Because He Lives
Charlotte Ritchie Lyrics
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And feel the pride and the joy that he gives
Oh but greater still, the calm assurance
We can face uncertain days because He lives
And because He lives, I can face tomorrow
Because He lives, all fear is gone
Because I know He holds the future
And then one day, I'll cross that river
I'll fight life's final war with pain
And then as death gives way to victory
I'll see the lights of glory and I'll know He reigns
Because He lives, I can face tomorrow
Because He lives, all fear is gone
Because I know He holds the future
And life is worth a living just because He lives
He lives, He lives
The lyrics of Charlotte Ritchie's song "Because He Lives" are a powerful declaration of faith and hope in Jesus Christ. The first stanza speaks of the joy and pride that comes from holding a newborn baby, but the greater assurance comes from the knowledge that because Jesus lives, we can face uncertain and difficult days. The second stanza emphasizes the transformative power of Christ's life, as it enables us to overcome fear and to confront death with the comforting knowledge that He holds the future. The final line of the song, "He lives, He lives," is a triumphant affirmation of Christ's resurrection and enduring presence in our lives.
One interesting fact about the song "Because He Lives" is that it was written by Bill and Gloria Gaither in 1971, a time of great social and political upheaval in the United States. The song speaks to the anxieties and fears of that era, but also to the timeless need for hope and assurance in the face of adversity. Another interesting fact is that "Because He Lives" has been covered by many different artists and translated into multiple languages, becoming a beloved hymn in many Christian traditions. The song has been performed by gospel singers like Mahalia Jackson, contemporary Christian artists like Matt Maher, and even country musicians like Brad Paisley.
Another fascinating aspect of the song is the story behind its composition. According to the Gaithers, they were going through a difficult time in their own lives when they wrote "Because He Lives." Gloria had just given birth to their third child, and Bill was facing health problems and financial challenges. Despite these hardships, they found inspiration and comfort in their faith, and the song was born out of that experience. The lyrics reflect the deep personal conviction and hope that sustained them through their struggles.
Line by Line Meaning
How sweet to hold a newborn baby
It is a beautiful thing to embrace a new life in the form of an infant.
And feel the pride and the joy that he gives
It brings immense happiness and a sense of fulfillment to experience the innocence and purity of a newborn and to feel proud of being a part of their journey.
Oh but greater still, the calm assurance
But there is something that is even more powerful and comforting than the joy of a newborn child.
We can face uncertain days because He lives
It is possible to get through difficult times and situations with strength and courage because of the existence and guiding presence of God.
And because He lives, I can face tomorrow
The artist can approach the future with confidence and face the unknown because of the faith and trust they hold in God.
Because He lives, all fear is gone
When one places their trust in God, all fear and doubts disappear, and a sense of peace and clarity fills their hearts and minds.
Because I know He holds the future
The singer is highly assured that everything will work out according to God's plan, and they trust Him completely.
And life is worth a living just because He lives
The existence of God and His guiding presence makes life worth living and helps one find their purpose and meaning.
And then one day, I'll cross that river
One day, the artist will face their final journey to the afterlife and approach death.
I'll fight life's final war with pain
As the artist approaches their last moments, they will have to come to terms with the physical, emotional and psychological struggle associated with pain and suffering.
And then as death gives way to victory
However, death will not have the final say, and the singer is assured that victory and freedom await them in the afterlife.
I'll see the lights of glory and I'll know He reigns
The artist will finally witness the beauty of heaven and witness the ultimate power and authority of God.
He lives, He lives
The song concludes with a simple and resounding statement that God is real and alive, and His presence is constant in the lives of all those who believe in Him.
Lyrics © CAPITOL CHRISTIAN MUSIC GROUP
Written by: Gloria Gaither, William J. Gaither
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
Kathryn Reinsma
Tears flow when I listen to this.. Because He Lives I can face tomorrow. What a promise.
Randy Burrill
My parents were at this concert (Fall 2005) at Air Canada Centre, Toronto, and to see them in the distance standing up at 1:20 will be something I treasure forever for my kids and their kids to see. What a powerful closing number. Praise to God!
Angel Praveen
Charlotte voice is amazing
Suzy Zehrung
I love Charlotte's voice, just beautiful! Thinking of the words of this song, "And then one day I'll cross that river, I'll fight life's final war with pain; and then as death gives way to victory, I'll see the lights of glory and I'll know He reigns!" Praise God!! We can't begin to imagine how wonderful that day will be!!
Finn zak
Suzy Zehrung I love her voice too.... She is so sweet and her songs are always a pleasant joys.
Yvonne Mc
Charolet voice is superb
Larry Shinabargar
Amen Charlotte. I love to hear your voice as it is so touching.
James Johnson
She has a special voice
Randy Burrill
That chord at 3:05. Glorious. Gives me the chills. Praise God! What a beautiful rendition of this song, and an extra treasure to have my parents there and clearly visible in the crowd. A real time capsule for my children to see. This was in the fall of 2005 at Air Canada Centre in Toronto, where my father's Toronto Maple Leafs play!!
Elizabeth Jemo
Wooow