It's been a long time comin'
I've laid around this old town for years
And, Lord, it's time that I stop runnin'
From the very voice that summoned me here
I can't hide Your calling forever
Start a fire in my soul
'Cause, Lord, I'm ready and willing
To give You my all
You just give me a vision
Show me a sign
Tell me You love me
Like the very first time
You've got the power
And I've got the need
I'm standing before You
Father, just use me
I've lived a lifetime of mercy
Hardheaded, and set in my ways
And if I've hurt You, dear God, I'm sorry
I took for granted Your amazing grace
But if there's one chance in a million
You could reach one soul through me
Then, Father, I'm ready, and able
To answer Your call
You just give me a vision
Show me a sign
Tell me You love me
Like the very first time
You've got the power
And I've got the need
I'm standing before You
Father, just use me
(Take my hand)
Father take my hand, take my hand
(Don't look back)
No, there's no lookin' back
(Jesus, start a fire in my soul)
There's a fire in my soul
'Cause I'm ready and able
To give You my all
Give me a vision
Show me a sign
Tell me You love me
Like the very first time
You've got the power
And I've got the need
I'm standing before You
Father, just use me
Use Me Video
Use Me Song Meaning, Biblical Reference and Inspiration
Use Me by Bob Carlisle is a powerful song that explores the themes of surrender, obedience, and service to God. Released in 1993, the song resonates with Christians who desire to live out their faith in a meaningful way.
I. Introduction: Setting the Stage
The song begins with the lyrics, "It's been a long time comin', I've laid around this old town for years." These lines convey a sense of stagnation and complacency in the narrator's life. He acknowledges that it is time to stop running away from God's calling and embrace it wholeheartedly.
II. The Call to Surrender
The chorus of the song emphasizes the narrator's willingness to be used by God. He sings, "You've got the power, and I've got the need. I'm standing before You, Father, just use me." This line expresses the desire to surrender to God's will and be an instrument in His hands.
III. The Need for Divine Guidance
In the following verse, the narrator acknowledges his need for a vision and a sign from God. He asks God to show him love "like the very first time." This line speaks to the desire for a renewed sense of God's love and presence, which can provide the motivation and direction needed to fulfill God's purpose.
IV. A Lifetime of Mercy
The song then delves into the narrator's reflection on his past. He admits to living a life of mercy but also acknowledges his mistakes and taking God's grace for granted. This section highlights the theme of repentance and the realization that one's actions may have hindered their ability to fully live out their faith.
V. Ready and Able
The bridge of the song serves as a declaration of readiness and ability. The lyrics state, "Father, take my hand, take my hand. No, there's no lookin' back. There's a fire in my soul 'cause I'm ready and able to give You my all." This section conveys a sense of determination and commitment to living a life of service to God, leaving the past behind and embracing the calling placed upon one's life.
VI. The Biblical Basis
When analyzing the biblical basis of the song, it is evident that the key messages align with various biblical principles. The theme of surrender is captured in verses like Romans 12:1, which states, "Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God--this is your true and proper worship."
The call to be used by God is also echoed in Isaiah 6:8, where the prophet Isaiah responds to God's question, "Whom shall I send?" with the words, "Here am I, send me!" This verse exemplifies the willingness to be used by God for His purposes.
Furthermore, the theme of repentance and acknowledging one's mistakes aligns with passages like 1 John 1:9, which assures believers that "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness."
VII. Conclusion
In conclusion, Use Me by Bob Carlisle is a heartfelt song that explores the themes of surrender, obedience, and service to God. The lyrics convey the desire to be used by God, the need for divine guidance, and the recognition of past mistakes. The song's main key messages align with biblical principles of surrendering to God's will, being willing to be used by Him, and seeking His forgiveness and guidance. It serves as a powerful reminder for Christians to live out their faith in a meaningful and impactful way.
