In time they say old wounds will heal
But time alone would just reveal
The measure of my best intent
How vainly it would all be spent
Empty boxes
If not for love
My prayer never would be heard
Appeal denied without a word
The throne room of my Father's house
Closed fast to keep me out
No admission
If not for love
If not for love the godless would reign
If not for love any light would be shadowed
But love was strong - revealed a plan
Man's perfect God, God's perfect man
A cross would stand alone refused
A Son blessed and not accused
A Savior never sent
Blind to the world's lament
No forgiveness
If not for love
If Not for Love Video
If Not for Love Song Meaning, Biblical Reference and Inspiration
If Not for Love by Wayne Watson: A Song of Redemption and Salvation
The song "If Not for Love" is a beautiful and powerful Christian song that speaks about God's love, mercy, and grace. It was written and performed by Wayne Watson, a professional copywriter turned Christian singer, songwriter, and author. The song was released in 1993 as part of his "The Way Home" album and became one of his most popular hits.
Inspiration and Story Behind the Song
According to Wayne Watson, the inspiration behind the song came from his personal journey of faith and salvation. He shared that he was once a lost and broken man who struggled with addiction, depression, and hopelessness. However, through the love and grace of God, he found redemption and new life in Christ. He wrote the song as a testimony of God's love and the transformative power of the Gospel.
The lyrics of the song reflect Watson's personal experience of God's love and salvation. It speaks about the brokenness and helplessness of humanity, the justice and holiness of God, and the mercy and grace of Jesus Christ. It also emphasizes the importance of faith, repentance, and obedience to God's Word.
Meaning and Interpretation of the Song
The song "If Not for Love" is a deep and profound expression of the Gospel message. It speaks about the fundamental truths of Christianity, such as the sinfulness of humanity, the holiness of God, and the sacrificial love of Jesus Christ.
The first verse of the song begins with the line, "In time they say old wounds will heal." This line speaks about the human experience of pain, hurt, and brokenness. It acknowledges that time alone cannot heal the wounds of the heart and soul. It is only through the love of God that true healing and restoration can be found.
The second line of the verse, "But time alone would just reveal," emphasizes that time alone cannot solve the problem of sin and separation from God. It is only through the redemptive work of Jesus Christ that our sins can be forgiven and our relationship with God can be restored.
The second verse of the song speaks about the power of prayer and the importance of faith. It acknowledges that our prayers may sometimes seem unanswered, but it also acknowledges that God's ways are higher than our ways and that He knows what is best for us.
The third verse of the song speaks about the sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross. It acknowledges that Jesus was without sin, but He willingly took upon Himself the punishment that we deserved. It speaks about the love of God that was demonstrated through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Bible Verses References in the Song
The song "If Not for Love" is deeply rooted in the teachings of the Bible. It references several Bible verses that speak about God's love, mercy, and grace. Here are some of the Bible verses that the song gives:
1. "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." - Romans 3:23
2. "The wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." - Romans 6:23
3. "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." - John 3:16
4. "But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us." - Romans 5:8
5. "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness." - 1 John 1:9
Practical Application of the Song to Christian Living
The song "If Not for Love" has a practical application to Christian living. It reminds us of the fundamental truths of the Gospel, such as the sinfulness of humanity, the justice and holiness of God, and the sacrificial love of Jesus Christ. It also reminds us of the importance of faith, repentance, and obedience to God's Word.
As Christians, we are called to live a life that reflects the love and grace of God. We are called to love our neighbors as ourselves, to forgive those who have wronged us, and to seek justice and righteousness in the world. We are also called to share the Gospel message with others, so that they too may experience the love and grace of God.
In conclusion, the song "If Not for Love" by Wayne Watson is a beautiful and powerful Christian song that speaks about God's love, mercy, and grace. It reminds us of the fundamental truths of the Gospel and calls us to live a life that reflects the love and grace of God. As we listen to this song, may we be reminded of the love and grace of God and may we be inspired to live a life that honors Him.
