Tag Archives: God

The Message Behind the Music-September 23

Core Of My Addiction

Inspiration Behind Core of My Addiction:

This song was conceived from emotional dependency, surrender, and devotion to a higher power. Using addiction in a positive manner, where the narrator feels incomplete without their romantic partner, spiritual influence. Subsequently, this could be referring to Christian fellowship and or an intimate relationship with God. This special connection provides a source of purpose, healing, and freedom.

Biblical Application:

After this the Lord appointed seventy-two[a] others and sent them two by two ahead of him to every town and place where he was about to go. He told them, “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field. Go! I am sending you out like lambs among wolves, Luke 10:1-3.

Exegesis of Core of My Addiction:

I’m aching, transparent
Your eyes see right through me
I’m dependent and shacking
I’m falling to my knees

A confession of faith. Wanting Jesus like acts to shine through her. Relying on prayer for this transformation.

And I can’t contain this
You’re the only one I need
I’m hooked and I cannot hide it
Your love’s controlling me

This stanza suggests that this woman is taking her faith serious, making Jesus the Lord of her life, Romans 10:9-11. Wanting the love of God to shine through her as she interacts with people on a daily basis.

[Chorus]
You’re the core of my addiction
I wanna live, want to loose myself in you
You’re the heart of my obsession
I want to live, but I would die for you
I’m addicted

Jesus is her passion and vision every morning when she wakes up. She wants to become less, deny her selfish desires so that the love of God will increase. She is learning to love God with all of her heart, soul and mind. This explains her obsession, willing to die for her faith.

Impulsive, enraptured
This yearning’s captured me
I’m determined, I’m not pretending
You are my destiny

This is her vision. Resulting in a clear calling and focus each day.

I can feel the freedom
You’re the only one I need
I’m alive and finally breathing
You’re my recovery

This stanza contains biblical reference to freedom in Christ from Galatians 5, living an abundant life, John 10:10 as well as Jehovah Rapha – God is my healer.

[Chorus]

God I’ve waited for this day
I’ll never run away
You won’t have to chase me

This woman’s commitment to faith is similar to the other 72 disciples that Jesus sends out ahead of the 12 disciples to prepare for Jesus’ future visits.

[Chorus]

I’m addicted! I’m addicted!
I’m addicted to you!

This woman is on fire for Jesus, all in.

Final Thoughts:

One of the main reasons local churches aren’t impacting the spiritual growth of their communities is due to a lack of spiritual commitment. Instead of promoting the Lordship of Christ, God is being used as a crutch in times of need. Subsequently, the faith of many Christians is limited to Sunday morning. The other 6 days of the week faith has become lukewarm. The Core of My Addiction serves as a spiritual wake-up call to make Jesus your top priority for living.

by Jay Mankus

The Message Behind the Music-September 20

Karla Devito – We Are Not Alone (The Breakfast Club) (1985)

Inspiration Behind We Are Not Alone:

Karla Devito is associated with many well-known musicians like Meat Loaf who she toured with. Karla has also worked with Bette Midler, Cyndi Lauper, and many other renowned artists. We Are Not Alone was commissioned for the 1985 film the Breakfast Club. The attached video was part of the soundtrack for this popular film.

Biblical Application:

“I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes[a] so that it will be even more fruitful. You are already clean because of the word I have spoken to you. Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me, John 15:1-4.

Exegesis of We Are Not Alone:

Things are clear in black and white
But living color tends to dull our sight, like dynamite
Just imagine my surprise
When I looked into your eyes and saw through your disguise

The 5 students, each from a different social class have spent enough time together now at this point of the Breakfast Club that they are beginning to realize what they all have in common.

If we dare expose our hearts
And just reveal the purest parts
That’s when strange sensations start to grow

Prior to this scene in the movie, each opened up about the dysfunctional families that each are living in. Each let their guard down just enough to reveal that their lives are far from perfect.

We are not alone
You’ll find out when your cover’s blown
There’ll be somebody there to break your fall
We are not alone
‘Cause when you cut down to the bone
We’re really not so different, after all, after all
Not alone

As each student began to dance, they began to realize that they do share things in common.

Flying high above the sky
The patterns down below look simplified
A good place to hide
But on inspection of the dust
I came upon this thing called trust, it helps us to adjust

When the barriers, preconceptions and stereotypes about each other were slowly removed, trust began to form between this motley crew of 5 teenagers.

Just imagine my surprise
When I looked into your eyes
I knew right then I’d never let you go

These 5 went from not wanting to talk to running around the halls together.

We are not alone
You’ll find out when your cover’s blown
There’ll be somebody there to break your fall
We are not alone
‘Cause when you cut down to the bone
We’re really not so different, after all, after all
We’re not alone, not alone
After all, not alone

When individuals are willing to go outside their comfort zone, reaching out beyond social classes, you’ll realize that you have more in common than you think.

If we dare expose our hearts
And just reveal the purest parts
That’s when strange sensations start to grow

When you become vulnerable, it opens the door for others to follow.

We are not alone
You’ll find out when your cover’s blown
There’ll be somebody there to break your fall
We are not alone
‘Cause when you cut down to the bone
We’re really not so different, after all

This song ends with back-to-back choruses. A call to come together rather than tear one another down.

We are not alone
You’ll find out when your cover’s blown
There’ll be somebody there to break your fall
We are not alone
‘Cause when you cut down to the bone
We’re really not so different, after all, after all

After all, after all, we are not alone

Don’t let peer pressure keep you isolated. Be real and true. Then you won’t be alone.

Final Thoughts:

I was a jock for most of high school until I began to apply the same energy I poured into sports in my classes. My final two years of high school were my best 2 years of grade point average. This coincided with my decision to invite Jesus into my life, Romans 10:9-10. While I was far from perfect, I wasn’t afraid to cross social boundaries. By the time I was a senior, I was friends with a vast amount of people from several social classes. Being part of Homecoming Weekend as a senior was one of my favorite weeks of high school. Spending several hours outside of class building a float enabled me to make friends with students I only knew by name prior to this week. This is when I discovered that I was not alone anymore.

by Jay Mankus

The Message Behind the Music-September 19

Against My Better Judgment

Inspiration Behind Against My Better Judgement:

This song blends personal introspection, relationship dynamics, and human nature within societal patterns. The lyrics of Against My Better Judgement explores self-sabotage and falling from grace. Like a child told not to eat the cookies in the cookie jar, human nature has a way of doing the opposite of what we are told. Since Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden, temptation has a way of planting evil thoughts in minds that are eventually acted upon.

Biblical Application:

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. 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?” 12 The man said, “The woman you put here with me—she gave me some fruit from the tree, and I ate it.” 13 Then the Lord God said to the woman, “What is this you have done?” The woman said, “The serpent deceived me, and I ate,” Genesis 3:9-13.

Exegesis of Against My Better Judgement:

With starving appetites for arguments
you remind me of a secret
I was never supposed to tell.

When you are tired or hungry, you become vulnerable to making irrational decisions. This moment of weakness led to loose lips, revealing something that was supposed to be a secret.

The time is over, the verdicts in: Everybody’s right, everybody wins
The time is over, the verdicts in: Everybody’s right, everybody wins

Suggests that there is justification, cause and reason for any wrong act that you do.

Didn’t you know you were a saint, what a shameful fall from grace
But I’ll catch you, I’ll catch you
Everybody’s waiting for that something they can hold onto
while tripping over our own words to self-dug graves for an excuse to fall
Becuase every failure’s just as sweet as the last

Appears to address a hypocrite or someone addicted to a specific drug. They are unable to stop themselves from a bad habit and or unwholesome craving. This could also refer to a backslidden Christian who knows God is going to forgive them so that they keep indulging their fleshly desires over and over again.

The time is over, the verdicts in: Everybody’s right, everybody wins
The tims is over, the verdicts in: Everybody’s right, everybody wins

This is what happens when there are no absolute truths and when opinions are elevated to fact status.

Didn’t you know you were a saint, what a shameful fall from grace
But I’ll catch you, I’ll catch you
Everybody’s waiting for that something they can hold onto
while tripping over our own words to self-dug graves for an excuse to fall
Becuase every failure’s just as sweet as the last

Not sure if God will catch wayward souls or that a friend when helping this person get back on the right track. Everyone wants to find and hold on to what is true, but human nature causes must individuals to self-destruct.

As a dream comes
when there are many cares
so the speech of a fool
when there are many words
the sun it misses summer in winter.
Didn’t you know we wear
the same pretentious name
lets trade for awhile
i’m so curious

Members of Further Seems Forever is struggling to do the right thing. Perhaps a Christian wants to trade with an atheist so they don’t have to worry about trying to please God.

Everybody’s waiting for that something they can hold onto
while tripping over our own words to self-dug graves for an excuse to fall
Becuase every failure’s just as sweet as the last

Everyone is trying to find something that is real and true to hold on to. Yet human nature continues to lead individuals to do things against their better judgement.

Final Thoughts:

One thing that I have learned in life, once you master one bad habit, there is always another one that arises. Discipline and self-control is a daily struggle for most human beings. While government on the local and national level try to establish rules to quell bad behavior, these regulations are not addressing the core issue: human nature. The apostle Paul reveals his own shortcomings in Romans 7. Only Jesus come help those who continue to do things against their better judgement.

by Jay Mankus

The Message Behind the Music-September 15

[HQ] Lifehouse – Everything Skit Remastered High Quality

Inspiration Behind Everything:

Jason Wade, the frontman for Lifehouse, wrote Everything during a period of personal struggle and crisis of faith. Drama teams have taken the lyrics to Everything and have created their own spin of this internal war that takes place in the spiritual dimension every day. Everything serves as a transformative phase in Wade’s life, shaped by his strong Christian background and the guiding role faith has played in his spiritual journey on earth.

Biblical Application:

Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded. Grieve, mourn and wail. Change your laughter to mourning and your joy to gloom. 10 Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up, James 4:7-10.

Exegesis of Everything:

[Instrumental Intro]

[Verse 1]
Find me here and speak to me
I want to feel you, I need to hear you
You are the light that’s leading me
To the place where I find peace again

A cry for help after feeling lost. Desperately wanting to find peace.

[Verse 2]
You are the strength that keeps me walking
You are the hope that keeps me trusting
You are the light to my soul
You are my purpose, you’re everything

Acknowledging a source of strength, where hope and trust resides. Suggesting that their current life is slipping out of control. Wanting to be led back in the right direction, toward the light of truth’ Searching for purpose.

[Refrain]
How can I stand here with you and not be moved by you?
Would you tell me, how could it be any better than this? Yeah

Jason is referring to his relationship with God that has become stale, unmoved by God’s presence and power.

[Verse 3]
You calm the storms and you give me rest
You hold me in your hands, you won’t let me fall
You still my heart and you take my breath away
Would you take me in? Take me deeper now

Jsaon looks back at his life, remembering how God has calmed past storms in his life. Suggests an Old Testament view of God, a hiding place where protection and security can be found. In Jason’s current crisis of faith, he is doing some soul searching, wanting a greater understanding for the current spiritual storm he is enduring.

[Refrain]
And how can I stand here with you and not be moved by you?
Would you tell me, how could it be any better than this?
And how can I stand here with you and not be moved by you?
Would you tell me, how could it be any better than this?

Jason is questioning his current relationship with God, becoming lukewarm and uninspired. Perhaps Jason is beginning to turn toward worldly insights instead of fully trusting in God Not realizing how good his life is.

[Chorus]
‘Cause you’re all I want, you’re all I need
You’re everything, everything
You’re all I want, you’re all I need
You’re everything, everything
You’re all I want, you’re all I need
You’re everything, everything
You’re all I want, you’re all I need
Everything, everything

An admission that Jesus is the Lord of his life, his purpose and reason for living. Yet like any friendship, if you don’t spend time with one another, the bind which ties you together slowly loosens.

[Refrain]
And how can I stand here with you and not be moved by you?
Would you tell me, how could it be any better than this?
And how can I stand here with you and not be moved by you?
Would you tell me, how could it be any better, any better than this?
And how can I stand here with you and not be moved by you?
Would you tell me, how could it be any better than this?

Jason comes to his senses like the prodigal son in Luke 15. Despite any previous deviations in his faith, Jason realized that God is everything to him. Since God has provided in the past, Jason should no longer doubt God’s power in the future.. This reality should elicit a vast appreciation, moving his soul. As Lecrae once sang. This is Living.

[Outro]
Would you tell me, how could it be any better than this?

Perhaps a reference to Jesus’ promise of an abundant life in John 10:10.

Final Thoughts:

When I was in youth ministry, a drama team performed for my youth group. While this group used a different song than Everything, the lyrics involved a similar message of a teenager losing hope. Subsequently, when I stumbled upon this dramatization of Everything a few years ago, I was moved to tears. Adults have a habit of trying to hide their pain where teens tend to be much more vulnerable. The lyrics of Everything provide hope to anyone considering suicide with a spiritual alternative. Whenever God saves a lost and lonely heart, He becomes Everything to them.

by Jay Mankus

The Message Behind the Music-September 9

Faded Love

Inspiration Behind Faded Love:

Faded Love appears to be a spinoff of a song by Bob Wills and His Texas Playboys. The lyrics express lost love, using the colors of fall to illustrate how love can erode over time. While Bob’s song was in the swing genre, In Reach uses soft rock in the form of a ballad. Faded Love enabled In Reach to crossover by resonating with listeners on a personal and emotional level.

Biblical Application:

Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love. This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. 10 This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins, 1 John 4:8-10.

Exegesis of Faded Love:

All alone out of sight, out of mind
Many miles away
I sit on the jagged edge of night
For you it’s the break of day
Half a world and separate lives
I listen through a delay
We dare never say what we long to hear
But silence won’t ease this pain

A reference to a relationship that has cooled. This long-distance relationship was attempted, but different time zones and work schedules has made it difficult to talk to one another. As times goes on apart, their love fades.

Faded love, Like autumn colors turn to grey at the seasons face
Faded love, I hear the sounds of yesterday as they whisper faded love
Like watercolors wash away, just a choice we made
Faded love, I hear the sounds of yesterday as they whisper faded love

Like a tree that loses its leaves in winter, distance has a way of cooling off the passion of love. Just as watercolors can wash away, love also can disappear.

Being away I’ve learned to deal with it a little too well
But There was a time I believed in love and thought it would never fail
So what do we do, and what can we say
Should we pick up the pieces or throw them away

Perhaps Brett is referring to being away from his family while on tour. He’s learned to make the best of a bad siruation. Despite the odds, he is not willing to give up on this relationship.

Faded love, Like autumn colors turn to grey at the seasons face
Faded love, I hear the sounds of yesterday as they whisper faded love
Like watercolors wash away, just a choice we made
Faded love, I hear the sounds of yesterday as they whisper faded love

The color is repeated with two metaphors, autumn colors and watercolors to explain how love can die.

Faded love, Like autumn colors turn to grey at the seasons face
Faded love, I hear the sounds of yesterday as they whisper faded love
Like watercolors wash away, just a choice we made
Faded love, I hear the sounds of yesterday as they whisper faded love

Closing chorus. Choices and decisions in the form of priorities are how love can fade away.

Final Thoughts:

The Waterline album was released my final semester of college. While Faded Love fits into September’s theme, there are half a dozen other songs from this album that I listened to for countless hours. When I was in a long-distance relationship before I got married, the lyrics of Faded Love helped me endure and see if out.until I got married.

by Jay Mankus

The Message Behind the Music-September 5

Foreigner – Urgent (Official Music Video)

Inspiration Behind Urgent:

Urgent was spawn from guitarist Mick Jones’s spontaneous musical ideas. The ideal for this song came during a time when Foreigner transitioned toward a more soulful, synth-driven sound. Frontman Lou Gramm portrays a situation where two people recognize their mutual immediate desire and physical attraction. This love at first sight scenario triggers a sense of urgency, to seize the moment or miss this opportunity.

Biblical Application:

The king’s command was so urgent and the furnace so hot that the flames of the fire killed the soldiers who took up Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, 23 and these three men, firmly tied, fell into the blazing furnace. 24 Then King Nebuchadnezzar leaped to his feet in amazement and asked his advisers, “Weren’t there three men that we tied up and threw into the fire?” They replied, “Certainly, Your Majesty.” 25 He said, “Look! I see four men walking around in the fire, unbound and unharmed, and the fourth looks like a son of the gods.” 26 Nebuchadnezzar then approached the opening of the blazing furnace and shouted, “Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, servants of the Most High God, come out! Come here!” – Daniel 3:22-26.

Exegesis of Urgent:

[Verse 1]
You’re not shy, you get around
You wanna fly, don’t want your feet on the ground
You stay up, you won’t come down
You wanna live, you wanna move to the sound

An outgoing woman is on the dance floor. A man approaches knowing her reputation.

[Verse 2]
Got fire in your veins
Burnin’ hot, but you don’t feel the pain
Your desire is insane
You can’t stop until you do it again

A reference to a mutual attraction that is initially denied. However, this desire intensifies to the point you feel like you have to respond.

[Pre-Chorus]
But sometimes I wonder as I look in your eyes
Maybe you’re thinkin’ of some other guy
But I know, yes I know, how to treat you right
That’s why you call me in the middle of the night

There is hesitation, unsure that this feeling is mutual. Yet, receiving a call in the middle of the night suggests she has some interests in you.

[Chorus]
You say it’s urgent
So urgent, so oh-oh urgent
Just wait and see
How urgent my love can be
It’s urgent

Is she using this call as an excuse to get your attention? Questions are asked to ascertain what is really going on.

[Verse 3]
You play tricks on my mind
You’re everywhere but you’re so hard to find
You’re not warm or sentimental
You’re so extreme, you can be so temperamental

This woman is taking him on the same emotional roller coaster. I see you around all the time, but when I want to talk, you’re hard to find. This man is tired of her extreme behavior, wanting to know where their relationship stands.

[Pre-Chorus]
But I’m not lookin’ for a love that’ll last
I know what I need and I need it fast
Yeah, there’s one thing in common that we both share
That’s a need for each other anytime, anywhere

Sexual desires are being aroused, looking for a quick fix. Feeling alone likely triggered this feeling. Signs of an on again off again relationship.

[Chorus]
It gets so urgent
So urgent
You know it’s urgent
I wanna tell you it’s the same for me (Ooh-ooh)
So urgent
Just you wait and see
How urgent our love can be
It’s urgent

Being alone triggers a sense of urgency that doesn’t arise when they are with other people.

[Chorus]
You say it’s urgent
Make it fast, make it urgent
Do it quick, do it urgent
Gotta rush, make it urgent
Want it quick
Make it urgent, urgent, emergency
Urgent, urgent, emergency
Urgent (Urgent), Urgent (Urgent), emergency
Urgent (Urgent), Urgent (Urgent), emergency


Signs of co-dependency. the stronger the urge to be together, the greatest the urgency.

[Outro]
So urgent, emergency
Ooh-ooh (Ooh-ooh)
Ooh-ooh (Ooh-ooh)
Ooh-ooh (Ooh-ooh)
It’s urgent

This relationship has become dysfunctional as they treat each other like a drug. After hooking up, this urgent desire is satisfied.

Final Thoughts:

I had a few relationships in college that mirror the lyrics of Urgent. The first relationship ended as my girlfriend never fully got over her ex. Another relationship was with a girl from high school where we met up a few times when we were both lonely. Finally, there was one relationship with a serious girlfriend who would call me out of the blue. All of these relationships were emotionally draining, especially the last one. However, I have learned that whenever a relationship doesn’t have a clear vision or purpose, they will fall apart over time. Maintaining open communication is crucial to building long-lasting relationships.

by Jay Mankus

The Message Behind the Music-September 4

Tasha Layton // Look What You’ve Done (Official Music Video)

Writing this song was truly a collaboration beginning with Chase N. Cashe along with 40 other individuals. In this day and age, negativity steals headlines and national talking points. Subsequently, Tasha Layton wanted Look What You’ve Done to focus on all that her family and supporters have done behind the scenes. This song serves as a thank you tribute to all the people in her life that have led to Tasha’s successful career.

Biblical Application:

On the Sabbath we went outside the city gate to the river, where we expected to find a place of prayer. We sat down and began to speak to the women who had gathered there. 14 One of those listening was a woman from the city of Thyatira named Lydia, a dealer in purple cloth. She was a worshiper of God. The Lord opened her heart to respond to Paul’s message. 15 When she and the members of her household were baptized, she invited us to her home. “If you consider me a believer in the Lord,” she said, “come and stay at my house.” And she persuaded us, Acts 16:13-15.

Exegesis of Look What You’ve Done:

Look what you’ve done
How could you fall so far
You should be ashamed of yourself
So I was ashamed of myself

Tasha is referring to herself. Likely reflecting upon a rough period of her life. This has resulted in conviction, embarrassment and shame.

The lies I believed
They got some roots that run deep
I let em take a hold of my life
I let em take control of my life

Tasha points to ungodly beliefs, lies that she once held as truth. This mindset made her stubborn, unwilling to change.

Standing in your presence, Lord
I can feel you diggin’ all the roots up
I feel ya healin’ all my wounds up
All I can say is hallelujah

Tasha realizes that she needs to change, uprooting the unhealthy weeds in her life. These wounds will take time to heal, but Tasha is thankful that she is back on the right track.

Look what you’ve done
Look what you’ve done in me
You spoke your truth into the lies I let my heart believe
Look at me now
Look how you made me new
The enemy did everything that he could do
Oh, but look what you’ve done

It appears that Tasha is referring to her parents and the positive upbringing she experienced. The Devil was working overtime to drag down Tasha. Yet God gave Tasha the strength to persevere.

Suddenly all the shame is gone
I thought I was too broken, now I see
You were breaking new ground inside of me

Tasha was set free from her guilt and shame. In the middle of her brokenness, God began healing and restoring Tasha.

Standing in your presence, Lord
I can feel you diggin’ all my roots up
I feel ya healin’ all my wounds up
All I can say is hallelujah

God was helping Tasha overcome all the bad habits in her life. Thankful for the progress that he been made.

Look what you’ve done
Look what you’ve done in me
You spoke your truth into the lies I let my heart believe
Look at me now
Look how you made me new
Oh, the enemy did everything that he could do
Oh, but look what you’ve done

repeating the chorus. A glimpse of how God used Tasha’s parents and supporters to reach new heights.

On the cross, in a grave
With a stone, rolled away
All my debt, it was paid
Look what you’ve done

Tasha gives Jesus the credit in this stanza. Jesus gave up His life to save the world, John 3:16-17.

In my heart, in my mind
In my soul, in my life
With my hands lifted high
I’m singing

Tasha is praising God for her transformed life.

Look what you’ve done
Look what you’ve done in me
You spoke your truth into the lies I let my heart believe
Look at me now
Look how you made me new
Oh, the enemy did everything that he could do
Oh, but look what you’ve done

The final chorus. Repeating as if to let others know, with God all things are possible.

On the cross, in a grave
With a stone, rolled away
All my debt, it was paid
Look what you’ve done

The apostle Paul describes this chorus in Romans 5:7-8.

In my heart, in my mind
In my soul, in my life
With my hands lifted high
I’m singing
Look what you’ve done

A quick summary of how Tasha’s life has been changed.

Final Thoughts:

I stumbled upon Look What You’ve Down during the Coronavirus. I was so moved by the lyrics that I began to share this with friends who needed a boost of encouragement. Every once in a while, a song is released that touches hearts and souls to revive dead and dying dreams. May the lyrics of Look What You’ve Done stir your soul like it has done for me.

by Jay .

The Message Behind the Music-September 2

Always On My Mind – David And The Giants

Inspiration Behind Always on My Mind:

Always on My Mind was written by David Huff and Lloyd Bustard. The lyrics refer to God as a constant companion. This mindset comes from growing up in a Christian home where David was encouraged to share the Gospel, good news about Jesus through music. In an age where human beings are abandoning God, Always on My Mind conveys an unwavering faith as a core theme.

Biblical Application:

n your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature[a] God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature[b] of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross! – Philippians 2:5-8.

Exegesis of Always on My Mind:

In every moment, I know You are there
Caring and sharing Your love
A constant companion, You’re like no one else
That ever has entered my life

Starting to grasp God’s omnipresence on earth. This sense of God being present conceived the mindset of a spiritual constant companion. God has been faithful.

And I wanna tell You, Lord
You’re always, always on my mind
I could never forget You
Always, always in my heart
And that’s the place that I need You
Forever and ever You will stay
Always on my mind

A chorus that serves as a way to thank God for being there in times of trouble throughout life. God has become David’s top priority in life. This heart of gratitude spawned a mindset of thankfulness.

When I first met You, You made me a promise
That You would be with me till the end
Mountains or valleys, stormy or sunshine
Truly I can say that I’m blessed

Likely referring to David’s first encounter with God, likely at a church, spiritual retreat or summer camp. David began reading the Bible to understand who he was praying to. As David began to grasp God’s nature, he felt blessed.

And I wanna tell You, Lord
You’re always, always on my mind
I could never forget You
Always, always in my heart
And that’s the place that I need You
Forever and ever You will stay, always

The chorus is repeated. David was overwhelmed by how much that God has transformed his life.

Life is a song that’s filled with Your love
And it stays with me through all the day long
When the sun’s going down, I know in the night
You’ll be there if anything should go wrong

David developed a solid foundation of faith. Reaching a point where darkness and doubt would not waver his belief.

And I wanna tell You, Lord
You’re always, always on my mind
I could never forget You
Always, always in my heart
And that’s the place that I need You
Forever and ever You will stay
Always on my mind

This chorus serves as a vow. Marking David’s decision to follow Jesus. Turning back isn’t an option.

Final Thoughts:

I saw David and the Giants in concert back in 1994. This was one of the first Christian bands I heard which had a cool, hip sound, but didn’t compromise or water down their lyrics. When I had a vision to start a radio station back in the early 1990’s, David and the Giants was one of the groups on my initial play list of 2700 minutes of music. While I kept this large notebook over the years, this project was too expensive to compete within this new era of digital music. Although my taste of music has changed over the years, David and the Giants holds a special place in my heart as their song Perfect Love was sung at my wedding.

by Jay Mankus

The Message Behind the Music-August 27

I Found Jesus in All the Wrong Places | Powerful Christian Country Song of Redemption | Lyric Video

Inspiration Behind I Found Jesus in All the Wrong Places:

I found Jesus in All the Wrong Places was written by Katy Nichole. The lyrics combine biblical themes with a real-life testimony to tell the story of finding faith in the most unexpected places. Like a modern-day prodigal parable, I Found Jesus in All the Wrong Places addresses specific encounters in life that result in personal redemption. Don’t be surprised by when God appears and who the Lord speaks to in life.

Biblical Application:

I want you to know, brothers and sisters, that the gospel I preached is not of human origin. 12 I did not receive it from any man, nor was I taught it; rather, I received it by revelation from Jesus Christ 13 For you have heard of my previous way of life in Judaism, how intensely I persecuted the church of God and tried to destroy it. 14 I was advancing in Judaism beyond many of my own age among my people and was extremely zealous for the traditions of my fathers. 15 But when God, who set me apart from my mother’s womb and called me by his grace, was pleased 16 to reveal his Son in me so that I might preach him among the Gentiles, my immediate response was not to consult any human being. 17 I did not go up to Jerusalem to see those who were apostles before I was, but I went into Arabia. Later I returned to Damascus. 18 Then after three years, I went up to Jerusalem to get acquainted with Cephas[b] and stayed with him fifteen days. 19 I saw none of the other apostles—only James, the Lord’s brother. 20 I assure you before God that what I am writing you is no lie. 21 Then I went to Syria and Cilicia. 22 I was personally unknown to the churches of Judea that are in Christ. 23 They only heard the report: “The man who formerly persecuted us is now preaching the faith he once tried to destroy.” 24 And they praised God because of me, Galatians 1:11-24.

Exegesis of I Found Jesus in All the Wrong Places:

I can’t say how and I don’t know why
But God has saved me ’bout a million times
From ruining me, myself, and I
Told me the truth when all I knew was lies
Everybody wants to find their peace
And I found mine down on my knees
Praying and laying at Jesus’ feet
Bringing me strength when I was weak

The mystery of how God works in life. Saved time after time from self-destruction. Even when you are faithless and undeserving, peace is found by crying out in prayer, providing strength in times of weakness.

Every time I thought my world had reached an end
He picked me up and we started all over again
Second chances turned into hundreds
‘Cause He never gave up on me
I thought that I would never be worth the fight
But He showed up and loved me time after time
I thought that I didn’t want to be alive
But I found my reason to breathe
When I found Jesus

When you think your life is over, God picks you up to help you begin again. These second chances are too numerous to remember, but God never gave up on me. Despite being worthless, God’s love is extended time after time. When I was about to quit on life, Jesus gave me a reason to breathe.

I found joy in the midst of pain
A rainbow shinin’ through a sky of rain
I see color instead of gray

I found healin’ in my heartbreak

Finding joy in the middle of turmoil like a rainbow after a storm. My perspective is no longer gray, able to see colors. This mindset brought healing to my broken heart.

Every time I thought my world had reached an end
He picked me up and we started all over again
Second chances turned into hundreds
‘Cause He never gave up on me
I thought that I would never be worth the fight
But He showed up and loved me time after time
I thought that I didn’t want to be alive
But I found my reason to breathe
When I found Jesus
When I found Jesus

The chorus is repeated with a different ending. Encountering a God of second chances. On the verge of giving up on life, Jesus gave Katy a reason to live.

After all the hurt that I’ve been through
And everything I’ve lost
I am grateful for it all somehow
‘Cause it led me to the cross

Through the pain and suffering, God provided a spirit of thanksgiving. These life experiences led to being introduced to a Savior who laid down his life, Romans 5:7-8.

I can’t say how and I don’t know why
But God has saved me ’bout a million times
Buried the past and let my old ways die
Opened the grave and brought me back to life

Everyone else would have given up on me, but God helped me find Jesus in the least likely place. The final 2 lines seem to highlight Colossians 3:1-4.

Every time I thought my world had reached an end
He picked me up and we started all over again
Second chances turned into hundreds
‘Cause He never gave up on me
I thought that I would never be worth the fight
But He showed up and loved me time after time
I thought that I didn’t want to be alive
But I found my reason to breathe
When I found Jesus
When I found Jesus

This final stanza provides a glimpse of God’s agape love. From a human standpoint, this doesn’t make sense. Yet God showed up when everyone else gave up on me. This is when Katy found Jesus.

Final Thoughts:

This song highlights the saying “God works in mysterious ways.” Like a runaway train destined for destruction, God stepped in at the last second to save me when I gave up on life early in high school. A classmate’s suicide provided a spiritual wakeup call which made me open to the supernatural. I began searching for answers to life on earth like “why are we here?” I few months after this search began, I found Jesus at an event in Valley Forge, Pennsylvania. Since this moment, I’ve ridden the roller coaster of life. When I was thinking about quitting once again, I found Jesus in the least likely places like Katy.

by Jay Mankus

The Message Behind the Music-August 22

Larry Fleet – Where I Find God (Official Music Video)

Inspiration Behind Where I Find God:

Larry Fleet began a social media series entitled Gospel Song Sunday. Larry’s personal posts touched Nashville songwriter Connie Harrington. After setting up a meeting, this initial conversation conceived Where I Find God. The lyrics refer to various places in life where people have encounters with God. Some individuals search all over the world until realizing that God is omnipresent, waiting for an invitation.

Biblical Application:

Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest and repent. 20 Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me. 21 To the one who is victorious, I will give the right to sit with me on my throne, just as I was victorious and sat down with my Father on his throne. 22 Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches,” Revelation 3:19-22.

Exegesis of Where I Find God:

The night I hit rock bottom, sittin’ on an old bar stool
He paid my tab and put me in a cab, he didn’t have to
But he could see I was hurtin’, oh I wish I’d got his name
‘Cause I didn’t feel worth savin’, but he saved me just the same

Larry was drowning his sorrows, numbing his pain with alcohol one evening. A good Samaritan saw that Larry needed help, making sure that he got home that evening alive.

That day out on the water when the fish just wouldn’t bite
I put my pole down, floated around, it was just so quiet
And I could hear my old man sayin’, “Son, just be still
‘Cause you can’t find peace like this in a bottle or a pill”

During an unsuccessful fishing trip, Larry stopped for a moment, listening to nature. This time of reflection triggered a memory of advice given to him by his dad.

From a bar stool to that Evinrude
Sunday mornin’ in a church pew
In a deer stand or a hay field
An interstate back to Nashville
In a Chevrolet with the windows down
Me and Him just ridin’ around
Sometimes, whether I’m lookin’ for Him or not
That’s where I find God

Connie and Larry create a list of where God speaks to them in a still small voice.

Sometimes late at night, I lie there and listen
To the sound of her heart beatin’ and that song the crickets are singin’
And I don’t know what they’re sayin’

Larry is either referring to his wife or daughter. Being outside on a summer night, listening to the sounds of nature.

But it sounds like a hymn to me
No, I ain’t too good at prayin’
But thanks for everything

Another time of reflection reminded Larry of an old church hymn. While he may not be religious, he sure is thankful.

From a bar stool to that Evinrude
Sunday mornin’ in a church pew
In a deer stand or a hay field
An interstate back to Nashville
In a Chevrolet with the windows down
Me and Him just ridin’ around
Sometimes, whether I’m lookin’ for Him or not
That’s where I find God

The chorus repeats with places where you may have an encounter with God.

From a bar stool to that Evinrude
Sunday mornin’ in a church pew
In a deer stand or a hay field
An interstate back to Nashville
In a Chevrolet with the windows down
Me and Him just ridin’ around talkin’

Places where you may find God.

Well, I do that a lot
Well, I do that a lot
That’s where I find God

Larry enjoys riding around, talking to God with his eyes open.

Final Thoughts:

Most of the retreats that I have attended have either been in the mountains, on a lake or river and in a tranquil setting. During a late-night walk-in Johnson City, Tennessee with two friends, each of us revealed a dark secret from our past. This hour-long conversation set the tone for an amazing mission trip. When you become vulnerable like Larry, God has a way of moving others to pour out their hearts and souls as well. This is where I find God.

by Jay Mankus