Some people think Your distant just some words on a page
That You're nothing more than fables handed down along the way
But I’ve seen You part the waters when no one else could pull me from the deep
That’s who You are to me
Some people think You just live in cathedrals made of stone
But I know You live inside my heart, I know that it's Your home
And I’ve seen You in a sunset and in the eyes of a stranger on the street
That's who You are to me
You're amazing, faithful, love’s open door
When I'm empty You fill me with hunger for more
Of Your mercy, Your goodness
Lord You’re the air that I breathe
That's who You are to me
Who You are to me
Sometimes I have my doubts I'm sure that everybody does
And I wonder when I stumble am I still worthy of Your love
But I know that I get stronger when I'm talking to You down on my knees
You're everything I need
You're amazing, faithful, love’s open door
When I'm empty You fill me with hunger for more
Of Your mercy, Your goodness
Lord You’re the air that I breathe
That's who You are to me
Who You are to me
You're forever Holy
You're the Lamb who is worthy
My forgiveness, my healer
The Messiah, my Redeemer
You're amazing, faithful, love’s open door
When I'm empty You fill me with hunger for more
Of Your mercy, Your goodness
Lord You’re the air that I breathe
That's who You are -
You are greater, higher over it all
In Your presence, Jesus, I stand in awe
Of Your mercy, Your goodness
Lord You’re the air that I breathe
That's who You are to me
That’s who You are to me
That’s who You are to me
Who You Are To Me
Who You Are To Me Song Meaning, Biblical Reference and Inspiration
Released on June 26, 2020, Chris Tomlin's song "Who You Are To Me" offers a deeply personal declaration of faith, contrasting abstract or traditional views of God with the reality of a dynamic, life-changing relationship. The lyrics open by addressing common perceptions – that God is merely a historical figure, a collection of stories, or confined to religious buildings. This sets the stage for the central theme: God is not distant but intimately involved in the life of the believer. The song quickly shifts to express the singer's own experience, referencing moments of rescue ("part the waters when no one else could pull me from the deep") and the tangible presence of God not only in the heart but also in the beauty of creation and the faces of others.
The core of the song is found in the powerful chorus, which serves as a foundational confession of God's nature and His role in the singer's life. Descriptions like "amazing, faithful, love’s open door" highlight key attributes of God, while phrases such as "When I'm empty You fill me with hunger for more" and "Lord You’re the air that I breathe" convey a profound sense of dependence and spiritual sustenance. This personal testimony emphasizes that God is not just an external force but essential to existence, as vital as the air one breathes. This reliance is presented as the source of strength and fulfillment.
The song also honestly addresses the reality of doubt and human frailty. Acknowledging that questions and stumbles are part of the human experience, the lyrics articulate the wonder about worthiness when faced with personal failures. However, this vulnerability leads back to the source of strength found in communion with God through prayer ("talking to You down on my knees"), affirming that this connection is "everything I need." This section reinforces the song's message that faith isn't about perfection but about persistent connection to the One who provides strength and love despite imperfections.
Building upon the personal declaration, the bridge expands the scope to include timeless theological truths about God's identity. Here, the lyrics list majestic titles and roles of Christ: "Forever Holy," "the Lamb who is worthy," "My forgiveness, my healer," "The Messiah, my Redeemer." These titles rooted in scripture underscore the multifaceted nature of God, presenting Him not only as a personal savior but also as the eternal, sacrificial, and sovereign Lord who offers healing and redemption. These truths provide a strong doctrinal foundation for the personal relationship described throughout the song.
The song culminates in a powerful reaffirmation of God's ultimate sovereignty and transcendence. The final lines emphasize that God is "greater, higher over it all." Yet, this declaration of God's vastness is immediately followed by an expression of personal awe and worship in His presence. The repetition of "That’s who You are to me" in the outro reinforces the deeply personal nature of the entire message, making it clear that these truths about God are not just abstract concepts but the defining reality of the singer's life and relationship with the divine. This blend of universal truth and personal experience creates a compelling expression of faith.
