MercyMe - Won't Back Down Lyrics
Lyrics
Well I won't back down
No I won't back down
You can stand me up at the Gates of Hell
And I won't back down
No I'll stand my ground
I won't be turned around
And I'll keep this world from dragging me down
Gonna stand my ground and I won't back down
Hey baby there aint no easy way out
Hey I- I'll stand my ground
And I won't back down
Well I know what's right
I've got just one life
In a world that keeps on pushing me around
I'm gonna stand my ground
And I won't back down
Hey baby there aint no easy way out
Hey I- I'll stand my ground
And I won't back down no
Hey Baby there aint no easy way out
Hey I- I wont back down
Hey baby there aint no east way out
Hey I- I'll stand my ground
And I won't back down
No I wont back down
Video
MercyMe "I Won't Back Down" Tom Petty Cover // SiriusXM
Meaning & Inspiration
MercyMe’s “Won’t Back Down,” released on March 18, 2008, as part of the *iTunes Originals* collection, is a powerful anthem of unwavering conviction. The song’s core message resonates deeply with the struggle to maintain one's faith and principles in a world that often pulls in opposing directions. It speaks to the internal fortitude required to stand firm when faced with adversity, temptation, or pressure to compromise one's beliefs. This isn't just a catchy tune; it's a declaration of spiritual resilience, echoing the ancient call to faithfulness found throughout Scripture.
The narrative of "Won't Back Down" is one of resolute determination rooted in an unshakeable foundation. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a soul that refuses to be swayed, even when confronted with the most daunting challenges, metaphorically represented by the "Gates of Hell." This unwavering stance finds strong parallels in numerous biblical passages. Consider the encouragement to be strong and courageous, as found in Joshua 1:9, where God tells him, "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." The song’s promise to "keep this world from dragging me down" directly aligns with the Apostle Paul's admonition in Romans 12:2: "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will." The song’s assertion that there is "no easy way out" acknowledges the often difficult and sacrificial nature of living a life of integrity, a truth illuminated by Jesus’ teachings about the narrow gate and the arduous path to life (Matthew 7:13-14).
Musically, while the focus here is on the message, the driving force behind "Won't Back Down" amplifies its theme of resolute strength. The song doesn't merely suggest standing firm; it demands it with an unwavering resolve that is both inspiring and challenging. This lyrical declaration is a testament to the power of a spirit that is anchored in truth and unwilling to yield to external pressures that seek to undermine that truth. The commitment to "stand my ground" is a direct reflection of the spiritual warfare described in Ephesians 6:11, which urges believers to "Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes." Furthermore, the inherent understanding that one has "just one life" and knows "what's right" speaks to a conscious decision to align oneself with divine wisdom, rather than succumbing to worldly enticements. This profound sense of purpose and the refusal to be "turned around" by the shifting sands of popular opinion or personal doubt underscore the song's profound spiritual depth, encouraging everyone who hears it to dig their heels in and hold fast to what truly matters.