[Verse 1: Mac Hays]
Be gracious to me, oh God
Hide me in the shadow of Your wings
Till destruction of the enemy goes by
Be gracious to me, oh God
[Verse 2: Mac Hays & Shane Barnard]
Be merciful to me, my King
There's a darkness in this cave surrounding me
When the swords are drawn and spears and arrows fly
Be merciful to me, my King
[Chorus: Mac Hays & Shane Barnard]
You are exalted, oh God above the heavens
Come let Your glory cover the earth
You have saved me from thе roaring lions
Awake my soul to love You, awake my soul to sing
[Verse 3: Shane Barnard w/ Mac Hays]
Bе faithful to me, my Lord
Protect me when the enemies draw near
Though they set their nets before me in the night
Be faithful to me, my Lord
[Chorus: Mac Hays & Shane Barnard]
You are exalted, oh God above the heavens
Come let Your glory cover the earth
You have saved me from the roaring lions
Awake my soul to love You, awake my soul to sing
You are exalted, oh God above the heavens
Come let Your glory cover the earth
You have saved me from the roaring lions
Awake my soul to love You, awake my soul to sing
[Bridge: Shane Barnard w/ Mac Hays]
I will sing for all You've done
You have changed my life
Rescued me from the grave
Kept me safe through the night
I will sing for all You've done
You have changed my life
Rescued me from the grave
Kept me safe through the night
I will sing for all You've done
You have changed my life
Rescued me from the grave
Kept me safe through the night
I will sing for all You've done
You have changed my life
Rescued me from the grave
Kept me safe through the night
[Chorus: Mac Hays & Shane Barnard]
You are exalted, oh God above the heavens
Come let Your glory cover the earth
You have saved me from the roaring lions
Awake my soul to love You, awake my soul to sing
You are exalted, oh God above the heavens
Come let Your glory cover the earth
You have saved me from the roaring lions
Awake my soul to love You, awake my soul to sing
[Tag: Mac Hays & Shane Barnard]
Awake my soul to love You, awake my soul to sing
Awake my soul to love You, awake my soul to sing
Awake My Soul (Psalm 57)
Awake My Soul (Psalm 57) Song Meaning, Biblical Reference and Inspiration
"Awake My Soul (Psalm 57)" by Shane & Shane + The Worship Initiative, released on November 2, 2023, is a powerful musical interpretation of the biblical Psalm 57. The song captures the essence of the psalm, which expresses both deep distress and unwavering faith in God's protection and ultimate triumph. It opens with a vulnerable plea, echoing the psalmist's cry for grace and mercy in the face of overwhelming danger. The imagery presented in the verses—hiding in a cave, surrounded by enemies with drawn weapons, and ensnared by hidden nets—vividly portrays a desperate situation, reflecting the historical context of David seeking refuge while pursued by Saul. This initial section establishes a profound sense of reliance on God as the only safe haven.
As the song progresses, it moves from a posture of petition to a declaration of praise and trust. The chorus serves as a focal point, shifting the perspective from the immediate threat to the eternal reality of God's nature. It proclaims God's exaltation "above the heavens" and calls for His "glory cover the earth." This shift is crucial, demonstrating that even within a time of trial, faith lifts the eyes to God's supreme power and sovereignty. The powerful line, "You have saved me from the roaring lions," draws directly from Psalm 57 and serves as a testament to past deliverance, reinforcing the basis for present hope. The central command, "Awake my soul to love You, awake my soul to sing," is a resolute call to the inner self to respond to God's faithfulness with worship, despite or perhaps because of the challenging circumstances.
The bridge provides a reflective interlude, recounting God's past acts of salvation. Phrases like "You have changed my life," "Rescued me from the grave," and "Kept me safe through the night" summarize a history of divine intervention and steadfast protection. This section underscores the theme that remembrance of God's prior faithfulness fuels the present capacity to sing and trust. The repetition in the bridge emphasizes the certainty and foundational nature of these past experiences, serving as a strong anchor for the soul amidst current struggles.
Collectively, the song encapsulates the journey of faith depicted in Psalm 57: moving from a cry for help in dire straits to a confident declaration of God's greatness and a commitment to worship. It serves as an anthem for those facing their own "caves" and "roaring lions," reminding listeners that refuge is found under God's wings and that the appropriate response to His saving power is an awakened soul ready to love and sing. The collaboration between Shane & Shane and The Worship Initiative delivers this timeless message with musical reverence, making it a poignant and inspiring piece for personal reflection and corporate worship, pointing consistently to God's unwavering grace, mercy, and faithfulness.