Gary LeVox - Chose to Be My Friend Lyrics
Lyrics
Verse 1
You were there for me through it all,
When everyone around said I would fall
You were my friend,
You believed in me
Through the good times and the bad
At times I felt that you were all I had
You were my friend and believed in me
You went the extra mile
To prove your love was true
You held out your hands
As they drove the nails in you
When you could have walked away
And turned your back to all my sins
For me you gave your life,
You chose to be my friend
Verse 2
Like a child so full of fear,
You stood by my side and held me near
You were my friend, you believed in me
When my faith grew weak
And strength seemed gone
You took me by the hand
And led me on
You were my friend,
You believed in me
You went the extra mile
To prove your love was true
You held out your hands
As they drove the nails in you
When you could have walked away
And turned your back to all my sins
For me you gave your life,
You chose to be my friend
Chorus
When you could have walked away
And turned your back to all my sins
For me you gave your life,
You chose to be my friend
Video
Jason Crabb - Chose to Be My Friend (feat. Rascal Flatts)
Meaning & Inspiration
Jason Crabb’s release, “Chose to Be My Friend,” featuring Rascal Flatts, arrived on July 30, 2019, immediately centering attention on a profound spiritual truth often overlooked: the nature of God's relationship with humanity. Far from a casual tune, the song delves into the extraordinary concept that the Almighty, the Creator of everything, would intentionally elect to enter into a state of personal friendship with us, despite our inherent imperfections and distance from holiness. It’s a message that counters our human tendency to believe we must earn acceptance or perform our way into His good graces, instead presenting a divine initiative rooted purely in grace and love.
The core meaning of the song lies in this act of divine volition – God *chose* us. This resonates deeply with scriptural narratives. Consider the Apostle Paul's words in Romans 5:8, which state that "God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us." The song captures this astonishing truth, emphasizing that this offer of friendship wasn't extended when we were at our best, but precisely when we were alienated and in need. It’s a proactive, unmerited pursuit, aligning with 1 John 4:10, which clarifies, "This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins." The song frames this sacrificial love as the ultimate act of choosing to befriend.
Scripture paints a picture of different levels of relationship with God, from servant to son or daughter, but the idea of being called God's friend is a rare and precious designation, as seen with Abraham (James 2:23). The most striking biblical parallel, however, is found in Jesus' own words in John 15:15, where He tells His disciples, "No longer do I call you servants, because a servant does not know his master's business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you." This elevates the intimacy and trust involved. "Chose to Be My Friend" beautifully reflects this New Testament reality, reminding us that through Christ, we are offered not just salvation or master-servant protection, but genuine, communicative, chosen fellowship with the divine.
The musical pairing of Jason Crabb's powerful gospel delivery with Gary LeVox's distinctive voice from Rascal Flatts creates a compelling blend, bringing both country and gospel sensibilities to bear on this central theme of grace. The song’s arrangement likely supports the weight and wonder of the message, building emotionally to convey the profound impact of such an incredible divine choice. For someone hearing this song, the takeaway isn't about achieving a relationship with God through effort, but about responding in humble gratitude and trust to the friendship that has already been offered. It serves as a powerful reminder, echoing the invitation in Revelation 3:20, "Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me," illustrating the intimate fellowship God desires and initiated by choosing us first. The song ultimately inspires a response of awe and acceptance, encouraging a deeper walk with the God who deliberately chose to call us friend.