“Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live,”

John 11:25 ESV

“Because He Lives” is one of the most loved and widely sung hymns written by Bill Gaither and Gloria Gaither.

Gloria, a wife and a mother, was living through the upheaval of the 1960s while expecting their third child. It was a time when the drug culture was rising, confusion filled people’s minds, cities were tense with racial unrest, and many voices were even declaring that God was dead. At the same time, her husband Bill was weak—both physically and emotionally—battling illness and deep discouragement. The pressure on their family was heavy.

On New Year’s Eve, in the quiet and darkness of their living room, this song was born. Gloria sat alone, thinking about the state of the world, her husband’s struggles, their family burdens, and the child she was carrying. Fear filled her heart, and she wondered, Who would bring a child into a world like this? What kind of future will this baby have?

But in that very moment, something changed.

As those thoughts overwhelmed her, she suddenly felt a release. The panic began to fade, and a gentle, reassuring presence surrounded her. Peace replaced fear.

She later shared:

“Gradually, the fear left, and joy began to return. I knew I could have that baby and face the future with hope and trust. It was the Resurrection becoming real in our lives again. It was life conquering death in the ordinary moments of my day.”

This is not just Gloria’s story—it is ours too.

Many of us walk through seasons of darkness, filled with uncertainty, doubt, and questions about the future. But this song reminds us of a powerful truth: because Jesus lives, you can face tomorrow. You don’t have to fear what is ahead. You can stand with boldness, assurance, and confidence, knowing that He holds your future.Your grave is conquered by the living God Jesus.

Bill named the tune “Resurrection,” because it is the resurrection of Jesus Christ that is the foundation of our hope—our salvation, our peace, and our eternal life.

Because He lives, life is worth living.

Because He lives, your tomorrow is secure.

Because He lives, you are never alone.

Prayer:

Lord Jesus, thank You that You are alive. When fear rises and the future feels uncertain, remind me that You hold my tomorrow. Fill my heart with Your peace and confidence. Help me to trust You fully and walk in hope, knowing that because You live, I can face every day. Amen.