Red Rocks Worship’s song Good Plans is a modern worship anthem that emphasizes God’s faithfulness, sovereignty, and goodness in the lives of believers. Let’s dive into its lyrics and evaluate its message through the lens of Scripture and theological depth.
Message of the Song
“Good Plans” by Red Rocks Worship delivers a message of trust and assurance in God’s sovereignty and goodness. It emphasizes that God has “good plans” for His children, reflecting the promise in Romans 8:28 (NKJV): “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.” This message centers on God’s unchanging love and the believer’s confidence in His divine purpose, even in challenging circumstances.
Drawing from Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV), the lyrics also underscore that God’s plans are ultimately for the good of those who trust in Him. It assures believers of God’s presence in times of uncertainty and pain, resonating deeply with John 3:16-21 (ESV), which speaks of God’s love and plan for salvation through Jesus Christ.
Red Rocks Worship – Good Plans (Official Live Video)
Alignment with Scripture
Verse 1:
The verse, “The Lord is my shepherd, and He is everything I need,” reflects the intimate relationship between God and His people, as portrayed in Psalm 23:1 (NKJV): “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.” By identifying God as a shepherd, the song aligns with the biblical metaphor of God’s care, guidance, and protection over His flock. This image conveys that God provides for every need—physical, emotional, and spiritual—just as a shepherd ensures the safety and well-being of his sheep.
The subsequent lines, “So I will not worry, I will not fear the enemy,” highlight the believer’s confidence in God’s protection. In John 10:11 (NIV), Jesus describes Himself as the “good shepherd” who lays down His life for the sheep, assuring believers that they are safeguarded from ultimate harm, even from spiritual adversaries. The enemy—whether interpreted as fear, trials, or Satan himself—is rendered powerless in the light of God’s presence and authority (Psalm 23:4, Romans 8:31).
The lyrics continue with, “He said that He loves me, He said that He’s with me even though I walk through the valley of shadow and death.” This phrase directly echoes Psalm 23:4 (ESV): “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me.” It emphasizes God’s promise to remain present with His people, even in their darkest and most perilous moments. The “valley of shadow and death” symbolizes times of intense fear, danger, or grief, yet the believer finds solace in God’s unwavering companionship and love.
Finally, the declaration, “And still I know,” signifies the deep trust that sustains the believer. This phrase encapsulates the confidence that, regardless of circumstances, God’s promises remain true. In Isaiah 41:10 (NIV), God says, “Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” This trust is not based on fleeting emotions but on the firm foundation of God’s character and His covenantal relationship with His people.
Overall, this verse weaves together themes of provision, love, and protection. It reassures believers that God is not only a distant provider but a close, personal shepherd who walks beside them through life’s trials. It calls them to replace fear and worry with faith and trust, drawing strength from the knowledge of God’s unfailing presence. This makes the song relatable and comforting, reinforcing foundational truths of the Christian faith in a deeply personal way.
Verse 2:
Verse 2 begins with the powerful declaration, “The Lord is my Savior,” affirming the central truth of Christianity: Jesus Christ as the Savior who redeems humanity from sin and death. This statement resonates deeply with passages like Isaiah 43:11 (NIV): “I, even I, am the Lord, and apart from me there is no savior,” and John 4:42 (NKJV), where Jesus is acknowledged as “the Savior of the world.” This identity of God as Savior underscores His role not just in rescuing from physical danger, as seen in the Old Testament, but in offering ultimate salvation through Christ’s sacrifice.
The rhetorical questions that follow—”So why should I doubt my victory? Why would I question?”—challenge the believer to confront their moments of doubt and fear. These lines draw from biblical assurances of triumph through faith, such as 1 Corinthians 15:57 (NKJV): “But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” The emphasis here is that victory is already secured by God, so doubting His power or questioning His faithfulness undermines the truth of His promises.
The reference to “The rod and the staff that comforts me” is a direct callback to Psalm 23:4 (NIV): “Your rod and your staff, they comfort me.” These tools of a shepherd symbolize both guidance and protection. The rod defends against threats, while the staff redirects the sheep and keeps them on the right path. This imagery assures believers that God not only protects them from harm but also lovingly disciplines and guides them for their own good (Hebrews 12:6 NIV).
The lines “He quiets the waters, He quiets the storm inside of me” evoke vivid imagery of peace and restoration. The first part reflects Psalm 23:2 (NIV): “He makes me lie down in green pastures, He leads me beside quiet waters.” This paints a picture of God leading believers to places of spiritual rest and refreshment. The second part, “He quiets the storm inside of me,” reminds us of Mark 4:39 (ESV), where Jesus calms the storm, demonstrating His authority over chaos both externally and internally. This dual calming shows God’s power not just to alter circumstances but also to bring peace to a troubled heart.
The verse concludes with the profound reflection, “So, what could be better than walking with Him when I believe?” This line emphasizes the incomparable joy and security found in a relationship with God. Amos 3:3 (NKJV) asks, “Can two walk together, unless they are agreed?” Walking with God implies agreement with His will, trust in His plans, and an ongoing, intimate fellowship. When belief is present, the journey with God becomes not only purposeful but deeply fulfilling, transcending any earthly experience.
Overall, Verse 2 reinforces the themes of trust, victory, and peace found in a relationship with God. It challenges listeners to rely on God’s power and provision rather than their own strength, trusting that He is actively working for their good. Through scriptural imagery and personal application, it invites believers to embrace a life of faith, knowing that walking with God is the ultimate source of comfort and triumph.
Chorus:
The chorus of “Good Plans” is a resounding affirmation of God’s sovereignty and His loving intentions for His children. The repeated declaration, “He has good plans, He has good plans for me,” directly echoes Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV): “For I know the plans I have for you… plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” This verse, originally addressed to the Israelites in exile, reassures believers today that God’s plans are rooted in His goodness and are always for their ultimate benefit, even when circumstances are difficult to understand.
“So, I will take heart in deserts and gardens” presents a contrast between two seasons of life: the desert, symbolizing times of dryness, struggle, and testing, and the garden, representing abundance, peace, and renewal. This imagery reflects the journey of faith, where believers experience both trials and blessings. The exhortation to “take heart” recalls Jesus’ words in John 16:33 (NIV): “In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” Whether walking through the spiritual desert or enjoying the richness of the garden, the believer is encouraged to trust in God’s unchanging character and plan.
The repetition of “He has good plans” serves as a faith-building proclamation, reinforcing the believer’s confidence in God’s purposes. The phrase is not merely an expression of hope but a firm conviction grounded in the nature of God, who works all things together for good (Romans 8:28 NKJV). This refrain encourages believers to look beyond their immediate circumstances and trust in the overarching story God is writing in their lives.
The line, “If I know my Father, I know my Father,” highlights the importance of an intimate relationship with God. To know God as “Father” is to understand His nature as a loving, providing, and guiding presence in one’s life. This reflects Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 7:11 (NIV): “If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask Him!” Knowing God as Father means trusting that His plans are always for good, even when they involve discipline or waiting (Hebrews 12:6 NIV).
Theologically, this chorus underscores God’s goodness, faithfulness, and intentionality. It reminds believers that their circumstances do not define God’s character; rather, His plans remain good, even in trials. The encouragement to “take heart” is a call to steadfast faith, rooted in the assurance that God’s plans are not arbitrary or harmful but purposeful and loving.
In a worship setting, the chorus functions as a communal declaration of trust. Its simplicity and repetition invite participants to internalize and proclaim this truth personally. The transition between “deserts and gardens” reminds believers of their shared experience of life’s highs and lows, unified in the belief that God’s plans are always good. This makes the chorus not just a moment of praise but also a powerful reaffirmation of faith that strengthens individuals and the community in their walk with God.
Bridge:
The bridge of Good Plans draws deeply from Psalm 23:6 (NKJV): “Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” This section of the song powerfully underscores the themes of divine presence, protection, and eternal security.
The repeated affirmation, “Surely Your goodness and mercy will follow after me,” reflects an unshakable trust in God’s unchanging character. The use of “surely” conveys certainty, reminding believers that God’s goodness and mercy are not conditional or occasional but a constant reality for those who walk with Him. The word “follow” is significant—it implies not just passive accompaniment but an active pursuit by God, a truth reinforced in the Hebrew understanding of the term in Psalm 23:6. God’s goodness and mercy are likened to a shepherd relentlessly ensuring the well-being of His sheep, never leaving them vulnerable or alone.
“So, fear will not find me” declares victory over fear, a recurring biblical theme. In Isaiah 41:10 (NIV), God commands, “Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God.” This assurance is rooted in God’s presence, which casts out fear (1 John 4:18 ESV). The repetition of this phrase throughout the bridge emphasizes a life free from the paralyzing grip of fear, anchored instead in the knowledge that God’s goodness and mercy are actively working for the believer’s good.
The line, “’Cause I’ll be dwelling in the house of God,” speaks to a life of intimacy and communion with God. To “dwell in the house of God” goes beyond the physical temple imagery of the Old Testament; it symbolizes abiding in God’s presence, both now and forever. This reflects Jesus’ promise in John 15:4 (NIV): “Remain in me, as I also remain in you.” The believer’s ultimate security and joy come from being in God’s presence, a truth that transcends earthly circumstances and extends into eternity.
By repeating this promise, the bridge emphasizes the ongoing, eternal nature of God’s care. Fear, often a result of uncertainty or separation, is rendered powerless in the face of the believer’s proximity to God. The repetition of these truths invites worshippers to meditate on and internalize the reality of God’s goodness, mercy, and presence in their lives.
Theologically, the bridge highlights key aspects of God’s nature:
- God’s Pursuing Love: His goodness and mercy actively follow His people.
- Freedom from Fear: Trusting in God eliminates the power of fear over the believer.
- Eternal Security: Dwelling in God’s house reflects the believer’s place in His kingdom, both now and forever.
In worship, the bridge provides a moment of triumphant reflection and declaration. Its meditative quality allows worshippers to focus on the personal application of these truths, moving from head knowledge to heart experience. By repeatedly affirming God’s pursuit of His people and their place in His presence, it reinforces the believer’s assurance of God’s unchanging faithfulness. The bridge is a powerful proclamation of trust and hope, declaring that nothing—not fear, trials, or doubt—can separate God’s children from His loving care.
Vertical or Horizontal Worship?
This is primarily a vertical worship song, as it directs adoration and trust toward God. The repeated focus on God’s goodness and faithfulness emphasizes worship rather than teaching or edifying the congregation directly. However, it also has a horizontal element, offering encouragement to the congregation by reminding them of God’s promises and urging them to trust in His plans.
Theological Depth
In a worship setting, “Good Plans” serves as a unifying song for believers at every stage of their faith journey. For young or seeking believers, it offers encouragement and clear truths about God’s love and care. For mature Christians, it provides an opportunity to reflect on God’s deeper promises and faithfulness, inviting them to a renewed sense of awe and gratitude.
This duality—providing both milk and meat—is what makes “Good Plans” such an effective tool for worship and edification. It meets people where they are while drawing them closer to God, offering both foundational encouragement and profound theological richness.
Biblical Themes
- God’s Goodness: Emphasizes His faithful and benevolent nature (Psalm 23:6, Jeremiah 29:11).
- Assurance and Trust: Encourages reliance on God’s sovereignty and His plans (Romans 8:28, Proverbs 3:5-6).
- Freedom from Fear: Declares victory over fear through God’s presence and promises (Isaiah 41:10, 2 Timothy 1:7).
- Guidance and Protection: Portrays God as the Shepherd who leads and defends His people (Psalm 23:4, John 10:11).
- Spiritual Renewal: Offers hope for restoration and peace in challenging times (Psalm 23:2, Isaiah 40:31).
- Eternal Security: Affirms dwelling in God’s presence now and forever (Psalm 23:6, Revelation 21:3-4).
Recommended Use: Congregational worship, particularly for services focused on trust, hope, and God’s faithfulness.
Personal and Worship Team Experience
Our worship team has incorporated Good Plans into congregational worship, finding it to be an uplifting and accessible song for the church body. Its easy-to-learn lyrics and repetitive chorus encourage full participation. The worship leader may flow into the song with relevant Scripture or trust lyrics in complimentary songs of the day will bring more theological depth and grounding in an overall gospel message.
Conclusion
“Good Plans” in your worship set could be a powerful moment of inspiration. The themes of optimism, hope, and resilience are universally appealing, and the authenticity and unity displayed by the team might plant a seed of desire for similar qualities in the life of a spectator. While they might not interpret the song’s message in a distinctly Christian way, they could still find value in its emotional depth, communal power, and invitation to embrace a hopeful perspective on life.
Final Rating: 4.5/5 – Encouraging and biblically grounded but best paired with supporting Scripture or teaching for theological depth.
What are your thoughts on Good Plans? Have you incorporated it into your worship set list? Let’s continue the conversation!
