We need more honest songs like this exploring the difficulties of being in ministry (and doing so via the medium of good music). There’s some serious tension running throughout this song of “success” in ministry vs. faithfulness, appearance vs. reality. All of us are tempted to compromise in order to see more fruit. And those compromises – or even just the effort to resist them – can leave us feeling empty, frustrated, and jaded. Ministry sometimes just beats us up, highlighting our utter dependence on God for any of it to mean anything at all. I just saw the official music video for the first time (not the above lyric video), and it explores these themes visually, and does so in a creative-humorous-ironic way that I really enjoyed – a strong contrast between funny visuals and a very sobering message. Well done, Gable Price and Friends.
If you’ve been in ministry much, I wouldn’t be surprised if certain lyrics below hit home.
Lyrics: I broke my wrist Punching through a wall in the parsonage The congregation can't see me crying I've got a swollen eye From wrestlin' my demons every night And uncle screwtape won't be my last one I've got 2 spare tires and far more county lines than exit signs I'm on this road until my engine dies I need you If I'm being honest I haven't been honest in a couple odd years now I need you If the land that I take is another step away from you I don't want it I’ve got a heavy foot, and we’re pushing 95 I'm speeding down your road until the engine dies I need you Righteous Rage Hold me deep inside the tension every day Can anger be holy if you don't let it eat clean through you? I'm a optimist When I close my eyes and clench my fist And if pains in the mindset, than so is denial If I'm being honest I haven't been honest in a couple odd years now I need you If the land that I take is another step away from you I don't want it You gotta let it hurt Our image is the only thing we're worth His is the kingdom and yours is the church Smile with your teeth Your bruises make a lovely accessory Have some guts kid, this is ministry Have some guts kid, this is ministry I need you I need you I need you
Entrusted to the Dirt 