THERE’S A TIME TO LAUGH, AND A TIME TO CRY
There’s a time to mourn,
And a time to shout for joy.
There’s a time to gather in,
And a time to give away;
For a season we may sow in tears,
Longing for the harvest day.
But it’s always the time to worship You,
And it’s always the time
To give our thanks to You.
We will praise Your name,
Jesus, faithful and true.
‘Cause it’s always the time to worship You.
There’s a time for peace, and a time for war,
There’s a time to rend,
And a time to mend what’s torn.
There’s a time to fight for good,
And a time for love’s embrace:
For a season we may sacrifice,
For the sake of brighter days.
There are many things in these troubled times
That can fill us with distress,
But when our eyes are on You, Jesus,
Then our hearts remain at rest.
Robert Critchley
Song Meaning
“There’s a time -Always the time” centres on worshipping through every season—joy, grief, sowing, and waiting—while keeping the heart fixed on Jesus. Its repeated language turns doctrine into prayer and gives worshippers words for a faithful response to God.
Biblical Message
The song closely reflects Ecclesiastes 3:1–4 and 1 Thessalonians 5:18. These passages illuminate its central images and anchor its message in Scripture: God acts in grace, his people respond in faith, and hope rests in what he has promised.
Reflection
Use this song to pause, name the truth it declares, and consider the response it invites. It is especially fitting for services marking change, pastoral occasions, or thanksgiving amid mixed circumstances. Let its central confession become a personal prayer and a shared encouragement to the church.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is “There’s a time -Always the time” about?
It is about worshipping through every season—joy, grief, sowing, and waiting—while keeping the heart fixed on Jesus.
Which Bible passages connect with this song?
Ecclesiastes 3:1–4 and 1 Thessalonians 5:18 provide especially clear connections to its message.
How can this song be used in worship?
It can support services marking change, pastoral occasions, or thanksgiving amid mixed circumstances, followed by Scripture reading, prayer, or quiet reflection.