Share Worthy Song Feature | Sidewalk Prophets “The Words I Would Say” 

Before I share what this song means to me personally, it’s worth pausing to honor the heart behind it.

“The Words I Would Say” was born from a series of letters lead vocalist Dave Frey felt led to write—letters to friends, family, and loved ones who were hurting or drifting. God would place someone on his heart, and he’d write them a note of encouragement. Those letters became the foundation of the song.

It’s not just a track—it’s a ministry. A reminder to speak life, to reach out, and to never underestimate the power of a simple truth spoken in love. Whether it’s a parent to a child, a friend to a wanderer, or a believer to someone struggling—this song became a voice for those moments we wish we’d spoken up.

“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:11

“Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.” — Colossians 4:6

“The Sovereign Lord has given me a well-instructed tongue, to know the word that sustains the weary.” — Isaiah 50:4

These verses echo the heart of the song: that our words, when led by grace and truth, can be a lifeline. They remind us that encouragement isn’t just a feeling—it’s a calling.

There are songs that feel like letters we never got to send. “The Words I Would Say” by Sidewalk Prophets is one of those. It’s not just a melody—it’s a quiet whisper of grace, a reminder that love doesn’t expire even when time and distance try to silence it.

This one hits different for me. It reminds me of what I’d say to my kids if I had the chance. If the door opened. If the silence broke. If the ache of absence could be filled with just one conversation. Be strong. Don’t give up. God’s not done with you. These aren’t just lyrics—they’re prayers I’ve carried for years. Some of the words don’t fit perfectly, but the heart behind them? That’s exactly where I’ve been.

I haven’t always been there. That truth hurts more than I can say. But my prayers never stopped. My hope never died. And through this ministry, through every banner, every post, every lyric—I’m still speaking. I’m still present. Even when I can’t be physically.

This song becomes a voice for every parent, mentor, or friend who’s ever whispered hope into the silence. It’s a call to be present in the lives of those we love—not just when it’s easy, but especially when it’s hard. It’s for the ones who’ve wandered, the ones we miss, the ones we’re still believing for.

Scripture reminds me that God is near to the brokenhearted. That we’re called to train up a child in the way they should go. That there’s no greater joy than to know they’re walking in truth. I hold onto that. I pray they find their way to Him. I pray they hear the words I would say—even if it’s through a song like this.

If you’ve ever felt the sting of absence… if you’ve ever prayed for someone who’s wandered… if you’ve ever wished you could say the words but didn’t know how… maybe this song can be your voice too.

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