You Don't Have to Leave Here (Like You Came)
A lighthearted story about a somewhat tipsy man, who dropped into church; and, after being confronted by the preacher about his condition, experienced a powerful, Holy Ghost conversion.
Songs that are testimonies, spawned by life experiences. Each musical creation is meant to plant the seed of truth and salvation.
Ernest De Waters Jr. Music (ASCAP)
Ernie’s songs are mini sermons and testimonies spawned by life's experiences. His prayer is that each song will be a seed, planting the truth of salvation through Christ.
May God bless you and keep you in His grace.
Sincerely - Ernest DeWaters Jr.
Story behind the song
Just about every preacher Ive heard, warned people not to leave without salvation. Ive seen lives changed by merely walking in the door of a church for the first time. God is ready to receive anybody regardless of their condition. There is something about good, old fashion Full Gospel Music that pierces the heart and digs into ones soul. Put the preacher and the music together and miracles can happen to anyone in any condition. Ive seen it happen time and time again.
The problem is that many folks are afraid of the thought because of the somber, drastic set of circumstances normally associated with the process of seeking Salvation through Christ. Yes, a commitment to Christ is very serious; it is a matter of life and death. However, most people are afraid to bare their soul in front of a congregation filled with a bunch of strangers.
So, I wanted to show folks, who were afraid of this staunch, stiff collared approach of seeking Christ to see the joy, excitement, and simplicity of the experience. I wanted them to look forward to hearing the Word of God and being engaged in the worship as a means to make that commitment to Christ. I want people to look forward to the life saving event. So, I came up with this scenario to capture that concept and the experience.
The Lord your God in your midst, the Mighty One, will save; He will rejoice over you with gladness, He will quiet you with His love, He will rejoice over you with singing. Zephaniah 3:17 (NKJ)
Lyrics
You Don't Have to Leave Here (Like You Came)
© 1996 by Ernest DeWaters Jr. Music
Author: Ernest DeWaters, Jr. (ASCAP)
(Verse 1)
Well, I went to church a few years ago and I sat on the very back pew.
The preacher grabbed a’ hold o’ my hand and he said, “How do you do?”
Well, I said, “I’m fine, like sparklin’ wine, and I sure hope you’re the same!”
That preacher looked me dead in the eye, “Don’t you leave here like you came!”
(Chorus 1)
Oh, you don’t have to leave here like you came.
If you don’t get what you need, then get on your knees again.
Crucified, He died for you; the grace of God will sanctify you.
You don’t have to leave here like you came.
(Chorus 2)
Oh, you don’t have to leave here like you came; no you don’t.
If you don’t get what you need, then get on your knees again.
I’m tryin’ to tell you, now listen,
Crucified, He died for you; the grace of God will sanctify you.
You don’t have to leave here like you came.
(Verse 2)
Well, the preachers words soon hit home and the choir sang their song.
The Holy Ghost moved in my soul; Lord, I know it won’t be long!
The choir sang off key, but my soul went free, Lord, I’ll never be the same.
By the grace of God I’m standing here, don’t you leave here like you came!
(Chorus 3)
Oh, you don’t have to leave here like you came, no, no, no.
If you don’t get what you need, then get on your knees again.
Oh, crucified, He died for you; the grace of God will sanctify you.
You don’t have to leave here like you came.
(Chorus 4)
Oh, you don’t have to leave here like you came, no you don’t.
If you don’t get what you need, then get on your knees again.
Now, listen to me, I’m tryin’ to tell you,
Crucified, He died for you, the grace of God will sanctify you.
You don’t have to leave here like you came.
(Adlib Chorus fades out)
Performance:
Ernest DeWaters - Lead Vocal
Regal Brothers - Background Vocal
Randy Miller - Producer, Guitar, & Keyboard
Steve Mathews - Recording/Mixing Engineer, Keyboard, Guitar
Alan Laws - Keyboard
Project Manager: Irma C. DeWaters
Producer: Randy Miller
Recording Studio: Logos Productions - Clayton, Ohio
