What If I Gave Everything

Casting Crowns' song 'What If I Gave Everything' delves into the internal struggle of fully committing to one's faith and purpose. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person who has always aspired to be a hero, someone who takes on great challenges and makes a significant impact. This imagery of a warrior with a heart full of courage sets the stage for the central conflict of the song: the hesitation and fear that hold the individual back from fully embracing their calling.

The song's protagonist grapples with the fear of the unknown and the potential costs of following a higher calling. Despite hearing a divine call to venture into 'deeper waters,' they find themselves stuck in the 'shallow end,' building 'little kingdoms' that are ultimately insignificant. This metaphor of shallow waters versus deeper waters symbolizes the difference between a life of comfort and safety and a life of faith and risk. The lyrics express a deep yearning to break free from this stagnation and to live a life of true faith and purpose.

As the song progresses, there is a shift from questioning and hesitation to a resolve to take action. The repeated question, 'What if I gave everything?' signifies a turning point where the individual decides to stop holding back and to fully commit to their faith. This decision to step out into deeper waters represents a desire to see 'mountains move,' a metaphor for achieving great things through faith. The song concludes with a sense of readiness and determination to embrace this new path, leaving behind the fear and hesitation that once held them back.