Tag Archives: music

The Message Behind the Music-January 9

Posted on January 9, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Inspiration Behind Here I Go Again:

The lyrics of Here I Go Again were conceived out of David Coverdale’s personal experiences following the breakup and subsequent divorce from his first wife. While staying in Portugal, loneliness and depression led David to compose a song about resilience and self-discovery. While reflecting upon this emotional journey, Here I Go Again has become an anthem for anyone facing adversity in life.

Biblical Application:

But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. 8 We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; 9 persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed, 2 Corinthians 4:7-9.

Exegesis of Here I Go Again:

I don’t know where I’m going
But, I sure know where I’ve been
Hanging on the promises
In songs of yesterday
And I’ve made up my mind
I ain’t wasting no more time
Here I go again
Here I go again

David has finally made a decision to let go of his first marriage. Rather than continue to dwell on what he lost, he’s ready to move on, stop wasting time and start a new relationship.

Though I keep searching for an answer
I never seem to find what I’m looking for
Oh Lord, I pray
You give me strength to carry on
‘Cause I know what it means
To walk along the lonely street of dreams

David is tired of being alone. After a time of healing and reflection, he is ready to start over again. With God’s help, David will be able to follow the dreams that he has put on hold for now.

And here I go again on my own
Going down the only road I’ve ever known
Like a drifter I was born to walk alone
And I’ve made up my mind
I ain’t wasting no more time

David doesn’t mind being single. Possessing a strong sense of individualism, he’s a leader who has a certain way that he wants to live his life now.

I’m just another heart in need of rescue
Waiting on love’s sweet charity
And I’m gonna hold on for the rest of my days
‘Cause I know what it means
To walk along the lonely street of dreams

David acknowledges that his heart isn’t fully recovered from his divorce. David wants to wait on love rather than force himself into another relationship.

And here I go again on my own
Going down the only road I’ve ever known
Like a drifter I was born to walk alone
And I’ve made up my mind
I ain’t wasting no more time
But here I go again

The chorus repeats David’s decision to move on.

Here I go again
Here I go again
Here I go

Despite being single, David is going to press on with his life.

‘Cause I know what it means
To walk along the lonely street of dreams

There is a certain stubbornness that rock stars exhibit. Despite being alone, David is going to keep on living life like he did before getting married.

And here I go again on my own
Going down the only road I’ve ever known
Like a drifter I was born to walk alone
And I’ve made up my mind
I ain’t wasting no more time

David is tired of wasting time.

And here I go again on my own
Going down the only road I’ve ever known
Like a drifter I was born to walk alone

David has accepted his current situation.

‘Cause I know what it means
To walk along the lonely street of dreams

Waiting for your dreams to come true can be frustrating.

And here I go again on my own
Going down the only road I’ve ever known
Like a drifter I was born to walk alone

David accepts being single and doesn’t mind doing and going where he wants.

Final Thoughts:

Although the end of Here I Go Again contains repetitive lyrics, this song explores recovering from a divorce. Being out on tour traveling the country and world keeps your mind busy. Yet, the key to a full recovery is making sure you’ve done everything in your power to salvage a relationship. Once you’ve done all that you can do, this is in God’s hands. From here it’s time to heal and move on.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-January 7

Posted on January 7, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Inspiration Behind Every Breath You Take:

Sting wrote Every Breath You Take while staying at Ian Fleming’s estate in Jamaica. Sting had just gone through a difficult divorce with Frances Tomelty. Based upon the lyrics, it appears that Sting did not want this relationship to end. When you are the individual who still holds out hope, you are eager to check to see if a second chance is possible. Unfortunately, when someone is unwilling to let go of a relationship, jealousy rears its ugly head. These are the emotions and feelings which conceived Every Breath You Take.

Biblical Application:

Stone is heavy and sand a burden, but a fool’s provocation is heavier than both. 4 Anger is cruel and fury overwhelming, but who can stand before jealousy? 5 Better is open rebuke than hidden love, Proverbs 27:3-5.

Exegesis of Every Breath You Take:

Every breath you take and every move you make
Every bond you break, every step you take I’ll be watching you
Every single day and every word you say
Every game you play, every night you stay I’ll be watching you

Sting appears to be obsessed with his former wife. When you miss someone so much, you can become irrational. This possessive nature conceived a stalker mentality.

Oh, can’t you see you belong to me?
How my poor heart aches with every step you take
Every move you make with every vow you break
Every smile you fake, every claim you stake I’ll be watching you

Like any loving husband, Sting misses his former wife. Sting vents his frustration through his lyrics as a root of bitterness has filled his heart.

Since you’ve gone, I’ve been lost without a trace
I dream at night, I can only see your face
I look around, but it’s you I can’t replace
I feel so cold, and I long for your embrace
I keep crying, baby, baby, please

Sting can’t keep his former wife off his mind. He thinks about her so much that she is becoming part of his dreams at night. Sting is unable to let go of her, crying for and hoping she returns.

Mm, mm, mm, mm
Mm, mm

Oh, can’t you see you belong to me?
How my poor heart aches with every step you take
Every move you make and every vow you break
Every smile you fake, every claim you stake I’ll be watching you
Every move you make, every step you take I’ll be watching you

Depression fuels the lyrics. This obsession leads to surveillance and a desire to stay in control of this relationship.

I’ll be watching you (every breath you take, every move you make)
(Every bond you break, every step you take) I’ll be watching you
(Every single day, every word you say)
(Every game you play, every night you stay) I’ll be watching you
(Every move you make, every vow you break)
(Every smile you fake, every claim you stake)
I’ll be watching you (every single day, every word you say)
(Every game you play, every night you stay) I’ll be watching you
(Every breath you take, every move you make)
(Every bond you break, every step you take)
I’ll be watching you (every single day, every word you say)

Love has a way of making people crazy. Loneliness and frustration is leading Sting to bear his soul.

(Every game you play, every night you stay) I’ll be watching you
(Every move you make, every vow you break)
(Every smile you fake, every claim you stake)
I’ll be watching you (every single day, every word you say)
(Every game you play, every night you stay) I’ll be watching you

At some point in time, you have to let go of the past and move on. The time this take varies depending upon the individual and their situation.

Final Thoughts:

I had my heart broken on numerous occasions in high school. This led me to only date individuals in college that I could see myself marrying. Unfortunately, time changes everyone, sometimes for the better and others for the worse. This is why this vow is adopted into most Christian weddings. Nonetheless, if you do endure a divorce like Sting, ask God for healing and understanding. Once this is complete, you can begin to move on in life in a more constructive and positive manner.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-January 5

Posted on January 5, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Inspiration Behind Changes:

While drummer Alan White wrote the passage at the beginning of Changes and led singer Jon Anderson contributed some lyrics, Trevor Rabin is the main composer. Changes is essentially the journey that Trevor experienced trying to break into the music industry. This South African songwriter, guitarist, and producer bounced around with Cinema, Foreigner and Yes, with many telling Trevor what they wanted him to do. After moving to America, Trevor was depressed as these emotions are expressed within this classic Yes song.

Biblical Application:

I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do. 16 And if I do what I do not want to do, I agree that the law is good. 17 As it is, it is no longer I myself who do it, but it is sin living in me. 18 For I know that good itself does not dwell in me, that is, in my sinful nature.[c] For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out, Romans 7:15-18.

Exegesis of Changes:

I’m moving through some changes
I’ll never be the same
Something you did touched me
There’s no one else to blame

Trevor could be referring to an opportunity that he passed on. Members of the band Foreigner wanted him to write songs that fit the genre and style of their band. Despite rejecting their offer, perhaps Trevor began to realize that he had potential and a bright future in America.

The love we had has fallen
The love we used to share
We’ve given up pretending
As if you didn’t care

Trevor is either referring to a past relationship in South Africa or about former band members prior to his departure.

Change, changing places
Root yourself to the ground
Capitalize on this good fortune
One word can bring you round
Changes

Trevor had 3 opportunities with bands: Cinema, Foreigner and Yes. As one member is asked to leave, this opens the door for a new member to take their place. Perhaps, this is the good fortune that Trevor is writing about.

I look into the mirror
I see no happiness
All the warmth I gave you
Has turned to emptiness

The tone of this stanza reflects the depression that Trevor was dealing with when he wrote Changes. The lyrics suggest a lack of happiness within the band or within his own life.

The love we had has fallen
The love we used to share
You’ve left me here believing
In love that wasn’t there

Trevor appears to be referring to a relationship with another woman. Then again, the remark about you left me here believing could be a promise a band made to him that was never kept.

Change, changing places
Root yourself to the ground
Word to the wise
Well, you get what’s coming
One word can bring you round
Changes

Trevor mentions the concept of becoming grounded. I’m not sure if he’s thinking about staying humble, realistic or if he’s referring to the principle you reap what you sow. While you endure changes in your life, watch what you do or say so that you don’t regret this.

But when I look into your eyes
And try to find out how
There’s no way to save it now
And everything I feel
Changes
Keep looking for
Changes, changes

Changes can be good and healthy for you as long as you learn from your past mistakes.

For some reason you’re questioning why
I always believe it gets better
One difference between you and I
Your heart is inside your head

Trevor sings about a relationship where this individual is emotionally unstable, wearing their emotions on their sleeves. Trevor is learning about himself during this time of transition.

One word from you, one word from me
A clear design on your liberty
Who could believe when love has gone
How we move on like everyone

Relationships change as people change. When someone wants their freedom, Trevor has reached a point in his life where he’s willing to walk away by moving on with his life.

Only such fools
Only such jealous hearts
Only through love changes come

Jealousy and immaturity has a way of ending relationships. Yet, the love inside of one person can alter the course of a relationship, holding things together.

Change, changing places
Root yourself to the ground
Capitalize on this good fortune
One word can bring you round
Changes

Seize the moments and opportunities that you have in life.

One road to loneliness
It’s always the same
One road to happiness
It’s calling your name
Change, changing places, changes
Root yourself to the ground
Capitalize on this good fortune
One word can bring you round
Changes
Change, changing places, changes
Root yourself to the ground
Word to the wise
Well, you get what’s coming
One word, one word can bring you round
Changes

As you go through changes in life, you can become depressed or develop a more positive outlook on life. The choice of how you handle change is up to you.

Final Thoughts:

At the start of any New Year, it’s important to take an assessment of where you are in life. During this time of reflection, you may feel compelled to reach out to someone from your past either to apologize or just catch up with. As C.S. Lewis once wrote, “success is the process of arriving, not actually arriving.” Maintaining this outlook on life prevents apathy and overconfidence. Change is good as long as you continue to evolve by drawing closer to God,

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-January 4

Posted on January 4, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Inspiration behind Free Fallin’:

The lyrics of Free Fallin’ coincide with the first time Tom Petty stepped away from his band the Heart Breakers in 1988. As Tom begins his first attempt at a solo career on his own, the words to Free Fallin’ express the emotions of steeping away from the stable structure of the Heartbreakers. Free Fallin’ is the first song completed on Tom’s Full Moon Fever album. Petty viewed Free Fallin’ as a map for everything that follows on this album.

Biblical Application:

For the director of music. A psalm of David. When the prophet Nathan came to him after David had committed adultery with Bathsheba. 1 Have mercy on me, O God, according to your unfailing love; according to your great compassion blot out my transgressions.2 Wash away all my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin.3 For I know my transgressions, and my sin is always before me.4 Against you, you only, have I sinned and done what is evil in your sight; so you are right in your verdict and justified when you judge, Psalm 51:1-4.

Exegesis of Free Fallin’:

She’s a good girl, loves her mama
Loves Jesus and America too
She’s a good girl, is crazy ’bout Elvis
Loves horses and her boyfriend too

Petty uses symbolism in Free Fallin’ to compare his own actions of leaving the Heart Breakers to a man breaking up with his girlfriend for selfish reasons.

And it’s a long day livin’ in Reseda
There’s a freeway runnin’ through the yard
And I’m a bad boy, ’cause I don’t even miss her
I’m a bad boy for breakin’ her heart

Either Tom is reflecting upon a recent relationship where he broke a woman’s heart or he’s blaming himself, calling himself a bad boy for ditching the Heart Breakers.

And I’m free
Free fallin’
Yeah, I’m free
Free fallin’

Now on his own, Tom doesn’t have his old band members to fall back on for support. Rather, Tom expresses his fears of failure as well as the emotional toll this decision has taken on his soul.

And all the vampires walkin’ through the valley
Move west down Ventura Boulevard (Ventura Boulevard)
And all the bad boys are standin’ in the shadows
And the good girls are home with broken hearts

The Vampires are likely symbolic of the greedy members of the music industry who have a history of feeding on vulnerable band members, singers and songwriters. Whoever these evil indivudals are, they are hiding in the darkness to pounce on their next victim. These actions break the hearts of men and women.

And I’m free
I’m free fallin’
Yeah, I’m free
Free fallin’

Free fallin’, now I’m free fallin’, now I’m
Free fallin’, now I’m free fallin’, now I’m

Being in unfamiliar territory as a solo artist, Petty is in a free fall, unsure of the future or where he may land after his first solo album post the Heart Breakers.

I wanna glide down over Mulholland (oh-ah)
I wanna write her name in the sky (oh-ah)
I’m gonna free fall out into nothin’ (oh-ah)
Gonna leave this world for a while (oh-ah)

Tom refers to cities or towns from his past, hoping for a smooth landing. Yet, Tom hints at reuniting with the Heart Breakers sometime in the future.

And I’m free (free fallin’, now I’m free fallin’, now I’m)
Free fallin’ (free fallin’, now I’m free fallin’, now I’m)
Yeah, I’m free (free fallin’, now I’m free fallin’, now I’m)
Free fallin’ (free fallin’, now I’m free fallin’, now I’m)

Free fallin’, now I’m free fallin’, now I’m
Yeah, I’m free, free fallin’

Oh! (Free fallin’, now I’m free fallin’, now I’m)
Free fallin’ (free fallin’, now I’m free fallin’, now I’m)
And I’m free (free fallin’, now I’m free fallin’) oh! (Now I’m)

Being on your own can be scary especially when you’re unsure that you made the right decision. These are the emotions that Tom Petty endured as he thought about his future.:

Free fallin’ (free fallin’, now I’m free fallin’, now I’m)
Free fallin’, now I’m free fallin’, now I’m
Free fallin’ (free fallin’, now I’m free…)

Like anything in life, sometimes you have to hit rock bottom before you change your mind.

Final Thoughts:

If you haven’t seen Tom Petty’s documentary, it’s worth the watch, similar to the ordeals highlighted in Straight Out of Compton. Facing the future can be scary on your own. However, with God in your life, you have an advocate and friend to guide you along the way, 2 Peter 1:3-4. Yet, when you do stumble and fall like today’s Bible lesson, immediately seek reconciliation like David. However, if pride gets in the way, you’ll find yourself free falling like Tom Petty’s chorus.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-January 2

Posted on January 2, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Inspiration behind Yesterday:

John Lennon recalls the song Yesterday being kicked around for months. Band members referred to this song as Scrambled Eggs, a tune without a title. This all changed when Paul McCartney woke up with the lyrics and melody in his head. Before this day was over, Paul recorded Yesterday alone on his acoustic guitar. When Paul brought Yesterday to the Beatles, (John, Ringo and George), they thought another guitar would serve as a distraction. Subsequently, Yesterday became a solo.

Biblical Application:

Now listen, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money.” 14 Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. 15 Instead, you ought to say, “If it is the Lord’s will, we will live and do this or that.” 16 As it is, you boast in your arrogant schemes. All such boasting is evil. 17 If anyone, then, knows the good they ought to do and doesn’t do it, it is sin for them, James 4:13-17.

Exegesis of Yesterday:

Yesterday, all my troubles seemed so far away
Now it looks as though they’re here to stay
Oh, I believe in yesterday

Yesterday was written at 57 Wimpole Street in London, England.

This is where Paul lived, staying in an attic room above his girlfriend’s family’s house.

Waking up with this song in his head, Paul begins Yesterday with a time of reflection.

Thinking about obstacles and troubles from his past, Paul learned lessons from former mistakes.

Suddenly, I’m not half the man I used to be
There’s a shadow hanging over me
Oh, yesterday came suddenly

Paul suddenly realized that he’s changed. Has fame and fortune influenced him negatively?

Something from Paul’s past is gnawing at him like karma coming back to haunt him.

Why she had to go
I don’t know, she wouldn’t say
I said something wrong
Now I long for yesterday

Paul opens up either about a broken relationship from his past or a recent death.

Paul clarifies this loss was an old girlfriend who severed their relationship without explanation.

Paul wishes he could go back in time to alter how he treated her and change what he said to her.

Yesterday, love was such an easy game to play
Now I need a place to hide away
Oh, I believe in yesterday

When Paul was younger, loving his girlfriends was much easier and natural for him.

The loss of Paul’s previous relationship has taken a toll on him, wanting to go back in time.

Why she had to go
I don’t know, she wouldn’t say
I said something wrong
Now I long for yesterday

Since Yesterday was inspired by a dream, Paul is revisiting a broken relationship from the past.

Paul writes about needing time to heal before entering another relationship.

Yesterday, love was such an easy game to play
Now I need a place to hide away
Oh, I believe in yesterday

Music has a way of taking human beings back in time when life was less complicated and free.

Final Thoughts:

Yesterday was written before Paul McCartney’s divorce with Linda as well as before the Beatles broke up in 1970. Some suggest that Paul felt the members of the Beatles slowly drifting apart. Fame, fortune and greed have a long history of band breakups in the past. Whatever Paul’s true intentions, reflecting upon the past this time of year is essential to avoid making the same mistakes over and over again. Finally, before rushing into any relationship, take time to heal so that you become a vessel of love and not of regret.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-January 1

Posted on January 1, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Inspiration behind New Year’s Day:

Bono was following the oppressive Polish government in the 1980’s. After declaring martial law throughout Poland, Nobel Peace Prize winner Lech Walesa challenged this decision. On July 22nd, 1983, Martial law in Poland was lifted, opening the door for democracy the following year. Using these current events to guide his lyrics, the music video highlights a war-torn country.

Biblical Application:

I remember my affliction and my wandering, the bitterness and the gall.20 I well remember them, and my soul is downcast within me.21 Yet this I call to mind and therefore I have hope: 22 Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. 23 They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.24 I say to myself, “The Lord is my portion; therefore I will wait for him.” 25 The Lord is good to those whose hope is in him, to the one who seeks him; Lamentations 3:19-25.

Exegesis of New Year’s Day:

An exegesis is a critical explanation accomplished by analyzing what an author is trying to communicate. This thorough interpretation of a text is often applied to verses of the Bible. However, this exegesis over the next year will seek to extract the message behind each song.

All is quiet on New Year’s Day
A world in white gets underway
I want to be with you, be with you, night and day
Nothing changes on New Year’s Day
On New Year’s Day

A winter storm has blanketed the landscape of Poland, silencing the sound of war.

Bono is referring to a family member or significant other who he wants to be with every moment.

This desire hasn’t changed as the calendar changes to commence a new year.

I will be with you again (oh-oh)
I will be with you again (oh-oh, oh-oh)

Bono vows to keep his promise to see this special individual on New Year’s Day.

Under a blood-red sky
A crowd has gathered in black and white
Arms entwined, the chosen few
The newspaper says, says

The blood red sky is a symbol of passion and vitality or a majestic sunset, the sign of a new day.

A nation of all races is waiting to see if anything changes on New Year’s Day.

The signs of martial law still exist as a chosen few control the media trying to suppress the truth.

Say it’s true, it’s true
And we can break through
Though torn in two
We can be one

As the Polish people wait for democracy, they are waiting for a sign of hope, that change is possible.

Despite what has happened, the citizens of Poland desperately want to become united once again.

However, Bono could be speaking of a relationship that has separated him due to martial law.

I, I will begin again (oh-oh)
I, I will begin again (oh-oh, oh-oh)

Yeah, oh
Oh-oh-oh

Ah, maybe the time is right
Oh, maybe tonight

I will be with you again (oh-oh, oh-oh)
I will be with you again (oh-oh, oh-oh)

New Year’s Day is a time for fresh starts, to begin again with a clean slate.

And so we’re told this is the golden age
And gold is the reason for the wars we wage
Though I want to be with you, be with you, night and day
Nothing changes New Year’s Day
On New Year’s Day
On New Year’s Day

Repeating the same expression again, Bono believes that things will change this year.

Making up his mind, Bono will make this happen. Being reunited will happen this year.

Final Thoughts:

Nearly 40 years have passed since the song New Year’s Day was released. The one line in Bono’s lyrics that rings true today is that a chosen few dictate what is passed on through the media. Until journalists stop being pawns for their media outlets, truth will continue to be suppressed and withheld. My prayer for 2026 is that God will raise up fearless writers that won’t stop until the truth of what is going on behind the scenes is finally unveiled.

by Jay Mankus

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Engaging Our Culture: September 4-Losing Touch with Teenagers

Posted on September 4, 2025 by expressyourself4him

Video of the Day: Clip from the 1984 movie “Footloose”

Bible Verse of the Day:

On the first day of the week we came together to break bread. Paul spoke to the people and, because he intended to leave the next day, kept on talking until midnight. 8 There were many lamps in the upstairs room where we were meeting. 9 Seated in a window was a young man named Eutychus, who was sinking into a deep sleep as Paul talked on and on. When he was sound asleep, he fell to the ground from the third story and was picked up dead. 10 Paul went down, threw himself on the young man and put his arms around him. “Don’t be alarmed,” he said. “He’s alive!” – Acts 20:7-10

Biblical Connection:

While Reverend Shaw became the spiritual leader of a small town, his relationship with his teenage daughter was falling apart. Shaw was so consumed with what was going on inside his church and community that at some point he began to neglect his family. Meanwhile, a lack of trust pushed Ariel further and further away from her father. This is a common occurrence in modern-day families.

On the surface, a teenage boy named Eutychus feel asleep at church. Whenever a preacher rambles on and on, someone is bound to fall asleep. Yet, in an era without air conditioning, Eutychus moved toward a window so that whatever breeze was blowing at this time of night would keep him from falling asleep. Although Paul raised Eutychus from the dead, parents need to reach their teens before it’s too late.

Closing Song:

The world is full of wounded teenagers searching for answers to the meaning of life. Today’s song was written for a friend who gave up on life. May today’s blog and song inspire you to reach out to hurting teenagers before it’s too late.

by Jay Mankus

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Engaging Our Culture: February 10-Displaying a Sincere Love

Posted on February 10, 2025 by expressyourself4him

Video of the Day: Scene from the 1984 film “Footloose”

Bible Verse of the Day:

 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. 9 Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. 10 Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves, Romans 12:6-10.

Biblical Connection:

When Ren McCormick played by Kevin Bacon relocates from Chicago to the small rural town of Bomont, Utah, he experiences a culture shock. A local pastor, John Lithgow as Reverend Shaw, bans rock music, making it illegal for Ren to play his favorite music in his car. As an outsider, Ren doesn’t stop fighting for what he believes, taking new friends outside of town to share his love for dancing. As Ren continues to rub locals the wrong way, he finds himself fighting a losing battle until the Reverend’s daughter Ariel, Lori Singer, comes into his life. Ariel’s knowledge of the Bible and Ren’s dream for a senior prom team up to eventually achieve their goal.

There are various personalities which comprise every church and high school. At some point, strong personalities will butt heads, clash and seek to persuade the masses toward their line of thinking. However, when a leader comes along and provides a vision that others can get behind, churches and schools will unite. This is where the apostle Paul speaks to the Church at Rome, explaining that everyone has a role based upon your God given gift and talents. Once you discover where you belong in a church or school setting, God can and will accomplish great things through you. However, when disagreements arise, love must be genuine and sincere.

Closing Song:

When you experience special moments in life like a prom or special church event that was pulled off due to the hard work of countless individuals, give thanks to God. Never grow tired of displaying a sincere love.

by Jay Mankus

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Engaging Our Culture: February 6-Fighting for the Love of Your Life

Posted on February 6, 2025 by expressyourself4him

Video of the Day: Scene from the 1989 film “Say Anything”

Bible Verse of the Day:

All night long on my bed I looked for the one my heart loves; I looked for him but did not find him. 2 I will get up now and go about the city, through its streets and squares; I will search for the one my heart loves. So I looked for him but did not find him, Song of Solomon 3:1-3.

Biblical Connection:

John Cusack plays Lloyd Nobler a high school senior who doesn’t have a clue about his future. Searching for a date to the final party before graduation, Lloyd takes a chance on the valedictorian who reluctantly takes a break from studying. When Lloyd falls head over heels for Diane Court (Ione Skye), this relationship clicks. For the first time in his life, Lloyd finds himself able to express himself like never before to a girl. However, when this relationship gets intense, Diane choses her future career in college over Lloyd. This sets the stage for today’s scene as Lloyd fights for the love of his life.

The Song of Solomon celebrates the love between Solomon and one of his wives. The first two chapters go back and forth where Solomon shares his feelings followed by his wife in this poetic book of the Bible. Yet, today’s passage reminds all human beings that there will be nights, weeks, months and years where love will not be found. This is the emotional condition which prompts Lloyd to come back to Diane’s house after she broke off their relationship. Rather than turn to lawyers in filing for divorce, this is the resolve that Christian men and women should possess, doing everything in their power to fight for the love of their lives.

Closing Song:

May the lyrics of today’s song inspire a spirit of reconciliation to mend and repair broken relationships that exist in your life.

by Jay Mankus

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Engaging Our Culture: February 4 – You Complete Me

Posted on February 4, 2025 by expressyourself4him

Video of the Day: Scene from the 1996 film “Jerry Maguire”

Bible Verse of the Day:

The man said, “This is now bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh; she shall be called ‘woman,’ for she was taken out of man.” 24 That is why a man leaves his father and mother and is united to his wife, and they become one flesh. 25 Adam and his wife were both naked, and they felt no shame, Genesis 2:23-25.

Biblical Connection:

Walking out after being fired, Jerry Maguire (Tom Cruise) pleads with co-workers to see if anyone is willing to go into business with him. Dorthy Boyd played by Renee Zellweger is the only one willing to take this risk. After losing the number one pick in the NFL draft, Maguire is down to one client, Rod Tidwell, an aging wide receiver with an attitude. After falling in love, Jerry and Dorthy get married. However, when their little project fails to make any money, Jerry and Dorthy fall on hard times and separate. This is the context of today’s scene.

When God gave Adam authority over the Garden of Eden and all the animals, he searched for a suitable helper. After covering every square each of this majestic place, no soul mate was found. This sets the stage for the creation of Eve, the first woman on earth. Based upon the words of Moses, Adam was blown away when his eyes gazed upon Eve. While many Americans rely on pets to become life companions, this special connection doesn’t complete human beings. If you’re patient, pray and wait long enough, you too may find someone who completes you.

Closing Song:

Go There With You was the first dance Leanne and I shared at our wedding. The lyrics serve as a prayer to walk with the Lord through life, hand and hand until God calls one of us home.

by Jay Mankus

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