Lyrics Page

Should've Been Me

By Citizen Way

1,245 views Jul 17, 2026 updated Verified editorial review

Citizen Way's song 'Should've Been Me' reflects on the profound gratitude believers should feel for Christ's sacrifice. The lyrics contrast a comfortable, blessed life with the sobering realization that Jesus took the punishment we deserved. The singer admits to easily forgetting this grace despite living well, tithing, and doing good deeds. The chorus powerfully declares that it should have been us on the cross, bearing shame and scars, but Jesus took our place. This leads to a heartfelt 'thank God' for the substitutionary atonement. The song connects to the biblical theme of Christ dying for sinners while we were still undeserving.

Lyrics Verified by Editorial Team

I've read the story

I've seen the movie

I give to charity

And tithe my ten percent

These I remember

But I so easily forget

All these years never heard it like this


It should've been me

It should've been us

Should've been there hanging on a cross

All of this shame

All of these scars

Should've been stains that were never washed

Why do I hide

Why do you try

Over and over and over again

I guess it just leaves me saying thank God

It leaves me saying thank God, thank God

For the should've been


I live a good life

I love a great wife

Our kids are beautiful

We got friends down the street

If I'm so thankful

Why do I easily forget

That you died for all of this


For this heart you changed

This soul you raised

My God for taking my place

When

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