Behind The Song: Skillet Shares The Heart Behind Their Song “Refuge”

This week’s featured song story comes to us from Skillet. We’re excited to share with you the story behind their song “Refuge.”

“The song ‘Refuge’ is a song that’s admitting yes things are really bad and yes I am going through a really hard time. There’s nothing wrong with admitting that you’re going through a really hard time. It’s about admitting that but also saying I know pain is going to be here, I know I can’t get rid of the pain but there is a way to deal with it by casting your cares & burdens upon a God who is listening and cares for you.” – John Cooper (Skillet)

Click on the video below to hear John Cooper of Skillet share the story. Scroll down to listen and read the full lyrics of the song.

From the album Dominion.

“Refuge” Lyrics

When I open my eyes, I can’t believe it
How the world can look so different than we were dreamin’
It’s gettin’ harder to say I’m undefeated
When the best my heart can hope for is breakin’ even

Here and now, reachin’ out
In my hurt, I don’t know how
But I know I’m not aloneI can face my darkest night
‘Cause I trust You with my life
I’m not afraid, for You are my refuge
When it’s heavy on my chest
You’re the place I catch my breath
You are the only one I hold onto
Oh, ’cause You are my refuge

I know how this ends, I’m gonna make it
Your Word is in my heart, none could ever take it

Here and now, in this hour
Come and fill me with Your power
Let me know I’m not alone

I can face my darkest night
‘Cause I trust You with my life
I’m not afraid, for You are my refuge
When it’s heavy on my chest
You’re the place I catch my breath
You are the only one I hold onto

Every day and darkest night (night)
I trust You at all times (trust You at all times)
I’m not afraid, for You are my refuge
And when I’ve got nothin’ left (got nothin’ left)
You’re the place I find my rest (place I find my rest)
You are the only one that I run to
Yes, You are my refuge

You’re my rest, You’re my rock, You’re my fortress
You’re my strength, You’re my shield and You’re my defense
Nothing could ever take me from You
Nothing’s ever gonna take me from You

I can face my darkest night
‘Cause I trust You with my life
I’m not afraid, for You are my refuge
When it’s heavy on my chest
You’re the place I catch my breath
You are the only one I hold onto

Every day and darkest night (darkest night)
I trust You at all times (trust You at all times)
I’m not afraid, for You are my refuge
And when I’ve got nothin’ left (got nothin’ left)
You’re the place I find my rest (place I find my rest)
You are the only one that I run to
Yes, You are my refuge