Johnny Cash - I Shall Not Be Moved - Like a Tree Planted by The Waters Lyrics

I Shall Not Be Moved - Johnny Cash

I Shall Not Be Moved - Like a Tree Planted by The Waters Song Meaning, Biblical Reference and Inspiration

I Shall Not Be Moved - Like a Tree Planted by The Waters by Johnny Cash

"I Shall Not Be Moved - Like a Tree Planted by The Waters" is a classic country hymn that has inspired generations of Christians. The song is a testament to the steadfast faith of believers in times of trouble and uncertainty. With lyrics that evoke images of a tree planted by the waters, the song reminds us of the strength and resilience that comes from trusting in God.

Inspiration behind the Song

The song is believed to have originated from an African-American spiritual called "I Shall Not Be Moved." The spiritual was popular among slaves in the southern United States, who found comfort in the message of hope and perseverance it conveyed.

Johnny Cash recorded his version of the song in 1956 as part of his album "Johnny Cash Sings the Songs That Made Him Famous." The album was a commercial success, and the song became one of Cash's most popular recordings.

Meaning of the Song

The lyrics of "I Shall Not Be Moved - Like a Tree Planted by The Waters" are deeply rooted in biblical imagery and themes. The song speaks of the faith that enables believers to stand firm in the face of adversity, just like a tree planted by the waters.

The opening lines of the song declare the believer's unwavering faith in God: "Jesus is my Savior, I shall not be moved; In His love and favor, I shall not be moved." The song goes on to describe the believer's unshakable trust in God's protection and provision, even in the midst of trials and tribulations.

The phrase "like a tree planted by the waters" is a reference to a passage in the book of Jeremiah, where the prophet describes the blessings that come to those who trust in God:

"Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, whose trust is the Lord. He is like a tree planted by water, that sends out its roots by the stream, and does not fear when heat comes, for its leaves remain green, and is not anxious in the year of drought, for it does not cease to bear fruit." (Jeremiah 17:7-8)

This passage speaks of the blessings that come to those who trust in God, who are rooted and grounded in His love. The song echoes this sentiment, reminding us that when we put our faith in God, we can withstand any storm that comes our way.

Bible Verses Referenced in the Song

The song "I Shall Not Be Moved - Like a Tree Planted by The Waters" draws heavily on biblical themes and imagery. The following are some of the Bible verses that are referenced or alluded to in the song:

- "Jesus is my Savior, I shall not be moved" (Psalm 16:8)
- "In His love and favor, I shall not be moved" (Psalm 30:5)
- "Like a tree planted by water, that sends out its roots by the stream" (Jeremiah 17:7-8)
- "Just like a tree that's planted by the waters, Lord, I shall not be moved" (Psalm 1:3)

Practical Application of the Song

The message of "I Shall Not Be Moved - Like a Tree Planted by The Waters" is one that is relevant to Christians of all ages and backgrounds. The song reminds us that no matter what trials we face in life, we can have confidence in God's faithfulness and protection.

The image of a tree planted by the waters is a powerful metaphor for the Christian life. Just as a tree draws nourishment and strength from the water, so we can draw strength and nourishment from God's Word and His presence in our lives.

As Christians, we are called to put our faith in God and to trust in His provision and protection. When we do so, we can withstand any storm that comes our way, knowing that we are rooted and grounded in His love.

Conclusion

"I Shall Not Be Moved - Like a Tree Planted by The Waters" is a timeless hymn that speaks to the enduring faith of believers. The song's message of trust and perseverance in the face of adversity is as relevant today as it was when it was first recorded.

The song reminds us that as Christians, we can have confidence in God's faithfulness and protection. When we put our faith in Him, we can withstand any storm that comes our way, knowing that we are rooted and grounded in His love.

May this song inspire us to trust in God's provision and protection, and to remain steadfast in our faith, even in the midst of trials and tribulations.