Rend Collective - I Choose To Worship (Radio Version) Lyrics
Lyrics
I choose to worship, I choose to bow
Though there's pain in the offering I lay it down
Here in the conflict when doubt surrounds
Though my soul is unravelling I choose You now
I will praise You through the fire
Through the storm and through the flood
There is nothing that could ever steal my song
In the valley You are worthy
You are good when life is not
You will always and forever be my song
I build my altar right here and now
In the midst of the darkest night it won't burn out
For You are perfect no matter what
In the joy or the suffering I sing it loud
I will praise You through the fire
Through the storm and through the flood
There is nothing that could ever steal my song
In the valley You are worthy
You are good when life is not
You will always and forever be my song
When the enemy says I'm done I lift my praises
When my world comes crashing down I lift my praises high
'Til the darkness turns to dawn I lift my praises
I choose to worship
I choose You now
When the enemy says I'm done I lift my praises
When my world comes crashing down I lift my praises high
'Til the darkness turns to dawn I lift my praises
I choose to worship
I choose You now
I will praise You through the fire
Through the storm and through the flood
There is nothing that could ever steal my song
In the valley You are worthy
You are good when life is not
You will always and forever be my song
When the enemy says I'm done I lift my praises
When my world comes crashing down I lift my praises high
'Til the darkness turns to dawn I lift my praises
I choose to worship
I choose You now
I choose You now
Video
Rend Collective - I CHOOSE TO WORSHIP (Acoustic Performance)
Meaning & Inspiration
Rend Collective's "I Choose To Worship," particularly the widely heard Radio Version, arrived at a moment when the world was grappling with uncertainty, its message amplified around the release of an acoustic performance in April 2020, though the radio mix often presents a more polished sound. From the first notes, the song declares a powerful truth: that worship is not merely a feeling that bubbles up when circumstances are favorable, but a deliberate act of the will, a choice made in defiance of doubt, fear, or pain. It resonates deeply because it speaks to the very real tension between our shifting emotions and the unchanging nature of God. The story behind such a song is likely woven from the band's own experiences, perhaps facing personal trials or observing global turmoil, yet holding fast to the conviction that God remains worthy of praise, regardless of what life throws at us. It's an anthem forged in the fire of challenge, acknowledging the difficulty of life while firmly planting a flag of faith.
This central theme of choosing worship is deeply rooted in Scripture, forming a cornerstone of biblical resilience. We see this principle lived out time and again, from the ancient patriarch Job, who after losing everything, fell to the ground in worship declaring, "The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord" (Job 1:21). His worship wasn't an expression of joy, but a resolute affirmation of God's sovereignty even in the face of devastating loss. The prophet Habakkuk likewise models this posture, stating, "Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines... yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will be joyful in God my Savior" (Habakkuk 3:17-18). This isn't blind optimism, but a profound trust in God's character and future salvation that transcends immediate reality. Perhaps most vividly, Paul and Silas, beaten and chained in a Philippian prison, chose to pray and sing hymns at midnight (Acts 16:25), demonstrating that physical confinement and suffering could not imprison their spirit of worship. "I Choose To Worship" echoes this biblical chorus, reminding us that our freedom to worship is an internal disposition, a commitment to bless the Lord at all times, as David resolved (Psalm 34:1), fixed not on our problems but on the one who is greater than them.
Musically, the Radio Version of "I Choose To Worship" captures this defiant joy with an accessible energy. The production is clean and bright, featuring the band's signature folk-infused pop sound. There's a driving, hopeful rhythm that propels the song forward, creating a sense of forward momentum despite facing opposition. The instrumentation builds steadily, layering acoustic and electronic elements in a way that feels both organic and anthemic. Vocally, the delivery is earnest and clear, inviting participation rather than demanding attention. The arrangement serves the message perfectly – it feels robust and unwavering, reflecting the steadfastness of the choice to worship. It avoids being overly sentimental or melancholic, instead offering a sound that feels sturdy and encouraging, a musical embodiment of finding strength in God when feeling weak.
Ultimately, "I Choose To Worship" functions as more than just a song; it's a declaration, a spiritual exercise set to music. It provides a script for our souls in moments when feelings fail us. It serves as a practical reminder that our faith is not passive but active, requiring a conscious decision to orient our hearts towards God, even when it's the hardest thing to do. In a world that often encourages us to be ruled by our emotions, this song offers a compelling counter-narrative, urging us to anchor our response to life's storms in the unshakeable truth of who God is. Its appeal lies in its honesty about struggle combined with its unwavering proclamation of faith, making it a valuable addition to personal devotion and corporate gathering, a powerful anthem for anyone seeking to live a life oriented by truth rather than circumstance.