Tim Timmons - You Are Good (That I May) Lyrics
Lyrics
Pieces shatter
Questions unanswered
I'm broken and weathered
You hold me together
Even in the battle, You are good, You are good
Even in the struggles I have never understood
Be it joy or pain, still my life will say
You are God and You are good
And You say You won't leave
And You say You love me
So I'll trust You with this day
And I'll trust You to lead the way
Even in the battle, You are good, You are good
Even in the struggles I have never understood
Be it joy or pain, still my life will say
You are God and You are good
I'll praise You
Not that I have to
Not that I ought to
But that I may
I'll praise You
Not that I have to
Not that I ought to
But that I may
I'll praise You
Not that I have to
Not that I ought to
But that I may
I'll praise You
Not that I have to
Not that I ought to
But that I may
Even in the battle, You are good, You are good
Even in the struggles I have never understood
Be it joy or pain, still my life will say
You are God and You are good
Even in the battle, You are good, You are good
Even in the struggles I have never understood
Be it joy or pain, still my life will say
You are God and You are good
You are God and You are good
Video
You Are Good (That I May)
Meaning & Inspiration
Tim Timmons' "You Are Good (That I May)," released on October 2nd, 2015, as part of his album *Awake Our Souls*, offers a profound exploration of unwavering faith in the face of life's inevitable trials. The song opens with a raw acknowledgment of brokenness and unanswered questions, painting a picture of a soul weathering storms where seemingly everything is shattered. Yet, it immediately pivots to the steadfast presence of God, who is presented as the force holding everything together. This lyrical foundation resonates deeply with the biblical assurance found in passages like Psalm 34:18, which states, "The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit." The narrative then transitions into the core message: even amidst intense battles and struggles that defy human understanding, God's goodness remains a constant. This sentiment echoes the wisdom of James 1:2-4, which encourages believers to "consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance." The song emphasizes that whether experiencing joy or pain, the life of faith declares God's ultimate sovereignty and goodness, aligning with the truth in Romans 8:28, "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."
The second stanza of "You Are Good (That I May)" delves into the relational aspect of faith, highlighting God's promises of never leaving and of unconditional love. This leads to a deliberate choice to trust in God for the present day and for the path ahead. Such trust is not born out of blind optimism but is rooted in the faithfulness of God as revealed throughout Scripture. This is powerfully illustrated in Deuteronomy 31:6, where Moses tells the Israelites, "Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you." The declaration of trust in the face of uncertainty is a testament to a faith that actively chooses to believe God's character, even when circumstances suggest otherwise. The repeated refrain, "Even in the battle, You are good, You are good," serves as a powerful affirmation, a declaration of truth that transcends immediate feelings or experiences. It’s a conscious act of the will, a spiritual discipline that acknowledges God’s inherent nature regardless of external conditions.
The song's most impactful and unique element arrives in its repeated declaration of praise: "I'll praise You, Not that I have to, Not that I ought to, But that I may." This is not an obligation but a privilege, an expression of a redeemed heart recognizing the freedom and joy found in worshipping God. This distinction elevates the act of praise from a dutiful performance to a willing, uncoerced response of gratitude and adoration. It speaks to a deep internal transformation where worship becomes a natural outflow of a spirit awakened to God’s grace. This resonates with the spirit of the Psalmist who often declared his praise not out of compulsion but out of an overflowing heart. For instance, Psalm 116:12-14 says, "What shall I return to the Lord for all his goodness to me? I will lift up the cup of salvation and call on the name of the Lord. I will fulfill my vows to the Lord—and all his people." The song, in its entirety, is an inspiring reminder that true faith is not about the absence of difficulties, but about the unwavering certainty of God's goodness and the liberating freedom to praise Him because of who He is, not merely because of what He has done for us in the past, but because of who He is in the present moment and who He will be in the future. This message is a powerful encouragement for listeners to cultivate a faith that perseveres, trusts, and rejoices, finding in God an unshakeable anchor in every season of life.