Photo by Martin Sattler
This is the last song that I put in the queue before I started utilizing the polling system.Ā It was requested by three separate people, so I promised myself I would cover Lauren Daigle’s You Say at the start of the new year.Ā From here on out, your votes will determine the bulk of my reviews, with a smattering of my own selections.
I try to have a new poll out at least once a month, so keep coming back to vote on your favorites (or at least ones that you want me to review).Ā I’m also hoping to have some fun things to vote on also.Ā If you have some interesting ideas for a poll, send me a message.Ā You’ll get full credit!
As of this writing, I have done two Lauren Daigle reviews:Ā OāLord and Trust in You, both with highly favorable scores.Ā Thanks to your votes, I will also coverĀ Look Up Child later this month.Ā This will be the third and fourth of what will probably be many more reviews from this artist.
Note to new users: This is a different kind of review site!Ā ReadĀ About the Berean TestĀ andĀ Evaluation CriteriaĀ prior to reading this review.
1. What message does the song communicate?
There are several themes propagated throughout these lyrics:
- The struggle between the verbal carpet bomb assaults of Satan with the comforting voice of God;
- Ā A declaration of our worth to God; and
- Man’s surrender to God’s ways.
In terms of the identity of “You”, Daigle is lucky that she explicitly mentioned God.Ā There is nothing else in the lyrics that would have pointed us to God, which would have resulted in an easy boyfriend/girlfriend interpretation.
Score: 8/10
2. How much of the lyrics line up with Scripture?
The entire song is in agreement with the Word of God.
Lyrics posted with permission.*
[Verse 1]
I keep fighting voices in my mind that say Iām not enough
Every single lie that tells me I will never measure up
These “voices” are the demonic utterings of Satan, the father of lies (John 8:44).
Am I more than just the sum of every high and every low?
A rhetorical question with an obvious answer.
Remind me once again just who I am, because I need to know
A lead-in to the Chorus.
[Chorus]
You say I am loved when I canāt feel a thing
The bridge tells us that “You” refers to God.Ā A great summary passage is 1 John 4:8, which tells us that God is love, as demonstrated to His followers, apexedĀ (my word) through the cross (seeĀ Nehemiah 9:17, Psalm 17:7, Psalm 36:5-7, Psalm 63:3, Psalm 69:16, Psalm 117:2, Isaiah 54:8, John 3:16, John 13:34, John 15:13, Romans 5:6-8, Romans 8:37-39, Galatians 2:20, Ephesians 2:4-5, Ephesians 5:25, Titus 3:4, and 1 John 4:16-19).
You say I am strong when I think I am weak
God give strength to us when we feel weak (Psalm 22:19, Psalm 28:7-8, Psalm 46:1, Psalm 118:14, Isaiah 12:2, Isaiah 33:2, Isaiah 40:29-31, Habakkuk 3:19, 2 Corinthians 12:9-10, and Ephesians 3:16).Ā Though I thought this was a self-righteous statement by Daigle, Verse 2 contradicts my prior opinion.
You say I am held when I am falling short
According toĀ Psalm 34:18, God is close to the broken-hearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.
When I donāt belong, You say I am Yours
We don’t belong to the world.Ā If it did, it would love us, but it doesn’t (John 15:19).Ā We belong to God, adopted as His sons and daughters (seeĀ John 1:12-13, John 14:18, Romans 8:14-17, Romans 8:23, Romans 9:1-8, Galatians 3:26, Galatians 4:5-7, Ephesians 1:3-14, Ephesians 2:11-22, Hebrews 9:15, and 1 John 3:1-3).
And I believe, I believe
What You say of me
I believe
Daigle’s response to these declarations is belief.
[Verse 2]
The only thing that matters now is everything You think of me
In You I find my worth, in You I find my identity
As creatures created in God’s image (Genesis 1:27), our entire identity, as Daigle correctly pointed out, is Christian, which literally means “follower of Christ”.Ā We become a holy priesthood (1 Peter 2:9), the Church (ekklÄsia; the believing ones;Ā Romans 12:5,1 Corinthians 12:12ā27, Ephesians 3:6 and 5:23, Colossians 1:18 and Colossians 1:24), the “bride of Christ” (Ephesians 5:22-33).
[Bridge]
Taking all I have and now I’m laying it at Your feet
You have every failure, God
You’ll have every victory
This describes an act of submission to God, sacrificially abandoning our own free will to serve God (seeĀ Isaiah 64:8, Matthew 10:38, Matthew 11:28-30, Matthew 16:24, Mark 8:34-38, Mark 10:28, Luke 9:23, Luke 14:27, John 15:1-11, Romans 6:13, Romans 12:1-2, Galatians 2:20, Philippians 2:5-8, Hebrews 11:6, James 4:7-10,Ā and 1 Peter 5:6).Ā Daigle recognizes that our pursuit results both in failure and victory, both given to God for His glory: the error paid for by Jesus and the success given proper credit to God.
[Outro]
Oh, I believe
Yes, I believe
What You say of me
Oh, I believe
A slight derivative of the last three lines of Chorus.
Score: 10/10
3. How would an outsider interpret the song?
There is one explicit reference to God that sets the context for the entire song.Ā As mentioned in section 1, nothing else in these lyrics point us to God in either an overt or subtle manner.Ā Non-christian interpretation rests upon a single word that, if missed, makes unbeliever interpretation more sparse than Daigle intended.Ā Perhaps as a boyfriend/girlfriend.
I listened to it the first time without paying much attention to see how easy it is to miss this single word.Ā It’s pretty easy if you’re not looking for it!Ā This gives me less confidence that those who do not follow Jesus will share the same interpretation as me.
Score: 6/10
4. What does this song glorify?
While You Say does agree with Scripture and its message of self-worth glorifies God, its lack of pointers to God (aside from one name-drop) makes it hard to justify that it completely brings Him glory.
Score: 8/10
Closing Comments
Despite the green rating, I have mixed feelings about Lauren Daigle’s You Say.Ā Its themes of personal struggle, value evaluation, and surrender are highly biblical and found hidden underneath the surface.Ā However, its sparse theological depth and lack of pointers to God hinder the effectiveness of her message and glory to God.
Some will no doubt find comfort and rest in her lyrics, and to them, I say very well.Ā Yet, surely Daigle could have at least included some attributes of God?Ā That would have been a huge improvement.
Final Score:Ā 8.5/10
Artist Info
Track: You Say (listen to the song)
Artist: Lauren Daigle
Album: Look Up Child
Genre:Ā Contemporary Christian Music (CCM)
Release Year: 2018
Duration: 4:34
Agree?Ā Disagree?Ā Don’t be shy or have a cow!Ā Calmly and politely state your case in a comment, below.
Copyright Ā© 2018 CentricSongs (SESAC) See You At The Pub (SESAC) (adm. at CapitolCMGPublishing.com) / Flychild Publishing (SESAC) / So Essential Tunes (SESAC) / Fellow Ships Music (SESAC) (admin at EssentialMusicPublishing.com). All rights reserved. Used by permission.
Updates:
06/30/2020 – Steve Barhydt convinced me that Daigle’s line “You say I am strong when I think I am weak” was not self-righteous. Therefore, I gave section 2 a perfect 10, bumping up its overall rating from 7.5/10 to 8.5/10.
05/13/2020 – In reaction to bob polo’s comments, I clarified my statements in sections 1 and 3 and adjusted scoring based on a less stringent reaction to lack of attributes/acts of God.Ā I also removed my commentary regarding theological depth/sparseness, restoring the original score back to 7.5/10.
10/15/2019 – After reading Jeff’s comment, I updated my commentary on the line “You say I am strong when I think I am weak”, altering my perception of this phrase and my score from 7.5/10 to 6.5/10.
Comments
EK
I was also wondering about the “you say I am strong, when I think I am weak” line in the chorus. To me, it sounds as if Daigle is saying that she sometimes she doubts that she is strong, but God tells her that she is. Is that Biblical? Second opinion please.
James S. Frazier
Yes, it is biblical. Steve Barhydt gave a great explanation of why in this comment section.
Cindy Tan
I would like to correct a comment made on 210620. š
As I listened to the song a few more times, it turns out to be a meaningful song that reaches out to those struggling with poor self esteem/ self image and that they can find their worth in God who has given them an identity. In my opinion, the hardest thing is fighting oneās mind, especially when it is tormented by fear. But we can have the victory in God and through His Word. š
Vince Wright
Cindy,
Awesome! I changed my mind too, on my review. This is how we learn! š
-Vince Wright
Steve Barhydt
My two cents about “You say I am strong when I think I am weak”
The Apostle Paul writing in 2 Corinthians 12:7-10 (KJV)…
7 And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure.
8 For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me.
9 And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.
10 Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ’s sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.
Any time in scripture that you find the word “Therefore” find out what it’s there for.
In verse 10, “therefore” refers back to the words of Christ in verse 9
“My grace is sufficient for thee”
The Greek word for “sufficient” is arkeo. From Thayer’s Greek Lexicon
“to be possessed of unfailing strength; to be strong, to suffice, to be enough
“for my strength is made perfect in weakness” From Thayer’s Greek Lexicon
The Greek word for “perfect” is teleioÅ.
“2. to complete (perfect), i. e. add what is yet lacking in order to render a thing full:”
In essence, Jesus said “My grace is all the strength you need. My strength will add what is lacking in your weakness to accomplish everything you must do.”
Paul completes this paragraph with the statement “For when I am weak, then I am strong” He can say this because Christ has told him that he “has all the strength” he needs.
That, in my opinion, is not too far off from “You say I am strong when I think I am weak” as long as the glory for that strength comes back to Christ. (which it does in verse 2 and the bridge)
Verse 2
The only thing that matters now is everything You think of me
In You I find my worth, in You I find my identity
Bridge
Taking all I have and now Iām laying it at Your feet
You have every failure, God
Youāll have every victory
In light of this I can’t see how the phrase “You say I am strong when I think I am weak” “has the air of self-righteousness.” In fact, verse 2 and the bridge have eradicated self by laying it all at the feet of Jesus.
Vince Wright
Steve,
Thank you for your challenge!
You’re right. Even without considering the original Koine Greek, I was reacting to a single statement without considering the context in which it was made.
I’ve updated my review.
-Vince Wright
Robin High
I recently discovered this song, and it spoke to me in a positive manner, with words I have been struggling to find and could not do so myself. i instantly identified it as a song of a person’s faith journey, even before the one occurrence of “God” appeared. There are a couple of phrases i am still puzzled what was really meant, but is not uncommon in the popular Christian song literature to enter capitalized pronouns and even take a Biblical idea and transform it into the idea or emotion the song writer wants to express at the moment. I also recently studied Psalm 58 .. one of the 150 hymns from the earliest hymnbook we have .. The name “God” does appear twice (however, the first one is mid-way through and is not a verse anyone would quote). The second mention of “God” is not until the last verse, and still not one we may want to ever repeat. There are few, if any attributes of God mentioned, and it is generally not a psalm that would likely be selected for a worship service or devotion, yet it is as much a part of the collection of “songs of praise” as any other psalm in the Bible. It is a song of personal struggle, a cry for help, perhaps inspired by events or ideas we can’t identify with as clearly today. And in a similar manner “You Say” is a song inspired by very different events of personal struggle; we need songs like this to stay in touch with our human response to whatever happens in life, even occasionally during a worship service; it reminds us there is a loving God who loves and cares for us and that we can sing to admit our weaknesses to a God who always is there to offer strength to move through what may be difficulties we all will at some point face.
Vince Wright
Robin,
Thank you for your commentary!
Much (if not all) of what you have to say is in agreement with my criteria page at https://www.thebereantest.com/criteria-for-evaluating-christian-music, where I state, “God can use anything, despite my own views and opinions on any song.” That seems to be the case here!
-Vince Wright
Cindy Tan
I heard of this song sang during worship in church today ( online). My first time listening to it. I find the song very self – glorifying and nothing about God’s attributes. I am in particularly very disturbed by the phrase You say I am strong but I think I am weak… that’s why I searched up berean test for the analysis of the song. I think worship is all about God and to behold His Glory and Beauty. It is not about us. I would give this song a 4/10.
Vince Wright
Cindy,
Thank you for your thoughts!
-Vince Wright
nick.s
I made a short reflection for my own Instagram and some updated verses for some of the lyrics…hope it may be of blessing.
I once heard of the song āYou Sayā by Lauren Daigle about 4 months ago. This song really helps me bring into perspective on who I am in Christ: “I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well.ā (Psalm 139:14). The song resonated deeply to a moment in my life when I felt unconfident, weak, or even confused about myself. In our lives we will have most likely go through a existential dilemma ofā Who are we actually? For me that was during when I returned from the US about 5 years ago. I didnāt finish college and having not being āacceptedā by some of my family and friends I felt āYou have caused my companions to shun me; you have made me a horror to them. I am so shut in so that I cannot escape; my eyes grow dim through sorrow.ā (Psalm 88:8-9a).
I keep fighting voices in my mind that say I’m not enough
“For my soul is full of troubles, and my life draws near to Sheol.ā (Psalm 88:3).
Every single lie that tells me I will never measure up
The devil will discourage us and tell us otherwise: ā..When he lies, he speaks out of his own character, for he is a liar and the father of liesā (John 8:44c).
Am I more than just the sum of every high and every low?
āWhy are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you in turmoil within me?ā (Psalm 43:5a).
Remind me once again just who I am, because I need to know (ooh oh)
You say I am loved when I can’t feel a thing
We are loved! āBut you, O Lord, are a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness.ā (Psalm 86:15).
You say I am strong when I think I am weak
āThe LORD is my strength and my song; he has become my salvation.ā (Psalm 118:14).
You say I am held when I am falling short
āHe drew me up from the pit of destruction, out of the miry bog, and set my feet upon a rock, making my steps secure.ā (Psalm 40:2).
āThe LORD is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.ā (Psalm 34:18).
When I don’t belong, oh You say that I am Yours
āIf you were of the world, the world loves you as its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you.ā (John 15:19).
The only thing that matters now is everything You think of me
In You I find my worth, in You I find my identity, (ooh oh)
āI have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.ā (Galatians 2:20).
Thank You Jesus for this song and who You Say that we are.. that we are Yours now and forevermore. “But I will hope continually and will praise you yet more and more. My mouth will tell of your righteous acts, of your deeds of salvation all the day, for their numbers is past my knowledge.” (Psalm 71:14-15). In Jesusā name we pray. Amen.
Thank you The Berean Test for your analysis it helped aid my reflections today. If I may add, I think I would personally give this song a 9.5. I know it may not be all theologically correct and may resonate to the theology of glory. Yet I think it is heart felt, sincere and very much intricately woven in its subliminal messages of Christ. It’s really easy to write songs that explicitly writes about Christ. But it take a real bravado and difficulty to implant biblical subtexts into a song like this. Anyways, just my 2 cents. Every-time I listen to this song, I cry. God is good. It’s unfathomable. And who He say who we are just amazes me all the time.
Cheers,
Nick.
Vince Wright
Nick,
Thank you for your heartfelt response! If I was judging purely on emotional impact, I’d agree with you.
-Vince Wright
bob polo
Did you consider that the structure of the song determines the placement of God’s name? Verse one begins with a solipsistic perspective focused on the internal landscape of the narrator. We see her battles with self-concept and opposing voices. The narrator requests a reminder of “who I am”, which is an existential question. The emotional state of verse one is one of discouragement, resulting in much-needed introspection. The first chorus comes on the heels of this introspection as an apparent reflection on certain statements made by an unknown character, hence “You say.” Then verse two reveals the conclusion drawn from the reflection after chorus one. The narrator decides that the thoughts of the unknown character are the only thing that matters, thus affirming the narrator’s identity based on the declarations of the unknown character. The emotional state of verse two has now shifted from one of discouragement to encouragement. Then we hear chorus two as not a mere reflection but now as an embrace of what’s been said of the narrator by the unknown character. In verse three, the unknown character is revealed to be God Himself. Subtly, in this verse the narrator denies the “I” and puts her focus on the “You.” She went from self-centeredness to God-centeredness, which accounts for the emotional swing that occurred that may have went unnoticed. This tells us that focusing on self and the opinions of others can lead to a sense of unworthiness and identity loss. But focusing on God and His Word can lead to self-worth and identity affirmation. Therefore, the message of the song is clear: Faith in God’s Word leads to confidence in self-worth. Hence the song’s ending: “I believe, yes, I believe what You say of me.”
Vince Wright
Bob,
Thank you for your comments!
The structure isn’t the problem and I agree with your comments; However, the reason why it lost points is that, outside the explicit name-drops of God, there’s nothing else in these lyrics that sets it apart from a Boyfriend/Girlfriend interpretation. No attributes of God. No works of God.
In hindsight, perhaps I reacted too strongly with my scoring. I’ve adjusted it.
-Vince Wright
bob polo
“However, its sparse theological depth and lack of pointers to God hinder the effectiveness of her message and glory to God.”
Statements like this imply that the writer believes the Father’s glory depends on artists saying His name over and over again. Admittedly, I did think this song was about her boyfriend at first, because “God” was mentioned very softly. But once I recognized that this was a Christian song, I was able to genuinely worship the Father as His redeemed son in Christ. I’m also thinking of using this song in my youth ministry to reaffirm the self-worth of young believers who struggle with shame and insecurities and a lack of self-worth. Thanks for the review
Vince Wright
Bob,
Thank you for your comment!
Though I believe that God can use any song to bring Him glory, my comments were directed at implicit glory based on the lyrics as they are presented. Despite this, yes, there is plenty of material here to address self-worth. I believe that was Daigle’s intent, despite the criticism that I offer.
I find it difficult to worship with songs that are unclear; However, that is my cross to bear.
-Vince Wright
Bruce Bailey
I am leading worship this morning at the local rescue mission and decided to use this song, You Say, because it moved me. After reading the reviews I decided I would point out the one mention of God in the song and help the congregation to know how they belong to Christ – probably Galatians 2:20.
I am convinced that Christians relate to this song, but the reviews point out the need to be aware that unbelievers may misinterpret the lyrics. Still, it can be used to help people come to Christ if we have opportunity to dialogue with them.
Musicalworship
I thought this was a secular song about a boy and girls love for each other. It seemed God was just a word used once in the whole song.
If this was written by a Christian for secular charts it could have some potential evangelism.
But if it is written for the church it is yet another Jesus is my Boyfriend. We can argue poetic license etc but I dināt think this is not feeding a new Christian or a church attender for the first time.
But that’s just mho.
Vince Wright
Musicalworship,
Thank you for your comment! I mentioned in my evaluation criteria that God can use a song despite my criticism. I still believe that’s true.
-Vince Wright
Devon
Iām going to try to speak with wisdom and understanding while being graceful, but Iām not always.
I appreciate the hard work done here. It would certainly take being fervent in spirit. Thatās a good thing. I read all the comments.
Firstly Iāll start by saying I was an atheist until I was 30, and I hated Christians with a great passion. I was fervent in that. It was a somewhat often thing that Iād break the windows out of the churches, and worse than that. I was also a meth addict for about ten or eleven years. Been clean since June 15 2015, the night I converted. I had lost my career as a zookeeper two or three weeks prior and my fiancĆ© and son all due to my drug addiction. I prayed for three days in a suicidal mindset not being able to get out of bed and then something happened and then I fell on the floor and felt fire pour into me and 15 or so minutes later I rose up and walked away from my life completely different. Straight A college student going into social work now and I teach kids in a large church as well as work with disabled children and one other organization. I said all that as backdrop to maybe give insight in what Iām going to say.
On the point of value, Jesus Christ, not man, stated that we have value even more so then the flock of birds in his parable, and that every hair on the head is known, so where this idea that people have no value is lost on me and more unbiblical than this song. I suppose people think that since they think a way about people then so does God and so man projects the God he worships which is really a projection of himself, because he feels a way. Perhaps itās like the proverb says that when their are many words that sin is not lacking, but he who keeps his mouth closed is wise, because things about people are revealed from their mouths and also their understanding. Easy to see specks or spiritual imperfections and flaws in others when not focused on self, while not seeing oneās own. Anyway.
I agree with some things and it is a shallow song. I wouldnāt expect it to be any different, because all mainstream Christian music is. But it does serve purpose. If one looked at the YouTube comments in comparison to deeper songs then one would see that many more unbelievers are coming into contact with Christians there. Thatās good since many in the churches donāt actually go out or canāt relate to the broken due to lack of life experience with certain types of issues or they become awkward or afraid. You will not see many under the bridges of New Orleans with the homeless, but some are there.
The first time I heard the song I said to myself that it could be interchanged with any man really as far as who she is talking too. But honestly, I think most people get it, and so many more like it because itās not meat but sugary milk, but if thatās what it takes then who could speak against. People are already leaving the churches in numbers far greater than ever before, and I know this because Iām writing a 25 page paper on it for advanced research methodology and the potential consequences. The reason it resonates also is because people who are truly living in darkness donāt feel valued or accepted and even those who believe there might be a God donāt think He could ever love them, so hearing something like that is beneficial.
Iām kind of biased in my opinions though, because I have in the past thought that I was better off smoking meth and contemplating shooting myself in the head than dealing with all the judgments of the religious who really donāt even read the Bible or know it. Thankfully though much of that has subsided. Paul said in Ephesians 4 that no corruptible word should be spoken but only such that is good for edification, as fits the occasion, that grace may be heard, but judging without mercy or simply tearing someone down without replacing what was taken is never good. But itās refreshing to see scriptures get used in analyzing it because most just slander which is accusation without evidence. Anywho thatās my opinion.
Vince Wright
Devon,
Thank you for your thoughts and your testimony! I appreciate that.
I do not believe that my commentary prevents God from using this song to reach the lost. I had not explicitly stated this when I first started The Berean Test and placed that within my criteria page. I also get that Christians are trying to reach the lost through music; However, we must be careful not to compromise our message in order to make the Gospel more palatable. While some applaud such artists when their music airs in secular stations, with a Christian message influencing the lost, I wonder if this is an example of a small error creeping into the entire Christian Music industry (Galatians 5:9), that our artists have become too much like friends with the world, which the Scriptures teach is hostility towards God (James 4:4).
I also agree with your second to last sentence, which is similar to an oft-stated phrase from the late New Atheist Christopher Hitchens: “That which can be asserted without evidence, can be dismissed without evidence”.
-Vince Wright
Olga
I first heard this song on a secular radio station and immediately recognized it as a Christian song, because it reminded me of the premise of ‘Voice of Truth’ by Casting Crowns. As I listened to it more and more, I came to the realization, that it is very ‘covertly christian’, but I actually think that’s a good thing!
This allowed the song to be picked up by many radio stations that actively shy away from religious content and made the song heard by a much broader demographic. It gives us as believers the opportunity to minister to non-believers by telling saying “Hey, did you realise this song is about God, can I tell you a bit more about it?”, and this is where I must thank you for your review with scripture references!
I also think the trimmed down lyrics appeals to the youth, who responds to songs that make them ‘feel’, rather than storytelling or ‘preachy’ songs.
This song means a lot to my teenage daughter, who is about to take a big step in her journey with the Lord. In our Church we have a ceremony when a child is young, to celebrate the fact that God says ‘You are Mine’ and a ceremony when a young person can say ‘I believe’. And to her, this song reminds her of the significance these two momentous occasions in her life.
Vince Wright
Olga,
Thanks for your thoughts! I am glad the Scripture I provided aided you.
-Vince Wright
Bob
Hi Vince. Thanks for taking the time to do a critique of “You say.” Daigle’s song gives out a mixed message for me as well. Since she has publicly stated that she does not want to identify as a “Christian” artist, then the question remains as to who the song was intended for. As you correctly pointed out, the lyrics make a passing reference to God. However, for the true Christian, there needs to be much more theological depth with regards to the person of Christ. This can only be the case for the true believer who has placed faith in Christ for the forgiveness of sins. As pointed out earlier in the comments, our worth as believers comes from Christ’s atonement and the imputation of His righteousness to us. Romans 5:18 is very clear on this. The unbeliever does not know Christ and vice a versa, therefore the lyrics to Daigle’s song cannot even remotely apply to them.
This line in particular caught my attention:
“The only thing that matters now is everything You think of me
In You I find my worth, in You I find my identity”
According to Scripture, only the believer can say this. (1 Peter 2:9, Galatians 2:20, Romans 5:1, etc…) The unregenerate sinner will always value his own self against God and Christ, and is therefore unable to utter these words. So once again, who is Daigle referring to with this particular lyric?
Also, you wrote: “As creatures created in Godās image (Genesis 1:27), our entire identity, as Daigle correctly pointed out, is Christian, which literally means āfollower of Christā.
No, a person only becomes a follower of Christ when he repents of his sins and gives his life wholly to Christ recognizing that only through the Cross can he be saved and justified. (Romans 5:1,6:23,10:9-10). When Adam rebelled against his Creator he plunged the entire human race into sin. (Romans 5:12-21,) Yes, we are created beings, but we are all sinners and “fallen short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23). If Daigle thinks that the unbeliever can find their worth in Christ, then she is gravely mistaken. It is only until they repent of their sins and surrender to the Saviour, that they can identify with “You say”.
Vince Wright
Bob,
I appreciate your comments! In terms of “The only thing that matters now is everything You think of me
In You I find my worth, in You I find my identity”, it seems obvious to me that Daigle is referring to herself. I used the word “our” in the context of section 2 to refer to all believers, but I could have been clearer about it.
Does that help?
-Vince Wright
Sleek
Thanks for the detailed insight into this song. Regarding the second verse of the chorus, Joel 3:10 says let the weak say I am strong. God calls us strong because our sufficiency is not of ourself. God bless you
Vince Wright
Sleek,
Thanks for your comments! Joel 3:10 has a very different context than you suggest. It is a mockery to the nations that surround Israel in war. They will be judged by God. I recommend reading the entire chapter of Joel 3.
-Vince Wright
jeff
2 Corinthians 12 states “MY [GOD’s] power is perfect in weakness.” and is, therefore, not of ourselves alone. that is not GOD himself calling us strong just outright. “you say I am strong” as the lyrics state. there is a big difference between the two ideas
tastywallet
Jeff,
Thank you for taking the time to challenge my review! It has taken me a while to respond because I have been praying and processing what you stated. I came to the conclusion that you are correct. There is a difference.
I updated my commentary. Thoughts?
-TastyWallet
Madison May
Sorry if Iām commenting this in the wrong place I canāt figure out this website haha trying to do a general response to your review. I avoided this song for a while just because I thought it was overplayed and overly popular. When I finally looked up the lyrics I realized why it was, itās beautiful. I think the fact she mentions God at all is brave considering how mainstream they went with marketing this song. A lot of music you have to read the words to fully understand so I think being unable to grasp its full depth at first listen is ok. Also, Iāve seen a lot of people say this song is self indulgent but in my opinion theyāre reaching. I suffer from severe depression and this song has really helped me, when I feel Iām about to fall apart I listen to it and I feel stable. It reminds me of Gods love for me. Reminds me that if I put myself into His hands and trust that love I will be ok. Itās so easy to doubt yourself and let this world beat you down, and let me tell you first hand itās hard to feel like youāre living your life for Jesus if youāre crying on the floor lol. She did a great job at describing Godly self love and finding your strength and purpose in Him.
Vince Wright
Madison,
Thank you for your comment! There are a lot of comments on this song, but to add a general comment, it exists at the bottom of the page, past all the comments.
I can agree with you to a point; However, my criticism lies in the depth of her theology and lacking references that clearly show an inherent interpretation of the Christian God, as opposed to a different deity. It certainly pulls at the heartstrings and many will identify with it (including yourself), but we must also think about it from an intellectual standpoint.
-Vince Wright
Val
Re: the line… you say I am strong when I say I am weak.
Could have easily been changed to You say You are strong when I say I am weak. The theology she is stating could very easily mislead to a we are all in all mentality and self sufficient. We are weak…because we are weak and we stay weak UNTIL we draw on His strength which he gives to us. The Phrasing of He says he is strong when we are weak is more bibical accurate and points us to rely on Jesus Strength and not our own.
tastywallet
Val,
Thank you for offering your perspective! Contextually speaking, I think the Bridge makes misinterpretation unlikely, but I see how you came to that conclusion. We cannot be self-righteous. We must rely on Jesus.
-TastyWallet
Val
Thanks for offering an alternate option. I do think that for most if not all Christian’s the intent and message is clear but I think as the world is very much consumed by self reliance and indeoendance from God… it leaves it open for misintrepration by the non believer. I agree with this lyrics but they dont happened outside Jesus empowering us. Its his strength not ours…I’m not sure it conveys that to the non believer…but as a christian I am thankful the I have his strength to draw on. None of it’s from me. That’s an amen.
Dee
I’m troubled more by her attire than anything else. She wears WAY too much New Age/Wiccan jewelry for my taste. Research it if you don’t believe me.
tastywallet
Dee,
That is informative, thanks!
-TastyWallet
brian
This song troubles me. I know why its popular and even agree with some of the sentiments behind its popularity (as written by the author). But I am deeply troubled by the unbiblical idea of the hidden worth of the human. We are not gemstones covered with dirt that God simply had to clean. We are not warriors that just don’t know our own strength and had to have it revealed to us by Christ. That is the message of this song….but that is not the message of the gospel, Outside of Christ we are lost, broken, weak, worthless and alone. That’s the truth of me. That’s who I really am. And that is what makes grace so amazing and His love so powerful and his salvation so transformative. He died for his enemies. He died for sick, weak, hateful, harmful sinners. Pre-Christ Holy Spirit does indeed want us to recognize who we are…but he works in us to show us our need for a savior. Savior means ONE WHO SAVES. The remedy for so many issues in Christianity today are within this truth. We must remember what we were saved from. We must remember not how awesome we are ….but how gracious He is. This is the wellspring of Love for those who don’t know Jesus. This is the wellspring for service to our King and to the world…for what and who am I to NOT love and serve when my King came in love and served. Its time for the church to reject the idea of our identity…it doesnt matter who I am…HE must increase. I must decrease. HE is everything about me that is good and gracious and lasting. Without Him…”all the voices in my head that say I’m not enough” are absolutely true.
tastywallet
Brian,
Thank you for taking the time to comment! I appreciate your thoughts. I have one of my own for you to consider, though I got it from Christian philosopher Michael Ramsden of the RZIM ministry, based on Romans 5:6-8.
The value of a man can be compared to the value of a pencil. How much is it worth? It depends on how much I am willing to pay for it. If I’m not prepared to pay anything, it has no value. However, if I pay $10 for it, then it has value. The cost is $10 for the pencil.
In the same way, Ramsden argues that our value to God depends on the price He is willing to purchase us. That price was the death of Christ, marred, beaten, scorn, who became sin itself. That is the ransom Jesus speaks of in Matthew 20:28. Sometimes it makes me wonder if God paid too much for what He got.
You are correct in saying that apart from the Gospel, we are nothing. I agree with that statement, in accordance with John 15:5. However, I also agree with Ramsden, that God demonstrates how much He values us by the price He paid.
I agree with you, that we must be cautious about the “hidden worth”, with a great analogy of gemstones. That is a concept I find biblically untenable. Yet, I also agree with Ramsden, that God values us enough to pay for us. We want to be grateful for His love, but not overinflate our ego to the point where one thinks God values us because we’re awesome. Trust me, I know we’re not awesome. Jeremiah 17:9 says as much.
-TastyWallet
Brian
Hello tastyWallet. I agree with all you have said. However, I do not think your thoughts necessarily contradict mine. In Christ, believers are co-heirs with Him! What an amazing identity! But the amazingness of God’s grace comes not from the idea that we are worth much, but that we are worthless. The God of ultimate worth LOVED us. He did not love us because of our worth. He did not pay the price He did because of our worth. Grace is grace because it is in no way deserved. In general, i think the message of this song has some value. But it is too unclear and too widespread to do what it should. As disciples our call is not to condemn sinners…as we are all hopeless without Christ. But it is in turn definitely not to tell people that they are good as they are… That they have a hidden worth that just needs to be uncovered. The message of the cross is not the betterment of the old life but the death of the old life for the resurrection into new life in Christ. As for Ramsden, I have taught that principle before, I have preached it before. It appeals and comforts …but it gives a message that is inaccurate. The cross does not reveal that every “pencil” is actually of incalculable worth. That the buyer paid what He did for the pencil ONLY reveals the desire of the buyer for that pencil….it does not reveal that the pencil had a hidden worth. In the cross God did not do us our due diligence by paying the price we are truly worth. God loves us and paid the ultimate price for us. He did not see some hidden worth in us. His word repeatedly shows that we are worthless outside of Him. But he paid that price because of the depth of his love. Not because it revealed an inner worth. The Cross speaks to the great, unfathomable depth of the Love of God for us. The cross was unfair and unjust…it was THE ultimately altogether different act (the definition of Holy) of the altogether different God. So, should the believer allow self demeaning thoughts to discourage them? No. Rather we are called simply to follow. yes we should examine ourselves ….but we should do so in the grace that God gives us with the goal to be conformed to the likeness of Christ. My friend, I am not against comfort. God comforts us. But He desires to BE our comfort. I know I am rambling now…my apologies…a couple final thoughts. A very good quote from CS lewis relates well here i think. āDo not imagine that if you meet a really humble man he will be what most people call ‘humble’ nowadays: he will not be a sort of greasy, smarmy person, who is always telling you that, of course, he is nobody.
Probably all you will think about him is that he seemed a cheerful, intelligent chap who took a real interest in what you said to him.
If you do dislike him it will be because you feel a little envious of anyone who seems to enjoy life so easily. He will not be thinking about humility: he will not be thinking about himself at all.ā lastly: The recently release song by Casting Crowns “ONLY JESUS” summarizes my point well.
Brian
Last point to bring it back to the song in question.
I love the Chorus except for the line “you say I am strong when I say I am weak” Paul wrote in 2 Cor 12:9 something very different. ” But he said to me, āMy grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.ā Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.” Lastly i will say that I enjoyed this song without thinking about it for some time….until I started thinking about the verses in the context of my own life in service to Christ. ” I keep fighting voices in my head that say I’m not enough”…”well” i thought,….”I’m NOT!” …..”every single lie that tells me I will never measure up”….”well”…I thought….” I WONT!” But…Praise God…He loves me anyway! He did what He did for me…KNOWING ME! Knowing I would never measure up. Knowing I would never be enough….But the beauty is NOT that I am enough…..It is that HE IS. And HE is IN me. So thats our calling….to show that this JESUS loves us….not because we are good….but because He is. Not because we loved Him…But that He first loved us. HE is the WAY, HE is the truth and HE is the life. Its all about HIM.
tastywallet
Brian,
Thanks for the exchange in dialogue! I think you are right when you say our ideas do not necessarily contradict. We’re both after the same goal: Biblically accurate representation. I get the sense that we’re saying the same thing three different ways.
By the way, I love C.S. Lewis. “Mere Christianity” is a book I return to often.
-TastyWallet
Chelsea
Thanks so much for this wonderful and biblical response, Brian! We sang this song in our service today for the first time and I was deeply troubled by it. You just said everything that weighed heavy on my heart – HE must increase! And we must decrease. God bless you.
Darlene Lamoureux
I really love to glean from other believers who study the same Scriptures, and can offer contrasting perspectives from very different angles – yet without contradicting one another! This can only be, I think, the work of God’s Holy Spirit helping us “build each other up in [our] most holy faith,” as we “await the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ, who will bring [us] eternal life.”
Hunter
I agree 100%. After hearing Lauren Daigle’s comments about how she does not classify herself as a “Christian artist” and that – that title was pushed on her, and hearing her comments on homosexuality – it seems obvious to me that she does NOT know scripture at all. Watching her newest videos and interviews – it looks to me like she just wanted fame. She even said that she begged God to NOT have her sing Christian music because it was so “cheesy”. (Her words). I know people keep saying that despite motives, at least Christ is still preached, but I disagree. Millions of young girls are looking at her and then she is basically saying she doesn’t want to be looked at as a “cheesy Christian”. It sends a mixed message about faith and God. It tells people that God/Bible can just be there for encouragement when you are feeling down, but that is where it ends. It says nothing about the true character of God and what he requires of us. Yes God’s message is about love, but there is much more to it than that. And if you know the Bible, you would know this.
Val
That’s exactly what I felt about this song but did not express it as well as you. The pretense is that we have all with in ourselves. Gives the sense that all is well as long as you think positively. Where as true reliance must come from Gods goodness and grace that he extends. We do not possess it outside if him giving.
Live that expression of the gem stones you used. Great analogy.
Vince Wright
Shellie,
Thank you for your comments! However, Brian’s commentary are towards a singular song, not Lauren Daigle herself. Nothing you said addresses his criticism.
Yes, God can use people despite their flaws and I praise God when He uses Daigle’s music despite Brian’s commentary. However, that does not mean an artist’s work is exempt from critique. Brian has a concern. If you would like to address his concern then present your case for why Brian is incorrect.
-Vince Wright
Shellie Robb
Same thing. Get real. People are dying everyday lost. This song is one woman’s conversation with God. And billions of people from all over the world are stirred to relate with her and the conversation she is having with The Living God. How intelligent you all sound while criticizing someone else’s words that God had so obviously blessed and has used to bring comfort to a suffering world. Where is your song that stirs billions of hearts to ask God for their worth. Amen.
Shellie Robb
Like I said, same thing. who are you to criticize another man’s servant. I bet Jesus is saying leave her alone….. Get the beam out of your own eye…. Etc. Be wise.
Vince Wright
Shellie,
Since you brought up Romans 14:4, I have a question for you. How do you avoid the conclusion that when you say to Brian “Who are you to judge how God chooses to use people. Get over yourself and praise God for still working through us even if we sometimes look more like the woman at the well instead of a pharacise.” and that you say to me “How intelligent you all sound while criticizing someone elseās words that God had so obviously blessed and has used to bring comfort to a suffering world”, that you “criticize another manās servant”?
-Vince Wright
Tori Pierce
I suppose my only disagreement is with your point on the song not really expressing its Christian base. I remember thinking it was probably a Christian song the first time I heard it (on a Top Pop Hits station, btw), before she even said God. When I did hear her say God, it was more of a confirmation rather than an out-of-nowhere swing.
The repetitive “I believe” verse is deffinately a pointer; not many non-Christian writers use that. And the “when I don’t belong, you say I am Your’s” bit is also very Christian. It’s definitely not right out there blaring it’s Christian base, but to say there are no subtle hints isn’t really accurate.
I also think that may be intentional? Think of all the people who would just change the station the second a Christian song comes on. This song is just on that edge, where a Christian would know it’s Christian. But a non believer? They would just start to wonder what kind of relationship she has that actually makes her feel this way.
Then maybe they’ll start to wonder how they can get that. If they put the research in, they’d find she’s talking about God, and they’re already in an open state of mind because they like the message.
That coupled with the fact that this song passes the bar and gets to be played quite frequently on non Christian stations? It could be bringing more people to Him than your usual Christian songs get the chance to. Because it’s reaching a group of people who refuse to listen to Christian stations. So I guess I’d say it is bringing Him glory in that way.
Sorry ^^; I know that was long, but it felt important to me.
Bereket
Can i contact you
globalnexter
Brian – thank you for your thoughts. This song has always troubled me for the same reasons. It seems to fall in line with the ālove yourselfā philosophy of the momentā¦ I believe this is also why this song has become a bit of an anthem for those who have chosen unbiblical, alternative lifestyles. Thereās no emphasis on repentance, holiness or righteousness.
JO
I never really thought about the song in context to an unbeliever. Not too many listen to Christian chanels. I connect deeply to every word and sentiment expressed in “I Say.” Lauren is, no doubt filled with the Holy Spirit to write these pointed and encouraging words. She has blessed me and this song is one I listen to daily.
tastywallet
Jo,
It’s something I put in place to consider both how Christians and unbelievers would think about the song, to give it a more well-rounded review, rather than focusing within my own walls.
-TastyWallet
Hazel Zanatta
Dear Sir,
Thank you for the review. As a Christian who has struggled with depression and self worth issues I find it comforting to hear the self doubt that others might feel but be pointed to realise my hope in God. Maybe it could have more explicitly referenced God in this song, however, it does bring me deep comfort. I do appreciate your reviews even if I don’t entirely agree with you.
Regards, H.
tastywallet
Hazel,
Thanks for taking the time to read my review! I am sorry to read about your struggle but glad that you received comfort through this song.
-TastyWallet
T M
While I fully appreciate the weight given to how clearly God is attributed in a Christian lyrics, I wonder what score the Old Testament book of Esther would receive if set to song. It does not mention any person of the Godhead.
tastywallet
T M,
Great question! Esther is one of my favorite books, containing the account of Queen Esther and her brave acts against the jealous and ruthless Haman, one of King Xerxes’ officials. Insofar as I am aware, Esther is included in the Bible because it explains the origins of the feast known as Purim, found at the end of Esther 9. While it does not mention God, neither does the song Million Dollar Man by Kutless. I gave that one a favorable review.
The difference between the account of Esther and You Say is that, insofar as I am aware, Esther doesn’t have pronouns that attempt to point to God. You Say has plenty, all of which could be easily construed as a boyfriend without the explicit reference.
I hope this makes sense.
-TastyWallet
Kathy Custer
My granddaughter heard this song on the radio and had to have me listen to it. She said I love this song and I didn’t even know she was a Christian singer. She doesn’t attend church now, but when she was younger she did. She has a beautiful 3 yrs old daughter and just turned 19. I thank God that he uses music to speak to our heart and let us know how much He loves us. Praying she will get to know Him personally as I do. Thank you Lauren for this song that speaks to our heart and mind.
tastywallet
Kathy,
I am happy for you! I hope your daughter gets to know Him personally, deeply, relationally also.
-TastyWallet