Tag Archives: horror

The Message Behind the Music-October 4

Posted on October 4, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Ray Parker Jr. – Ghostbusters (Official HD Video)

Inspiration Behind Ghostbusters:

The inspiration behind the film series Ghostbusters was conceived out of Dan Aykroyd’s fascination with the paranormal. The Ghostbusters song by Ray Parker Jr. conjures up a sense of adventure, humor, and a call to action.  The Ghostbusters song was written and performed by Ray. The popularity of this film and song became a sensation, enabling Parker’s hit to reach number one spot on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

Biblical Application:

At that moment the curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. The earth shook, the rocks split 52 and the tombs broke open. The bodies of many holy people who had died were raised to life. 53 They came out of the tombs after Jesus’ resurrection and[e] went into the holy city and appeared to many people, Matthew 27:51-53.

Exegesis of Ghostbusters:

If there’s somethin’ strange in your neighborhood
Who ya gonna call?
(Ghostbusters!)

This film commercialized ghosthunters, aka paranormal investigators. Subsequently, when you see something strange, call the Ghostbusters.

If it’s somethin’ weird an’ it don’t look good
Who ya gonna call?
(Ghostbusters!)

This team investigates this matter for you.

I ain’t afraid o’ no ghost

I ain’t afraid o’ no ghost

Trying to convince themselves that they are not afraid of ghosts.

If you’re seein’ things runnin’ through your head
Who can you call?
(Ghostbusters!)

The Ghostbusters handle entities and spirts as well.

An invisible man sleepin’ in your bed
Oh who ya gonna call?
(Ghostbusters!)

This song is like an infomercial for Ghostbusters.

I ain’t afraid o’ no ghost

I ain’t afraid o’ no ghost

Who ya gonna call?
(Ghostbusters!)

When you are afraid, call the Ghostbusters.

If you’re all alone, pick up the phone
And call
(Ghostbusters!)

Scenarios of when to call.

I ain’t afraid o’ no ghost
I hear it likes the girls
I ain’t afraid o’ no ghost
Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah

Trying to be tough until screaming like a girl upon seeing a ghost.

Who you gonna call?
(Ghostbusters!)

Self-promotion.

Mmm, if you’ve had a dose
Of a freaky ghost baby
You better call
(Ghostbusters!)

Another possible encounter.

Let me tell you somethin’
Bustin’ makes me feel good

Capturing ghosts is an adrenaline rush.

I ain’t afraid o’ no ghost

I ain’t afraid o’ no ghost

Don’t get caught alone, oh no
(Ghostbusters!)

When self-talk doesn’t work, call.

When he comes through your door
Unless you just a want some more
I think you better call
(Ghostbusters!)

Another scenario to watch out for.

Oh, who you gonna call?
(Ghostbusters!)
Who you gonna call?
(Ghostbusters!)

Another call to action.

Ah, think you better call
(Ghostbusters!)
Who you gonna call?
(Ghostbusters!)

A subliminal message in your mind.

I can’t hear you
Who you gonna call?
(Ghostbusters!)
Louder
(Ghostbusters!)

Last second plea to call.

Who you gonna call?
(Ghostbusters!)
Who can you call?
(Ghostbusters!)

Final promo.

Final Thoughts:

While there isn’t much substance to the lyrics, it’s made to be an advertisement for concerned residents dealing with the paranormal. I spent a quarter of a century living close to one of the most haunted cities in America. A combination of Civil and Revolutionary War spirits dwell in Elkton, Maryland homes. Meanwhile, there are more than 22 major references of ghosts and spirits in the Bible. Although Ghostbusters did commercialize paranormal investigators, ghost sightings continue today in the United States and throughout the world.

by Jay Mankus

Leave a comment

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

The Message Behind the Music-October 1: Halloween Themes

Posted on October 1, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Michael Jackson – Thriller (Official 4K Video)

Monthly Theme:

Outside of Christmas, Halloween has become the most popular celebration in America. Between candy, costumes, and decorations, over 13 billion dollars was spent on Halloween related events in 2025. While many in the Christian community struggle to embrace Halloween traditions, it’s the only day of the year where children come to your front door. This is your one chance annually to leave a lasting impact on your community. You have one of two choices, decline to participate or provide the best candy/food options in your neighborhood. As a former trick-or-treater, I remembered which houses who gave out the best and largest pieces of candy.

Inspiration Behind Thriller:

Michael Jackson’s love of horror films started with An American Werewolf in London in 1981. Subsequently, when Rod Temperton’s presented a shift from a song called “Starlight” to a horror‑themed concept, Thriller was conceived. Actress Peggy Lipton suggested horror legend Vincent Price become part of this project. Rod Temperton wrote Vincent’s monologue on the way to the studio. These are the influences that spawned one of the most iconic and popular music videos of all time.

Biblical Application:

Flee the evil desires of youth and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart. 23 Don’t have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments, because you know they produce quarrels, 2 Timothy 2:22-23.

Exegesis of Thriller:

It’s close to midnight
And something evil’s lurking in the dark
Under the moonlight
You see a sight that almost stops your heart
You try to scream
But terror takes the sound before you make it
You start to freeze
As horror looks you right between the eyes
You’re paralyzed

Setting the scene and tone to frighten you. The moon and darkness are associated with superstitions. A glimpse of something unexpected grips your heart with fear. Frozen by terror, unsure of how to respond.

‘Cause this is thriller, thriller night
And no one’s gonna save you from the beast about to strike
You know it’s thriller, thriller night
You’re fighting for your life inside a killer, thriller tonight, yeah
Ooh

The human response to fear. Paralyzed by an unknown beast. Running for your life.

You hear the door slam
And realize there’s nowhere left to run
You feel the cold hand
And wonder if you’ll ever see the sun
You close your eyes
And hope that this is just imagination, girl

Sounds associated with a haunted house. Where fear produces a chilling cold over your body. Afraid you may not see tomorrow, hoping this is just a bad dream.

But all the while
You hear a creature creepin’ up behind
You’re out of time

However, this noise isn’t going away, getting louder behind you.

‘Cause this is thriller, thriller night
There ain’t no second chance against the thing with forty eyes, girl
(Thriller) ooh-ooh (thriller night)
You’re fighting for your life inside a killer, thriller tonight

Like being in a no-win situation, hoping to survive.

Night creatures call
And the dead start to walk in their masquerade
There’s no escaping the jaws of the alien this time (they’re open wide)
This is the end of your life, ooh

Images of legendary creatures, aliens and zombies. Your life flahses before your eyes.

They’re out to get you
There’s demons closing in on every side, ooh
They will possess you
Unless you change that number on your dial
Now is the time
For you and I to cuddle close together, yeah
All through the night
I’ll save you from the terror on the screen
I’ll make you see

Demonic entities and influences that you sense all around you. However, the source of this is coming from the television as this couple cling to one another. Michael seeks to be the hero and protector.

That this is thriller, thriller night
‘Cause I can thrill you more than any ghoul would ever dare try
(Thriller) ooh-ooh (thriller night)
So let me hold you tight and share a killer, thriller (ooh), chiller (ooh)
Thriller, here tonight

Michael uses this horror show to his advantage, promising to bring excitement to this new relationship.

‘Cause this is thriller, thriller night
Girl, I can thrill you more than any ghoul would ever dare try
(Thriller) ooh-ooh (thriller night)
So let me hold you tight and share a killer, thriller, ow!

This chorus is repeated, trying to impress his date.

I’m gonna thrill you tonight
Darkness falls across the land
The midnight hour is close at hand
Creatures crawl in search of blood
To terrorize y’all’s neighborhood (I’m gonna thrill you tonight)

Using thrill in a positive way, to entertain and excite like never before.

And whosoever shall be found
Without the soul for getting down
Must stand and face the hounds of hell
And rot inside a corpse’s shell (I’m gonna thrill you tonight)
Thriller, ooh, babe (thriller)
I’m gonna thrill you tonight (thriller night)
Thriller, oh, darling (oh, baby)
I’m gonna thrill you tonight (thriller)

A call to dance or else. Promising his date the night of her life.

Ooh, babe (thriller night)
I’m gonna thrill you tonight (thriller)
Oh, darling (oh, baby)
Thriller night, babe (thriller night, babe)
Ooh
I’m gonna thrill you tonight (thriller)
Thriller night, babe

Michael’s goal for this night and their relationship.

Final Thoughts:

Syncretism is defined as the blending of cultural traditions with spiritual beliefs. To avoid occultic connections with Halloween, Christian denominations have adopted Halloween traditions into annual events such as Trunk or Treat and Harvest Nights. To avoid any long, drawn-out theological debates, I have evolved my own personal beliefs. God doesn’t call Christians to be like Puritans who separated themselves from society to avoid being corrupted. Rather, Jesus called first century followers to be the light of the world, Matthew 5:13-16, in a world filled with darkness. What better way to do this than by giving out the best food to all the visitors to your house on Halloween. This will plant a seed for future opportunities to reach your community for Christ.

by Jay Mankus

Leave a comment

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

The Message Behind the Music-March 18

Posted on March 18, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Carly Pearce – What He Didn’t Do (Official Music Video)

Inspiration Behind What He Didn’t Do:

The lyrics to What He Didn’t Do was spawn during the emotional journey of divorce that Carly Pearce experienced. Carly entered her marriage with musician Michael Ray having certain preconceived expectations that were never met. Subsequently, Carly devotes this entire song to how she and other women want to be loved and treated in a relationship.

Biblical Application:

ollow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children 2 and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God, Ephesians 5:1-2.

Exegesis of What He Didn’t Do:

Everybody’s asking what the hell happened
Wonderin’ why it all went wrong
Mama always said, “If you can’t say something nice
Then don’t say anything at all”

Carly isn’t the first woman to not have her expectations of marriage met. When asked, what really went wrong, Carly mentions things that Michael Ray didn’t do. This is how she skirted what her mom taught her about focusing on the positive aspects of human beings growing up.

And I’ve got my side of the story
And he’s got his side too
So I ain’t gonna go and tell you what he did
But I’ll tell you what he didn’t do

In marriage, no one is perfect. Subsequently, each side will make valid points to what went wrong. Yet Carly focuses on how she expected to be treated as a married woman.

Treat me right, put me first
Be a man of his word
Stay home ’cause he wanted to
Always fight for my love
Hold on tight like it’s somethin’
That he couldn’t stand to lose
The devil’s in the details
I won’t tell the hell that he put me through
All I know is in the end, it wasn’t what he did
No, it was what he didn’t do

This list is how Carly envisioned how a married woman should be treated.

I’m already halfway over him
And I ain’t takin’ time to turn around
So I’ma take the high road
Even though we both know
I could run him out of this town

Writing this song helped the healing process of divorce. Instead of looking back, Carly is ready to write a new chapter in her life. Instead of playing the blame game, Carly realizes that they are both musicians and didn’t want to ruin Michael’s future career. I’m assuming this town is Nashville, the major city for country music.

That’s just dirty laundry
I don’t need to air the truth
So I ain’t gonna tell you everything he did
But I’ll tell you what he didn’t do

Trying to take the high road, Carly seeks to let men know how she and other women expect to be treated.

Treat me right, put me first
Be a man of his word
Stay home ’cause he wanted to
Always fight for my love
Hold on tight like it’s somethin’
That he couldn’t stand to lose
The devil’s in the details
I won’t tell the hell that he put me through
All I know is in the end, it wasn’t what he did
No, it was what he didn’t do

I’m not sure if Carly and Michael went through premarital counseling, but if they did this list of expectations would have come out prior to their marriage. Knowing these expectations would have made entering into marriage a smoother transition.

I ain’t met the right one yet
But I know when I do

Looking back, Carly realizes that she hasn’t met Mr. Right yet.

He’ll treat me right, put me first
Be a man of his word
Stay home ’cause he wanted to
Always fight for my love
Hold on tight like it’s something
That he can’t stand to lose
The devil’s in the details
I won’t tell the hell that he put me through
All I know is in the end, it wasn’t what he did
No, it was what he didn’t do

If men don’t grow up in or are raised in a church, Carly’s expectations for marriage aren’t taught. Learning and studying the Bible helps prepare men how they should love and treat their wives.

And all I know is in the end, it wasn’t what he did
No, it was what he didn’t do

If Michael lived out the words of the apostle Paul in Ephesians 5:1-2, this marriage could have been saved.

Final Thoughts:

I grew up in a home like Carly’s as my mom only taught me, “if you don’t have anything nice to say, be quiet. This is the greatest lesson not being passed on from one generation to the next. Social media is providing avenues for adults and children to share their dirty laundry. The main problem today is that parents are setting bad examples for their children or simply live by the rule, “do what I say, not as I do.” Thia climate of love in America will continue to grow cold until a spiritual transformation occurs where love is lived out daily and is not just a word.

by Jay Mankus

Leave a comment

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

Engaging Our Culture: March 11-For Better or For Worse

Posted on March 11, 2025 by expressyourself4him

Video of the Day: Trailor from 2019 ESPN 30 for 30″For Better or For Worse”

Bible Verse of the Day:

 In your struggle against sin, you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding your blood. 5 And have you completely forgotten this word of encouragement that addresses you as a father addresses his son? It says, “My son, do not make light of the Lord’s discipline, and do not lose heart when he rebukes you,6 because the Lord disciplines the one he loves, and he chastens everyone he accepts as his son,” Hebrews 12:4-6.

Biblical Connection:

I had close friends who lived in the suburbs of Detroit, Michigan when Dennis Rodman played for the Pistons. As a rookie on the team that became labeled the Bad Boys of the National Basketball Association, Dennis took on the persona of teammate Bill Laimbeer. In his early years, Dennis was a scrappy player who cared more about getting loose balls and rebounds than scoring. This defensive minded mentally allowed Dennis to become the perfect spark off the bench to ignite this team. Dennis’ high energy led the Pistons to back-to-back NBA titles.

Years later, I was running Michael Jordan’s Golf Shop in O’Hare International Airport when Rodman joined the Chicago Bulls. While attending Willow Creek Community Church, Lee Strobel began a sermon series on What Would God Say to Famous People? Dennis Rodman was one of these individuals. Strobel revealed that Dennis was never disciplined by anyone in his life until he stole something from a host family in college. Dennis cried like a baby as no one ever loved him enough to explain to him right from wrong. This is the backstory to ESPN’s For Better or For Worse.

Closing Song:

When individuals follow their human nature throughout life, they end up living a colorful life like Dennis Rodman. However, if you want to avoid the pain of making poor decisions day after day, reach out to help a friend to keep them from the error of their ways like Dennis, James 5:19-20.

by Jay Mankus

Leave a comment

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

Engaging Our Culture: January 15-Facing the Unknown

Posted on January 15, 2025 by expressyourself4him

Video of the Day: Scene from the 2015 film “My All American”

Bible Verse of the Day:

 Even if I should choose to boast, I would not be a fool, because I would be speaking the truth. But I refrain, so no one will think more of me than is warranted by what I do or say, 7 or because of these surpassingly great revelations. Therefore, in order to keep me from becoming conceited, I was given a thorn in my flesh, a messenger of Satan, to torment me. 8 Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. 9 But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me, 2 Corinthians 12:6-9.

Biblical Connection:

Freddie Steinmark (Finn Wittrock) with the help of his father Fred, Michael Reilly Burke, go into strict training to develop the skills to play football at the college level. Attacking this game like Rudy Ruettiger, Freddie gets noticed by University of Texas coach Darrell Royal played by Aaron Eckhart. After rising up the depth charts, Freddie suffers an injury that leads to a shocking diagnosis. This is the context of today’s scene as Freddie faces a condition beyond his control.

Outside of Jesus, the apostle Paul is the most successful leader in the New Testament. However, during a trying period, Paul opens up about some kind of physical ailment that he’s dealing with. This unknown medical condition is described as a thorn in Paul’s flesh. Whatever debilitating ailment Paul was battling, this kept him humble. Therefore, if you ever find yourself facing the unknown, in your weakness lean on Jesus to be strong to get you through this trial in life.

Closing Song:

Whenever you face a medical emergency, cry out to the Lord to get you through the unknown.

by Jay Mankus

Leave a comment

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

Fear Tactics

Posted on February 18, 2017 by expressyourself4him

Angst, dread and panic are words synonomous with fear.  When some individuals are about to lose control or power, fear tactics are employed to manipulated others.  This process can get ugly, exposing evil intentions from within.  Unfortunately, this scene is replayed daily across the country resulting in concern, distress and horror.

The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full, John 10:10.

When teaching the first century about the Devil, Jesus refers to this fallen angel as a thief.  This spiritual bully has a playbook of fear tactics attempting steal, kill and destroy souls.  Unfortunately, this attack is invisible, enticing, luring and tempting unknowing accomplishes to do his own dirty work.

You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry out your father’s desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies, John 8:44.

Sometimes I read too much into someone’s actions.  Yet, I have experienced moments where Satan used a stranger to verbally assault me.  This happened a few times when I was in youth ministry and teaching.  My initial thought was “what the hell is going on?”  Yet, after a few days of reflecting and seeking discernment from others, I realized these events were merely fear tactics inspired by demonic powers seeking to steal my joy in life.  When the father of lies comes knocking at your door, guard yourself with a hedge of protection through prayer.

by Jay Mankus

 

Leave a comment

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

When Evil Never Leaves

Posted on December 1, 2016 by expressyourself4him

Evil is one of those traits which is shocking.  Whether its heinous, malicious or repulsive, the presence of such actions are chilling.  Any type of demonstration can leave eye witnesses shivering with fear.  According to Solomon, this cloud of darkness never leaves some souls.

Evil will never leave the house of one who pays back evil for good, Proverbs 17:13.

The concept of evil is often left to Hollywood.  Whether its a horror, murder mystery or science fiction film, few come face to face with a resident of evil.  Apparently, anyone who seeks revenge will be cursed with evil spirits that never leave,  This belief is similar to the Bible’s sowing principle, “you reap what you sow.”

Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life, Galatians 6:8.

In view of this scary information, its vital to avoid entering a world of darkness.  Instead, begin to keep in step with the Holy Spirit, relying on prayer to guide your way.  By doing this you will steer clear of the hauntings that other lost souls have endured.  Learn from the mistakes of others by fleeing from evil.

by Jay Mankus

 

 

Leave a comment

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

Whatever Happened to Being Normal?

Posted on January 8, 2016 by expressyourself4him

From time to time, part of my job requires me to test videos to determine if there is a defect within a device, episode or scene.  Over the course of a year, I come across a wide variety of genres from action, comedy, drama and horror.  While I should have observed this sooner, extremes are taking over, especially on reality television.  This makes me wonder, whatever happened to being normal?

My times are in your hand; rescue me from the hand of my enemies and from my persecutors! – Psalm 31:15

If you believe Hollywood, bad boys are attracting all the pretty girls, you can have your own movie and series if you’re a jackass and the more outlandish you are, sooner or later the cameras will find you.  Maybe I’m just too old fashioned, but some where along the way entertainment in America has gone off the deep end, forgetting the normal majority who make up most of this country.  While it may be boring, not news worthy and uninteresting, the average man, woman and child fly under the radar, giving their all daily.

Making the best use of the time, because the days are evil, Ephesians 5:16.

One of the most underrated messages comes from the 1999 movie October Sky, based on the life of Homer Hickam.  While his dad is portrayed as a jerk at times in the film, deep down Homer’s real hero is his father.  Although the term normal refers to someone who is average, regular and traditional, these individuals are the backbone of America.  Sure, it would be great to strike it rich, win the lottery or become an instant celebrity.  Yet, normal human beings are dependable, someone you can trust in time of need.  Therefore, don’t get carried away by what you see on television.  Rather, be grateful for those who are normal.

by Jay Mankus

Leave a comment

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

The Hands of God

Posted on May 26, 2015 by expressyourself4him

Stephen King has written a plethora of books, several of which have become classic films.  Taking horror in a new direction, King’s 1994 mini-series entitled the Stand portrays an end of days film in America.  Following a biological outbreak, only 10 percent of the population survive with the righteous calling the heartland home.  Meanwhile, those tempted by evil make their way to Las Vegas.  In the end, the Hand of God comes down to rescue the saints from a nuclear bomb.

While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them, Acts 13:2.”

Throughout history, God’s hands have been invisible, mysteriously protecting faithful Israelites.  Accounts abound within the Old Testament.  Noah and his family escaped the flood.  Abraham and Lot fled Sodom and Gomorrah before its demise.  Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego survived a fiery furnace and Daniel spent a night in a lion’s den, without harm.  Are these merely coincidences or the hands of God?

So after they had fasted and prayed, they placed their hands on them and sent them off, Acts 13:3.

According to the New Testament, God’s hands are extended from heaven through his followers.  When the elders laid hands on people, discernment, gifts and wisdom are imparted.  Similar to a prayer circle, believers expect God to do great things.  Without faith, even Jesus could not perform miracles in his home town.  Yet, when a concert of prayer is formed around a person in need, the hands of God are more than a legend; His power become a reality to those who receive this blessing.

by Jay Mankus

 

 

Leave a comment

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

When Fear is Transformed into Favor

Posted on February 25, 2015 by expressyourself4him

Fright, horror and terror are words synonymous with someone who is afraid.  Whether these emotions stem from witnessing a shocking event, embedded from watching a scary movie or implanted by nightmares from the Devil, rarely is fear associated with something positive.  Nonetheless, a holy fear can transform this word into favor from God.

But even if you suffer for doing what is right, God will reward you for it. So don’t worry or be afraid of their threats. – 1 Peter 3:14

One of the most overlooked messages of Easter is how a bunch of weak men who went into hiding, afraid for their lives were transformed by the Holy Spirit to become martyrs of the faith.  Fear caused Peter to deny knowing Jesus three times in Matthew 26:69-75.  Yet, some how a reverent fear turned Peter from a scaredy cat into a bold apostle who was crucified upside down, feeling unworthy to be killed in the same manner of his Savior.

Blessed are all who fear the LORD, who walk in obedience to him.   You will eat the fruit of your labor; blessings and prosperity will be yours. – Psalm 128:1-2

Despite my years of access to the Bible, opportunities to attend mega-churches in the past and relationships with God fearing believers over the course of my life, I still quake and quiver like a little girl when pressed by the world.  Similar to the apostles, we all need a Pentecost moment, Acts 2:1-4, where fear is discarded by a boldness from God’s mighty counselor, Acts 4:29.  Then and only then will fear transform into favor from God.

by Jay Mankus

Leave a comment

Posted in truth and tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.
← Older Posts
→