Before I lay me down to rest
I ask the Lord one small request
I know I have all I could need
But this prayer is not for me
Too many people on this day
Don’t have a peaceful place to stay
Let all fighting cease that Your children may see peace
Wipe their tears of sorrow away
To believe in a day
When hunger and war will pass away
To have the hope amidst despair
That every sparrow’s counted
That You hear each cry and listen to each prayer
(Hear each cry and listen to each prayer)
Let me try always to believe
That we can hear the hearts that grieve
Please help us not ignore
The anguished cries of the poor
Or their pain will never leave
“Father, as you see, I’m just a child
And there’s so much to understand
But if Your Grace should surround me
Then I’ll do the very best I can
I promise, I’ll do the very best I can”
Help us do Your will oh Father
In the name of all that’s true
And we’ll see in one another
The loving image of You
Song Meaning
This childlike prayer looks beyond the singer’s own needs to people facing war, hunger, and homelessness, asking for both hope and compassionate action.
Biblical Message
Matthew 10:29–31 uses the sparrow to describe God’s care; Isaiah 58:7 calls for sharing food and shelter; Matthew 5:9 blesses peacemakers.
Reflection
Prayer includes listening to those who grieve and doing what one can to help.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main message of “To Believe”?
This childlike prayer looks beyond the singer’s own needs to people facing war, hunger, and homelessness, asking for both hope and compassionate action.
Which Bible passages connect with the song?
Matthew 10:29–31 uses the sparrow to describe God’s care; Isaiah 58:7 calls for sharing food and shelter; Matthew 5:9 blesses peacemakers.
When can this song be used in worship?
A children’s intercession or service focused on peace and the poor.