In contemporary Christian worship music, songs of lament and songs that grapple with hardship are becoming less common, especially within the popular CCM genre. In many churches today, there’s a tendency to lean towards upbeat praise, often overlooking the importance of expressing pain and struggle in our worship. While acknowledging difficulties in song lyrics isn’t entirely absent, there’s often a rush to move from mourning to celebration, quickly bypassing the complexities of grief in favor of the anticipated joy of Easter. We understand the ultimate victory and the promise of eternal union with God, yet sometimes, prematurely moving past grief can diminish the depth and authenticity of our worship experience.
What makes “Hard Fought Hallelujah,” a song by Ben Hastings, Brandon Lake, and Steven Furtick, particularly resonant is its unique approach to praise. Instead of praising from a place of comfort and resolution, this song emerges from the very heart of struggle. These seasoned songwriters, with Hastings’ background at Hillsong Worship and Lake and Furtick’s association with Elevation Church, have created a piece that is both deeply moving and undeniably catchy. It’s a song that invites us to consider: Is “Hard Fought Hallelujah” a biblically sound expression of worship, and how effectively does it facilitate genuine worship?
What Makes a Hallelujah Song?
Before diving into “Hard Fought Hallelujah,” it’s important to understand the essence of a “hallelujah song”. The word “hallelujah” itself, derived from Hebrew, means “praise ye the Lord.” In songs, “hallelujah” is more than just a word; it’s an expression of adoration, thanksgiving, and reverence towards God. Hallelujah songs, at their core, are meant to lift our hearts and voices in unified praise. They can range from exuberant anthems of victory to quieter declarations of faith, but they all share the common thread of directing our focus to God and His glory.
However, the context and delivery of “hallelujah” can significantly alter a song’s impact. Is it a reflexive, joyful outburst, or a declaration made through gritted teeth in the face of adversity? “Hard Fought Hallelujah” explores the latter, presenting a powerful example of praise that is not diminished, but rather strengthened, by struggle. This song challenges the often-held notion that worship must always be cheerful and effortless, inviting us to consider the validity and depth of praise that arises from pain.
“Hard Fought Hallelujah”: A Song of Praise in Struggle
“Hard Fought Hallelujah” centers around the theme of offering praise to God amidst personal suffering and intense struggle. The song’s focus is primarily on the human experience of worship in difficult times, making it a deeply relatable piece for many. While God’s attributes are acknowledged, particularly His patience and grace in the chorus, the song primarily explores the worshiper’s journey of bringing praise to God even when it’s hard.
Some might argue that this focus on the human experience of praise makes the song too self-centered for corporate worship. While this is a valid point to consider, especially in the context of communal worship planning, it’s also crucial to recognize the value of songs that give voice to the often-unspoken struggles within a congregation. “Hard Fought Hallelujah” offers an opportunity to acknowledge and validate the pain and resilience present in the worshipping body, creating a space for honest and authentic expression before God.
Biblical Focus: Praise Amidst Suffering
The concept of “hard-fought praise” is deeply rooted in biblical tradition. The Psalms, in particular, are filled with examples of lament and praise interwoven. Psalm 42, referenced in the original article in relation to Verse 1, beautifully illustrates this. The psalmist, in deep distress, cries out to God while simultaneously reminding his soul to hope in Him and praise Him. This duality – acknowledging pain while choosing praise – is at the heart of “Hard Fought Hallelujah”.
The Bible doesn’t shy away from the reality of suffering in the lives of believers. Instead, it provides a framework for navigating these times with faith and drawing strength from God. From Moses’s fight for the Israelites’ right to worship, to Paul and Silas praising God in prison, and Daniel’s unwavering prayer life despite threats, Scripture is replete with examples of individuals who fought to maintain their worship and devotion to God in the face of adversity. Ephesians 6 further emphasizes the spiritual battle believers face, portraying praise as a weapon in this ongoing conflict. “Hard Fought Hallelujah” taps into this rich biblical tapestry, echoing the struggles and triumphs of faith throughout history.
Lyric Breakdown: Verse by Verse
To fully appreciate the message of “Hard Fought Hallelujah,” it’s essential to delve into the lyrics verse by verse:
Verse 1
I came in Your presence
Didn’t want to stay long
But You captured my spirit
With a hallelujah song
This verse immediately sets a tone of initial reluctance, a feeling familiar to many who approach worship carrying burdens or distractions. There’s an honesty in admitting the lack of initial enthusiasm, contrasting it with the transformative power of encountering God. The phrase “hallelujah song” here is not just about the musical piece itself, but the overall atmosphere of praise and divine presence that captivates the worshiper’s spirit. It speaks to the idea that even when we don’t feel like praising, encountering God can change our hearts and draw us into worship.
Pre-Chorus 1
‘Cause sometimes praise is a sacrifice
It doesn’t always feel like triumph
I know You see it
I know You feel it
This pre-chorus articulates a core theme of the song: praise as sacrifice. It acknowledges that worship isn’t always an emotional high; sometimes, it’s an act of will, a conscious choice to offer praise even when feelings of triumph are absent. Drawing from Romans 12:1, which calls for offering our bodies as living sacrifices, the song highlights the effort and intentionality sometimes required for true worship. It’s in these moments of sacrificial praise, offered despite discomfort or pain, that worship becomes particularly precious to God. This section also serves as a teaching moment, encouraging those who might find musical participation challenging to consider lifting their voices and hands as an act of worship and solidarity.
Chorus
I’ll bring You a hard-fought hallelujah
I’ll bring You a heart-felt hallelujah
I’ll bring You a been-through-hell hallelujah
I’ll bring You a storm-tossed hallelujah
I’ll bring You a torn-sail hallelujah
With a story to tell hallelujah
God, You’ve been patient
God, You’ve been gracious
And it is well, it is well with my soul
The chorus is the emotional and lyrical heart of the song, repeatedly declaring “hallelujah” in various contexts of struggle. The phrase “hard-fought hallelujah” encapsulates the central idea: praise that has been wrestled for, earned through difficulty. “Heart-felt hallelujah” emphasizes the sincerity and emotional depth of this praise, echoing Jesus’ teaching about worshiping in spirit and truth (John 4:23-24). True worship, while not solely about feelings, inevitably engages our emotions as we respond to God’s goodness and greatness.
The line “been-through-hell hallelujah” is perhaps the most provocative. While not intended literally, “hell” here represents extreme suffering, a feeling of isolation and God-forsakenness that many experience during intense trials. It’s a metaphorical depiction of profound pain, not a theological statement about eternal damnation. “Storm-tossed hallelujah” and “torn-sail hallelujah” further illustrate the imagery of being battered and wounded by life’s storms, yet still offering praise. These lines paint a vivid picture of resilience and unwavering faith in the face of adversity.
“Story to tell hallelujah” connects praise with testimony. It suggests that our worship is not just for ourselves but also a declaration of God’s faithfulness to others. Sharing our stories of overcoming hardship through faith becomes an integral part of our praise. The chorus concludes by acknowledging God’s patience and grace, attributes that sustain us through suffering, and affirms the peace that surpasses understanding, even amidst trials (Philippians 4:7). The repetition of “hallelujah” throughout the chorus reinforces its power and significance as an expression of praise in the face of adversity.
Verse 2
I wrestled with darkness
I danced with doubt
But I kicked at the madness
‘Til the promise broke out
Verse 2 delves deeper into the internal struggles of the worshiper. “Wrestling with darkness” and “dancing with doubt” are poetic expressions of grappling with temptation, despair, or uncertainty. These lines acknowledge the reality of spiritual and emotional battles that believers face. However, the verse doesn’t end in defeat. “Kicked at the madness / ‘Til the promise broke out” suggests an active resistance against despair, a persistent clinging to God’s promises until breakthrough comes. This resonates with Paul’s understanding in 2 Corinthians 12:7, where he speaks of trials fostering humility. Struggle, while painful, can ultimately lead to a deeper reliance on God and a stronger faith.
Pre-Chorus 2
‘Cause You refine like fire
You purify desire
I know You see it
I know You feel it
Pre-Chorus 2 shifts the focus to God’s refining work in suffering. The image of fire refining gold is drawn from Malachi 3:1-4, which speaks of the Messiah’s purifying work. This metaphor highlights the transformative potential of suffering when yielded to God. Just as fire removes impurities from gold, trials, when faced with faith, can refine our character and purify our desires. James 1:2-4 echoes this, encouraging believers to rejoice in trials, knowing that they cultivate perseverance and perfect our faith. This section offers a hopeful perspective on suffering, framing it not as meaningless pain, but as a process through which God shapes and strengthens us.
Bridge
Oh, oh, oh. Whoa. Oh, oh, oh. Whoa.
The bridge, consisting of non-lexical vocables, serves as an emotional release, a moment of raw expression that transcends words. In the context of the song, it can be interpreted as the sound of groaning, lament, or even wordless praise. This section provides space for emotional catharsis, allowing the worshipper to connect with the song’s themes on a deeper, non-verbal level.
Musicality and Accessibility
Musically, “Hard Fought Hallelujah” effectively mirrors its lyrical content. The blues-infused melody, as noted in the original article, perfectly complements the song’s themes of pain and perseverance. The musical arrangement, with its contrasts and dropouts, emphasizes the emotional weight of the chorus, drawing listeners into the heart of the song’s message.
In terms of accessibility, the song strikes a balance. While the melody might be slightly less straightforward than typical congregational songs, it’s not overly complex. The lyrics, though profound, avoid overly “churchy” language, making the song relatable to a broader audience, including those with limited church experience. The exception, as mentioned, might be the word “hallelujah” itself, which, in contemporary culture, can sometimes be perceived as a generic celebratory term. However, within the context of the song, its meaning is clearly rooted in praise to God.
The use of “hell” in the lyrics is a point of potential contention, primarily within church circles. While some may find it jarring or inappropriate for worship, it’s crucial to understand its metaphorical use in the song, representing intense suffering rather than literal damnation. For those outside of church culture, or those less sensitive to theological nuances, the term is likely to be understood simply as an expression of extreme hardship, as intended by the songwriters.
Points of Consideration: “Hell” and Worship Style
The inclusion of the word “hell” remains a significant point of discussion. While the songwriters’ intent is clearly metaphorical, its use in a worship song can be distracting or even offensive to some. Churches considering using “Hard Fought Hallelujah” in congregational worship should be mindful of their congregation’s sensitivities and potentially offer a brief explanation of the intended meaning. Alternatively, some may choose to adapt the lyric, substituting “hell” with a less controversial term that still conveys the intensity of suffering.
Furthermore, the musical style of “Hard Fought Hallelujah,” with its bluesy and somewhat melancholic feel, might not fit every church’s typical worship style. Churches that predominantly favor upbeat, celebratory music might find this song a departure from their norm. However, incorporating diverse musical styles and thematic content can enrich a congregation’s worship experience, exposing them to a wider range of emotional expression and theological depth.
Conclusion: The Value of “Hard Fought Hallelujah” and Hallelujah Songs Today
“Hard Fought Hallelujah” is a valuable contribution to contemporary worship music because it dares to explore the complex relationship between praise and suffering. In a culture that often prioritizes positivity and avoids uncomfortable emotions, this song offers a refreshing and honest portrayal of faith that perseveres through pain. It teaches us that praise is not only for mountaintop experiences but is also a powerful weapon and a precious offering in the valleys of life.
While the song presents some valid points for consideration, particularly regarding the use of “hell” and its musical style, its strengths are undeniable. It provides a voice for lament, an often-overlooked aspect of worship, and encourages authenticity in our expressions of faith. “Hard Fought Hallelujah” reminds us that true worship is not contingent on feeling good, but rather on a conscious choice to praise God regardless of our circumstances. It’s a powerful reminder that even a “hard-fought hallelujah” is a sweet sound to God, and a testament to the enduring power of faith in the midst of struggle.
Ultimately, “Hard Fought Hallelujah” and songs like it serve as important reminders of the breadth of human experience that can be brought into worship. They encourage churches to embrace a more holistic approach to worship, one that includes not only celebration and joy but also lament, struggle, and the gritty realities of life. By doing so, we create space for authentic connection with God and with one another, fostering a worship environment that is both deeply moving and genuinely helpful.
Man playing guitar during a church service
Scripture quotations are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), Copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. May not copy or download more than 500 consecutive verses of the ESV Bible or more than one half of any book of the ESV Bible.
