Tag Archives: family

The Message Behind the Music-March 27

Posted on March 27, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Tina Turner – The Best (Official Music Video) [HD Upgrade]

Inspiration Behind The Best:

Simply the Best is rooted in a spirit of adoration, devotion and love. In recent years, March Madness, also known as the NCAA National Basketball Tournament, has adopted the Best to honor the eventual championship team. When two individuals who were meant to be together as a married couple, each are elevated to unparallel excellence once their joint qualities come together as one. Yet the Best also serves as a tribute to Tina’s success after emerging from a turbulent marriage and career struggles, she soared to global superstardom in her 40s. 

Biblical Application:

In reply Jesus said: “A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, when he was attacked by robbers. They stripped him of his clothes, beat him and went away, leaving him half dead. 31 A priest happened to be going down the same road, and when he saw the man, he passed by on the other side. 32 So too, a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. 33 But a Samaritan, as he traveled, came where the man was; and when he saw him, he took pity on him. 34 He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he put the man on his own donkey, brought him to an inn and took care of him. 35 The next day he took out two denarii[e] and gave them to the innkeeper. ‘Look after him,’ he said, ‘and when I return, I will reimburse you for any extra expense you may have,’ Luke 10:30-35.

Exegesis of the Best:

I call you when I need you, my heart’s on fire
You come to me, come to me, wild and wild
Oh, you come to me
Give me everything I need

Tina points to a friend who was always there when she needed them.

Give me a lifetime of promises and a world of dreams
Speak the language of love like you know what it means
Oh, and it can’t be wrong
Take my heart and make it strong, baby

Tina provides details inside of a former relationship, filled with love and promises.

You’re simply the best
Better than all the rest
Better than anyone
Anyone I ever met

The opening chorus serves as appreciation and gratitude for this individual.

I’m stuck on your heart
I hang on every word you say
Tear us apart
Baby, I would rather be dead

Tina is in love, hanging on every word of her partner.

In your heart, I see the start of every night and every day
In your eyes, I get lost, I get washed away

Tina is excited for every new day.

Just as long as I’m here in your arms
I could be in no better place

Tina finds comfort and security in the arms of her lover.

You’re simply the best
Better than all the rest
Better than anyone
Anyone I ever met

No one else compares to this man.

Ooh, I’m stuck on your heart
I hang on every word you say
Oh, tear us apart, no, no, no
Baby, I would rather be dead

Tina can’t imagine life without this man.

Each time you leave me, I start losing control
You’re walking away with my heart and my soul
I can feel you even when I’m alone
Oh baby, don’t let go
Oh, you’re the best, ooh
Better than all the rest
Better than anyone
Anyone I ever met

Tina misses every moment away from this man. Her life without him simply isn’t the same.

Oh, I’m stuck on your heart
I hang on every word you say
Oh, tear us apart, no, no
Baby, I would rather be dead

Oh, you’re the best!

In Tina’s eyes, no one compares to this man.

Final Thoughts:

Unfortunately, there is always someone more attractive, better, more talented and successful in life. The key to a long marriage is deciding at an early age, what is more important to you in life. Simply the best is in the eyes of the beholder. Internal qualities like compassion, integrity and servanthood are hard to find in one individual. When you figure out what you are looking for in a future soulmate, you’ll know when you meet this individual as long as you are patient and don’t settle for something less.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-March 24

Posted on March 24, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Aretha Franklin – Respect (Official Lyric Video)

Inspiration Behind Respect:

Aretha Franklin took an existing song, putting passion and soul into this new version which became a rallying cry during the Civil Rights movement. Respect also became an anthem for woman’s rights. The essential message of Respect is that everyone’s voice deserves to be heard.

Biblical Application:

Live as free people, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as God’s slaves. 17 Show proper respect to everyone, love the family of believers, fear God, honor the emperor, 1 Peter 2:16-17.

Exegesis of Respect:

What you want, baby, I got it
What you need, do you know I got it?

While Reverand Dr. Martin Luther King was a main figure in the Civil Rights Movement in the late 1960’s, Aretha Franklin’s version of Respect was like the choir leader singing the anthem for African Americans and women.

All I’m askin’ is for a little respect when you get home
(Just a little bit) hey, baby
(Just a little bit) when you get home
(Just a little bit) mister
(Just a little bit)

Singing in the context of a time when women stayed at home, cooked and raised children, Aretha wanted husbands to respect all that women do daily behind the scenes at home.

I ain’t gon’ do you wrong while you’re gone
Ain’t gon’ do you wrong ’cause I don’t wanna

Trust me when you are away at work.

All I’m askin’ is for a little respect when you come home
(Just a little bit) baby
(Just a little bit) when you get home
(Just a little bit) yeah
(Just a little bit)

Speaking to her husband and other men, you are not the only one who worked today. I just need some respect for all the little things that I do for you and the kids.

I’m about to give you all of my money
And all I’m askin’ in return, honey
Is to give me my propers when you get home

When she gives her husband a weekly allowance, see is looking for appreciation.

(Just a, just a, just a, just a) yeah, baby
(Just a, just a, just a, just a) when you get home
(Just a little bit) yeah
(Just a little bit)

Recognize what a wife does and puts up with daily.

Ooh, your kisses, sweeter than honey
And guess what? So is my money
All I want you to do for me, is give it to me when you get home

Show me some love and affection.

(Re, re, re, re) yeah, baby
(Re, re, re, re) whip it to me
(Respect, just a little bit) when you get home, now
(Just a little bit)

Respect my role in a marriage.

R-E-S-P-E-C-T
Find out what it means to me
R-E-S-P-E-C-T
Take care, TCB, oh

Show respect as words are meaningless without action.

(Sock it to me, sock it to me, sock it to me, sock it to me)
A little respect
(Sock it to me, sock it to me, sock it to me, sock it to me)
Whoa, babe

Give it to me.

(Just a little bit) a little respect
(Just a little bit) I get tired
(Just a little bit) keep on tryin’
(Just a little bit) you’re runnin’ out of fools
(Just a little bit) and I ain’t lyin’
(Just a little bit)

Aretha simply wants to be appreciated.

(Re, re, re, re) start when you come home
(Re, re, re, respect) or you might walk in
(Just a little bit) and find out I’m gone
(Just a little bit) I gotta have

Don’t take me for granted or you’ll have to find someone else.

Final Thoughts:

Certain songs stand the test of time. Nearly 60 years after Aretha Franklin’s version of Respect was released, this still communicates a valuable life lesson. Woman like Aretha are heroes to modern day women who are now respected like she requested in this song. May current female singers have a vision like Aretha to craft songs that will be sung 60 years from now.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-March 19

Posted on March 19, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Gabby Barrett – I Hope (Lyrics)

Inspiration Behind I Hope:

Gabby Barret had a vision to create a song where genuine emotions are expressed. With the help of co-writers Zach Kale and Jon Nite as well as producer Ross Copperman, I Hope became a reality. The inspiration behind the lyrics stems from Gabby’s personal experiences in high school. Being cheated on for the first time left the bitter pill of betrayal inside of Gabby. This painful experience enabled Gabby to mature, wanting to highlight the positive in life with the title, I Hope. Yet the root of bitterness inside of Gabby’s heart provides an unexpected twist at the end, using hope in a negative context.

Biblical Application:

We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves. 2 Each of us should please our neighbors for their good, to build them up. 3 For even Christ did not please himself but, as it is written: “The insults of those who insult you have fallen on me.”[a] 4 For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope, Romans 15:1-4.

Exegesis of I Hope:

Yeah, yeah
Ooh, oh
Oh, oh
Yeah

The opening melody is like taking a deep breath before an important speech.

I, I hope she makes you smile
The way you made me smile
On the other end of a phone
In the middle of a highway, driving alone

Gabby focuses on an ex-boyfriend, wanting his new girlfriend to feel like she did.

Oh, baby, I, I hope you hear a song
That makes you sing along
And gets you thinking ’bout her
Then the last several miles turns into a blur, yeah

Gabby sings about how music keeps you awake while driving. The longer you drive, there is a tendency to start losing your thoughts as being tired begins to blur everything together.

I hope you both feel the sparks by the end of the drive
I hope you know she’s the one by the end of the night
I hope you never ever felt more free
Tell your friends that you’re so happy
I hope she comes along and wrecks every one of your plans
I hope you spend your last dime to put a rock on her hand
I hope she’s wilder than your wildest dreams
She’s everything you’re ever gonna need

Gabby remains positive, hoping the best for her ex-boyfriend. She hopes that he isn’t afraid of commitment and is willing to become engaged and married.

And then I hope she cheats
Like you did on me
And then I hope she cheats
Like you did on me

This is where the root of bitterness inside of Gabby rears its ugly head.

Yeah, babe, I hope he shows up in a 2:00 a.m. pic from a friend
Hanging on to a girl to just rub it in
I hope you stay up all night, all alone, waiting by the phone
And then he calls

Gabby now turns her attention to her ex-boyfriend’s new girlfriend, wishing she endures the same pain he brought her.

And baby, I (I), I hope you work it out
Forgive and just about forget
Let him take you on a first date again
And when you lean in for a kiss

Gabby is now back for a positive spin, hoping for reconciliation.

I hope you both feel the sparks by the end of the drive
I hope you know he’s the one by the end of the night
I hope you never ever felt more free
Tell your friends that you’re so happy
I hope he comes along and wrecks every one of your plans
I hope he spends his last dime to put a rock on your hand
I hope he’s wilder than your wildest dreams
He’s everything you’re ever gonna need

this chorus serves as a hopeful prayer, wanting the best for these two.

And then I hope he cheats
Like you did on me
And then I hope he cheats
Like you did on me

Another twist, hoping for the worse, possibly fueled by resentment.

I hope what goes, comes all the way around
I hope she makes you feel the same way
About her that I feel about you right now

Another negative stanza, wishing for karma or as the Bible states, “you reap what you sow.”

I hope you both feel the sparks by the end of the drive
I hope you know she’s the one by the end of the night
I hope you never ever felt more free
Tell your friends that you’re so happy (oh-woah, oh, woah, woah)
I hope she comes along and wrecks every one of your plans
I hope you spend your last dime to put a rock on her hand
I hope she’s wilder than your wildest dreams
She’s everything you’re ever gonna need

Gabby is having a series of emotional sways, going back and forth between wishing the best, then the worst.

And then I hope she cheats
Like you did on me
And then I hope she cheats
Like you did on me

Perhaps Jon and Zach swayed Gabby to add this twist of fate halfway through, I Hope.

Like you did on me

One last zinger, wanting her ex-boyfriend’s new girlfriend to want to feel the same pain that Gabby endured.

Final Thoughts:

For as long as I can remember, I try to surround myself with positive people. While Gabby is pouring out her heart as she sings, I Hope, the negative spin on hope kills the good vibes of the opening of this song. As my former pastor often taught, “hurt people hurt other people.” When you allow the root of bitterness to poison your heart, you turn hope into hate.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-March 16

Posted on March 16, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Inspiration Behind Fancy:

Bobby Gentry was the original writer of the country song Fancy. However, when Reba McEntire performed her version of this song, Fancy became a household name. The lyrics tell the story of a poor mother’s last act of generosity to give her daughter Fancy a chance for success in the future. Fancy’s theme points to sacrifices made so made by parents so that their children might be able to realize the American dream.

Biblical Application:

Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. 7 Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver, 2 Corinthians 9:6-7.

Exegesis of Fancy:

Well, I remember it all very well looking back
It was the summer I turned 18
We lived in a one-room, rundown shack on the outskirts of New Orleans
We didn’t have money for food or rent
To say the least, we were hard-pressed
Then mama spent every last penny we had to buy me a dancing dress

A teenager girl remembers a special moment from her childhood. Fancy’s mom wanted her prom night to be special, saving everything she had to buy a dress.

Well, Mama washed and combed and curled my hair
Then she painted my eyes and lips (lips)
Then I stepped into a satin dancing dress
That had a split on the side clean up to my hip
It was red velvet trim and it had fit me good
Well, standing back from the looking glass
There stood a woman where a half-grown kid had stood

Fancy’s mom did everything in her power to make this evening the best night of her life.

She said, “Here’s your one chance, Fancy, don’t let me down”
She said, “Here’s your one chance, Fancy, don’t let me down”

Fancy;s mother wanted her girl to make her proud.

Mama dabbed a little bit of perfume on my neck
Then she kissed my cheek
And then I saw the tears welling up in her troubled eyes
As she started to speak
She looked at our pitiful shack
And then she looked at me and took a ragged breath
She said, “Your Pa’s runned off, and I’m real sick
And the baby’s gonna starve to death”

Fancy’s dad took off, her mom is about to die and her younger sibling doesn’t have enough income to eat.

She handed me a heart-shaped locket that said
“To thine own self be true”
And I shivered as I watched a roach crawl across
The toe of my high-heeled shoe
It sounded like somebody else that was talking
Asking Mama, “What do I do?”
She said, “Just be nice to the gentlemen, Fancy they’ll be nice to you”

Fancy’s mother provides advice for her date.

She said, “Here’s your one chance, Fancy, don’t let me down
Here’s your one chance, Fancy, don’t let me down
Lord, forgive me for what I do
But if you want out, well, it’s up to you
Now don’t let me down now
Your Mama’s gonna move you uptown”

This mom’s dying wish is to make her mama proud, to find a man who will provide her Fancy better than her husband.

Well, that was the last time I saw my Ma
The night I left that rickety shack
The welfare people came and took the baby
Mama died and I ain’t been back
But the wheels of fate had started to turn
And for me, there was no way out
It wasn’t very long until I knew exactly
What my Mama’d been talking about

Through this tragic event, Fancy began to realize what her mom was trying to say.

I knew what I had to do, and I made myself this solemn vow
That I was gonna be a lady someday
Though I didn’t know when or how
But I couldn’t see spending the rest of my life
With my head hung down in shame
You know, I might’ve been born just plain white trash
But Fancy was my name

Instead of feeling sorry for herself, Fancy decided to make something out of her life.

She said, “Here’s your one chance, Fancy, don’t let me down”
She said, “Here’s your one chance, Fancy, don’t let me down”

The memory of Mom’s word motivated Fancy to be successful in life.

It wasn’t long after a benevolent man took me in off the streets
And one week later, I was pouring his tea
In a five-room hotel suite (yes, she was)
I charmed a king, congressman and an occasional aristocrat
Then I got me a Georgia mansion
And an elegant New York townhouse flat
And I ain’t done bad (she ain’t done bad)

This positive mindset led to good fortune. Fancy’s drive to make her mother proud paid off.

Now in this world
There’s a lot of self-righteous hypocrites that call me bad (bad)
They criticize Mama for turning me out, no matter how little we had
But though I ain’t had to worry about nothing for nigh on 15 years
Well, I can still hear the desperation
In my poor Mama’s voice ringing in my ears

Despite reaching new heights, the elite don’t like Fancy’s elevated status. This doesn’t bother Fancy, holding true to what her mother taught her.

“Here’s your one chance, Fancy, don’t let me down
Oh, here’s your one chance, Fancy, don’t let me down
Lord, forgive me for what I do
But if you want out, well, it’s up to you
Now don’t let me down, hon’
Your Mama’s gonna move you uptown”
Oh, and I guess she did

When one or more parents believe in their children. girls like Fancy often end up living prosperous and successful lives. The support from mothers instill belief and confidence in their children.

Final Thoughts:

My father was an immigrant to America after World War II. Subsequently, my parents lived paycheck to paycheck when I was a child. My parents did the best that they could until my father relocated to Delaware. While my parents weren’t perfect, they did everything in their power to ensure that my 2 older sisters and I had a foundation for success in the future. Happiness isn’t about money. Happiness comes from doing and working in positions that you were designed by God to do.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-March 15

Posted on March 15, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Inspiration Behind Because of You:

As a child, Kelly Clarkson witnessed her parents’ marriage fall apart, resulting in divorce. Kelly took this emotional turmoil and her pain, turning this into a song by age 16. David Hodges and Ben Moody took Kelly’s rough draft and fine-tuned Because of You’s sound and lyrics. Kelly’s desire was to avoid making the same mistakes as her parents, wanting to persevere her own marriage.

Biblical Application:

Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her 26 to make her holy, cleansing[b] her by the washing with water through the word, 27 and to present her to himself as a radiant church, without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish, but holy and blameless. 28 In this same way, husbands ought to love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself, Ephesians 5:25-28.

Exegesis of Because of You:

I will not make the same mistakes that you did
I will not let myself ’cause my heart so much misery
I will not break the way you did
You fell so hard
I’ve learned the hard way, to never let it get that far

Kelly developed a desire to not follow in her parents’ footsteps. She made it her ambition if she ever got married to never let a relationship spiral that far out of control.

Because of you
I never stray too far from the sidewalk
Because of you
I learned to play on the safe side, so I don’t get hurt
Because of you
I find it hard to trust not only me, but everyone around me
Because of you
I am afraid

Because of your divorce, I try to stay out of trouble. Because of what I witnessed, I play it safe to avoid getting hurt. Unfortunately, Kelly struggled with trusting others due to her parents’ divorce.

I lose my way
And it’s not too long before you point it out
I cannot cry
Because I know that’s weakness in your eyes
I’m forced to fake a smile, a laugh
Every day of my life
My heart can’t possibly break
When it wasn’t even whole to start with

The atmosphere inside her childhood home was tough. Wrongdoing was pointed out immediately. Meanwhile, crying was not accepted, a sign of weakness. Kelly learned to be fake around her parents to avoid getting disciplined.

Because of you
I never stray too far from the sidewalk
Because of you
I learned to play on the safe side, so I don’t get hurt
Because of you
I find it hard to trust not only me, but everyone around me
Because of you
I am afraid

This chorus points to what Kelly learned as a child to stay out of trouble. This also reveals the emotional scars from her childhood as well.

I watched you die (I watched you die)
I heard you cry
Every night in your sleep
I was so young (and you’re so young)
You should have known better (I was too young for you)
Than to lean on me

This marriage resulted in tears and dying inside. Kelly thinks her mom was too young for marriage, not mature enough to handle raising a child.

You never thought of anyone else
You just saw your pain (you never saw me)
And now I cry
In the middle of the night
For the same damn thing

Self-absorbed individuals can become consumed by their own pain that people around them go unnoticed. Kelly recalls nights crying herself to sleep.

Because of you
I never stray too far from the sidewalk
Because of you
I learned to play on the safe side so I don’t get hurt
Because of you
I find it hard to trust not only me, but everyone around me
Because of you
I am afraid

The side effects of growing up in a broken home are highlighted in this final chorus, creating fear within Kelly.

Because of you
Because of you

You either refers to Kelly’s mom or dad. This is how you affected my life.

Final Thoughts:

I once taught a high school Sunday school class. Every other week, the attendance was only a few students. By the end of my first month teaching, I realized that majority of my students were altering homes every other weekend. Despite being raised in a Christian home, the majority of my class grew up in broken homes, shattered by divorce. This is what happens when couples don’t possess to a will to love one another.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-February 27

Posted on February 27, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Inspiration Behind Just Give Me a Reason:

Pink and Nate Ruess craft a sound around a delicate situation. What do you do when the relationship that you are in is on the brink of collapse? The lyrics highlight desperation, emotional turmoil, and the need for reconciliation within an intimate relationship. The overall theme of Just Give Me a Reason urges individuals to be willing to fight for relationships worth salvaging.

Biblical Application:

It is impossible for those who have once been enlightened, who have tasted the heavenly gift, who have shared in the Holy Spirit, 5 who have tasted the goodness of the word of God and the powers of the coming age 6 and who have fallen[c] away, to be brought back to repentance. To their loss they are crucifying the Son of God all over again and subjecting him to public disgrace, Hebrews 6:4-6.

Exegesis of Just Give Me a Reason:

Right from the start
You were a thief, you stole my heart
And I, your willing victim
I let you see the parts of me
That weren’t all that pretty
And with every touch you fixed them

Pink became vulnerable, opening her heart by sharing deep and intimate secrets.

Now you’ve been talking in your sleep, oh, oh
Things you never say to me, oh, oh
Tell me that you’ve had enough
Of our love, our love

Her parter is getting cold feet.

Just give me a reason
Just a little bit’s enough
Just a second, we’re not broken, just bent
And we can learn to love again
It’s in the stars
It’s been written in the scars on our hearts
We’re not broken, just bent
And we can learn to love again

Pink is willing to work out whatever issues they are currently facing. She’s open to learning to fall in love, all over again. What he sees as broken, she sees as fixable.

I’m sorry I don’t understand
Where all of this is coming from
I thought that we were fine
(Oh, we had everything)
Your head is running wild again
My dear we still have everything
And it’s all in your mind
(Yeah, but this is happening)

She’s caught off guard by what’s been swept under the rug over the years. We still have each other. Don’t let doubt draw a wedge between us.

Now you’ve been having real bad dreams, oh, oh
You used to lie so close to me, oh, oh
There’s nothing more than empty sheets
Between our love, our love
Oh, our love, our love

She wants to know what’s wrong. She notices obvious changes but can’t exactly put her finger on what’s driving them apart.

Just give me a reason
Just a little bit’s enough
Just a second, we’re not broken, just bent
And we can learn to love again
I’ve never stopped
You’re still written in the scars on my heart
You’re not broken, just bent
And we can learn to love again

Pink isn’t willing to give up on love.

Oh, tears ducts and rust
I’ll fix it for us
We’re collecting dust
But our love’s enough
You’re holding it in
You’re pouring a drink
No, nothing is as bad as it seems
We’ll come clean

Pink is being open about her feeling, but her partner is hiding behind alcohol to numb his pain.

Just give me a reason
Just a little bit’s enough
Just a second, we’re not broken, just bent
And we can learn to love again
It’s in the stars
It’s been written in the scars on our hearts
That we’re not broken, just bent
And we can learn to love again

Pink is the motivating factor keeping this relationship alive.

Just give me a reason
Just a little bit’s enough
Just a second, we’re not broken, just bent
And we can learn to love again
It’s in the stars
It’s been written in the scars on our hearts
That we’re not broken, just bent
And we can learn to love again

Repeating the same chorus only reinforces Pink’s desire to save this relationship.

Oh-oh, we can learn to love again
Oh-oh, can learn to love again
Oh-oh, that we’re not broken, just bent
And we can learn to love again

Pink believes that they can learn to love again, eventually working out their differences.

Final Thoughts:

Unstable relationships can be emotionally exhausting. I had two relationships in college where if the date didn’t go well my girlfriend was really to move on to someone else. Neither of these lasted that long, but for Pink, she possessed a will to love, doing everything in her power to save her relationship. Unfortunately, if you are with an individual struggling with addiction, they have to acknowledge that they have a problem before true healing can begin.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-February 16

Posted on February 16, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Inspiration Behind Endless Love:

Luther Vandross was searching for a song that would communicate profound, timeless and romantic love where you continue to discover the love of your life. Luther wants to acknowledge that he isn’t a player in these lyrics. Rather, this love is singular, investing his time and energy on the love of his life with the ultimate goal of having this love last a lifetime.

Biblical Application: (a duet of words between 2 people in love)

I am a rose[b] of Sharon, a lily of the valleys.

He

 Like a lily among thorns is my darling among the young women.

She

3 Like an apple[c] tree among the trees of the forest
    is my beloved among the young men.
I delight to sit in his shade,
    and his fruit is sweet to my taste.
4 Let him lead me to the banquet hall,
    and let his banner over me be love.
5 Strengthen me with raisins,
    refresh me with apples,
    for I am faint with love., Song of Solomon 2:1-5.

Exegesis of Endless Love:

My love, there’s only you in my life
The only thing that’s right
My first love (yeah), you’re every breath that I take
You’re every step I make

The opening stanza serves as a declaration of Luther’s love. Mariah responds with a mutual consent claiming that this is her first love. You are what I live for, always on my mind.

And I (and I)
I want to share all my love with you (hey, you)
No one else will do (mm-mm), you know it
And your eyes (your eyes, your eyes)
They tell me how much you care
Oh, yes, you will always be my endless love

Sometimes you reach a point in life when you find the right significant other. When you do, no one else compares to this special person. In this case, the feelings are mutual.

Two hearts, two hearts that beat as one
Our lives have just begun
And forever (forever)
I’ll hold you close in my arms
I can’t resist your charms
(No-no-no, no-no-no)

This couple is on the same page, sharing common goals, interests and a vision to be together. This bond has led to a special intimacy.

And love (and love)
I’ll be a fool for you
I’m sure (honey, I’m sure) you know I don’t mind
(Oh, you know I don’t mind)
‘Cause baby (baby, baby, baby)
You mean the world to me
Oh, I know I found in you my endless love

This relationship is unlike any that they have experienced. The fool comment is symbolic that I’m yours for a lifetime, I don’t care what anyone else says or thinks.

Oh, and love (love, love, love)
I’ll be that fool for you (for you, baby)
I’m sure (I’m so sure)
That you know I don’t mind
(You know, I don’t mind, I don’t mind) oh
And yes, you’ll be the only one
‘Cause no one, no one can deny
This love I have inside
And I’ll give it all to you

This stanza could serve as part of a marriage vow that declares a commitment to love for as long as they live.

My love
My love, my love (my, my, my)
My endless love
(Mm-mm) my, my

Words can’t express the love I have for you in my heart.

Final Thoughts:

The term generational sins are first introduced in the Bible by God in the Ten Commandments in Exodus 20:5. These commandments are centered around 2 calls to action. The first 5 center around loving God. The final 5 focus on loving others as a civil call to love outside of your home. When parents, grandparents or great grandparents make decisions to give up on love by seeking a divorce, you become more likely to follow in their footsteps. Subsequently, previous wrong actions from family members provide an escape clause to also abandon love. However, if divorce has not occurred within your family history, you’ll be more likely to perserve in your own marriage. When a couple decides to commit to endless love, divorce rate will decline. Yet, growing in love is hard work, messy and requires perseverance. May today’s blog inspire you to embrace endless love.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-February 12

Posted on February 12, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Inspiration Behind I Knew I Loved You:

Savage Garden was trying to build upon their success of their previous hit Truly Madly Deeply. This duo realized that their best chance was in a love ballad, a genre that would speak to a broad audience. I Know I Loved You was written in 40 minutes. The inspiration came from Darren Hayes who was going through a divorce at the time this song was written. Love at first sight isn’t an ideal way to start a relationship, but for someone who knows what they are searching for in a soul mate, marriages can stand the test of time.

Biblical Application:

Then he prayed, “Lord, God of my master Abraham, make me successful today, and show kindness to my master Abraham. 13 See, I am standing beside this spring, and the daughters of the townspeople are coming out to draw water. 14 May it be that when I say to a young woman, ‘Please let down your jar that I may have a drink,’ and she says, ‘Drink, and I’ll water your camels too’—let her be the one you have chosen for your servant Isaac. By this I will know that you have shown kindness to my master.” 15 Before he had finished praying, Rebekah came out with her jar on her shoulder. She was the daughter of Bethuel son of Milkah, who was the wife of Abraham’s brother Nahor. 16 The woman was very beautiful, a virgin; no man had ever slept with her. She went down to the spring, filled her jar and came up again, Genesis 24:12-16.

Exegesis of I Knew I Loved You:

Oh, oh, oh, ohh
Maybe it’s intuition
Somethings you just don’t question
Like in your eyes, I see my future in an instant
And there it goes, I think I’ve found my best friend

Some people immediately know after an initial conversation, encounter or glance, that they are going to spend the rest of their life with this individual. Most people need more time to realize that they’ve just met their future best friend.

I know that it might sound
More than a little crazy
But I believe

To the analytical, deep thinkers and sophisticated, this seems crazy. Yet for Darren, he believed in love at first sight.

I knew I loved you before I met you
I think I dreamed you into life
I knew I loved you before I met you
I have been waiting all my life

The chorus describes the woman of Darren’s dreams. Someone he has been waiting to meet his entire life.

There’s just no rhyme or reason
Only a sense of completion
And in your eyes, I see the missing pieces
I’m searching for, I think I’ve found my way home

Darren can’t come up with a logical explanation for how he feels. To quote Jerry Maguire, Darren believed that his wife completed him.

I know that it might sound
More than a little crazy
But I believe

Darren is not thinking rationale as he’s smitten by love.

I knew I loved you before I met you
I think I dreamed you into life
I knew I loved you before I met you
I have been waiting all my life

The chorus reinforces Darren’s thought that this is the woman of his dreams.

Ooh hoo ooo, hoo hoo ooo ohh
A thousand angels dance around you
(Ooh hoo, hoo ooo hoo ooo hoo hoo hoo)
I am complete now that I have found you

Darren believes his wife was sent by God to complete his life, surrounded by angels.

I knew I loved you before I met you
I think I dreamed you into life
I knew I loved you before I met you
I have been waiting all my life

Intuition is leading Darren.

I knew I loved you before I met you
I think I dreamed you into life
I knew I loved you before I met you
I have been waiting all my life

Darren is overwhelmed by love.

I knew I loved you before I met you, I knew I loved you
(Ooh hoo ooo, hoo hoo ooo)
I knew I loved you before I met you, I knew I loved you
(Ooh hoo ooo, hoo hoo hoo)
I knew I loved you before I met you
(Oh oh, ohh ohh, oh oh oh ay ay yea oh)
I knew I loved you before I met you, I knew I loved you
I knew I loved you before I met you

Perhaps, this song was meant to serve as a plea to win his wife back. Or a powerful reminder of the love still present in his heart.

Final Thoughts:

When I met my wife Leanne in 1993, I had been avoiding the dating scene as a youth pastor. It took me about a year to realize that she was the one for me. Yet, after meeting me, Leanne knew that I would one day become her husband. Thirty plus years later, love at first sight can lead to a joyful marriage.

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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You’re Just Like Your Mother

Posted on August 20, 2023 by expressyourself4him

Every family has secrets; topics or things people are afraid to bring up or mention. As for Benjamin, his birth came at a great cost, the death of his mother Rachel. Prior to Benjamin’s birth, Joseph was the only other child Rachel was able to conceive. Unlike Joseph who was likely a young teenager when Rachel passed away, Benjamin never got a chance to know or be held by his mother.

And Jacob called the name of the place where God had talked with him Bethel [house of God]. 16 And they journeyed from Bethel and had but a little way to go to Ephrath [Bethlehem] when Rachel suffered the pangs of childbirth and had hard labor. 17 When she was in hard labor, the midwife said to her, Do not be afraid; you shall have this son also. 18 And as her soul was departing, for she died, she called his name Ben-oni [son of my sorrow]; but his father called him Benjamin [son of the right hand]. 19 So Rachel died and was buried on the way to Ephrath, that is, Bethlehem, Genesis 35:16-19.

To the observant, there are certain mannerisms that parents often pass down to their children. Meanwhile, there are also physical features like a smirk or smile that are distinct and unique to one member of your family. Subsequently, as aunts and uncles spoke to Benjamin about his mother, one relative likely exclaimed at some point, “you’re just like your mother.”

Now Israel loved Joseph more than all his children because he was the son of his old age, and he made him a [distinctive] long tunic with sleeves. 4 But when his brothers saw that their father loved [Joseph] more than all of his brothers, they hated him and could not say, Peace [in friendly greeting] to him or speak peaceably to him, Genesis 37:3-4.

Perhaps, one of the reasons that Jacob loved Joseph more than his other sons is that something inside of Joseph reminded him of his wife Rachel. Jacob loved Rachel so much that he worked for free for 7 years so he could marry her. In addition, based upon Moses’ description of Joseph in the story of Potiphar’s wife, Joseph was blessed with Rachel’s looks. Subsequently, I wouldn’t be surprised if Jacob also told Joseph at some point in his life, “you look just like your mother.”

by Jay Mankus

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