Gaither Vocal Band - Let it Start in Me Lyrics

Let it Start in Me

Let it Start in Me Song Meaning, Biblical Reference and Inspiration

"Let it Start in Me" by the Gaither Vocal Band is a powerful anthem that speaks to the desire for profound personal and collective transformation. Released with an accompanying video on March 17, 2015, the song paints a vivid picture of impending spiritual renewal and change, emphasizing that this significant movement must begin within the individual. It moves through various metaphors, each illustrating a different facet of this anticipated work, building towards a central, fervent plea.

The song opens with imagery of a new beginning, describing a "dawn arising," a stirring "strong wind," and a "voice that's calling." These elements suggest a fresh start, the presence of the Spirit (often symbolized by wind in scripture), and a divine invitation to freedom. The immediate response is the declaration, "There's a change a coming / Let it start in me." This sets the tone, asserting that while a larger force or event is imminent, the crucial first step is a personal willingness to be the subject of that change. The repeated chorus serves as a consistent affirmation of this individual commitment.

Further verses introduce metaphors of purification and refinement. The concept of a "fire that's burning" and "heat consuming every evil plan" speaks to a process of testing and cleansing. This leads to positive outcomes: "gold emerging from refining flame" and a "diamond sparkling where there once was shame." This imagery directly relates to scripture, such as 1 Peter 1:7, which speaks of faith being tested by fire to prove its genuineness, and Malachi 3:3, describing God as a refiner's fire. The transformation from shame to something precious like a diamond signifies redemption and restoration.

The song broadens its scope with the idea of a "revolution cavaliering o'er the sea." This suggests a widespread movement, impacting people everywhere, driven by the conviction that "people must be free." The language of "tides changing" and "waves roll in" uses natural forces to represent this unstoppable momentum. The plea, "Let this revolution wash away our sin," directly links this powerful, external force to internal spiritual cleansing, echoing scriptural themes of washing and purification, as seen in Hebrews 9:22 where remission of sins is discussed, or 1 John 1:9 regarding confession and cleansing.

Finally, the song employs the metaphor of a storm and rain breaking a drought. A "storm a brewing" and the "sound of rain" represent the coming blessing and refreshment. The "thirsty plain" symbolizes spiritual dryness and need. The message here is hopeful: "Let the drought be over if we just believe that the rains are coming / Let it rain on me." This ties the reception of God's blessing and renewal to faith, recalling passages like Hosea 6:3 or Joel 2:23, which speak of God coming like the rain or sending rain. The request "Let it rain on me" parallels "Let it start in me," bringing the focus back to personal reception of the coming spiritual outpouring. The concluding "Amen" seals the song as a prayer and a declaration of faith in the coming change and the personal desire to be part of it. The song collectively serves as an inspiring call to prepare for a powerful spiritual work, starting with a surrendered heart and a willingness to be transformed individually.