(chorus)
Low down the chariot let me ride
Low down the chariot let me ride
Low down the chariot let me ride
Low down the chariot let me ride
Low down the chariot let me ride
Low down the chariot let me ride
Low down the chariot let me ride
Low down the chariot let me ride
Ride on (ride on King Jesus)
Ride on (ride on King Jesus)
The conquering King
I wanna go to heaven in the morning
I've been trying so hard just to make it on through
You know I tried to live the way You want me to
I wanna say goodbye to all sin inside
I don't wanna miss that great glory ride
So when You break on through that golden sky
Please slow it down, don't pass me by
Swing that chariot way down low
I wanna go like Elijah when I'll go.
Oh, low down the chariot (Let me ride)
Oh, low down the chariot (Let me ride)
Low down the chariot (Let me ride)
Low down the chariot (Let me ride)
Oh, low down the chariot (Let me ride)
Oh, low down the chariot (Let me ride)
Low down the chariot (Let me ride)
Gaither Vocal Band - Low Down the Chariot [Live] ft. Gaither Vocal Band
Low Down the Chariot Song Meaning, Biblical Reference and Inspiration
"Low Down the Chariot" by the Gaither Vocal Band is a powerful and hopeful gospel anthem centered on the anticipation of going to heaven. Released alongside a captivating live video on August 24, 2012, the song features the signature dynamic harmonies and heartfelt delivery characteristic of the group. It immediately connects with listeners through its fervent plea for a glorious transition from this life to the next, capturing a deep spiritual longing that resonates within the Christian faith. The repetitive chorus, with its urgent request, serves as the central theme, highlighting the desire for the Lord's intervention to bring about this heavenly journey.
The lyrics express the everyday reality of the Christian walk, acknowledging the struggle against sin and the sincere effort to live according to God's will. The verse "I've been trying so hard just to make it on through, You know I tried to live the way You want me to, I wanna say goodbye to all sin inside" lays bare the human condition and the desire for purification and redemption. This personal confession of striving and the earnest wish to be free from sin underscores the profound anticipation for the moment of deliverance and eternal life, emphasizing the singer's readiness and plea not to be overlooked when that time arrives.
A significant biblical reference is woven into the fabric of the song with the line, "I wanna go like Elijah when I'll go." This directly points to the account in 2 Kings 2:11, where the prophet Elijah was taken up into heaven by a whirlwind in chariots of fire without experiencing death. By invoking this powerful image, the song articulates a desire for a similarly miraculous, triumphant, and direct transition from earthly life into God's presence. It presents Elijah's unique departure as an archetype for the hoped-for moment of being taken up to glory, whether at death or during the rapture.
Furthermore, the song incorporates themes of Christ's power and reign through the repeated line, "Ride on King Jesus, The conquering King." This connects the personal hope of salvation and heavenly ascent to the ultimate victory and authority of Jesus Christ. It serves as a declaration of faith in Him as the one who facilitates this journey and reigns supreme. This perspective transforms the personal plea for the 'chariot' into an act of faith and trust in the conquering power of the Savior, reinforcing the hope for a glorious future destination made possible through Him.
Ultimately, "Low Down the Chariot" serves as an inspirational message of hope and assurance for believers. It vocalizes the universal Christian longing for heaven, the struggle with earthly imperfections, and the reliance on divine grace for salvation and eternal life. Through its earnest lyrics, powerful vocal delivery, and clear biblical imagery, the song encourages perseverance in faith and reminds listeners of the glorious promise of being united with God, desiring that when their time comes, the 'chariot' will indeed swing down low for them to ride to glory.
