight
And I answer them the way I guess you’d do

Matt is still wrestling with God in prayer for answers, trying to figure out what to do next.

Cause this is my therapy
Cause you’re the only one that’s listening to me
This is my therapy
Let’s call it what it is not what we were
With a death-grip on this life thats in transition
This is my therapy
Cause you won’t hear me out and that makes God the only one who’s left here to listen in

This trial in Matt’s life is forcing him to lean on God for understanding as he tries to heal.

This is just therapy
Just call it what it is
With a death-grip on this life always transitioning
This is just therapy
Cause you won’t take my calls
And that makes God the only one who’s left to listen in to me

At the end of the third month in this cabin, Matt had come to grips with his emotions. Despite his feelings for his ex, God gave Matt direction or some type of vision to move on with his life.

Final Thoughts:

Trials aren’t something that you put on a monthly calendar. Rather, these events arrive unannounced. Sometimes friends can help while other situations need to be resolved alone. As you begin 2026, make sure you take the necessary steps and time for your own therapy. After this recovery, you’ll be able to help those who are enduring a trial that you just overcame.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-January 13

Posted on January 13, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Inspiration Behind Bring Me Back to Life:

The origins of Bring Me Back to Life stem from a serious conversation with a friend when lead singer Amy Lee was 19. While talking over a meal Amy was asked by s friend, “are you happy?” This simple question triggered a realization that Amy was hiding behind an emotional facade. This self-reflection conceived the lyrics to Bring Me Back to Life.

Biblical Application:

Now there was a Pharisee, a man named Nicodemus who was a member of the Jewish ruling council. 2 He came to Jesus at night and said, “Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher who has come from God. For no one could perform the signs you are doing if God were not with him.” 3 Jesus replied, “Very truly I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again.[a]” 4 “How can someone be born when they are old?” Nicodemus asked. “Surely they cannot enter a second time into their mother’s womb to be born!” 5 Jesus answered, “Very truly I tell you, no one can enter the kingdom of God unless they are born of water and the Spirit. 6 Flesh gives birth to flesh, but the Spirit[b] gives birth to spirit. 7 You should not be surprised at my saying, ‘You[c] must be born again.’ 8 The wind blows wherever it pleases. You hear its sound, but you cannot tell where it comes from or where it is going. So it is with everyone born of the Spirit,” John 3:1-8.

Exegesis of Bring Me Back to Life:

How can you see into my eyes like open doors?
Leading you down into my core where I’ve become so numb
Without a soul, my spirit’s sleeping somewhere cold
Until you find it there and lead it back home

Amy reflects upon the conversation where a friend was able to see something inside of her that wasn’t right. At this moment, Amy was comfortably numb. stagnant and slowly dying inside.

(Wake me up) wake me up inside (I can’t wake up), wake me up inside
(Save me) call my name and save me from the dark
(Wake me up) bid my blood to run (I can’t wake up) before I come undone
(Save me) save me from the nothing I’ve become

Amy sought to break free from being emotionally drained. Any desperately wanted to snap out of this funk, to become alive and excited about life.

Now that I know what I’m without, you can’t just leave me
Breathe into me and make me real, bring (bring) me (me) to life

This is either a cry for help to a friend or a prayer to God to be awakened from this emotional slumber deep inside her soul.

(Wake me up) wake me up inside (I can’t wake up), wake me up inside
(Save me) call my name and save me from the dark
(Wake me up) bid my blood to run (I can’t wake up) before I come undone
(Save me) save me from the nothing I’ve become

Amy is losing hope that she’ll ever break free from the darkness of her current condition.

Bring me to life
I’ve been livin’ a lie
There’s nothing inside
Bring me to life

Amy is looking for a spark to jump start her life back in the right direction.

Frozen (frozen) inside without your touch, without your love
Darling, only (only) you are the life among the dead
All this time, I can’t believe I couldn’t see
Kept in the dark, but you were there in front of me
I’ve been sleeping a thousand years, it seems
Got to open my eyes to everything
Without a thought, without a voice, without a soul
Don’t let me die here, there must be something more
Bring me to life

Reaching out for help, Amy is ready to be set free from living behind an emotional facade.

(Wake me up) wake me up inside (I can’t wake up), wake me up inside
(Save me) call my name and save me from the dark
(Wake me up) bid my blood to run (I can’t wake up) before I come undone
(Save me) save me from the nothing I’ve become

Sometimes we need a friend to come to the rescue when nobody notices your pain.

Bring me to life
I’ve been livin’ a lie (bring me to life)
There’s nothing inside
Bring me to life

This is a prayer than many people have for the start of 2026, to feel alive once again.

Final Thoughts:

A first century Pharisee named Nicodemus was going through a similar situation when he reached out to Jesus. Like Amy, Nicodemus felt lost, unsure of himself until their conversation in John 3. Nicodemus uses sarcasm to hide his uncertainty of being brought back to life. Nicodemus suddenly stops talking and listens to one of the most powerful statements in the Bible. Like Amy, Nicodemus was brought back to life by the end of John 20. This is the spiritual solution to emotional problems, Matthew 11:28-30.

by Jay Mankus

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