In shackles and chains, I came to Your door
And fell on the floor of mercy
Guilty I stood, guilty I was
I couldn't hide my shame
Just as I am, just as I am
Jesus, You welcomed me, You took me in
I'll never be the same again
My life held in Your hands
Just as I am
You saved a place, amazing grace
You came all the way to meet me
Carried me home, with a ring and a robe
Threw Your loving arms around me
Just as I am, just as I am
Jesus, You welcomed me, You took me in
I'll never be the same again
My life held in Your hands...
Just as I am, without one plea
But that Your blood was shed for me
And that You bid me, come to Thee
Oh Lamb of God I come, I come
Just as I am, without one plea
But that Your blood was shed for me
And that You bid me, come to Thee
Oh Lamb of God I come
Just as I am, just as I am
Jesus, You welcomed me, You took me in
I'll never be the same again
My life held in Your hands
Just as I am, just as I am
Jesus, You welcomed me, You took me in
I'll never be the same again
My life held in Your hands
Oh my life is held in Your hands
Just as I am
Just as I am
"Just As I Am" by Matt Maher is a powerful and moving song that speaks to the heart of the Christian faith. The song's lyrics, combined with Maher's soulful vocals, create an atmosphere of vulnerability and surrender.
The song begins with the image of coming to God in shackles and chains, symbolizing our brokenness and sinfulness. Maher acknowledges his guilt and shame, unable to hide from the truth of his own imperfections. This is a relatable experience for many believers, as we often come to God with our baggage and flaws, feeling unworthy of His love and forgiveness.
However, the chorus of the song offers a message of hope and acceptance. Maher proclaims that Jesus welcomes him just as he is, taking him in and transforming his life. This echoes the message of Romans 5:8, which says, "But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us." It is a reminder that God's love is not conditional on our perfection or good deeds, but rather on His grace and mercy.
The bridge of the song includes the familiar hymn "Just As I Am," which adds a depth of tradition and familiarity to the lyrics. This hymn is often sung during altar calls and represents the idea of coming to God in complete surrender, without any pretense or justification. The lyrics of the hymn also tie in with the message of the song, emphasizing the power of Christ's blood to cleanse and redeem us.
One of the standout aspects of "Just As I Am" is the raw emotion and vulnerability that Maher brings to the song. This is especially evident in his live performances, where he pours his heart out in worship. The song is not just a catchy tune, but a sincere expression of the human experience and the longing for God's love and acceptance.
In an interview, Maher shared that the inspiration behind the song came from a conversation he had with a friend who had recently lost their father. He reflected on how, in moments of grief and loss, we are reminded of our own mortality and the need to come before God just as we are. This personal connection adds an additional layer of depth and authenticity to the song.
Overall, "Just As I Am" is a beautiful and poignant song that speaks to the heart of the Christian faith. It reminds us that we can come before God in our brokenness and find acceptance and transformation through His love and grace. The lyrics, combined with Maher's heartfelt delivery, create a worship experience that resonates with listeners and draws them closer to God.
In conclusion, "Just As I Am" by Matt Maher is a powerful song that captures the essence of the Christian faith. The lyrics, inspired by a conversation about loss and grief, speak to the universal human experience of longing for acceptance and redemption. The song's message of coming before God in our brokenness and finding transformation through His love and grace is supported by scripture verses such as Romans 5:8. Overall, "Just As I Am" is a song that invites listeners to embrace their imperfections and surrender to God's unconditional love.
