IF I GIVE MY SOUL
(Billy Joe Shaver)

Johnny Cash

Also recorded by: Billy Joe Shaver; Marty Stewart.


Down a dangerous road, I have come to where I'm standing
With a heavy heart, and my hat clutched in my hand
Such a foolish fool, God ain't known no greater sinner
I have come in search of Jesus, hoping he will understand

I had a woman once, she was kind and she was gentle
Had a child by me, who grew up to be a man
I had a steady job, till I started into drinking
And I started making music that went with the devil's band

Oh the years flew by like a mighty rush of eagles
My dreams and plans were all scattered in the wind
It's a lonesome life, when you lose the ones you live for
If I make my peace with Jesus will they take me back again

If I give my soul, will he cleanse these clothes i'm wearin'
If I give my soul, will he put new boots on my feet
If I bow my head and beg God for his forgiveness
Will he breathe new breath inside me and give back my dignity

If I give my soul, will he stop my hands from shaking
If I give my soul, will my son love me again
If I give my soul, and she knows I really mean it
If I give my soul to Jesus will she take me back again

If I give my soul to Jesus will she take me back again