River
Ordinary Time Lyrics
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Psalm 46
When the strong winds blow
And the waters rise
When the mountains crumble at our feet
As the earth gives way
We shall not fear
His promises shall never be unmade
Though we wait we do not wait in vain
There is a river whose streams flow down
There is a city that will stay
God will help her at the break of day
Though nations war
Though kingdoms fall
If He lifts his voice
The whole earth would melt
He will break their guns
He will stop our bombs
He will bring peace
And send the soldiers home
The lyrics of “River” by Ordinary Time are based on Psalm 46, which speaks about trusting in God even in the midst of troublesome times. The song begins by describing a scenario where everything is falling apart - strong winds are blowing, waters are rising, and mountains are crumbling. Yet, even in the midst of all this chaos and destruction, the song insists that there is no reason to fear, because the help of the Lord is near. The lyrics are meant to provide comfort to those who may feel overwhelmed by life's challenges or afraid of an uncertain future.
The song goes on to point out that God's promises are steadfast and will never be broken. Although people may have to wait for them to be fulfilled, they will not wait in vain. This is a clear indication that the song is calling on believers to trust in God's timing and not give up hope when things seem difficult or uncertain.
In the final verse, the song speaks about the power of God to bring peace and stop wars. It argues that if God were to lift His voice, the entire earth would melt, and all would be quiet. This message is particularly poignant in today's world, where there are so many conflicts and crises of various kinds. The song then concludes on a note of hope, pointing toward a future where soldiers can return home in peace.
Overall, the lyrics of “River” by Ordinary Time are meant to inspire listeners to trust in God, even when life is difficult. They offer a reminder that God is near and that His promises are true, even if they may take some time to be fulfilled. Furthermore, the song offers hope for a better future, where peace reigns and people can live in harmony.
Line by Line Meaning
When the strong winds blow
Amidst the toughest challenges which create turbulence in our lives
And the waters rise
During unexpected and difficult situations, raising fear in us
When the mountains crumble at our feet
When overwhelming circumstances make us feel feeble and powerless
As the earth gives way
As we face situations that cause us instability and insecurity
We shall not fear
Despite adversities, we shall remain brave and unfaltering
For the help of the lord is near
Since the Lord is always present and ready to protect us
His promises shall never be unmade
His commitments to us are unbreakable and everlasting
Though we wait we do not wait in vain
Although we may have to wait to witness His promises, we do so with the hope and trust that they will come true
There is a river whose streams flow down
There's a source of life that gives us sustenance and nourishment
There is a city that will stay
There's a place where we can find refuge and security - His kingdom
God will help her at the break of day
God will always be there to support and strengthen His kingdom when in need
Though nations war
Even amidst chaos and conflict between nations
Though kingdoms fall
Even when the order and stability amongst nations collapse
If He lifts his voice
If God intervenes or makes a proclamation
The whole earth would melt
His power is such that even the planet's foundation may succumb to it
He will break their guns
God will vanquish all powers trying to harm His kingdom and people
He will stop our bombs
God will act against human beings' wicked intentions and actions
He will bring peace
Through His actions, He will work towards establishing peace, justice and harmony
And send the soldiers home
He will ensure that wars and bloodshed will come to an end
Contributed by Kayla E. Suggest a correction in the comments below.