Tag Archives: ghosts

The Message Behind the Music-October 6

Posted on October 6, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Beyoncé – Haunted (Official Video)

Inspiration Behind Haunted:

Haunted spawned from Beyoncé’s own personal and professional experiences in the music industry. Following a frustrating record label meeting, Beyoncé and her producer Boots’ had a collaborative idea that developed into a two‑part experimental track. Ghost” and “Haunted” was designed to contrast the stream‑of‑consciousness rap with a dream. Haunted was finalized thanks to Aphex Twin’s work, featuring a minimalistic arrangement of keyboards, bass, and percussion.

Biblical Application:

Samuel said to Saul, “Why have you disturbed me by bringing me up?” “I am in great distress,” Saul said. “The Philistines are fighting against me, and God has departed from me. He no longer answers me, either by prophets or by dreams. So I have called on you to tell me what to do.” 16 Samuel said, “Why do you consult me, now that the Lord has departed from you and become your enemy? 17 The Lord has done what he predicted through me. The Lord has torn the kingdom out of your hands and given it to one of your neighbors—to David, 1 Samuel 28:15-17.

Exegesis of Haunted:

[Verse: Beyoncé]
And I’ve been driftin’ off on knowledge
Catcalls on catwalks, man, these women gettin’ solemn
I could sing a psalm for a Solomon or Salamander
We took a flight at midnight and now my mind can’t help but wonder, “How come?”
Spoon-fed pluralized eyes to find the beaches in the forest
When I’m lookin’ off the edge, I preach my gut, it can’t help but ignore it
I’m climbin’ up the walls ’cause all the shit I hear is borin’
All the shit I do is borin’, all these record labels borin’
I don’t trust these record labels, I’m torn
All these people on the planet workin’ nine-to-five just to stay alive
The nine-to-five just to stay alive, the nine-to-five just to stay alive
The nine-to-five just to stay alive, the nine-to-five just to stay alive
The nine-to-five just to stay alive, the nine-to-five just to stay alive
All the people on the planet workin’ nine-to-five just to stay alive, how come?

Beyonce wasn’t thinking about hauntings. Perhaps drifting off, is getting sleepy as she begins to see a series of strange things. Beyonce took a red eye flight as her eyes and mind wonder. Looking off to the edge of the window, she’s listening to the conversation on this plane which is a bore. This is when Beyonce has a flashback to her disappointing record label meeting. People are just working to stay alive instead of being passionate about their job.

[Chorus: Beyoncé]
What goes up, ghost around
Ghost around
What goes up, ghost around
Ghost around

Perhaps a reference to unfulfilled workers being like zombies, like an anxious ghost moving from place to place.

[Bridge: Beyoncé]
Around
Around
Around
Around (Will it be forever?)
Around (What are you gonna do?)
Around (What are you gonna do?)
Around

What happens to the spirits of individuals after this pass.

[Outro: Beyoncé]
Soul not for sale
Probably won’t make no money off this, oh, well
Reap what you sow
Perfection is so, mmm

Selling your soul for success. Another thought realizes that this project won’t make any money. Instead, focus on reaping what you sow and perfection.

[Verse 1: Beyoncé]
It’s what you do, it’s what you see
I know if I’m hauntin’ you, you must be hauntin’ me
It’s where we go, it’s where we’ll be
I know if I’m onto you, I’m onto you
Onto you, you must be onto me
My haunted lungs, ghost in the sheets
I know if I’m onto you, you must be hauntin’ me
My wicked tongue, where will it be?
I know if I’m onto you, I’m onto you
Onto you, I’m onto you
Onto you, you must be onto me

Perhaps a reference to her producer. They both want success but this pressure to succeed has turned into a haunting. There is tension between Beyonce and this person. This situation has created a divide due to a lack of trust.

[Bridge: Beyoncé]
You want me?
I walk down the hallway
You like it?
The bedroom’s my runway
Slap me
I’m pinned to the doorway
Kiss, bite, foreplay

A time to make up. Images and requests to get back together.

[Verse 2: Beyoncé]
My haunted lungs, ghost in the sheets
I know if I’m hauntin’ you, you must be hauntin’ me
My wicked tongue, where will it be?
I know if I’m onto you, you must be onto me
It’s what we see
I know if I’m hauntin’ you, you must be hauntin’ me
It’s where we go, it’s where we’ll be
I know if I’m onto you, I’m onto you
Onto you, I’m onto you
Onto you, you must be onto me
You must be onto me
You must be onto me
You must be onto me

Most likely an ex. Haunting likely refers to regretting a past decision. Both begin to question the motives of each other. Seeing through their act.

[Outro: Beyoncé & BOOTS]
(Onto you, I’m onto you)
Me (Onto you, I’m onto you)
Me, me (Onto you, I’m onto you)
Me (Onto you, I’m onto you)
Me

Referring to their record label meeting, not letting go their disappointment of the results or lack their of.

Final Thoughts:

Beyonce is discreet about what exactly went down during their meeting. All I can do is speculate. When a singer on the level of Beyonce, she either didn’t get the respect, cooperation or investment what she was expecting. Subsequently, the use of haunting appears to be like you are going to regret this decision. Life is full of rejection for most human beings. How you respond to this will ultimately dictate the direction you will proceed in the future. Developing perseverance and resolve will lead to success in the future.

by Jay Mankus

Leave a comment

Posted in truth and tagged , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.

The Testimony of God

Posted on May 30, 2022 by expressyourself4him

If you’re ever had some sort of supernatural experience, you may find it hard to tell a friend that you’ve just seen a ghost, caught a glimpse of a UFO or entertained an angel who suddenly disappears. This is the premise of Joan of Arcadia which ran for two full seasons from 2003-2005. Amber Tamblyn plays Joan Girardi who continues to have daily encounters with God. To avoid being labeled as crazy, Joan keeps this relationship secret, waiting for the right time and person to disclose her testimony of God.

So there are three witnesses [b]in heaven: the Father, the Word and the Holy Spirit, and these three are One; 8 and there are three witnesses on the earth: the Spirit, the water, and the blood; and these three agree [are in unison; their testimony coincides], 1 John 5:7-8.

The disciple whom Jesus loved builds upon the concept of the Trinity that he introduced in John 1:1-6. John refers to witnesses in heaven and witnesses on earth. In the spiritual natural realm, God the Father, the Word which came to life, and the Holy Spirit continue to share their testimony in heaven. Meanwhile, God’s Spirit, living water, and the blood shed by Jesus serve as witnesses on earth today. While this concept is hard to grasp, stories of eyewitnesses during Easter Sunday have passed on their testimony.

If we accept [as we do] the testimony of men [if we are willing to take human authority], the testimony of God is greater (of stronger authority), for this is the testimony of God, even the witness which He has borne regarding His Son, 1 John 5:9.

The apostle Paul provides a blue print for modern day testimonies in Galatians 1:11-24. When I became a Christian in high school, I had no idea of what a testimony was and why it is necessary. Yet, as I attended various conferences, retreats and summer camps, the stories that guest speakers shared were testimonies. Like the old hymn, “Blessed Assurance,” as you evolve spiritually and draw closer to God, lessons are learned that might help others. These testimonies of God are crucial for helping struggling Christians find their way back to Jesus. May this blog inspire you to share your own testimony this Memorial Day.

by Jay Mankus

Leave a comment

Posted in truth and tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.

Paranormal Survivors

Posted on January 28, 2016 by expressyourself4him

Paranormal Survivor is now in its second season on Destination America.  This show interviews eyewitnesses to strange encounters, often bringing in experts in the field to explain supernatural events.  In recent years, reality television has shined light on topics that in previous years was considered taboo or too bizarre to consider.  However, one of the first documented cases of paranormal survivors comes right out of the Bible.

One day the evil spirit answered them, “Jesus I know, and Paul I know about, but who are you?”- Acts 19:15

Casting out demons in the middle of the first century became a common experience for apostles and disciples of Jesus.  This fascination led some outside the faith to begin to emulate the apostle Paul.  According to Luke, seven sons and a Jewish chief priest were in the middle of an exorcism when a demon manifested itself.  The individual who was possessed was filled with multiple spirits.  Since the sons of Sceva were powerless without a personal relationship with God or access to the Holy Spirit, they were attacked and fled.

Then the man who had the evil spirit jumped on them and overpowered them all. He gave them such a beating that they ran out of the house naked and bleeding, Acts 19:16.

A generation ago, churches were afraid to bring up the topic of demons, dismissing it as an exaggeration or waste of time.  However, in this age of spirituality, people are opening doors for the Devil and demons to come into their lives.  Subsequently, manifestations of ghosts and spirits as detailed on the show Paranormal Survivor are not as uncommon as it use to be.  Therefore, depending upon where you move to, work or visit, don’t be surprised if you encounter the paranormal.  Until then, fast, pray and draw near to God.

by Jay Mankus

1 Comment

Posted in truth and tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.

Witnesses of the Holy Spirit

Posted on October 13, 2015 by expressyourself4him

If you have ever witnessed an accident, there are several things which must take place before you can leave.  The police must be contacted, vehicles must be moved off to the side and witnesses need to give their account of what happened.  The authorities are trying to create a 360 degree picture of the scene.  When all of the accounts are written down, an accurate perspective is usually derived.

We are witnesses of these things, and so is the Holy Spirit, whom God has given to those who obey him, Acts 5:32.

When it comes to testifying about that which is unseen, accumulating information is much more difficult.  Perhaps a prayer spoken up to heaven is answered in a relatively quick time.  Or a financial need is met in a supernatural manner.  Some may even see a miracle unfold which defies logic.  If you have encountered any of these scenarios, maybe you have been a witness of the Holy Spirit.

Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, 1 Corinthians 6:19.

The apostle Paul puts a different spin on this topic.  Relying on Jesus’ words to his disciples in John 16, Paul suggests this counselor can actually enter your body.  This Holy Ghost transformed his brethren from scaredy cats to bold evangelists.  This display of faith likely inspired a generation of believers.  Although the presence of the Holy Spirit may be rare in these days and times, don’t be surprised if you become a witness to the Holy Spirit.

by Jay Mankus

Leave a comment

Posted in truth and tagged , , , , , , , , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.

The Anointing

Posted on April 17, 2015 by expressyourself4him

Sometimes there are things in life that are difficult to explain.  While you may try to verbalize specific details, unless you experience, feel or sense it, no one will likely believe you.  Earlier on, I disregarded such a notion.  Yet now, after stumbling upon the words of a Psalmist, I have come to acknowledge the anointing of God is real.

He strengthens the bars of your gates and blesses your people within you, Psalm 147:13.

The opposite of this force is similar to the Haunting, a show on Destination America.  Although many people remain skeptics, certain properties, homes or land are subject to demons, ghosts or spirits which dwell on these premises.  Once limited to documentaries and horror movies, powers of darkness has risen up to make their domain a living hell on earth.

For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms, Ephesians 6:12.

In view of these unwelcomed visitors, its essential for individuals to begin to ask God for a special anointing.  Home owners can invite members of their church to dedicate and prayer over newly acquired property.  Meanwhile, prayer walks along the borders of businesses and land owners can serve as a hedge of protection for those who believe in the power of the Holy Spirit.  Finally, setting aside time to prayer for children and family members, especially inside of their own room can have life altering effects.  May readers embrace this concept and be inspired to practice it so that the anointing of God will be fanned into flame to negate any demonic influences currently keeping you from living the abundant life Jesus promised, John 10:10.

by Jay Mankus

 

 

Leave a comment

Posted in truth and tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.

Behind the Mystery of Haunted Places

Posted on September 15, 2014 by expressyourself4him

The series A Haunting began in 2005 on the Discovery Channel.  Nearly a decade later, Destination America produced a 7th season this year, captivating audiences with paranormal activity.  As a casual viewer, the idea of demonic entities, exorcisms and haunted houses challenges my biblical worldview.  However, there are answers in the Bible to explain the reality of haunted places.

First of all, the disciples refer to ghosts several times in the 4 gospels, thinking Jesus was a ghost on a few occasions.  Why would the Bible’s authors talk about ghosts and refer to the Holy Spirit as a holy ghost if they did not exist.  Secondly, demons were a daily obstacle to Jesus and his 3 year ministry on earth.  If you get a chance to study the gospel of Matthew particularly, you will find to demons and or spirit entities can cause epileptic seizures, loss of hearing, illness, muteness and paralysis.  Although Hollywood may over-dramatize scenes, spiritual darkness can hover over specific homes, properties or nations.

Take for instance the encounter within Daniel 10:13.  The prince of Persia, a demonic stronghold in this region, fought Daniel for 21 straight days.  If this is true, then places around the world, especially those with a history of civil war, continue to reign today, holding their citizens hostage.  While people may eventually flee a haunted home, property or kingdom, these spirits remain living and active.  If I could unlock the answers to this phenomena, I would likely become a wealthy man, but for now if you want to know more, find resources on spiritual mapping.  Like modern GPS systems, spiritual mapping often detects and exposes the secrets behind haunted places.

by Jay Mankus

 

Leave a comment

Posted in truth and tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.

A Mere Phantom

Posted on March 26, 2014 by expressyourself4him

When you look into a mirror, what do you see? Does pain from your past come into focus? Is the stress from life visible on your face? Or does a lack of faith leave you slumping over, doubtful that you’ll achieve anything significant in the future? From my vantage point, I feel like a mere phantom, unable to capture the person I want to be.

Apparently, King David struggled with a similar dilemma in Psalm 39:6.  As he reflected on his days on earth, what he saw was disappointing.  Essentially, David described his life as a phantom, roaming to and fro, like a ghostly spirit unable to find rest for their soul.  His son Solomon echoed David’s sentiment, recognizing that laboring and toiling on this planet is meaningless, Ecclesiastes 1:1-11.

If this is true, what can one do to reclaim joy?  Perhaps, you need to have a private meeting with Jesus, John 3:1-2, to see what’s holding you back.  From here, individuals need a daily dose of the Holy Spirit, like 5 Hour Energy Drinks to move beyond this material world, John 4:13-14.  Yet, to escape the phantom inside of you, stepping out in faith is necessary to begin utilizing the gifts created inside of you, Romans 12:3-8.  Don’t let a low self-esteem paralyze your progress. Rather, begin to see your reflection through the eyes of Christ, 2 Corinthians 5:21.

Please feel free to share any words of encouragement to those who don’t like the person they see in the mirror.

by Jay Mankus

         

.

Leave a comment

Posted in Perseverence and tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.

Let The Redeemed Say No

Posted on October 31, 2013 by expressyourself4him

Anyone can say yes, especially toward a proposition relating to sex.  In reality, it takes a strong man or woman to take a stand, going against the temptations of this life, 1 John 2:15-17.  Therefore, its essential for God’s children to walk according a different beat, Matthew 7:13.  The time is now for followers to proclaim, “let the redeemed say no!”

 

The fifth chapter of Galatians contains 2 great winds, pushing in opposite directions.  While one can guide you to safety, the other is set on pushing you over a cliff, causing your conscience to become disabled.  Compromise is rolling into town, with a gentle breeze of “can I get some?”  Meanwhile, common sense is holding its ground, like a trade wind, constantly whispering its motto to hearts and minds willing to change.  This spiritual weather system is on display in Galatians 5:16-17.

The ghost of Eve walks these streets, knowing what’s right, but curious, intrigued by the unknown.   Demons and evil spirits play Trick or Treat, handing out over-hyped Halloween Candy.  Inside these Turkish delights lie a cold heart, like a wicked witch with dishonest intentions.  Invisible to the naked eye, guardian angels intervene, trying to break the spell souls have fallen prey under.  With the conclusion of this tug of war no where on the horizon, the Holy Spirit provides one last message to ears that can hear, “let the redeemed say no!”

by Jay Mankus

Leave a comment

Posted in Uncategorized and tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.

Inquiring Minds Want Answers

Posted on July 16, 2013 by expressyourself4him

One of the most difficult tasks I have ever been assigned was trying to teach Junior High students the Bible for 5 years.  If I wrote down all the questions asked during my lectures, I could have written a thorough sex ed curriculum.  While some of my students were simply trying to waste time, others asked great questions that needed a reply.  When inquiring minds want answers, those in authority or leadership positions must feed these hungry souls.

As I started to read the Old Testament again, memories of these questions reverberated within my mind.  Once deemed foolish, I am beginning to share a similar interest into the mysteries of the Bible.  For example, why is nakedness now equated with shame, Genesis 2:25?  Did Cain marry his sister, Genesis 4:17 or did God created other females beside Eve, Genesis 5:1-2?  Does Genesis 4:10 explain the concept of ghosts, haunted houses and dead spirits which still dwell on certain properties?  Finally, does Genesis 6:1-4 refer to aliens, fallen angels or mixed marriages between giants and normal human beings?

I wish I could answer these questions with a sense of certainty and clarity, but I can’t.  Theologians vary, debating these and other topics for centuries.  All I can do is provide my best guess based upon my years of study and training.

1) Marriage is a sacred covenant that you make to another man or woman.  Once you consecrate this bond, there should be no shame among one another.

2) Based upon the time line of Leviticus 18, it appears God allowed intermarriage initially until the population of Israel was large enough.  Once written and communicated by Moses, this type of act was prohibited.

3) Since Jesus and his disciple use the term ghost throughout all 4 gospels, it appears that ghosts and spirits did exist by the first century.  Therefore, the growing accounts of paranormal activity today suggest what happened to Abel certainty does occur.

4) Before answering this final question, Genesis 6:1-4 is one of the most controversial passages in the Bible.  If you link the great pyramids of Egypt, the great wall of China and other architectural wonders of the world, some credit this advanced knowledge to either aliens or fallen angels.  However, the Tower of Babel is erected due to an one world language, making nothing impossible for mankind according to Genesis 11:3-6.  Thus, like many mysteries, you will have to wait until the after life to know for sure.

As inquiring minds send me more questions, I will try my best to answer each from a biblical perspective.  Continue to following the words of 1 Thessalonians 5:21-22, testing everything you hear or read with the Bible.

by Jay Mankus

Leave a comment

Posted in Uncategorized and tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.