Thank You Song Meaning, Biblical Reference and Inspiration
"Thank You" by The Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir, presented here in a powerful live performance video released on May 21, 2018, is a resonant expression of personal gratitude towards God set against a backdrop of widespread societal struggles. The opening verses paint a stark picture of the world's difficulties, acknowledging commonplace tragedies, the persistence of disease, economic hardship, homelessness, addiction, and lack of safety due to crime. These lines ground the song in reality, acknowledging the troubles that many face daily. However, the narrative quickly shifts from observing the external world to an internal, deeply personal declaration: "As for me, all I can say is Thank You Lord for all you've done for me." This immediate pivot establishes the song's core theme – finding profound reasons for thanksgiving despite the surrounding chaos and suffering.
The central message is further amplified by the powerful refrain, "It could have been me," followed by a series of difficult circumstances: without food, without clothes, alone, without a friend, or facing a tragic end. This section is a humble and poignant recognition of the singer's (and implicitly, the listener's) own vulnerability to the hardships described earlier. It speaks to a deep awareness that one's current state of being, protected and provided for, is not a given but a result of divine intervention. The repeated "Thank You" after each potential misfortune serves as a rhythmic, almost breath-like, expression of overwhelming gratitude for being spared these trials.
The song clearly articulates the source of this gratitude, stating, "But You did save me to let none of these things be," and powerfully, "But everyday by your power You keep on keeping me." This highlights the belief in God's active role not just in past salvation but in ongoing preservation and sustenance. The thankfulness is not merely for being rescued from a hypothetical tragic end but for the continuous, daily exercise of divine power in maintaining one's well-being. The final lines summarize the comprehensive nature of this gratitude, specifically thanking God for His "Love," "power," and constant "protection every hour," encompassing both spiritual and practical aspects of divine care.
This message resonates deeply with various scripture references that speak to God's protection, provision, and the call to give thanks in all circumstances. For instance, Psalm 91 speaks extensively about divine protection from various dangers and plagues. Philippians 4:19 assures believers that God will supply all their needs. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 instructs followers to "give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus." The recognition that it "could have been me" echoes passages emphasizing God's grace and mercy, such as Romans 5:8, which highlights God's love shown while humanity was still in need. The theme of God's keeping power aligns with verses like Jude 1:24, which speaks of God being able to keep believers from stumbling. The Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir's delivery, known for its powerful harmonies and fervent expression, brings an added layer of emotional depth and collective worship to these foundational biblical themes of gratitude and reliance on divine grace.
![Thank You Lyrics - The Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir]()
