Verse 1
On the nights when the dark last a little bit longer
When the wind and the storm is a little bit stronger
When the fear in my heart dips a little bit deeper
When my faith to stand gets a little bit weaker
Pre-Chorus
Where could I run to?
Where could I go?
Chorus
Even when it feels like my world is shaken
Even when I've had all that I can take
I know
You never let me go
And even when the waters won't stop rising
Even when I'm caught in the dead of a night
I know
No matter how it ends
You're with me even then
Verse 2
When the days up ahead look a little bit brighter
But the grip of the past holds a little bit tighter
I'm reminded Your grace never asks for perfection
Oh I'm restored 'cause I'm Yours and I stand forgiven
Chorus
Even when it feels like my world is shaken
Even when I've had all that I can take
I know
You never let me go
And even when the waters won't stop rising
Even when I'm caught in the dead of a night
I know
No matter how it ends
You're with me even then
Bridge
And even in the middle of a struggle
And even when it's hard to remember
You alone are my defense when
I'm standing on Your promises and I know
That even in the thick of the battle
And even through the valley of the shadows
You alone are my defense when
I'm standing on Your promises
Pre-Chorus
Where could I run to?
Where could I go?
Chorus
Even when it feels like my world is shaken
Even when I've had all that I can take
I know
You never let me go
And even when the waters won't stop rising
Even when I'm caught in the dead of a night
I know
No matter how it ends
You're with me even then...
Outro
You're with me, yeah
No matter how it ends
You're with me even then
Even Then
Even Then Song Meaning, Biblical Reference and Inspiration
Micah Tyler's song "Even Then" offers a powerful message of hope and reassurance, resonating deeply with listeners facing life's inevitable challenges. Released alongside its video on December 2, 2016, the track delves into themes of struggle, doubt, and the unwavering presence of a faithful companion through it all. The opening verses paint a vivid picture of difficult times, describing nights that feel longer, storms that gather strength, deepening fear, and faith that feels weak. It captures the raw, vulnerable moments when the weight of the world feels overwhelming, prompting the poignant question posed in the pre-chorus: "Where could I run to? Where could I go?" This reflects a universal human experience of seeking refuge and stability when caught in turmoil.
The chorus serves as the heart of the song's message, providing the emphatic answer to the seeker's question. It declares an enduring certainty even amidst chaos. When the world feels shaken, when burdens feel unbearable, the core truth is the assurance of never being let go. Even when metaphorical waters rise or darkness envelops, the knowledge persists: "No matter how it ends, You're with me even then." This central declaration is not dependent on circumstances improving but on the constant, reliable presence of a higher power, offering security regardless of the outcome.
Verse two shifts focus slightly, acknowledging that challenges aren't limited to obvious hardships. It speaks to moments when things appear brighter ahead, yet the past retains its grip. In these instances, the song reminds the listener of grace that doesn't demand perfection and the restoration found in belonging and forgiveness. This adds another layer to the song's narrative, highlighting that struggles can manifest in different forms, including internal battles with past mistakes or lingering insecurities, but the same source of strength and belonging remains available.
The bridge further reinforces the themes of defense and standing firm. It speaks to being in the middle of a struggle or finding it hard to remember truth, asserting that one's defense lies solely in standing on promises. This part of the song brings to mind biblical concepts of God as a fortress and shield, and the reliability of His word as a foundation during difficult times, even in the thick of battle or walking through valleys of shadow. Scriptures like Psalm 23, which speaks of God's presence even in the darkest valley, or Isaiah 41:10, which promises divine strength and help, echo the sentiment conveyed here.
The repeated chorus and outro drive the message home, emphasizing the ultimate comfort found in this constant companionship. The song, therefore, becomes an anthem for perseverance grounded in faith. It doesn't deny the reality of pain, fear, or struggle; instead, it acknowledges them fully while placing them within the larger context of an unwavering, loving presence that promises to be with the individual "even then." This provides a profound source of inspiration and reassurance, reminding listeners that they are never truly alone, no matter how challenging their journey becomes.
