Sidewalk Prophets - The Words I Would Say Lyrics

Album: The Words I Would Say (Studio Series Performance Track) - - EP
Released: 22 Sep 2009

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Lyrics

Three in the morning and I'm still awake
so I picked up a pen and a page.
And I started writing just what I'd say
if we were face to face

I'd tell you just what you mean to me
Tell you these simple truths

Be strong in the Lord and
never give up hope.
You're gonna do great things
I already know
God's got his hand on you so
don't live life in fear
forgive and forget
but don't forget why you're here
Take your time and pray
These are the words I would say

Last time we spoke you said you were hurting
and I felt your pain in my heart
I want to tell you that I keep on praying
Love will find you where you are

I know 'cause I've already been there
So please hear these simple truths

From one simple life to another
I will say
Come find peace in the Father

Video

Sidewalk Prophets - "The Words I Would Say" with Lyrics

Meaning & Inspiration

Released in 2009 as part of the *The Words I Would Say (Studio Series Performance Track) - - EP*, Sidewalk Prophets' "The Words I Would Say" is a poignant reflection on offering comfort and encouragement, particularly to someone experiencing hardship. The song emerges from a place of empathy, with the narrator awake in the early hours, compelled to articulate what they would say if they could speak directly to a hurting friend. This immediate setting establishes an intimate and personal tone, suggesting the gravity of the situation and the sincere desire to connect. The core message revolves around the enduring power of faith and hope, offering a spiritual lifeline grounded in God's presence and plan.

The lyrical content is a direct outpouring of encouragement, rooted in a deep understanding of both human struggle and divine provision. The narrator shares simple but profound truths: "Be strong in the Lord and never give up hope." This sentiment echoes throughout Scripture, reminding believers of their inherent strength found not in themselves, but in their relationship with God. Verses like Philippians 4:13, which states, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me," perfectly encapsulate this idea of drawing power from a higher source. The assurance that "You're gonna do great things, I already know" speaks to the God-given potential within each individual, a promise that aligns with Jeremiah 29:11, where God declares, "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope."

Furthermore, the song emphasizes God's active involvement in our lives with the lines, "God's got his hand on you so don't live life in fear." This is a powerful reminder of divine protection and guidance, reminiscent of Psalm 23:4: "Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me." The instruction to "forgive and forget, but don't forget why you're here" is a nuanced call to release burdens while remaining tethered to one's purpose and divine calling. This ties into the Christian mandate for forgiveness, as seen in Matthew 6:14-15, "For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you, but if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses." Yet, it also highlights the importance of discernment and remembering one's spiritual identity and mission. The repeated counsel, "Take your time and pray," underscores the vital role of communication with God in navigating life's challenges and discerning His will, echoing the importance of prayer as highlighted in Philippians 4:6-7: "do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."

The song’s bridge, "From one simple life to another, I will say, Come find peace in the Father," broadens the scope from personal encouragement to a universal invitation. It signifies a desire for all to experience the solace and peace that comes from a relationship with God, a core tenet of the Christian faith. The final verses bring a sense of gratitude and renewed hope, "Thank God for each day, His love will find a way." This sentiment aligns with the biblical exhortation to give thanks in all circumstances, as found in 1 Thessalonians 5:18: "give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you." "The Words I Would Say" ultimately serves as a spiritual balm, offering hope, strength, and the unwavering assurance of God's love and presence to anyone needing it.