Meaning of "These Hard Times" by Needtobreathe

"These Hard Times" portrays a longing for something more in life during challenging times. The singer pleads for something brighter, wanting to see and experience something that brings positivity and hope. The repetition of "give me" signifies a deep desire for change and improvement. The mention of love, peace, and an end to wars reflects a yearning for harmony and unity in a divided world. The request for something sacred and worth fighting for indicates a need for purpose and meaning in life. The lyrics acknowledge the "ugliness" the singer sees, implying the struggles, pain, and negativity they observe in the world. However, this ugliness serves as evidence of what the singer truly needs - something more meaningful and transformative.

The chorus expresses a plea for answers, a way out, and faith to believe in these difficult times. It reflects a desire for guidance and reassurance, seeking a path or solution to overcome the challenges faced. The song notes the importance of motivation and the fulfillment of heart's desires. It yearns to see something beautiful and inspiring, even to the point of exhaustion (show me till my eyes get tired). The mention of drums and learning to play them loudly symbolizes the need to be active and expressive, to find joy and passion even when it may feel like the presence of something greater is absent.

The lyrics also touch on the fear and hiding that can result from difficult times. Comparing themselves to thieves in shadows, the singer acknowledges the tendency to retreat and avoid vulnerability when faced with adversity. However, the mention of knowing that the light will find them emphasizes the inevitable truth that growth and healing can occur despite the mistakes and wrongdoings in life.

Overall, "These Hard Times" conveys a sense of longing for something greater and more fulfilling, an acknowledgement of the challenges and ugliness in the world, and a plea for guidance, faith, and motivation to navigate through difficult times.