Tag Archives: God

The Message Behind the Music-February 18

Posted on February 18, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Inspiration Behind Always and Forever:

Members of the Heatwave wanted to create a love song that would stand the test of time to make their mark in music history. The initial goal was to compose a ballad with the emotions of devotion and commitment. Song writer Rod Temperton captured this vision within the lyrics of Always and Forever. Decades after Always and Forever was first released; my high school made this our theme song for Concord’s senior prom.

Biblical Application:

I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— 2 for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. 3 This is good, and pleases God our Savior, 4 who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. 5 For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus, 6 who gave himself as a ransom for all people. This has now been witnessed to at the proper time. 7 And for this purpose I was appointed a herald and an apostle—I am telling the truth, I am not lying—and a true and faithful teacher of the Gentiles, 1 Timothy 2:1-7.

Exegesis of Always and Forever:

Always and forever, each moment with you
Is just like a dream to me that somehow came true
And I know tomorrow will still be the same
‘Cause we’ve got a life of love that won’t ever change and

Rod is envisioning the ideal relationship; something out of a dream. While skeptics may claim this is too good to be true, Rod has a strong belief that this relationship will continue to grow, lasting a lifetime.

Everyday love me your own special way
Melt all my heart away with a smile
Take time to tell me you really care
And we’ll share tomorrow together
(Always forever love you)
And I’ll always love you forever
(Always forever love you) Forever

This opening chorus sounds like a prayer to be adorned, loved and appreciated. Deep down in his heart, Rod believes that this is the woman for me.

There’ll always be sunshine when I look at you
It’s something I can’t explain just the things that you do
But if you get lonely phone me and take
A second to give to me that magic you make and

Rod is singing about a love that never gets old as it appears that this couple continues to study one another, becoming more intimate as they grow old together.

Everyday love me your own special way
Melt all my heart away with a smile
Take time to tell me you really care
And we’ll share tomorrow together
(Always forever love you)
I’ll always love you ever
(Always forever love you) and ever

Rod sings about a relationship void of doubt or jealousy. Breaking up isn’t even a distant thought.

Loving you (Always forever love you) is the thing that I’ve planned
For a very long time (Always forever love you)
Me with you, you with me, we as one
Love together (Always forever love you) for a very long time
Loving you

The planned comment at the beginning of this stanza suggests a shared vision to be married for a lifetime.

Always, forever love you
Always, forever love you
Ever, forever
Forever, ever
Ever
Forever loving you, loving you

This vision has created a special bond and will to love one another forever, till death do us part.

I said, “Forever love you, love you”
Forever (Always forever love you)
Forever

These lyrics express a type of marriage that God intended human beings to enter into.

Final Thoughts:

Learning to dance as a sophomore in high school was like breaking a chain of depression that consumed my life. While I experienced more pain in my initial high school relationships by being dumped, dancing freed me from being the shy boy sitting in a chair watching everyone else dance. Subsequently, when ballads like Always and Forever cleared the dance floor for couples, I eventually overcome my fear of stuttering to ask girls to a slow dance. Always and Forever bring back fond memories of high school, especially the friends that I still hold dear.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-February 17

Posted on February 17, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Inspiration Behind Glory of Love:

The inspiration for Glory of Love came to Peter Cetera while working on the soundtrack for Karate Kid II. The producers of this film wanted Peter to write a theme song centered around courage and honor. Peter collaborated with his wife at this time, Diana Nini and producer David Foster. This is how the powerful lyrics of Glory of Love were created.

Biblical Application:

So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God. 32 Do not cause anyone to stumble, whether Jews, Greeks or the church of God— 33 even as I try to please everyone in every way. For I am not seeking my own good but the good of many, so that they may be saved, 1 Corinthians 10:31-33.

Exegesis of Glory of Love:

Tonight, it’s very clear
‘Cause we’re both lyin’ here
There’s so many things I wanna say
I will always love you
I would never leave you alone

There are moments of clarity within a relationship. Sometimes this involves humility, realizing that you haven’t been yourself lately. This clarity might conceive conviction, honesty or inspiration. Yet, before you speak, make sure you are going to carry out and fulfill the words that you speak.

Sometimes I just forget
Say things I might regret
It breaks my heart to see you cryin’
I don’t wanna lose you
I could never make it alone

Peter is reflecting upon the times in his marriage where he wasn’t very loving. Seeing Diana crying consumed Peter’s heart with guilt, wanting to change.

I am a man who will fight for your honor
I’ll be the hero you’re dreamin’ of
We’ll live forever
Knowin’ together
That we did it all for the glory of love

This stanza is geared toward Karate Kid II. If this was focused on Diana, Peter and her wouldn’t have gotten a divorce.

You keep me standing tall
You help me through it all
I’m always strong when you’re beside me
I have always needed you
I could never make it alone

While the lyrics seem to be meant for a couple. Karate Kid II uses these words to highlight the mentorship between Mr. Miyagi and Daniel. Relationships that last are grounded in a mutual desire to be there for another in their time of need.

I am a man who will fight for your honor
I’ll be the hero you’ve been dreamin’ of
We’ll live forever
Knowin’ together
That we did it all for the glory of love

Fighting for honor involves doing the right thing with integrity. In a relationship, fighting to keep love alive can be exhausting, similar to Bruce Willis’ character in the Last Boy Scout. To pursue the glory of love, you must desire greatness, looking beyond the past scars of broken people to find intimacy.

It’s like a knight in shining armor
From a long time ago
Just in time, I will save the day
Take you to my castle far away

This stanza provides old dreams of a man in shining armor who swoops a woman off their feet, living the rest of their lives like a fairy tale, happily ever after.

I am a man who will fight for your honor
I’ll be the hero that you’re dreamin’ of
We’re gonna live forever
Knowin’ together
That we did it all for the glory of love

This is where Hollywood dreams are shattered as many men don’t treat a significant other like she is a queen. Words are useless if they are void of love.

We’ll live forever (we’ll live forever)
Knowin’ together (knowin’ together)
That we did it all for the glory of love
Ooh-ooh-ooh-ooh, ooh-ooh-ooh
We did it all for love
We did it all for love
We did it all for love
We did it all for love

While Glory of Love was a great addition to the Karate Kid II soundtrack, this song lost it’s true meaning for me when I discovered Peter and Diana got divorced.

Final Thoughts:

The glory of love in the spiritual realm is a shining example of a godly and loving marriage. This marriage is enhanced by children of character, prosperity and taking the torch for the glory of love into their own marriage. Unless vows of marriage are lived out with acts of love, the glory of love turns into shame.

by Jay Mankus

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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 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 15

Posted on January 15, 2026 by expressyourself4him

The Inspiration Behind Dream On:

Steven Tyler’s father was a classical musician. Subsequently, when you are exposed to artists such as Bach and Chopin as a child, this influences how you want to create and compose modern-day music. This creative process began within a house in Foxboro, Massachusetts as band members from Aerosmith worked on their debut album. Steven had a vision for Dream On to include an orchestra arrangement with a dramatic progression to pick of the pace. The chorus for Dream On was conceived from Steven’s thoughts about life and desire to become a lead singer.

Biblical Application:

This is what the Lord says: “When seventy years are completed for Babylon, I will come to you and fulfill my good promise to bring you back to this place. 11 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. 12 Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. 13 You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. 14 I will be found by you,” declares the Lord, “and will bring you back from captivity.[b] I will gather you from all the nations and places where I have banished you,” declares the Lord, “and will bring you back to the place from which I carried you into exile,” Jeremiah 29:10-14.

Exegesis of Dream On:

Every time when I look in the mirror
All these lines on my face getting clearer
The past is gone
It went by like dusk to dawn

Steven is reflecting upon staring into a mirror, likely to practice singing. Whether as a child or aspiring lead singer, this time has passed, vanishing so quickly.

Isn’t that the way?
Everybody’s got their dues in life to pay, yeah

Sometimes people have to work in other areas of interest in life just to pay their bills before being able to pursue their dreams.

I know nobody knows
Where it comes and where it goes
I know and everybody sin
You got to lose to know how to win

Steven appears to refer to life as a series of trial and error to figure what they truly want to do in life as well as ascertaining right from wrong. You have to fail before you learn how to succeed.

Half my life’s in books’ written pages
Live and learn from fools and from sages
You know it’s true
All the feelings come back to you

Either Steven refers to life as a book in progress or half of his life is now history. As you live and learn from your past, you want to make sure you don’t keep making the same mistake over and over again.

Sing with me, sing for the year
Sing for the laughter and sing for the tear
Sing it with me, if it’s just for today
Maybe tomorrow, the good Lord will take you away

Nobody knows the future. You may have a sense of what lies ahead tomorrow, but for now enjoy the present. If today is your last day on earth, make the most of it.

Well, sing with me, sing for the year
Sing for the laughter and sing for the tear
Sing it with me, if it’s just for today
Maybe tomorrow, the good Lord will take you away

By repeating the chorus, Steven is inviting the audience to live in the moment.

Dream on, dream on, dream on
Dream until your dream come true
Dream on, dream on, dream on
Dream until your dream come true

Don’t give up on your life’s aspirations. Don’t settle for what others what you to be. Rather, strive for the dreams, hopes and goals that God created you to fulfill in life.

Dream on, dream on, dream on, dream on
Dream on, dream on, dream on, ah!

Don’t ever give up on your dreams.

Sing with me, sing for the year
Sing for the laughter and sing for the tear
Sing it with me, if it’s just for today
Maybe tomorrow, the good Lord will take you away

Seize the moment; enjoy this concert by singing with me.

Sing with me, sing for the year
Sing for the laughter and sing for the tear
Sing it with me, if it’s just for today
Maybe tomorrow the good Lord will take you away

Use singing as a vessel for healing.

Final Thoughts:

Everyone’s life is on a certain trajectory. You may be pleased with the direction you or currently going in or want to use 2026 as a year to transition in a different direction. Wherever you are in life, don’t settle for mediocracy. Instead, don’t be afraid to pursue your dreams and passions in life. While you may not succeed, you’ll never know if you don’t try.

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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