I go to the rock
Where do I go,
When there's nobody else to turn to
Who do I talk to,
When nobody wants to listen
Who do I lean on,
When there's no foundation stable
I go to the rock
I know he's able
I go to the rock
Chorus:
The Lord is the rock of my salvation
The Lord is the stone the builders rejected
I run to the mountain and the mountains stands by me
When the earth all around me is sinking sand
On Christ the solid rock I stand
When I need a shelter
When I need a friend
I go to the rock
Where do I go (x2)
When the storms of life are threating
Who do I turn to
When the winds of sorrow blow
And is there a refuge in the time of Tribulation
I go to the rock
I know he's able
I go to the rock
Chorus (x2)
I go to the rock (x4)
You can go to the rock (x4)
I go to the rock (x6)
When the earth all around me is sinking sand
On Christ the solid rock I stand
When I need a shelter
When I need a friend
I go to the rock
I Go To The Rock
I Go to the Rock Song Meaning, Biblical Reference and Inspiration
Whitney Houston's powerful rendition of "I Go to the Rock" is a stirring gospel anthem that speaks to finding solace and strength in faith during times of tribulation. The song articulates a deep reliance on a higher power, personified as a steadfast rock, offering refuge when earthly supports crumble. It captures the universal human experience of seeking help and stability in the face of loneliness, uncertainty, and life's inevitable challenges.
The song's message resonates strongly through its direct and heartfelt questioning in the verses, posing scenarios of despair: having nobody to turn to, nobody to listen, and no stable foundation. These questions are answered definitively and repeatedly with the simple yet profound statement, "I go to the rock." This establishes the central theme of the song – turning to faith as the ultimate source of support. The chorus expands on this, identifying the "rock" as the Lord, explicitly linking salvation, refuge, and steadfastness to this divine entity.
Released on November 8, 2014, the song's video further propagated its uplifting message to a wider audience. The timing, though years after Houston's passing, allowed her enduring voice and faith to continue inspiring listeners. The gospel genre, deeply rooted in expressing hope and overcoming adversity through faith, provides the perfect vehicle for this message, amplified by Houston's unmatched vocal delivery that conveys both vulnerability and unwavering conviction.
The lyrical content of "I Go to the Rock" draws heavily from biblical imagery and concepts. The metaphor of God as a "rock" is prevalent throughout scripture, symbolizing reliability, strength, and a secure foundation. Psalm 18:2, for example, states, "The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge." The line "the stone the builders rejected" directly references Psalm 118:22 and is echoed in the New Testament (e.g., Matthew 21:42, Acts 4:11, 1 Peter 2:7) referring to Christ. The imagery of sinking sand contrasting with a solid rock foundation parallels Jesus' parable in Matthew 7:24-27, where building one's house (life) on the rock (obedience to his words) ensures stability against storms. The song effectively weaves these scriptural ideas into a personal declaration of faith.
Ultimately, "I Go to the Rock" serves as an inspirational declaration for listeners, encouraging them to find their own source of stability and hope. Through its powerful lyrics, Whitney Houston's moving performance, and its grounding in timeless spiritual concepts, the song offers comfort and reassurance, asserting that in moments of greatest need, there is an unshakeable refuge available. It is a testament to the enduring power of faith as a cornerstone in facing life's difficulties, reminding everyone that they too can "go to the rock."
