Jars of Clay - Boys (Lesson One) Lyrics
Lyrics
Lesson one - do not hide
Lesson two - there are right ways to fight
And if you have questions
We can talk through the night
So you know who you are
And you know what you want
I've been where you're going
And it's not that far
It's too far to walk
But you don't have to run
You'll get there in time
Lesson three - you're not alone
Not since I saw you start breathing on your own
You can leave, you can run, this will still be your home
So you know who you are
And you know what you want
I've been where you're going
And it's not that far
It's too far to walk
But you don't have to run
You'll get there in time
Get there in time
In time, to wonder where the days have gone
In time, yo be old enough to wish that you were young
When good things are unraveling, bad things come undone
You weather love and lose your innocence
There will be liars, and thieves who take from you
Not to undermine the consequence
But you are not what you do
When you need it most
I have a hundred reasons why I love you
So you know who you are
And you know what you want
I've been where you're going
And it's not that far
It's too far to walk
But you don't have to run
You'll get there in time
So you know who you are
And you know what you want
I've been where you're going
And it's not that far
It's too far to walk
But you don't have to run
You'll get there in time
Get there in time
If you weather love and lose your innocence
Just remember - lesson one
Video
Boys (Lesson One)
Meaning & Inspiration
Jars of Clay offers a profound, guiding hand through the lyrical landscape of "Boys (Lesson One)," a standout track from their 2011 release, *Live At Gray Matters, Vol. 4: One Mic - EP*, which officially arrived on March 29th of that year. This song transcends a simple musical composition, emerging instead as a tender, yet firm, blueprint for living a life of integrity and purpose, undoubtedly steeped in a wisdom that reflects scriptural truths. The narrative unfolds like an intimate conversation from a seasoned mentor, or a loving parent, to a younger soul embarking on life's complex journey, providing essential spiritual and practical compass points.
The core message of "Boys (Lesson One)" resonates deeply with foundational Christian teachings, beginning with an immediate call to transparency: "Lesson one - do not hide." This instruction strikes at the heart of our human tendency to conceal our flaws and fears, a pattern evident from the earliest biblical accounts, like Adam and Eve hiding from God after their transgression (Genesis 3:10). The song powerfully encourages an openness with God and with trusted community, echoing verses like Proverbs 28:13, which promises that whoever conceals their sins will not prosper, but he who confesses and forsakes them will obtain mercy. Following this, "Lesson two - there are right ways to fight" offers crucial guidance on navigating conflict. This isn't a call to aggression, but rather an exhortation to discerning spiritual and relational battles, reminding us that our struggle is not against flesh and blood (Ephesians 6:12). It implies a fight for truth, justice, and righteousness, done with grace and wisdom, as urged in 2 Timothy 2:24-25, which advises God’s servants to be kind to everyone, able to teach, and patiently enduring evil. The unwavering promise, "If you have questions, We can talk through the night," paints a beautiful picture of relentless availability and mentorship, mirroring the Lord’s invitation to seek wisdom from Him, who gives generously to all without finding fault (James 1:5).
As the song progresses, it delves into the vital themes of identity and life’s journey. The lines, "So you know who you are, And you know what you want," prompt introspection rooted in our identity as children of God, uniquely crafted for His purposes (Psalm 139:13-16, Ephesians 2:10). This knowing is not a fleeting self-affirmation, but a settled understanding of one's place in God's grand design. The mentor's reassurance, "I've been where you're going, And it's not that far, It's too far to walk, But you don't have to run, You'll get there in time," speaks to the patience and trust required in our spiritual walk. It’s a powerful reminder that while the path may feel long and arduous, we are not meant to rush or strive in our own strength, but to rely on God's perfect timing and provision (Isaiah 40:31, Psalm 27:14). This journey is underscored by "Lesson three - you're not alone," a profound declaration of unwavering presence and belonging. The poignant assertion, "Not since I saw you start breathing on your own, You can leave, you can run, this will still be your home," resonates with the steadfast love of God, a divine parental affection that promises He will never leave nor forsake us (Deuteronomy 31:6, Hebrews 13:5). It reassures us that no matter where life takes us, or what choices we make, there is always a place of unconditional acceptance and return.
The latter half of the song confronts the bittersweet realities of aging and the challenges of a fallen world, yet always redirects to grace. "In time, to wonder where the days have gone, In time, to be old enough to wish that you were young" offers a sobering perspective on the swift passage of life, encouraging us to number our days and gain a heart of wisdom (Psalm 90:12). Yet, even amidst this reflection, hope shines: "When good things are unraveling, bad things come undone," hinting at the redemptive power of God to orchestrate good even from adversity (Romans 8:28). The lyrics acknowledge the harshness of life – "There will be liars, and thieves who take from you" – a stark reminder of the spiritual warfare and temptations we face (John 10:10a). However, the song swiftly pivots to perhaps its most critical message of grace: "But you are not what you do." This line is a direct challenge to a performance-based identity, affirming that our worth is not tied to our achievements or failures, but is secured by God’s unconditional love and our identity in Christ (Romans 3:23-24, Ephesians 2:8-9). This divine love is beautifully articulated with "When you need it most, I have a hundred reasons why I love you," echoing the boundless, unfailing love of our Heavenly Father (1 John 4:10, Romans 8:38-39). The song concludes by cycling back to its starting point, emphasizing that even after weathering life’s storms and losing innocence, the initial truth of "Lesson one – do not hide" remains paramount. It is a powerful testament to the enduring importance of transparency, faith, and a steady walk with the Lord through all seasons of life.