Hillsong UNITED - How I Long For You Lyrics

How I Long For You Video

How I Long For You Song Meaning, Biblical Reference and Inspiration

How I Long For You: A Deeper Look into Hillsong UNITED's Anthem of Yearning for God

Introduction:

Hillsong UNITED, a renowned Christian worship band, has touched the hearts of millions with their powerful and heartfelt songs. One such song is "How I Long For You," which resonates deeply with believers who yearn for a closer relationship with God.

I. The Opening Lines: Expressing the Longing for God

The song begins with the lines, "I feel Your love right through my heart, my spirit lifted by Yours." These words capture the essence of the believer's experience, feeling the overwhelming love of God penetrating their innermost being. It reflects the deep connection and intimacy that can be felt in a relationship with God.

The subsequent lines, "You are too great, too great for words, so hear the song of my heart," highlight the awe and reverence the songwriter feels towards God's greatness. It acknowledges the limitations of human language to fully capture the magnitude of God's glory and invites Him to listen to the sincere expression of worship that arises from the depths of the heart.

II. Longing and Desiring the Father's Presence

The chorus of the song repeats the phrase, "How I long Father, how I long for you," emphasizing the intense desire to be in the presence of God. This longing is a common theme in Christian worship, as believers yearn for a deeper connection with their Heavenly Father. It reflects the Psalmist's cry in Psalm 42:1, "As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, my God."

The repetition of this heartfelt plea throughout the song reinforces the idea that the ultimate longing of the human soul is to be in communion with God. It serves as a reminder to believers to prioritize their relationship with God above all else and to seek His presence earnestly.

III. Freedom and Light in God's Presence

The second verse of the song delves into the transformative power of being in God's presence. It states, "Freedom is where You place Your feet, light always shines through the dark." These words highlight the liberating and illuminating nature of God's presence.

When believers come into the presence of God, they experience freedom from the chains of sin and darkness. The Bible affirms this truth in 2 Corinthians 3:17, "Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom." It is in God's presence that believers find true freedom, not only from external circumstances but also from the bondage of sin and guilt.

Additionally, the line "light always shines through the dark" speaks to the hope and assurance that believers find in God. Even in the darkest moments of life, God's light is a constant source of guidance and comfort. Jesus Himself proclaimed in John 8:12, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life."

IV. The Song's Meaning and Inspiration

The song "How I Long For You" beautifully encapsulates the longing and yearning that believers have for a deeper relationship with God. It expresses the desire to experience His love, presence, and freedom in a profound and transformative way. The lyrics serve as a reminder that true fulfillment and satisfaction can only be found in God.

The inspiration behind the song may vary from individual to individual, but it is clear that the overarching theme is the pursuit of intimacy with God. It could be inspired by personal experiences, moments of spiritual hunger, or a desire to ignite a passion for God within the hearts of listeners.

V. A Biblical Analysis: Is the Song Grounded in Scripture?

In evaluating the biblical foundation of "How I Long For You," it is essential to consider whether the song aligns with the teachings and principles of the Word of God. Let us explore the biblical references and themes present in the song.

The song begins with an acknowledgment of God's love and the lifting of the spirit. This resonates with the biblical truth that God's love reaches deep into the hearts of believers. Romans 5:5 states, "God's love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us."

The longing for God and His presence, echoed throughout the chorus, finds its roots in various Psalms and biblical accounts. Psalm 27:4 declares, "One thing I ask from the Lord, this only do I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to gaze on the beauty of the Lord and to seek him in his temple."

The concept of freedom in God's presence aligns with the teachings of Jesus. In John 8:36, He proclaims, "So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed." It is in surrendering to God and walking in His presence that believers experience true freedom from sin and its consequences.

The reference to light shining through the dark reflects the biblical truth that God is the source of light and illumination. Psalm 119:105 affirms this, stating, "Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path." The presence of God brings clarity and guidance to believers' lives, even in the midst of challenging circumstances.

Conclusion:

"How I Long For You" by Hillsong UNITED encapsulates the deep yearning and desire that believers have for a closer relationship with God. The song's lyrics express the longing for God's love, presence, freedom, and light. It is inspired by the biblical themes of seeking God's face, experiencing His love, finding freedom in His presence, and walking in His light.

Overall, the song aligns with biblical principles and truths, drawing from various Psalms and teachings of Jesus. It serves as a powerful reminder to believers to prioritize their relationship with God and to continually seek His presence. "How I Long For You" stands as a testament to the universal longing of the human soul for God's love, grace, and transformative power.