I WANT TO BE HOLY,
I want to be righteous,
I want to live my life the way You want me to.
I want to be blameless,
Not walking in darkness,
I want to be a living sacrifice to You.
I’m gonna run the race,
I’m gonna run to win,
Throw off everything that hinders me.
I’m gonna fix my eyes upon the King,
And leave my sin behind.
I want to be so much better,
I want to be more like You.
Keep taking me further and deeper,
I want to right the wrong,
I want to live this song,
Now I’m pressing on,
I’m gonna leave my sin behind.
Singing, ‘goodbye rage, goodbye hate,
Goodbye anger, goodbye malice,
Goodbye bitterness and slander,
Goodbye fear of man!’
(Repeat)
Paul Oakley & Alan Rose
Song Meaning
“I Want To Be Holy” develops Christ’s saving work through the cross, forgiveness, and new life. Its opening image—“I WANT TO BE HOLY, I want to be righteous, I want to live”—sets the direction, while the repeated lines turn the message into a personal and congregational response.
Biblical Message
The song connects closely with 1 Peter 2:24 and Colossians 2:13–15. These passages anchor its main theme in Scripture and show how God’s action invites faith, worship, obedience, and hope.
Reflection
This song is especially useful for Communion, Good Friday, Easter, or a gospel response. Consider which line most clearly names your present need, then let that line become a simple prayer and an encouragement shared with the church.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is “I Want To Be Holy” about?
It focuses on Christ’s saving work through the cross, forgiveness, and new life.
Which Bible passages connect with this song?
1 Peter 2:24 and Colossians 2:13–15 offer clear biblical connections to its central message.
How can this song be used in worship?
It can support Communion, Good Friday, Easter, or a gospel response, followed by Scripture, prayer, or quiet reflection.