Graham Kendrick - Do Not Strive Lyrics
Lyrics
Let me do my work among you
Do not strive, do not strive
Let my peace reign within your hearts
Do not strive, do not strive
For mine is the power and the glory
For ever and ever the same
Let me do my work among you
Do not strive, do not strive
Let me have my way among you
Do not strive, do not strive
Let me show my power among you
Do not strive, do not strive
We'll let you do your work among us
We'll not strive, we'll not strive
We'll let your peace reign within our hearts
We'll not strive, we'll not strive
For yours is the power and the glory
For ever and ever the same
We'll let you do your work among us
We'll not strive, we'll not strive
Video
Let Me Have My Way Among You (Do Not Strive) Song Lyrics Video - Divine Hymns
Meaning & Inspiration
"Let Me Have My Way Among You (Do Not Strive)," released by Divine Hymns on April 21, 2017, is a profound musical offering from Graham Kendrick that delves deep into the heart of surrender and trust. The song's genesis lies in a powerful biblical invitation, particularly echoing the sentiment found in verses like Proverbs 3:5-6, which encourages believers to trust in the Lord with all their heart and not lean on their own understanding, acknowledging His guiding hand in all their ways. Kendrick masterfully crafts this simple yet potent message, urging listeners to relinquish their own anxieties and efforts, and to allow a divine presence to work within them. The repeated refrain, "Do not strive," is not a call to passivity, but rather an invitation to release the frantic energy of self-reliance and embrace the peace that comes from acknowledging God's ultimate power and glory.
The core of the song's message revolves around the concept of divine sovereignty. When the lyrics state, "For mine is the power and the glory," it points directly to the unassailable attributes of God, as described throughout Scripture, such as in Psalm 29:1, "Ascribe to the Lord, O mighty ones, ascribe to the Lord glory and strength." The song then transitions to a communal confession, shifting from the singular "Let me" to the plural "We'll," signifying a collective agreement to yield. This transformation underscores the relational aspect of faith; it's not just an individual choice but a shared commitment to let God's will prevail. This echoes the prayerful plea in Matthew 6:10, "Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven." The shift in perspective from seeking to control outcomes to embracing divine orchestration is central to a mature walk of faith, mirroring the wisdom found in passages like Isaiah 40:31, which speaks of those who wait on the Lord renewing their strength, soaring on wings like eagles, running and not growing weary, walking and not fainting. Kendrick's composition, through its gentle yet firm declaration, encourages a deep introspection, prompting us to examine where our efforts are perhaps hindering the very work God desires to accomplish in and through us. It's an anthem for those seeking a deeper connection, urging a trust that transcends our human limitations and allows for the magnificent unfolding of God's plan.