Skillet - Awake & Alive Lyrics

Awake & Alive

Awake & Alive Song Meaning, Biblical Reference and Inspiration

Skillet's "Awake & Alive" resonates with a powerful theme of overcoming internal and external conflict through renewed strength and conviction. The song opens with a stark portrayal of being "at war with the world," feeling pulled into darkness, and struggling with faith, even feeling a sense of slipping away. This imagery paints a picture of immense pressure and vulnerability, where staying strong or "awake" feels increasingly difficult, and one's resilience is rapidly diminishing. It captures the experience of facing significant challenges that threaten one's core beliefs or sense of self.

A pivotal moment arrives as described by the lines suggesting an external or divine intervention – "You breathe into me at last/again." This signifies a life-giving force, a renewal of spirit or strength that pulls the individual back from the brink. It marks the turning point from fading into despair to a sudden surge of energy and purpose. This breath represents not just physical life, but spiritual or emotional revitalization, enabling the transformation that follows.

The chorus erupts with the declaration "I'm awake I'm alive," signifying a profound shift from the previous state of struggle and fading strength. The individual now possesses clear conviction, stating, "Now I know what I believe inside." This newfound clarity fuels a determination to take control and live authentically: "Now it's my time, I'll do what I want 'cause this is my life." It's a powerful assertion of identity and purpose, resolving to "stand my ground and never back down." The repetition of "I know what I believe inside" reinforces the deep-seated nature of this conviction, indicating that the transformation is rooted internally.

The conflict is further defined not just as a general struggle, but specifically as resistance against compromising one's principles or soul, as the lyrics state, "Ain't never gonna sell my soul," and "No matter what I can't be bought or sold." This highlights a moral or spiritual battle against temptation, conformity, or corruption, emphasizing the importance of integrity and unwavering commitment to one's values or faith. Even when faith weakens and there is a feeling of wanting to give up, the same source of renewal intervenes again, reinforcing the theme of persistent support and revitalization.

The song touches upon a deeper connection, even in moments of vulnerability ("In the dark I can feel you in my sleep"). This suggests a constant, comforting presence that sustains the individual. The ultimate expression of this connection is a complete surrender and commitment: "Forever hold this heart that I will give to you, Forever I will live for you." This final dedication solidifies the transformative journey, indicating that the renewed life and strength are now purposed towards something beyond the self, a commitment born out of the rescue from darkness.

Relating the themes to scripture, the concept of spiritual warfare is echoed in passages like Ephesians 6:12, which speaks of struggling against spiritual forces of evil. The idea of divine breath giving life is reminiscent of Genesis 2:7, where God breathes life into man, and Ezekiel 37, where the prophet is shown dry bones coming to life through the breath of God's Spirit, symbolizing renewal and restoration. The call to stand firm in faith and resist the world's pressures aligns with verses such as 1 Peter 5:9, Romans 12:2 (not conforming to the world), and Ephesians 6:13-14, which speaks of standing firm after putting on spiritual armor. The internal conviction described relates to passages about believing in one's heart (Romans 10:10). Finally, the commitment to live for a higher power is a central theme in Christianity, found in verses like Galatians 2:20 ("I no longer live, but Christ lives in me") and Romans 14:8 ("whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord").

The song's official video was released on September 27, 2010. Visually, the video often captures the intensity and struggle depicted in the lyrics, portraying the band performing with powerful energy, sometimes interspersed with symbolic imagery that complements the themes of darkness, breaking free, and standing strong. The release marked a significant moment for the song, further solidifying its impact through a compelling visual representation that helped convey its message to a wider audience. "Awake & Alive" ultimately serves as an anthem of resilience, faith, and unwavering commitment in the face of overwhelming opposition, inspiring listeners to find their own inner strength and stand firm in their beliefs.