Sinner's Prayer
Citizen Cope & Eric Clapton Lyrics


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[Chorus:]
Lord have mercy,
Lord have mercy on me.
Lord have mercy,
Lord have mercy on me.
Well if I've done somebody wrong, Lord,
Have mercy if you please.
I used to have plenty of money,
The finest clothes in town,
But bad luck and trouble overtaken me,
Bound to get me down.

Please have mercy,
Lord have mercy on me.
Well if I've done somebody wrong, Lord,
Have mercy if you please.

Keep on working now, child.
Lord every morning.

Well if I've been a bad boy, baby,
I declare I'll change my ways.
I don't want bad luck and trouble
To follow me all my days.





[Chorus]

Overall Meaning

The lyrics of "Sinner's Prayer" by Citizen Cope & Eric Clapton convey a plea for mercy and redemption from the struggles and mistakes that the singer has experienced in life. The song begins with a repetitive chorus, emphasizing the urgency and sincerity of the plea for mercy. The repetition of "Lord have mercy" suggests a deep longing for forgiveness and assistance in overcoming the burdens that have befallen the singer.


As the verse unfolds, the singer reflects on their past material affluence, symbolized by money and fine clothing. However, the tone quickly shifts to acknowledge that misfortune and trouble have now taken hold of their life. This recognition of downfall is vital in seeking salvation as it signifies the singer's understanding of their own wrongdoing and need for redemption.


In the following lines, the singer implores the mercy of the Lord specifically for any harm they may have caused others. Admitting their wrongdoings, the singer expresses remorse and asks for forgiveness. This acknowledgment of personal responsibility and desire to make amends demonstrates a spiritual transformation and a genuine willingness to rectify past mistakes.


The final repetition of the chorus reinforces the central theme of the song: the desperate plea for mercy from a higher power. The singer recognizes the need to change their ways, vowing to leave behind a destructive existence characterized by bad luck and trouble. By seeking forgiveness and committing to a better path, the singer hopes to avoid a perpetual cycle of negativity and find salvation.


Overall, the lyrics of "Sinner's Prayer" convey a narrative of introspection, regret, and a sincere desire for redemption. Through their humble plea for mercy, the singer illustrates the universal human longing for forgiveness and the possibility of transformation. The song serves as a reminder that even in times of hardship and wrongdoing, one can find hope in spiritual salvation and the possibility of starting anew.


Line by Line Meaning

Lord have mercy,
I am pleading for divine forgiveness and compassion.


Lord have mercy on me.
I humbly request divine mercy and forgiveness for my actions.


Well if I've done somebody wrong, Lord,
If I have harmed or hurt someone, O Lord,


Have mercy if you please.
I implore you to have mercy upon me, if it pleases you.


I used to have plenty of money,
Once, I possessed an abundance of wealth.


The finest clothes in town,
I was attired in the most exquisite garments the town had to offer.


But bad luck and trouble overtaken me,
However, misfortune and hardship have caught up with me.


Bound to get me down.
These adversities are certain to bring me sorrow and despair.


Please have mercy,
I beseech you for mercy,


Lord have mercy on me.
O Lord, grant me your merciful forgiveness.


Keep on working now, child.
Continue persevering and putting effort, my dear.


Lord every morning.
O Lord, each morning I seek your guidance and blessings.


Well if I've been a bad boy, baby,
If I have acted poorly or made mistakes, darling,


I declare I'll change my ways.
I promise to transform my behavior and actions.


I don't want bad luck and trouble
I do not desire misfortune and difficulty


To follow me all my days.
To persistently accompany me throughout my life.


Lord have mercy,
I seek your divine mercy,


Lord have mercy on me.
O Lord, shower me with your compassionate forgiveness.




Lyrics © BMG Rights Management, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: LLOYD C. GLENN, LLOYD C., SR. GLENN, LOWELL FULSON

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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Comments from YouTube:

Kelly Althoff

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Chris Tuff official

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byAx70

Yes, but not yet here. Take a look at my profile.

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