Lyrics Page
Dead Reckoning
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Aug 11, 2026 updated
Verified editorial review
Petra's 'Dead Reckoning' is a Christian rock song that urges believers to embrace a decisive break from their old sinful lives. Drawing on Romans 6:11 and Galatians 2:20, the lyrics emphasize dying to self daily and living anew in Christ. The song acknowledges the internal struggle between the Spirit and the flesh, but insists that through Christ's sacrifice on the cross, the battle is already won. It calls for a conscious choice to trade the old for the new, encouraging listeners to see themselves as dead to the world yet alive to God.
Lyrics Verified by Editorial Team
[Based on Romans 6:11, Galatians 2:20]
It's a new day at last, but you're sinking so fast
If left up to your head, you'd remember the past
But a new day has come and new life has begun
Let the old pass away, reconsider it done
There's got to be a reckoning
When you feel the Spirit beckoning
It's a dead reckoning
Trade the old for the new
It's a dead reckoning
Learn to die daily till the new life comes through
It's a dead reckoning
You've got nothing to lose but you do have to choose
When the Spirit says yes but the flesh will refuse
And although you feel odd there are many who trod
Till they're dead to the world but alive unto God
Some still believe it can't be done
To the steady the race is still won
And the battle is already through
And it's hard to believe but it's true
On a hill long ago where the blood runs below
Died a King, two thieves, and you