Phil Wickham - Can't Take Away Lyrics
Lyrics
All of my joy, all of my peace
All of my purpose
All of the confidence in knowing that he’s working
All of the healing in the middle of the hurting
At the end of the story, all the glory he’s deserving
The battle’s on I know that it’s for real
But I’m standing on the rock that never shakes
The dark is always gonna try to steal
But I’m not afraid
I put my hope in love that never fades
Cause what the Lord gives
The world can’t take
I hold onto the promise he won’t break
Cause what the Lord gives
The world can’t take away
Give me the strength when I get stuck in all my weakness
Give me the truth when I forget and I can’t see it
I’m not gonna buy into the lie that I’m defeated
No,I’m not defeated
The battle’s on I know that it’s for real
But I’m standing on the rock that never shakes
The dark is always gonna try to steal
But I’m not afraid
Video
Phil Wickham - Psalm 23 (Official Music Video) ft. Tiffany Hudson
Meaning & Inspiration
Phil Wickham's "Can't Take Away," released on October 3, 2023, as part of his album *Psalm 23* and featuring Tiffany Hudson, stands as a powerful declaration of unshakeable faith and the enduring nature of God's gifts. The song resonates deeply with its core message, which centers on the idea that the blessings and peace bestowed by God are beyond the reach of earthly troubles or the enemy's attempts to steal them. Wickham articulates a profound understanding of spiritual warfare, acknowledging the reality of battles fought in our lives, but he immediately anchors this acknowledgment with the unshakable foundation of Christ. The lyrics speak to the source of true joy, peace, and purpose, attributing them directly to divine origin, not to fleeting circumstances or personal achievements. This conviction is rooted in the belief that God is actively working, even amidst pain and hardship, a sentiment echoed in Romans 8:28, which assures believers that all things work together for good for those who love God and are called according to His purpose.
The central theme of the song hinges on the unassailable security found in God’s provisions. Wickham’s assertion that "what the Lord gives, the world can't take away" is a direct reflection of biblical truth. This is not a statement of optimism but a testament of faith grounded in the immutable character of God. Consider Jesus' own words in John 10:28: "I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, nor will anyone snatch them out of my hand." This divine protection extends to spiritual well-being, inner peace, and the assurance of salvation. The song bravely confronts the presence of darkness and temptation, acknowledging the adversary's intent to "steal," but it counters this with an unwavering defiance, stating, "I’m not afraid." This courage stems from placing hope in a love that is eternal and a promise that will not be broken, referencing the steadfastness of God's covenant love as described in Lamentations 3:22-23: "The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness."
Furthermore, "Can't Take Away" serves as a prayer for strength and clarity in moments of personal weakness and spiritual confusion. The plea for "strength when I get stuck in all my weakness" and "truth when I forget and I can't see it" reflects a humble reliance on God’s power to sustain and guide. This aligns with the Apostle Paul's encouragement in 2 Corinthians 12:9, where God's power is made perfect in weakness. The refusal to succumb to lies of defeat is a crucial element of spiritual resilience, emphasizing that true victory is found not in the absence of struggle, but in the unwavering faith that transcends it. The song, therefore, is more than just a musical piece; it is a spiritual anthem that encourages listeners to anchor their lives in the enduring gifts of God, recognizing that these are eternal treasures immune to the ravages of the temporal world.