Hillsong UNITED - Highlands (Song of Ascent) Lyrics

Highlands (Song of Ascent) Video

Highlands (Song of Ascent) Song Meaning, Biblical Reference and Inspiration

"Highlands (Song of Ascent)" by Hillsong UNITED is a deeply spiritual and moving piece that navigates the terrain of faith, both in moments of joy and trials. This song, from their album "People" released in 2019, poetically explores the idea that God is with us not only on the mountain highs but also in the valley lows. The title itself, "Song of Ascent," hints at a collection of Psalms (120-134) that were sung by pilgrims as they ascended to Jerusalem for religious festivals, symbolizing a spiritual journey or elevation.

### Lyrics Breakdown and Analysis

**The Opening Verses** express a yearning to find God, suggesting that the speaker would go to great lengths, climbing mountains or chasing rivers, to be closer to the divine. This imagery reflects the human desire to seek God, sometimes believing He resides only in specific, often hard-to-reach places.

**The Pre-Chorus** introduces a comforting revelation: God is not hard to find, nor is He more present in joy than in suffering. This idea is a reminder of God's omnipresence and His accessibility to all who seek Him, regardless of their circumstances.

**The Chorus** is a declaration of unwavering faith. It pledges to praise God on the mountain and in the valley, recognizing that God's presence is constant and unchanging. This section embodies the core message of the song: God deserves praise in every season of life.

**Subsequent Verses** deepen the exploration of God's nature. They describe God's immense kindness and His readiness to be with His followers through every trial and failure. This part of the song highlights God's grace and the redemptive power of His love, echoing the salvation story of Jesus Christ's sacrifice on the cross.

**The Bridge** reinforces the theme of trust and praise in all circumstances. It acknowledges God's power to move mountains and His presence in the valley of the shadow of death, echoing Psalm 23:4. This section is a personal affirmation of faith, recognizing that even in death, there is a reason to sing praises.

### Biblical References

The song is rich in biblical imagery and references. For instance:

- **Psalm 121 (A Song of Ascents):** This psalm speaks about finding help in the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth. It resonates with the song's theme of seeking and finding God in every situation.
- **Psalm 23:4:** "Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me." This verse is mirrored in the song's acknowledgment of God's comforting presence in the valley of death.
- **Matthew 5:14-16:** The notion of being a light on a hill, a city that cannot be hidden, can be seen as an inspiration for the idea of praising God on the mountain, shining His light for all to see.
- **Psalm 139:7-12:** Speaks to God's omnipresence, stating there's no place one can flee from His presence. This aligns with the song's message that God is found everywhere, from the mountaintop to the valley.

### Conclusion

"Highlands (Song of Ascent)" by Hillsong UNITED is a profound reflection on the Christian faith, emphasizing God's omnipresence and the believer's call to praise in all circumstances. Through its poetic lyrics and biblical references, the song offers both comfort and a call to worship, reminding listeners of God's unwavering presence and love in both the highlands and the heartaches of life.