Audio Adrenaline - Good People Lyrics
Lyrics
I grew up impressed by the people I knew in the buckle of the Bible belt
Hopped in a van with a band, now I've been just about everywhere else
Met a soldier from Seattle, and a lawyer from the east
A Texas oil baron and a Roman Catholic priest
Chorus:
Everyday I choose, to walk in their shoes
Cause pretty are the feet of those who bring the good news
Good people, good good people
Everywhere, everywhere
It's God's people been on the road
Been on the road, been far from home, but I found me a friend or two
Time has taught me well and I can tell you the good things people do
They really care and I've been there, I've seen it with my eyes
I can tell they're God's people by the goodness in their lives
Chorus
Video
03. Good People
Meaning & Inspiration
Audio Adrenaline’s compelling anthem, "Good People," first graced our ears on February 20, 1996, as a vital track from their album *Bloom*. This song takes us on a profound journey, moving beyond the familiar confines of a specific Christian culture to reveal the expansive presence of God's work in the world. It’s a testament to broadening our vision and recognizing the divine hand in unexpected places, challenging any narrow definitions of what it means to be "God's people."
The narrative begins with a relatable reflection on growing up immersed in a region often called the "Bible belt," where one naturally feels impressed by the faith of those around them. This initial perspective, however, soon expands as the songwriter embarks on a journey with a band, venturing far beyond familiar territory. The encounters become diverse and telling: a soldier from Seattle, a lawyer from the east, a Texas oil baron, and a Roman Catholic priest. This striking list intentionally breaks down geographical, professional, and even denominational barriers, illustrating that God's reach and the manifestation of His character are not limited to one specific group or location. It echoes the biblical truth found in Romans 10:12, which declares, "For there is no distinction between Jew and Gentile; for the same Lord is Lord of all, bestowing his riches on all who call on him." This verse underscores the universality of God’s grace and the breadth of His family, setting the stage for an inclusive understanding of who "good people" truly are.
The heart of the song resonates deeply in its chorus: "Everyday I choose, to walk in their shoes / Cause pretty are the feet of those who bring the good news." This line is a powerful affirmation of empathy and intentional connection, a call to step into the lives of others to understand their experiences. More significantly, it directly references Romans 10:15, which quotes Isaiah 52:7: "How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!" Here, "good news" transcends mere spoken evangelism; it encompasses the very lives lived in integrity, compassion, and care—the embodied Gospel. The chorus then exclaims, "Good people, good good people / Everywhere, everywhere / It's God's people been on the road," confirming a universal discovery. It asserts that goodness, a reflection of God’s own character (Galatians 5:22-23), is evident in diverse individuals across the globe, indicating the active presence of God's Spirit in their lives. This vision inspires us to look for God’s fingerprints not just in our own communities, but in every corner of the earth.
The second verse continues this theme, affirming that even "far from home," companionship and profound insights can be found. The experience of travel and observation leads to a clear understanding: "Time has taught me well and I can tell you the good things people do." This isn't abstract belief; it's an observable reality, verified by personal encounter. The crucial insight arrives with the declaration, "They really care and I've been there, I've seen it with my eyes / I can tell they're God's people by the goodness in their lives." This statement encapsulates the profound truth taught by Jesus in Matthew 7:16 and 7:20: "You will recognize them by their fruits." It’s a call to discern spiritual authenticity not by labels or affiliations, but by the tangible evidence of a transformed life—the care, the compassion, the selfless acts that spring from a heart touched by God. This aligns perfectly with James 2:18, which reminds us that faith, if genuine, will be demonstrated through works. It encourages a mature faith that looks beyond superficial markers to see the profound impact of God working in and through individuals, manifesting His love and righteousness in their daily existence.
"Good People" ultimately serves as an inspiring invitation to an expansive faith. It encourages us to dismantle our preconceived notions and actively seek out the evidence of God’s Spirit working in all kinds of people, from all walks of life. The song champions unity and a broad understanding of God's family, reminding us that goodness and compassion are universal languages, powerful indicators of His presence. It calls us to embody the "good news" through our actions and empathy, recognizing that by doing so, our own feet become "pretty" as we join the vast company of God’s people on the road, bringing light to a world in need. This profound message helps us appreciate that God's work is not limited to those who look or think exactly like us, but is wonderfully diverse and ever-present, shining through the lives of His "good people" everywhere.