Carman - Hall of Faith Lyrics
Lyrics
By faith
Abraham refused to say his life was done
By faith
When he was a hundred
Abe went and had a son
By faith
Moses snatched the Israelites
From Pharaoh's hand
By faith
Moses took them all
Into the Promised Land
I wanna be, I wanna be in that number
I wanna be, I wanna be in that number
I wanna be, I wanna be in that number
I wanna be
In the Hall of Faith
Don't you wanna be remembered?
Any boy, any girl
Can be a hero in God's world
In the Hall of Faith
Don't you wanna be remembered?
Hall of Faith. Hall of Faith.
Don't you wanna be in the Hall of Faith?
Hall of Faith. Hall of Faith.
Don't you wanna be in the Hall of Faith?
By faith
A boy named David faced Goliath with a sling
By faith
That same little boy became a great and mighty king
By faith
Daniel trusted God
Even in the lion's den
By faith
Those kitties' mouths were shut
And Dan walked out again
I wanna be, I wanna be in that number
I wanna be, I wanna be in that number
I wanna be, I wanna be in that number
I wanna be
In the Hall of Faith
Don't you wanna be remembered?
Any boy, any girl
Can be a hero in God's world
In the Hall of Faith
Don't you wanna be remembered?
Hall of Faith. Hall of Faith.
Don't you wanna be in the Hall of Faith?
Hall of Faith. Hall of Faith.
Don't you wanna be in the Hall of Faith?
I wanna be, I wanna be in that number
I wanna be, I wanna be in that number
I wanna be, I wanna be in that number
I wanna be
In the Hall of Faith
Don't you wanna be remembered?
Any boy, any girl
Can be a hero in God's world
In the Hall of Faith
Don't you wanna be remembered?
Video
Hall of Faith
Meaning & Inspiration
Carman’s "Hall of Faith," released on January 1, 1992, as part of his "Yo Kidz!" album, stands as a vibrant, educational anthem designed to inspire young hearts with the enduring power of biblical faith. The song’s essence captures the spirit of Hebrews 11, often referred to as the "Hall of Faith" chapter, translating its profound theological concepts into an accessible, memorable format for a new generation. It’s more than just a song; it's a call to embrace a life anchored in trust and obedience to God, echoing the lives of those who walked before us.
The central meaning of "Hall of Faith" is to illustrate that extraordinary acts of faith are not confined to a distant past or reserved for a select few, but are attainable for anyone who chooses to believe and act on God's word. Carman strategically presents a series of well-known biblical heroes, each demonstrating a unique facet of faith that resonates across time. He begins with Abraham, reminding us that "by faith Abraham refused to say his life was done," even as he neared a hundred years old and fathered Isaac. This highlights the miraculous nature of God's promises, fulfilled despite human limitations, as documented in Genesis 17 and 21, and elaborated upon in Romans 4, where Abraham is celebrated as the father of all who believe. His unwavering trust, even when it seemed impossible, serves as a powerful testament to the truth that God’s timing and power transcend our own understanding, establishing him as a foundational figure in God's great story of redemption.
Moses is the next exemplary figure, portrayed as snatching the Israelites from Pharaoh’s hand and leading them towards the Promised Land. While it was Joshua who ultimately led them into Canaan after Moses’s passing, the song accurately captures the immense faith and courage Moses displayed in confronting the most powerful ruler of his time and guiding a nation through the wilderness. His story, detailed throughout Exodus and Numbers, underscores God's ability to use a reluctant leader to perform mighty miracles, from parting the Red Sea (Exodus 14) to receiving the Ten Commandments. Hebrews 11:23-29 emphasizes Moses's faith in choosing to suffer with God's people rather than enjoy the fleeting pleasures of sin, looking ahead to the reward from God. His life teaches that obedience, even in the face of overwhelming odds, unlocks divine deliverance and guidance for an entire community.
The song then moves to figures more relatable in their younger years or perceived underdog status, such as David. "By faith a boy named David faced Goliath with a sling," Carman declares, encapsulating the iconic encounter from 1 Samuel 17. David’s refusal to be intimidated by the giant’s size or his own youth, instead trusting in the living God, provides a stirring example of courage born of conviction. This narrative encourages everyone, especially young people, to understand that God doesn’t look at outward appearances or physical strength, but at the heart that trusts Him, enabling ordinary individuals to overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges. David’s faith propelled him from a shepherd boy to a king, proving that God elevates those who place their full confidence in Him (1 Samuel 16:7).
Daniel's story further reinforces the theme of unwavering trust and divine protection. "By faith Daniel trusted God even in the lion’s den," the lyrics state, referring to the miraculous account in Daniel 6 where God shut the mouths of the lions. This serves as a testament to the power of steadfast faith and prayer even in the face of imminent danger and persecution. Daniel’s example demonstrates that faithfulness to God, even when it means defying human decrees, results in God’s intervention and vindication. Hebrews 11:33 praises those who "shut the mouths of lions" by faith, directly connecting Daniel’s experience to the broader biblical concept of miraculous preservation for those who honor God above all else. His story offers deep encouragement that living righteously under pressure yields supernatural outcomes.
The repeating chorus, "I wanna be, I wanna be in that number," and the refrain, "In the Hall of Faith, don't you wanna be remembered? Any boy, any girl can be a hero in God’s world," powerfully transforms these ancient narratives into a personal invitation. Carman effectively bridges the gap between the heroes of old and the listener, making the concept of a faith-filled life tangible and aspirational. This isn't merely about admiring historical figures; it's about internalizing their examples and applying them to one's own journey. The song champions the idea that faith is not a passive belief but an active principle that leads to a life of purpose and eternal significance. It encourages the recognition that true heroism isn't measured by worldly standards, but by one's commitment to God, fulfilling the promise of Proverbs 3:5-6 to trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding, for He will direct your paths. Through these inspiring examples and an earnest call to action, "Hall of Faith" remains a timeless reminder that every individual has the potential to live a life worthy of remembrance in God's incredible story.