The Grammy-winning Christian pop duo for KING & COUNTRY, composed of Australian brothers Joel and Luke Smallbone, released their hit song “God Only Knows” in 2018. The song quickly became a fan favorite and a powerful anthem of hope, addressing themes of despair, self-worth, and redemption. In this article, we’ll explore the lyrics of “God Only Knows” and the deep message it conveys to its listeners.
A Song of Empathy and Understanding
“God Only Knows” is a song that speaks directly to those who are struggling with feelings of hopelessness and self-doubt. It begins with the lines:
“Wide awake while the world is sound asleep
Too afraid of what might show up while you’re dreamin’
These lyrics set the tone for the song, addressing the inner turmoil and fears that many people experience when they’re alone with their thoughts. The song acknowledges the vulnerability that comes with nighttime and the anxiety that can accompany it.
Chorus: “God Only Knows What You’ve Been Through”
The heart of the song lies in its chorus, which carries a message of empathy and understanding:
“God only knows what you’ve been through
God only knows what they say about you
God only knows how it’s killing you
But there’s a kind of love that God only knows”
These lines emphasize that even when others may judge or misunderstand us, there is a love that transcends human limitations. It’s a love that offers acceptance and solace to those who are hurting or feeling judged by the world.
Addressing Self-Worth and Struggles
The song continues to address the struggles and the feelings of inadequacy that many individuals grapple with:
“Never let the world decide what you should think
I can’t bear the weight of your judgments about me”
These lyrics reflect the idea that one’s self-worth should not be determined by the judgments or expectations of others. It’s a reminder that individuals have the power to define their own worth and should not allow external pressures to influence their self-esteem.
Confronting the Darkness
“God Only Knows” does not shy away from addressing the darker aspects of life, including issues like addiction, depression, and feelings of despair. The song acknowledges the heaviness of these experiences:
“Keep on, keep on singin’, and don’t you ever stop
This is not the end, it’s not the end”
These lines convey a sense of resilience and hope, encouraging listeners to keep moving forward despite the challenges they may face. It’s a reminder that even in the midst of darkness, there is the potential for light and healing.
A Message of Redemption
The song ultimately conveys a message of redemption and the power of love to transform lives:
“There’s a kind of love that God only knows
God only knows what you’ve been through
God only knows what they say about you”
These lines reinforce the idea that love has the capacity to heal and redeem, no matter what a person has been through or what others may say. It’s a message of grace and compassion.
Music Video and Impact
The music video for “God Only Knows” also adds depth to the song’s message. It tells the story of a police officer dealing with personal struggles and highlights the idea that everyone, regardless of their role or position, can face internal battles.
The song has had a profound impact on many listeners, resonating with those who have experienced mental health challenges, addiction, or feelings of isolation. Its message of understanding and love has prompted important conversations about the importance of supporting one another through difficult times.
Conclusion
“God Only Knows” by for KING & COUNTRY is a song that speaks to the universal human experiences of self-doubt, judgment, and despair. Its lyrics offer a message of empathy, hope, and redemption, reminding listeners that there is a kind of love that transcends their struggles. The song has touched the hearts of many and serves as a testament to the power of music to convey profound messages of understanding and healing.
