New World Son - Standing On The Rock Lyrics
Lyrics
My cup was empty, now it overflows
The sky was grey but now my garden grows
My soul's on fire and my heart's aflame
I've got more blessings than a man can claim
Standing on the rock...
Life is getting better every day
Sweet compassion's coming over me
Gonna keep on walking in the safety zone
'Till that old black carriage come and take me home
Standing on the rock...
The flood did rise but my feet stayed dry
The sun stayed with me when the tide was high
Then I went to the river and washed my soul
I asked my forgiver to make me whole
Standing on the rock...
Video
Standing On The Rock (With Lyrics) - NewWorldSon
Meaning & Inspiration
Released on March 22, 2010, New World Son’s "Standing On The Rock" immediately establishes itself as a vibrant testament to profound spiritual transformation and unwavering faith. This isn't just a song; it's a declaration, chronicling a journey from spiritual desolation to abundant grace, painted with vivid imagery that resonates deeply with anyone who has experienced the redeeming power of a life rooted in God. The narrative unfolds as a personal testimony, a musical sermon on divine intervention and the steadfastness found in Christ, our ultimate refuge.
The song’s core message begins with a stark contrast: "My cup was empty, now it overflows." This powerful opening line immediately draws upon biblical imagery, echoing Psalm 23:5, where the psalmist declares, "My cup overflows." It signifies a transition from spiritual barrenness, a life devoid of purpose or joy, to one supernaturally filled with God's blessings—a life overflowing with His goodness, far beyond human capacity to comprehend or even claim. This newfound abundance is further illustrated by the transformation from "the sky was grey but now my garden grows," moving from bleak despair to flourishing hope and spiritual vitality, much like the righteous person described in Psalm 1:3, "like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season." The sentiment of "My soul's on fire and my heart's aflame" speaks to a fervent passion and spiritual awakening, reminiscent of the disciples whose "hearts were burning within them" as they encountered the resurrected Christ (Luke 24:32), indicating an ignited spirit eager to live for God. The recurring refrain, "Standing on the rock," serves as the bedrock of this entire experience, a direct reference to the wisdom of building one's life on Christ, the solid foundation, as Jesus taught in Matthew 7:24-25, "Everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock."
The journey continues, revealing a progressive experience of grace, where "Life is getting better every day," reflecting the ongoing work of sanctification and God's faithfulness to complete what He has started in us (Philippians 1:6). The presence of "Sweet compassion's coming over me" highlights the intimate and comforting experience of God's tender mercy, which is new every morning, as Lamentations 3:22-23 assures us. The commitment to "Gonna keep on walking in the safety zone" speaks to a life lived in obedience and trust, abiding under the protection of the Most High, much like the promise of Psalm 91:1-2. This earthly walk is depicted as a journey towards a heavenly destination, persevering "'Till that old black carriage come and take me home," a poignant yet hopeful acknowledgement of mortality as merely a passage to eternal life with God, echoing Paul's assurance in 2 Timothy 4:7-8 of finishing the race and receiving the crown of righteousness. The constant affirmation of "Standing on the rock" reinforces the unwavering security found in this divine relationship, a shelter from all storms.
The final verse powerfully articulates God's protective hand through adversity: "The flood did rise but my feet stayed dry" vividly portrays divine preservation amidst life's overwhelming challenges, drawing parallels to Isaiah 43:2 where God promises, "When you pass through the waters, I will be with you." Similarly, "The sun stayed with me when the tide was high" speaks to God's unceasing presence and guidance even in the most turbulent seasons, reminding us that He will never leave us nor forsake us (Hebrews 13:5). The pivotal moment of repentance and renewal is captured by "Then I went to the river and washed my soul," a beautiful metaphor for spiritual cleansing and new beginnings often associated with baptism, a public declaration of faith and a washing away of sin (Acts 2:38). This act of surrender is completed by "I asked my forgiver to make me whole," directly acknowledging the need for divine pardon and restoration, a plea for a clean heart and renewed spirit (Psalm 51:10, 1 John 1:9). Throughout these trials and triumphs, the song concludes, as it began, with the steadfast declaration of "Standing on the rock," solidifying the central theme that all redemption, all strength, and all hope are anchored in Christ, our immovable foundation. "Standing On The Rock" is a powerful anthem for believers, inspiring encouragement and a profound reminder of the steadfastness of God’s love and the security of a life built on Him.