Song Explanation: Hold Fast

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.
– Hebrews 12:1-3

Hold Fast is a song that I sat on for a couple years before I did anything with it. Even then, I thought that it had an old school Remedy / Remedy Drive vibe, so I was elated when David Zach agreed to contribute his vocal talents on the recording. David is a good friend, and Flight Metaphor has shared the stage with Remedy Drive several times over the years. It was awesome to finally work together on something!

This song is a special one for me because I wrote it with one of my students, Connor Anderson, in mind. As a youth pastor, I’ve had the privilege of seeing many young men and women mature from snot-nosed 6th graders (God love ’em) into thoughtful, upstanding adults. When I started working on the lyrics to Hold Fast, I decided I wanted to encourage my students to stand firm in their faith as they transition from high school into adulthood. However, as I wrote, I found myself thinking specifically about Connor. I’ve known Connor since he was in pre-school, and over the years I’ve come to view him not only as a student but as a dear friend. Hold Fast was penned in the months leading up to his high school graduation, so I decided to dedicate the song to him.

It’s a fun pop rock tune – so much so that we were calling it “The Woah Song” leading up to the album’s release. Hold Fast is a fine title, but I’m still somewhat partial to just writing “Woah Song” on our set lists.

As for Connor, I’m happy to report that two years later his head is still screwed on straight, and he continues to pursue a deeper faith in Jesus 🙂

Lyrics:
Hold fast, you’ve got to keep your feet planted
Dig in those heels
Sometimes it gets so hard to endure
But you’re not alone

Come on and face the light, give it another try
Give words to what your heart must sing
You never were alone, your life is not your own
Lean in to what the future brings

Focus, I think you’re getting distracted
Don’t lose your mind
Purpose is found in every moment
You’ll see in time
Open your eyes

Don’t walk away
Your story still remains unfinished
There’s more to say
Don’t cut it short, don’t rob yourself
There’s so much potential

You can stream and purchase Flight Metaphor via Bandcamp, iTunes, and Spotify.

Leave a Comment