Do Something

Matthew West's song 'Do Something' is a powerful anthem that calls for personal responsibility and action in the face of global suffering and injustice. The song begins with the artist waking up to a world filled with trouble and questioning how things have deteriorated so much. He turns to God, asking why divine intervention hasn't occurred to alleviate the suffering. The response he receives is profound: 'I did, I created you.' This line shifts the focus from divine intervention to human responsibility, emphasizing that individuals are the instruments of change in the world.

The lyrics highlight various social issues such as poverty and child slavery, which deeply trouble the artist. He expresses his frustration with passive attitudes and the tendency to wait for others to take action. The repeated refrain, 'If not us, then who? If not me and you?' serves as a rallying cry, urging listeners to take immediate action rather than waiting for someone else to step in. This message is further reinforced by the lines, 'It’s not enough to do nothing, it’s time for us to do something,' which underline the urgency and necessity of proactive engagement.

West also critiques the complacency often found within religious communities, where people talk about being 'God’s hands and feet' but fail to act accordingly. He challenges this apathy, expressing a desire for a passionate, active faith that makes a tangible difference in the world. The song concludes with a powerful metaphor, describing people as 'the salt of the earth' and 'a city on a hill,' suggesting that they have the potential to bring about significant change if they refuse to 'stand still.' This metaphor reinforces the idea that everyone has a role to play in making the world a better place.