Lyrics Page
Love Moved First
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Jul 9, 2026 updated
Verified editorial review
Casting Crowns' 'Love Moved First' tells the story of a runaway who feels too far gone and ashamed, but discovers that God's love pursued him before he could even turn back. The song emphasizes that grace is not earned but given, as God took the initiative through Jesus' life, death, and resurrection. It highlights the cross as proof of God's relentless love that rescues prisoners and changes hearts. The lyrics reflect themes of redemption, grace, and the unearned nature of salvation, echoing the biblical truth that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.
Lyrics Verified by Editorial Team
This is the story of a runaway
With no way home and no way out
I threw the best of me away
I had my chance, it's too late now
Too far gone and too ashamed
To think that You'd still know my name
But love refused to let my story end that way
You didn't wait for me to find my way to You
I couldn't cross that distance even if I wanted to
You came running after me
When anybody else would've turned and left me at my worst
Love moved first
What kind of grace, relentless grace
Would chase this rebel down
Crawl into this prisoners cage
Take my hand and pull me out
You knew I couldn't make the change
So You became the change in me
And now I live to tell to the story
Of the God who rescues
You didn't wait for me to find my way to You
I couldn't cross that distance even if I wanted to
You came running after me
When anybody else would've turned and left me at my worst
Love moved first
From the throne to the manger
From a manger to the grave
Your cross is the proof
Love made the first move
From a grave meant to keep You
To a stone rolled away
Your cross is the proof
Love made the first move
I remember where You found me
I'm amazed by where I stand
Your cross is the proof
That love made the first move
You didn't wait for me to find my way to You
I couldn't cross that distance even if I wanted to
You came running after me
When anybody else would've turned and left me at my worst
Love moved first
Oh... oh...
Love moved first