Daddy was a preacher She was his wife
Just tryin' to make the world a little betterYou know, shine a light
People started talkingJust to hear their own voice
Those people tried to accuse my fatherSaid he made the wrong choice
Though it might be painfulYou know that time will always tell
Those people have long since goneMy father never failed
Chorus:
Even when the rain falls
Even when the flood starts rising
Even when the storm comes
I am washed by the water
Even when the rain falls
Even when the flood starts rising
Even when the storm comes
I am washed by the water
Bridge:
Even when the earth crumbles under my feet
Even when the ones I love
Turn around and crucify me
I won't never ever let You down
I won't fall, I won't fall
I won't fall as long as You're around me
Chorus:
Even when the rain falls
Even when the flood starts rising
'Cause even when the storm comes
I am washed by the water
Even when the rain falls
Even when the flood starts rising
'Cause even when the storm comes
I am washed by the water
Even when the rain falls
Even when the flood starts rising
'Cause even when the storm comes
I am washed by the water
'Cause even when the rain falls
Even when the flood starts rising
'Cause even when the storm comes
I am washed by the water
Washed By The Water
Washed By The Water Song Meaning, Biblical Reference and Inspiration
Released on October 27, 2009, as part of their album *The Outsiders*, NeedToBreathe’s "Washed By The Water" stands as a powerful anthem of spiritual transformation, resonating deeply with the experience of finding redemption and new life. The song doesn't tell a linear story but rather captures the *feeling* of a profound change, a moment where the weight of the past is lifted, and a sense of purity and freedom washes over the soul. It speaks to the universal human condition of struggle, sin, and the longing for release, culminating in the central metaphor of being cleansed, not by physical means, but by a divine, life-altering 'water'. This is not just a tune; it’s an outpouring of gratitude and awe for the grace that brings about such a radical shift.
Analyzing the song’s impact, the music itself mirrors the emotional journey. It starts with a raw, grounded feel, building intensity that reflects the growing conviction and liberation described in the lyrics. Bear Rinehart's distinctive, gritty vocals convey the struggle and the eventual breakthrough with authentic passion. The instrumentation, growing fuller and more anthemic, enhances the sense of arrival, of stepping into a new reality. It's the sound of chains breaking and burdens being shed. This isn't polished pop; it's rootsy, soulful rock that feels earned, reflecting the hard-fought path to spiritual freedom. The repetition of the core phrase acts like a declaration, a truth being proclaimed with certainty and joy.
The core image of being "washed by the water" is deeply rooted in biblical language and symbolism. Throughout Scripture, water serves as a potent metaphor for cleansing, purification, and spiritual renewal. Think of the prophets like Ezekiel, who spoke of God sprinkling clean water on His people to cleanse them from impurities (Ezekiel 36:25). Or consider the New Testament, where baptism, a physical act involving water, symbolizes spiritual rebirth and entry into a new life in Christ, as Jesus Himself described the necessity of being born of water and the Spirit (John 3:5) and Paul referred to salvation as being saved "through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit" (Titus 3:5). The song echoes the assurance found in verses like Psalm 51:7, where David prays, "Cleanse me with hyssop, and I will be clean; wash me, and I will be whiter than snow," highlighting the complete purification that comes from God. It also brings to mind the promise in 1 John 1:7 that "the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin," showcasing how this divine cleansing addresses the deepest needs of the soul. "Washed By The Water" beautifully captures this scriptural truth – that through faith, one can experience a profound, purifying transformation, leaving the old self behind and walking in a new, clean identity gifted by grace. The song acts as a vibrant testimony to this central tenet of faith, offering encouragement and hope to anyone seeking that same liberating experience.
