Fred Hammond - I'm a Soldier In the Army of the Lord Lyrics
Lyrics
I'm a Soldier in The Army
I'm a Soldier in The Army
I'm a Soldier in The Army
I'm a Soldier in The Army of the Lord
Video
Fred Hammond - Chicago Praise Medley (video)
Meaning & Inspiration
Fred Hammond's "I'm a Soldier In the Army of the Lord," released on June 4, 2004, as part of the album *Somethin' 'Bout Love*, delivers a powerful and unambiguous declaration of faith. The song’s essence lies in its simple yet profound affirmation, a spiritual rallying cry that resonates deep within the soul of anyone committed to a life of Christian service. It isn't a complex narrative but rather a direct confession, a personal pledge to the divine mission, echoing sentiments found throughout Scripture regarding dedication and purpose in God's Kingdom.
The song's core message, centered on the repeated affirmation "I'm a Soldier in The Army of the Lord," establishes an immediate connection to a rich tapestry of biblical metaphor. To declare oneself a soldier in the Lord's army is to embrace an identity rooted in commitment, discipline, and unwavering allegiance. This identity is not merely symbolic; it signifies an active participation in God's redemptive work on earth. Just as Paul encouraged Timothy in 2 Timothy 2:3-4 to "Endure hardship with us like a good soldier of Christ Jesus. No one serving as a soldier gets entangled in civilian affairs, but rather tries to please his commanding officer," the song calls believers to a focused, disciplined life, setting aside worldly distractions to serve a higher purpose. The "Army of the Lord" itself is a biblical concept, famously encountered by Joshua in Joshua 5:14 where he meets the commander of the Lord's army, underscoring that this spiritual host operates under divine leadership and authority, not human will.
This powerful declaration also evokes the imagery of spiritual warfare, not against flesh and blood, but against spiritual forces as described in Ephesians 6:10-12. The call to be a soldier implies readiness for battle, equipped not with earthly weapons but with the full armor of God: the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, shoes fitted with the readiness of the gospel of peace, the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, as detailed in Ephesians 6:13-17. This song serves as a reminder that every follower of Christ is enlisted in a spiritual conflict, requiring vigilance, prayer, and an unshakeable faith in their Commander. It is a call to stand firm, to resist evil, and to advance the Kingdom of God through consistent witness and righteous living.
Beyond the imagery of conflict, being a soldier in God's army also speaks to a life of obedience and sacrifice. Jesus himself called His followers to "take up their cross daily and follow me" (Luke 9:23), a clear instruction for self-denial and unwavering commitment. Romans 12:1-2 further reinforces this by urging believers to offer their bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God. Fred Hammond's song encapsulates this spirit of consecrated service, inspiring individuals to view their faith not as a passive belief, but as an active, dynamic role within a divinely purposed army. It cultivates a sense of belonging and collective purpose, knowing that one is part of a grander movement led by the Lord Himself, as Joel 2:11 notes, "The Lord thunders at the head of his army; for his forces are vast, and mighty are those who obey his command." This straightforward, direct song thus becomes a profound anthem for devotion, encouraging every believer to embrace their calling, stand strong in their faith, and fulfill their role in the ongoing work of God’s Kingdom with courage and conviction.