The song describes the grandfather as "something like a teacher" who taught him about love and life.

The lyrics reflect on the lessons Tedder learned from his grandfather:

"Preacher" is the 11th track on OneRepublic's 2013 studio album, . It is a deeply personal song written by lead singer Ryan Tedder as a tribute to his late grandfather, who was a preacher. Origin & Songwriting

A central message in the song is the advice, "God only helps those who learn to help themselves".