Meaning and Lyrics of Sing It Now by Reba McEntire

The song “Sing It Now” by Reba McEntire is a heartfelt anthem that delves into themes of faith, resilience, and the power of sacred music. The lyrics encapsulate a spiritual journey, grounded in the strength drawn from enduring hymns and personal beliefs. Here’s a detailed interpretation:

Verse 1 sets the stage by recounting McEntire’s lifelong relationship with well-known hymns. She mentions singing “Amazing Grace” since her childhood and “It Is Well” innumerable times. This verse emphasizes the role these songs have played in her spiritual upbringing and the comforting memories associated with them. The line “singing ‘Jesus Loves Me’ is a precious memory” evokes innocence and the foundational aspects of faith learned from a young age. The mention of “Just As I Am” bringing her to her knees highlights a pivotal moment of submission and reverence in her faith journey.

As the verse progresses, it acknowledges the presence of inexplicable challenges and heartache with lines like “here I am surrounded by some things I can’t explain.” Despite these struggles, the underlying message is that the core truth of her beliefs remains unshaken.

Chorus emphasizes a powerful affirmation: if she could sing these hymns in the past, she can certainly sing them in the present, regardless of the surrounding circumstances. This part of the song reaffirms the constancy of God’s presence (“who He was is who He is beyond the shadow of a doubt”) and the singer’s unwavering faith even when faced with darkness and trouble. The ability to sing these praises again exemplifies her resilience and trust in a higher power.

Verse 2 transitions to the challenges of maintaining faith. It admits that joining in these melodies isn’t always easy, especially during trying times. However, the act of singing them serves as a comforting reminder of her steadfast beliefs. This verse suggests that expressing faith through song during difficult periods might be the “truest praise,” as it requires genuine conviction. The line “I’ve never been forsaken and that will never change” reinforces the idea of a never-ending divine support system.

The chorus is repeated, reinforcing the main message of the song: faith that withstands time and adversity. The reference to singing in darkness with trouble all around yet still being able to sing those hymns is a testament to the enduring nature of faith.

The song briefly transitions into a tribute to classic hymns, listing “Great Is Thy Faithfulness,” “A mighty fortress is our God,” “Standing on the Promises,” and “Blessed Assurance.” These are well-known hymns that underscore the reliability and timelessness of God’s promises and love. When McEntire sings “Blessed Assurance, Jesus is my,” she connects her personal experience of faith with these universally recognized declarations of divine faithfulness.

The final chorus reinforces the song’s central message once more, making it unequivocally clear that her faith and the associated hymns that have carried her through life remain relevant and powerful, regardless of the circumstances. The concluding phrase, “How sweet the sound that saved a wretch just like me,” is a poignant nod to “Amazing Grace,” encapsulating the idea of redemption and unearned grace that forms the bedrock of her faith.

In conclusion, “Sing It Now” is an eloquent and profound reflection on enduring faith, the comforting power of hymns, and the resilience that comes from inner spiritual strength. Through personal anecdotes and timeless hymn references, McEntire conveys a message of unwavering faith, hope, and the timeless nature of divine assurances. The use of bold highlights helps emphasize critical themes and phrases that underscore the song’s heartfelt message.