Amy Grant - River Lullaby Lyrics
Lyrics
Hush now, my baby
Be still love, don't cry
Sleep like you're rocked by the stream
Sleep and remember my lullaby
And I'll be with you when you dream
Drift on a river
That flows through my arms
Drift as I'm singing to you
I see you smiling
So peaceful and calm
And holding you, I'm smiling, too
Here in my arms
Safe from all harm
Holding you, I'm smiling, too
Hush now, my baby
Be still, love, don't cry
Sleep like you're rocked by the stream
Sleep and remember this river lullaby
And I'll be with you when you dream
Here in my arms
Safe from all harm
Holding you, I'm smiling, too
I'll be with you when you dream
Video
River Lullaby
Meaning & Inspiration
Amy Grant’s "River Lullaby," released on July 30, 2018, emerges as a tender and profoundly comforting piece, deeply resonant with themes of peace, security, and unwavering presence. While presented as a lullaby from a parent to a child, the song transcends its immediate context to offer a deeper reflection on divine care, echoing the timeless assurances found within Scripture. Its gentle melody underpins a message designed to soothe anxieties and instill a sense of absolute safety, drawing parallels between human affection and God’s enduring embrace.
The narrative woven through "River Lullaby" is one of profound reassurance. From the opening lines, urging stillness and peace, to the imagery of sleeping "rocked by the stream," the song paints a picture of serene security. This central metaphor of the river is not merely a natural setting but a symbol of fluid, constant support, much like the gentle, unwavering flow of God's presence in our lives. The caregiver’s promise, "I'll be with you when you dream," extends beyond waking hours, signifying a commitment that even in vulnerability or unconsciousness, love remains vigilant. This sentiment beautifully mirrors the biblical truth of God’s omnipresent watchfulness, as found in Psalm 121:3-4, "He will not let your foot be moved; he who keeps you will not slumber. Behold, he who keeps Israel will neither slumber nor sleep." It speaks to an eternal vigilance that offers peace even when we are most helpless.
The lyrics further develop this theme of divine-like protection, with the child drifting "on a river that flows through my arms." This imagery of being held in an intimate, secure embrace evokes the comforting words of Deuteronomy 33:27, "The eternal God is your dwelling place, and underneath are the everlasting arms." Such an embrace offers a sanctuary where one can be "safe from all harm," a profound declaration of security that finds its ultimate fulfillment in God's protective nature. Psalm 91:4 assures us, "He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart." The peaceful countenance of the child, "smiling, so peaceful and calm," then reflects the internal serenity that comes from being enveloped in such love, a peace that surpasses all understanding, as described in Philippians 4:7.
Beyond immediate comfort, "River Lullaby" also carries the subtle invitation to remember this profound sense of security. The instruction to "sleep and remember this river lullaby" suggests that the message is meant to endure, to be a foundational truth carried into life. This resonates with the biblical imperative to remember God’s faithfulness and His covenant promises. Deuteronomy 6:7 instructs us to "teach them diligently to your children," making sure that the truths of love and protection are passed down and remembered through generations. Amy Grant's song, in its simple beauty, becomes a modern psalm, a whispered prayer affirming God’s unwavering love and the deep peace found in His presence. It serves as an inspiring reminder that just as a loving parent offers comfort, God extends an even greater, everlasting peace to all who rest in His unfailing embrace.