If You Knew What I Knew - By Justin Beukes

Written By: Justin Beukes

Category: Poetry, Rap, Song

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In a compelling entry for the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, Justin Beukes presents "If You Knew What I Knew." This poetic composition, which weaves elements of rap and song, explores the profound themes of faith, truth, and personal transformation. Beukes' work is a testament to the power of introspection and the struggle for authenticity in a world that often demands conformity.

About the Work

"If You Knew What I Knew" by Justin Beukes offers a deep dive into the inner voice that questions, challenges, and seeks truth. The piece is rich with vivid imagery and a rhythmic flow reminiscent of both poetry and rap. It speaks to the journey of faith, the weight of past decisions, and the hope of spiritual redemption. Beukes' style is raw and honest, capturing the tension between worldly struggles and divine grace.

If You Knew What I Knew

Original Submission by Justin Beukes

If You Knew What I Knew

Let me tell you about a voice-not this voice,

But the one inside, the one that whispers.

I live in a world where I can’t state my opinion

Unless it lines up with yours, unless I give you dominion.

I’m the villain in the story where Christ is the hero.

Making millions would bore me, ‘cause I’m an anti-social weirdo.

Stacking zeros could never fill this hole.

God Almighty’s the only One Who could will this soul

To write this, to write that,

A song that doesn’t miss, a song that bites back.

I’mma make you like rap.

Just look at what could happen

When Whom you answer to has filled you with this passion

Of standing for truth, speaking out on a lie.

Can’t pray for confidence; I’m conned, keeping doubt on the sly.

I had to die to see life clear.

If I could be anywhere, then I’d be right here,

At home, where you could smell His perfume.

As long as Yahweh’s in the house, ya’ way’ll exit the room.

His tomb doesn’t have a single bone in it.

He’s in the glory that some people try to clone.

And I hate to be the bearer of bad news,

Made a couple of errors, but with God I can’t lose.

Yeah, with God I can’t-

Can’t lose, can’t fail.

Any place I’ve ever looked, His love has always left a trail.

Set sail.

You can feel it in the wind.

Still remember all those days where I enjoyed living in sin, but

I guess I had to fall face first.

Went into my mind just to find the place cursed.

But it’s cool, I’m calm, collected, I’ve faced worse.

Bass bursts through speakers, but we seek the gates first.

I’m immersed,

Might’ve went too deep.

Almost threw away the thing that I intend to keep.

Fell asleep when I should’ve stayed awake.

My regrets are in a heap that doesn’t fade away.

You made a way, God, I know You made a way.

I wish that it was easy to follow because it ain’t.

Tryna paint You a picture when I’m just staring at the canvas,

‘Cause they don’t know about the fullness of the madness

And sadness I carry daily.

Life ain’t sunshine and rainbows.

I’m not surprised when it’s rocky.

I play the game how the game goes.

I got a bag some people’ll never touch.

I’m too fortunate to brag; all it is is just a crutch.

All it is is just a-

I’m trying not to let it define me.

When I was broken and broke, the very lack of it refined me.

Remind me that I could die right now,

And when I bring up Your name, I have to highlight how

You stayed faithful when I didn’t.

Everything You gave was never, never insufficient.

I’m reminiscent of the past and who I used to be.

Couldn’t open a door ‘cause You’re the One Who has the keys.

You’re the One Who was-

In control before I took a breath.

You gave me life when I deserved death.

You gave me strength when I should’ve been weak,

Back when I’d only let the deepest, darkest part of me speak.

Back when I let my heart get cold.

Back when I didn’t do what I was told.

I’m still afraid of growing old,

Looking back on times I cowered when I should’ve stayed bold.

My bad decisions weigh me down,

But the heavier the burden, the heavier the crown.

And I’ve been trying not to drop it.

The gun’s already loaded, but some people went and cocked it.

Yeah, you choose what you choose, then you live with what you chose.

We hide the truth when it’s meant to be exposed,

Making sure the door’s closed and no one comes in.

You ain’t free ‘til you’re free from sin.

Man, I’m seven summers in.

Seeking God is humbling

When you realize that your heart is troubling, suffering,

Full of trauma when it’s not in His presence.

If He’s inside me, then that means I’m also sharing His essence.

I gotta-

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar celebrates the diversity and creativity of writers worldwide. It provides a platform for both emerging and established voices to share their unique perspectives through poetry, short stories, and essays. This competition aims to foster a global community of writers who are passionate about storytelling and the written word.

We extend our gratitude to Justin Beukes for sharing "If You Knew What I Knew" with us. His participation in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 enriches the tapestry of voices that make this event truly special. Thank you, Justin, for your powerful contribution and for inviting us into your world of introspection and faith.

About Hashtag Kalakar

Hashtag Kalakar is a creative platform dedicated to providing artists, writers, singers and other creative talents with opportunities to showcase their work and reach wider audiences through competitions, features and creative initiatives.