What is the story behind the song “Because He Lives”? This question often lingers in the minds of listeners who find themselves drawn to the profound lyrics and uplifting melody of this Christian anthem. Composed by Ben Howland and released in 2004, the song has since become a staple in many worship services and personal playlists, offering hope and inspiration to countless individuals facing life’s challenges.
The song’s origins can be traced back to a time when Ben Howland was a worship leader and pastor at the University of Oklahoma. While working on a new worship album, he felt a strong prompting to write a song that would resonate with people who were struggling with their faith or were in need of encouragement. This desire to create a song that would uplift and strengthen others led to the birth of “Because He Lives.”
The title itself, “Because He Lives,” is a powerful reminder of the central belief in Christianity: that Jesus Christ, the Son of God, died and rose again from the dead, defeating sin and death for all who believe in Him. This core message is the foundation of the song’s lyrics, which are filled with hope and gratitude.
The first verse of the song sets the stage for the listener’s journey through the lyrics:
Because He lives, I can face tomorrow
Because He lives, all fear is gone
Because I know He holds the future
And life is worth the living just because He lives.
This verse captures the essence of the song’s message, emphasizing the transformative power of faith in Jesus Christ. The chorus, which repeats the title, serves as a powerful reminder that the hope we have in Christ is the source of our strength and resilience:
Because He lives, because He lives
My heart will beat with joy forever
And when this world is more than life to me
He lives, He lives, He lives.
The song’s impact has been profound, touching the lives of people from all walks of life. Many have found solace and strength in its lyrics during times of hardship, while others have discovered a deeper faith through its message. The story behind the song “Because He Lives” is a testament to the power of music and the enduring message of hope that it brings.
In conclusion, the story behind the song “Because He Lives” is one of faith, hope, and inspiration. It serves as a reminder that, no matter what challenges we face, we can find strength and comfort in the knowledge that Jesus Christ lives, and that He is with us every step of the way.
