Let It Glow
tobyMac Kirk Franklin Lyrics
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To be a bible machine
In a planetary system
That rotates without a dream?
I'm not a number but a name
So please excuse me all the same
If I sing about love
Truth and a world that lives in pain
Oh Oh Oh Oh, x3
Let it go, let it show, let it glow
What does it mean
To fill the pews on the weekend
Ignoring the world
That's dying just outside the door?
This little light of mine
I'm about to let it shine
This microphone is for the streets
Not for VIPs in seats
The lyrics to TobyMac Kirk Franklin's song Let It Glow explore the meaning of being a Christian in a world that seemingly does not operate based on Christian principles. The opening lines of the song evoke a sense of chaos and confusion about the Christian’s place in the world, where the “planetary system rotates without a dream.” The lyrics question what it means to live as a “bible machine” in the world and the importance of staying true to one's identity and beliefs despite the world’s chaos.
The song continues on to discuss the responsibilities of Christians who have access to church but fail to reach out to those who need the gospel. This is exemplified with the line, “What does it mean to fill the pews on the weekend, ignoring the world that’s dying just outside the door?” The message from the lyrics is that while it is essential to attend church and fill the seats, it is equally important to reach out to the world outside, spreading love, truth and light to a world that is experiencing pain.
In the chorus, the lyrics encourage Christians to let their light shine by letting it go, show and glow. It is a call to action for Christians to be true to themselves, embrace what they believe and in turn, spread love and light wherever they go.
Overall, the song highlights the importance of staying true to self and one’s beliefs, despite the chaos in the world, and using one’s light to make a positive impact on the world.
Line by Line Meaning
What does it mean
Reflecting on the meaning of life
To be a bible machine
To deeply engage with and live by the teachings of the Bible
In a planetary system
In the world we live in
That rotates without a dream?
Where people are often lost and without direction
I'm not a number but a name
I am an individual with unique qualities and experiences
So please excuse me all the same
Although I may be different, I still have a voice that deserves to be heard
If I sing about love
Expressing my belief in the power of love to change the world
Truth and a world that lives in pain
Advocating for truth and shining a light on the suffering that exists in the world
Oh Oh Oh Oh, x3
A joyful and enthusiastic exclamation
Let it go, let it show, let it glow
Sharing my light and love with others
What does it mean
Reflecting on the importance of our actions and beliefs
To fill the pews on the weekend
Going to church and participating in religious services
Ignoring the world
Not acknowledging or addressing the suffering and injustice in the world
That's dying just outside the door?
The people in need and facing difficulties who are close by and could be helped
This little light of mine
The light of love and hope within me
I'm about to let it shine
I am ready to share my light with others
This microphone is for the streets
Using my voice to connect with people outside of traditional church settings
Not for VIPs in seats
Focusing on reaching out to people who are not typically represented in church or religious communities
Contributed by Ian H. Suggest a correction in the comments below.