Tag Archives: music

The Message Behind the Music-February 23

Posted on February 23, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Inspiration Behind Can’t Help Falling in Love:

The 1784 French song Plaisir d’Amour inspired Elvis Presley to write Can’t Stop Falling in Love. Jean-Paul -Egide Martini composed Plaisir d’Amour which was written from a female’s perspective of love. The lyrics were altered by Elvis’ team to fit into the theme for the film Blue Hawaii from a male’s point of view. Can’t Stop Falling in Love has become a timeless classic, often played at weddings today.

Biblical Application:

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. 17 For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him, John 3:16-17.

Exegesis of Can’t Stop Falling in Love:

Wise men say
Only fools rush in
But I can’t help
Falling in love with you

The lyrics read like a poem, perhaps referring to ean-Paul -Egide Martini. Elvis is so overwhelmed by what he feels for this woman that he doesn’t care about what wise men say. He is smitten by love.

Shall I stay
Would it be a sin?
If I can’t help
Falling in love with you?

Is he thinking about staying the night? Having sex with a woman he is not married to could explain the sin comment.

Like a river flows
Surely to the sea
Darling, so it goes
Some things are meant to be

Elvis is following his heart and his instincts, not his head. He believes this relationship is meant to be.

Take my hand
Take my whole life too
For I can’t help
Falling in love with you

Elvis wants to walk hand and hand with this woman. He is considering spending the rest of his life with this woman.

Like a river flows
Surely to the sea
Darling, so it goes
Some things are meant to be

The second chorus points to certain relationships are meant to be.

Take my hand
Take my whole life too
For I can’t help
Falling in love with you

For I can’t help
Falling in love with you

Elvis has been overwhelmed by love, unable to stop his desire to fall in love with this woman.

Final Thoughts:

Can’t Stop Falling in Love was played at my daughter’s wedding last summer. Despite the slower pace of music during this time period, Elvis’ voice has the ability to keep this song relevant. In life. love takes time as two individuals come together as one, learning to share their lives. Once the emotion of a honeymoon is over, love is hard work as couples need to put the needs of their partner above themselves. During this transition, feelings will be hurt and promises broken. This is where forgiveness is essential to keep love alive. If disagreements are not addressed, the root of bitterness will drive a wedge between a couple. Forgiveness is just the first step, forgetting past transgressions is even harder. This is what you should expect the next time you fall in love.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-February 22: Week 4 Theme – Being Open to Forgiveness by Giving Love a Second Chance

Posted on February 22, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Inspiration Behind Against All Odds:

The lyrics of Against All Odds were spawn from Phil Collins first divorce. Serving as a theme song for the movie Against All Odds, writing this song enabled Phil to get all of his emotions, frustrations and pain out in the open. Meanwhile, the film features an aging football star hired by a mobster to find his missing girlfriend. Whether you’re talking about recovering from a messy divorce or searching a missing person, Against All Odds symbolizes triumph over adversity.

Week 4 Theme:

The final portion of love is being open to forgiveness by giving others a second chance. Whenever you enter a relationship, you never know how it is going to turn out. Unfortunately, human nature will cause individuals to disappoint, hurt and let their significant other down. The songs for this final week of February encourage their partner to give them another shot at love.

Biblical Application:

The Lord said to me, “Go, show your love to your wife again, though she is loved by another man and is an adulteress. Love her as the Lord loves the Israelites, though they turn to other gods and love the sacred raisin cakes.” 2 So I bought her for fifteen shekels[a] of silver and about a homer and a lethek[b] of barley. 3 Then I told her, “You are to live with me many days; you must not be a prostitute or be intimate with any man, and I will behave the same way toward you,” Hoshea 3:1-3.

Exegesis of Against All Odds:

How can I just let you walk away,
Just let you leave without a trace?
When I stand here taking every breath with you, ooh ooh
You’re the only one who really knew me at all

Phil felt like he had to intervene, unwilling to let his wife walk away without a fight. Phil realized that his first wife is the only woman that he has ever been with that has truly known who he is.

How can you just walk away from me
When all I can do is watch you leave?
‘Cause we’ve shared the laughter and the pain
And even shared the tears
You’re the only one who really knew me at all

Phil sees how much he has poured into this marriage. They have shared too much together to abandon this relationship without trying to salvage it.

So take a look at me now
Well there’s just an empty space
And there’s nothing left here to remind me
Just the memory of your face
Ooh, Take a look at me now
Well there’s just an empty space
And you coming back to me is against the odds
And that’s what I’ve got to face,

Living without his wife has left a hole in his heart. Despite the odds for reconciliation, Phil is still not giving up hope on his marriage.

I wish I could just make you turn around
Turn around and see me cry
There’s so much I need to say to you
So many reasons why
You’re the only one who really knew me at all

Phil wants to express to his wife how much he misses her. He has never been vulnerable like this with any other woman.

So take a look at me now
Well there’s just an empty space
And there’s nothing left here to remind me
Just the memory of your face

All that now remains from his first marriage are the memories.

Now Take a look at me now
‘Cause that’s just an empty space
But to wait for you is all I can do
And that’s what I’ve got to face

Phil is waiting for her to change her mind.

Take a good look at me now
‘Cause I’ll still be standing here
And you coming back to me is against all odds
It’s the chance I’ve got to take
Take a look at me now

Phil is willing to wait on restoration, holding out hope against all odds to get back together.

Final Thoughts:

I was listening to a couple share their 42-year journey together a few weeks ago. At one point they decided to separate for a few years. each marrying another person. Yet each still possessed feelings for one another. Once they started going to church with their children. When God changed their hearts, reconciliation was made possible. The next time you sense your chances for saving a marriage are against all odds, turn to God in prayer so that the Holy Spirit can manufacture a miracle called forgiveness.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-February 21

Posted on February 21, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Inspiration Behind I Do It For You:

The inspiration behind I Do It For You was an assignment to create a theme song for the film Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves. When Bryan Adams and producer Matt Lange understood the theme of this movie, I Do It For You was completed in 45 minutes. The song’s success was not embraced by Hollywood, wanting to use an instrumental piece similar to the era of this film. Although I Do It For You was finally accepted as the theme song, disgruntled movie producers buried the song credits, unaware it would become a massive hit.

Biblical Application:

Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. 13 Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. 14 And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity, Colossians 3:12-14.

Exegesis of I Do It For You:

Look into my eyes
You will see
What you mean to me
Search your heart
Search your soul
And when you find me there
You’ll search no more

In the context of the film, Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves, Robin is talking to Marian. Robin’s eyes and body language demonstrated his love for Marian.

Don’t tell me it’s not worth tryin’ for
You can’t tell me it’s not worth dyin’ for
You know it’s true
Everything I do
I do it for you

Robin is fully committed to Marian, willing to die for his love.

Look into your heart
You will find
There’s nothin’ there to hide
Take me as I am
Take my life
I would give it all
I would sacrifice

Robin is seeking a fairy tale ending of a love story that ends with them together.

Don’t tell me it’s not worth fightin’ for
I can’t help it there’s nothin’ I want more
You know it’s true
Everything I do
I do it for you

Robin is smitten with love, willing to do whatever it takes to be with the woman he loves.

There’s no love
Like your love
And no other
Could give more love
There’s nowhere
Unless you’re there
All the time
All the way, yeah

Look into your heart, baby

Robin has never met anyone like Marian. She is the love of his life.

Oh you can’t tell me it’s not worth tryin’ for
I can’t help it there’s nothin’ I want more
Yeah, I would fight for you
I lie for you
Walk the wire for you
Yeah, I’d die for you

Robin would do anything necessary to be with Marian.

You know it’s true
Everything I do
Oh
I do it for you

You are my inspiration for living.

Everything I do, darling
Yeah we’ll see it through
Well we’ll see it though, oh yeah
Yeah!
Search your heart and your soul
You can’t tell me it ain’t worth dyin’ for

Whatever we have to endure, I will be with you until the end.

I’ll be there

I’d walk the fire for you
I’d die for you

I want to make you the happiest bride on earth.

Oh, yeah

All the time
I’m going all the way, all the way

Robin loves Marian with all his heart, soul and mind.

Final Thoughts:

I was a huge Bryan Adams fan in high school. The Summer of 69 was the first song I sang at a Karaoke Bar in college. Bryan’s sound led me to a Christian group from Canada called the Kry. The Kry’s song When You Die changed the course of my life late in college after watching a shocking music video attached to this song. Whenever you begin to emulate the words from the apostle Paul in Colossians 3:12-14, you’ll slowly become love in action like Robin’s character in Prince of Thieves.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-February 20

Posted on February 20, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Exegesis Behind More Than A Feeling:

Tom Scholz wanted to create a song that would help him recover from a lost love in his life. Recognizing that this is a crisis that most of Boston’s fans have endured, the lyrics to More Than a Feeling serve as a form of healing and recovery. The structure of More Than a Feeling is rooted in Tom’s classical training in music and desire to blend rock with pop.

Biblical Application:

Now about your love for one another we do not need to write to you, for you yourselves have been taught by God to love each other. 10 And in fact, you do love all of God’s family throughout Macedonia. Yet we urge you, brothers and sisters, to do so more and more, 11 and to make it your ambition to lead a quiet life: You should mind your own business and work with your hands, just as we told you, 12 so that your daily life may win the respect of outsiders and so that you will not be dependent on anybody, 1 Thessalonians 4:9-12.

Exegesis of More Than a Feeling:

I looked out this morning and the sun was gone
Turned on some music to start my day
I lost myself in a familiar song
I closed my eyes and I slipped away

Tom writes about how music can serve as a momentary distraction in life. When you’re having a bad day or feeling down, you can close your eyes to ease the pain of your current situation by being engrossed in music.

It’s more than a feeling
(More than a feeling)
When I hear that old song they used to play
(More than a feeling)
I begin dreaming
(More than a feeling)
‘Til I see Marianne walk away
I see my Marianne walkin’ away

Perhaps Tom is struggling to get over a past relationship. When he dreams of Marianne leaving, he wakes up to the pain of lost love.

So many people have come and gone
Their faces fade as the years go by
Yet I still recall as I wander on
As clear as the sun in the summer sky

Despite the many relationships Tom has had in life, nothing compares to his time with Marianne.

It’s more than a feeling
(More than a feeling)
When I hear that old song they used to play
(More than a feeling)
I begin dreaming
(More than a feeling)
‘Til I see Marianne walk away
I see my Marianne walkin’ away

A special song can bring back fond memories of your past. During difficult periods in my own life, I kept playing a specific song to get me through a tumultuous trial in life like Tom.

When I’m tired and thinking cold
I hide in my music, forget the day
And dream of a girl I used to know
I closed my eyes and she slipped away
She slipped away

Tom used the lyrics of a song to ease his broken heart. Unfortunately, after this song ended, his weary soul was front and center as his relationship with Marianne is over.

It’s more than a feeling
(More than a feeling)
When I hear that old song they used to play
(More than a feeling)
I begin dreaming
(More than a feeling)
‘Til I see Marianne walk away

The prophet Samuel revealed that music can sooth your soul, 1 Samuel 16:14-16, which is how Tom was able to recover from his failed relationship with Marianne.

Final Thoughts:

Part of growing in love is learning from past mistakes. If you don’t mature by growing in your understanding of love, you’ll keep making the same mistake over and over again. Adults must move beyond the feeling of love toward a joint partnership where your sole desire becomes loving your spouse as Christ loved the Church, Ephesians 5:25.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-February 19

Posted on February 19, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Inspiration Behind Love Will Keep Us Together:

Sometimes a song is meant for a specific artist before it reaches its greatest heights. Such is the case with Love Will Keep Us Together, written by Neil Sedaka and Howard Greenfield. This song was recorded by Sedaka in 1973 with mediocrity. However, when Captain and Tennille released Love Will Keep Us Together 2 years later, this song became a worldwide hit.

Biblical Application:

The end of all things is near. Therefore, be alert and of sober mind so that you may pray. 8 Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. 9 Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling, 1 Peter 4:7-9.

Exegesis of Love Will Keep Us Together:

Love, love will keep us together
Think of me babe whenever
Some sweet talkin’ girl comes along, singin’ a song
Don’t mess around, you just gotta be strong

When you are on the road touring as a musician, temptations abound. Tennille is urging Captain to avoid any sexual urges that may arise with a fan or another woman.

Just stop, ’cause I really love you
Stop, I been thinkin’ of you
Look in my heart and let love keep us together

Tennille is reminding Captain of her love for him.

You (you) you belong to me now
Ain’t gonna set ya free now
When those girls start hangin’ around, talkin’ me down
Hear with your heart, and ya won’t hear a sound

Tennille appears to be the driving force that kept their marriage together for 39 years before their divorce.

Just stop (stop, stop) ’cause I really love you (really love you)
Stop (stop, stop) I been thinkin’ of you (been thinkin’ of you)
Look in my heart and let love keep us together
Whatever

Tennille fought for her husband to keep their marriage alive.

Young and beautiful
But someday your looks’ll be gone
When the others turn you off
Who’ll be turnin’ you on
I will, I will, I will, I will be there to share forever

Don’t fall for good looking woman as they too will age.

Love will keep us together
I said it before and I’ll say it again, while others pretend
I need ya now, and I need ya then

Love was the driving force of their marriage.

Just stop (stop) ’cause I really love you (really love you)
Stop, I been thinkin’ of you
Look in my heart and let love keep us together
Whatever (a-ba-da whatever)

Some people are less disciplined than others. Therefore, it’s important to place guard rails in a relationship to avoid having someone else interfere with your marriage.

I will (ever), I will (ever), I will (ever), I will
Ah-da-da-da-da
Da-da-da-da
Da-da-da-da

Tennille appears to be a living example of love.

You better stop (stop) ’cause I really love you (really love you)
Stop (stop) I been thinkin’ of you
Look in my heart and let love keep us together
Whatever (a-ba-da whatever)

Focus on love, not fleshly and lustful desires.

I will (ever), I will (ever), I will (ever), I will
Ah-da-da-da-da
Da-da-da-da
Da-da-da-da

Develop a will to love your spouse.

Final Thoughts:

Compared to many famous couples, Captain and Tennille stayed married for nearly 4 decades. Due to Daryl’s health problems, this couple split 5 years before Daryl Dragon’s death, aka Captain. May this story inspire you to keep love at the heart of your marriage so that you endure whatever trials that you face together.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-February 18

Posted on February 18, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Inspiration Behind Always and Forever:

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

Biblical Application:

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

Exegesis of Always and Forever:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Final Thoughts:

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

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-February 9

Posted on February 9, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Inspiration Behind I Just Called to Say I Love You:

Stevie Wonder’s mother had a huge influence on his life. Subsequently, when Lula Mae encouraged Stevie to call her more often, this conversation inspired the lyrics to I Just Called to Say I Love You. This song serves as a tribute to Stevie’s mother, informing his fans of her devotion and love. the lyrics remind individuals to remember your mom on special days throughout the year.

Biblical Application:

After David had finished talking with Saul, Jonathan became one in spirit with David, and he loved him as himself. 2 From that day Saul kept David with him and did not let him return home to his family. 3 And Jonathan made a covenant with David because he loved him as himself. 4 Jonathan took off the robe he was wearing and gave it to David, along with his tunic, and even his sword, his bow and his belt, 1 Samuel 18:1-4.

Exegesis of I Just Called to Say I Love You:

No New Year’s Day to celebrate
No chocolate covered candy hearts to give away
No first of Spring, no song to sing
In fact, here’s just another ordinary day

Stevie opens with times of the year where you want to be with someone. Either Stevie is depressed about being alone and blind or simply encouraging you can reach out to the one’s you care about on any ordinary day.

No April rain, no flowers bloom
No wedding Saturday within the month of June
But what it is, is something true
Made up of these three words that I must say to you

As Stevie goes through a typically calendar year, he is thinking about a heart-felt and simply way to express how you feel about someone.

I just called to say I love you
I just called to say how much I care
I just called to say I love you
And I mean it from the bottom of my heart

I love you are the 3 words Stevie is alluding to. This isn’t meant as a form of flattery or trying to warm someone up to get what you want in return. Rather, for Stevie, this is a way to let an individual know that you care.

No summer’s high, no warm July
No harvest moon to light one tender August night
No autumn breeze, no falling leaves
Not even time for birds to fly to southern skies

Stevie uses imagery associated with the summer and fall as another opportunity to pick up the phone and thank your mother for all that she has done for you in life.

No Libra sun, no Halloween
No giving thanks to all the Christmas joy you bring
But what it is, though old, so new
To fill your heart like no three words could ever do

A simple affirmation, encouraging comment or uplifting word can make the difference between a good and bad day at work.

I just called to say I love you
I just called to say how much I care, I do
I just called to say I love you
And I mean it from the bottom of my heart

While comments like I love you are usually saved for family, close friends like David and Jonathan in the Bible weren’t afraid to express how they felt about one another.

I just called to say I love you
I just called to say how much I care, I do
I just called to say I love you
And I mean it from the bottom of my heart

Of my heart
Of my heart

Be a messenger of hope, joy and love.

No New Year’s Day to celebrate
No chocolate covered candy hearts to give away
But what it is, is something true
Made up of these three words that I must say to you

Don’t let another year go by without telling special people in your life how much they mean to you.

I just called to say I love you
I just called to say how much I care
I just called to say I love you
And I mean it from the bottom of my heart

You don’t have to be eloquent. Simply express your love for others.

I just called to say I love you
I just called to say how much I care, I do
I just called to say I love you
And I mean it from the bottom of my heart

Of my heart
Of my heart (baby, of my heart)

According to King Solomon, the human heart is the well spring of life. When you guard and protect your heart, you’ll be able to freely express your love to others throughout the year.

Final Thoughts:

When I was in college, I decided to stay over a friend’s house who lived close to work. When I made this decision, it was 2AM in the morning, before cell phones and sending texts. This failure to communicate led my mom to think something horrible happened to me, worrying her to death. This is one of the worst days of my life, vowing to call in the middle of the night going forward. Mom’s want to know that you’re doing okay.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-February 8: Theme for Week 2-Learning to Love

Posted on February 8, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Inspiration Behind I Want to Know What Love Is:

The song I Want to Know What Love Is stems from the personal experiences in the life of Mick Jones as he searched for true love. As Mick reflected upon failed relationships from his past, the lyrics convey his journey to grow in his understanding of love. Former emotional connections and internal struggles served as a blueprint for these lyrics. During the initial recording of I Want to Know What Love Is, a gospel choir was added to provide a spiritual dynamic to this classic ballad.

Week 2 Theme:

Learning to love is conceived by a sense of desperation where you are trying to save a special relationship. This process includes being open to change, curious and eager to love your significant other. Instead of limiting your relationship to the physical, growing in love requires studying your partner to build communication intimacy.

Biblical Application:

This is how we know that we live in him and he in us: He has given us of his Spirit. 14 And we have seen and testify that the Father has sent his Son to be the Savior of the world. 15 If anyone acknowledges that Jesus is the Son of God, God lives in them and they in God. 16 And so we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in them. 17 This is how love is made complete among us so that we will have confidence on the day of judgment: In this world we are like Jesus. 18 There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love, 1 John 4:13-18.

Exegesis of I Want to Know What Love Is:

I gotta take a little time
A little time to think things over
I better read between the lines
In case I need it when I’m older

Mick is trying to learn from his previous mistakes in life. Instead of rushing into a new relationship, Mick needs some time to heal, to figure out what went wrong so he avoids making the same mistake in the future.

Aha

This mountain I must climb
Feels like a world upon my shoulders
Through the clouds I see love shine
It keeps me warm as life grows colder

Broken relationship often leads to soul searching, recovering from the pit of despair. This mountain is symbolic of growing up to reach new heights in life. This climb isn’t easy, but if you stick with it, you’ll be rewarded with glimpses of love. The hope of love kept Mick going in life, even when those around him were full of callous and cold hearts.

In my life there’s been heartache and pain
I don’t know if I can face it again
Can’t stop now, I’ve traveled so far
To change this lonely life

Intimate relationships can take an emotional toll on you. Sometimes the pain is so great that you don’t know if you will be able to carry on. Yet if you want to complete your quest for love by escaping loneliness, you must press on.

I wanna know what love is
I want you to show me
I wanna feel what love is
I know you can show me

Either Mick is crying out to God in prayer to better understand love or he is entering a new relationship and is open to being taught what love is. Please show me.

Yeah
Gotta take a little time
A little time to look around me
I’ve got nowhere left to hide
It looks like love has finally found me

Mick’s journey for real love is standing in front of him. Instead of being afraid to fall in love, being vulnerable is where love can be conceived.

In my life there’s been heartache and pain
I don’t know if I can face it again
Can’t stop now, I’ve traveled so far
To change this lonely life

Mick appears to come to a point in his life where he is ready to face his fears of having his heart broken again.

I wanna know what love is
I want you to show me
I wanna feel what love is
I know you can show me

Although Mick still isn’t sure about love, he is open and teachable.

I wanna know what love is (I wanna know)
I want you to show me (I wanna feel)
And I wanna feel, I want to feel what love is
(I know and I know and I know)
And I know, I know you can show me

This certainty about his new girlfriend is a sign that she has demonstrated love to Mick in the early stages of their relationship.

Let’s talk about love
I wanna know what love is, love that you feel inside
I want you to show me, and I’m feeling so much love
I wanna feel what love is, and you know, you just cannot hide
I know you can show me, yeah

Mick wants to learn what love is so that he can begin living this out.

I wanna know what love is
I know you can show me
I wanna feel, I wanna feel what love is
And I know, you just can’t hide
I know you can show me

Mick is making progress as he is growing in love in this new relationship.

Final Thoughts:

All relationships that I have been in come to a crossroads where effort and time by both parties are necessary. Like Mick, in my younger years, I had no clue what love was which led to their demise. As I grew in my Christian faith in college, I began to see subtle changes as I made Jesus the Lord of my life. Like the words of 1 John 4, when glimpses of the Holy Spirit shine through, you become a vessel of love. Although this search for love should never end, take one day at a time, praying that you become an advocate of love.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-February 5

Posted on February 5, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Inspiration Behind You’ve Lost That Loving Feeling

You’ve Lost That Loving Feeling is a classic ballad sung by numerous artists over the past 70 years. However, the original version was written by a trio of songwriters: Barry Mann, Cynthia Weil and Phil Spector. The lyrics struck a chord with anyone who has experienced the pain of lost love. The writers point to signs where intimacy starts to fade away such as “you never close your eyes anymore when I kiss your lips.” The lyrics also serve as a warning to those blinded by love with a message love doesn’t always last.

Biblical Application:

The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it? 10 “I the Lord search the heart and examine the mind, to reward each person according to their conduct, according to what their deeds deserve,” Jeremiah 17:9-10.

Exegesis of You’ve Lost That Loving Feeling:

You never close your eyes anymore when I kiss your lips
And there’s no tenderness like before in your fingertips
You’re trying hard not to show it (baby)
But baby, baby I know it

The passion of this relationship is starting to wear off. This initial excitement is fading away. Either the spark has dimmed or this relationship is becoming stale.

You’ve lost that lovin’ feelin’
Whoa, that lovin’ feelin’
You’ve lost that lovin’ feelin’
Now it’s gone, gone, gone

What has changed? Is their love just a feeling? Whatever happened, it is now noticeable.

Now there’s no welcome look in your eyes when I reach for you

The body language shows some type of disinterest.

And now your’re starting to critisize little things I do
It makes me just feel like crying (baby)
‘Cause baby, somethin’ beautiful’s dyin’

When inirial feelings of love start to fade, you become who you truly are. The gentle spirit and kindness vanishes, treating your significant other like everyone else.

You lost that lovin’ feelin’
Whoa, that lovin’ feelin’
You’ve lost that lovin’ feelin’
Now it’s gone, gone, gone

Now that love is starting to slip away, what can be done to save your relationship?

Baby, baby, I get down on my knees for you

The man is trying to win back his love, begging and humbling himself.

If you would only love me like you used to do, yeah
We had a love… a love… a love you don’t find everyday
So don’t, don’t, don’t, don’t let it slip away

I thought we had something special, what went wrong? The man is willing to do whatever it takes to save this relationship.

Baby (baby), baby (baby)
I beg you please (please), please (please)
I need your love (I need your love), I need your love (I need your love)
So bring it on back (so bring it on back), bring it on back (so bring it on back)
Bring back that lovin’ feelin’
Whoa, that lovin’ feelin’

Remember what we had? Please come back to how this all started. Ignite the flame which brought us together.

Bring back that lovin’ feelin’
‘Cause it’s gone, gone, gone
And I can’t go on
Woooo

This stanza serves as a call to action. Hoping to regain what they had.

Bring back that lovin’ feelin’
Whoa, that lovin’ feelin’
Bring back that lovin’ feelin’
‘Cause it’s gone, gone

A plea for love, think about what made us a great couple.

Final Thoughts:

I normally played the role of the desperate partner, trying to hold on to the past. This is where love becomes a will, not just a feeling. When two people have a resolve to endure whatever trials they may face, relationships are salvageable. Unfortunately, when one person starts to experience the worse portion of a vow, most bail, giving up on love. This is when hearts and minds must press on, taking negative thought captive, 2 Corinthians 10:4-6 so that love endures.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-January 31

Posted on January 31, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Inspiration Behind I Love Rock N’ Roll:

The inspiration behind Joan Jett’s song is an evolution of artists who sought to compose a rock song that would stand the test of time. This quest began with the Rolling Stones song “It’s Only Rock ‘N’ Roll (But I Like It). Upon hearing this, The Arrows lead singer Alan Merrill was inspired to create a modern equivalent. This spawned I Love Rock N’ Roll which Joan Jett made famous.

Biblical Application:

Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, 16 making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. 17 Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is. 18 Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit, 19 speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord, 20 always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, Ephesians 5:15-20.

Exegesis of I Love Rock N’ Roll:

I saw him dancin’ there by the record machine
I knew he must’ve been about 17
The beat was goin’ strong
Playin’ my favorite song

The opening stanza takes listeners b ack to a time period when diners and restaurants either had a jukebox per booth or a large one where music could be played while you were waiting for your food to arrive. Joan observes a teenager dancing next to a jukebox. The selected song had a great beat and was Joan’s favorite song.

And I could tell it wouldn’t be long
‘Til he was with me, yeah, me
And I could tell it wouldn’t be long
‘Til he was with me, yeah, me, singin’

Whether this was love at first sight or two fans coming together to celebrate their favorite song, Joan had a feeling that they would soon be together singing on the dance floor.

“I love rock ‘n roll
So put another dime in the jukebox, baby
I love rock ‘n roll
So come and take your time and dance with me”
Ow!

Before apps, computers, and music devices, teenagers gathered around a radio listening to their local station, waiting to hear their new favorite song. Back in the early 1980’s, the only way to hear an entire album was go to the mall to purchase a tape cassette or vinyl record. The less a song was played, the more excited you were to hear it once your radio station played it. The jukebox was the social center of an establishment. Hit songs were played over and over again.

He smiled, so I got up and asked for his name
“That don’t matter”, he said, “‘Cause it’s all the same”
Said, “Can I take you home where we can be alone?”

Normally, guys would wait for a slow song before asking a girl to dance. However, in this case, the bond for music created an instant connection between these two.

And next, we were movin’ on, he was with me, yeah, me
Next, we were movin’ on, he was with me, yeah, me, singin’

Joan’s dream came true, now a couple thanks to a common interest in the same artist.

“I love rock ‘n roll
So put another dime in the jukebox, baby
I love rock ‘n roll
So come and take your time and dance with me”
Ow!

Music is a way to celebrate life.

Said, “Can I take you home where we can be alone?

Next, we were movin’ on, he was with me, yeah, me
And we’ll be movin’ on and singin’ that same old song
Yeah, with me, singin’

Love and relationships can happen fast when you share a common interest.

“I love rock ‘n roll
So put another dime in the jukebox, baby
I love rock ‘n roll
So come and take your time and dance with me”

Music can unite people.

I love rock ‘n roll
So put another dime in the jukebox, baby
I love rock ‘n roll
So come and take your time and dance with-

This repetitive chorus encourages listeners to dance.

I love rock ‘n roll
So put another dime in the jukebox, baby
I love rock ‘n roll
So come and take your time and dance with-

I love rock ‘n roll
So put another dime in the jukebox, baby
I love rock ‘n roll
So come and take your time and dance with-

There was a time when local high schools had a dance every month. These events were like scenes from Footloose as teenagers express their individuality through dancing. Dancing alone is awkward, but when you are with someone else it’s easier to stay on beat and get in a groove.

I love rock ‘n roll
So put another dime in the jukebox, baby
I love rock ‘n roll
So come and take your time and dance with me

Joan sings about a time in America that doesn’t exist anymore as teenagers are too distracted by their phones and social media. Social interaction has been lost and stunted due to the lack of hangouts that exist centered around music.

Final Thoughts:

I was an extremely shy teenager until I went to my first high school dance as a sophomore. Although I didn’t know what I was doing, I tried to emulate my cross-country teammates. Once I learned how to dance by developing my own unique moves, I became confident like Joan, seeing myself with someone I liked, no longer afraid to ask a girl to dance during a ballad.

by Jay Mankus

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