Hillsong Young And Free - Real Love Lyrics

Real Love

Real Love Song Meaning, Biblical Reference and Inspiration

Hillsong Young & Free's song "Real Love," released with its video on February 25, 2016, offers a vibrant expression of faith centered on the transformative and constant presence of God's love. The lyrics begin by depicting a posture of devotion and seeking God from the start of the day. Phrases like "At break of day, in hope we rise" and "We speak Your Name, we lift our eyes" illustrate a conscious turning towards the divine. The idea of "Tun[ing] our hearts into Your beat" speaks to aligning one's inner self and desires with God's will and presence, further reinforced by the assurance "Where we walk, there You'll be," emphasizing God's omnipresence and constant companionship.

The song continues with powerful imagery in the second verse, describing the impact of this divine connection on the believer and their surroundings. "With fire in our eyes, our lives a-light" suggests a passionate, illuminated faith. The declaration "Your love untamed, it's blazing out" portrays God's love as a dynamic, irrepressible force that isn't contained but spills over into the world. This outward expression has a tangible effect, as the lyrics state, "The streets will glow forever bright" and "Your glory's breaking through the night," suggesting that the light and power of God, experienced internally, bring hope and transformation to dark places and communities.

A central theme is solidified in the pre-chorus, which acts as a powerful declaration of assurance. The repetition of "You will never fade away, Your love is here to stay" directly addresses any doubt or fear of abandonment, affirming the eternal and unwavering nature of God's love. This love is described as intensely personal, being "By my side, in my life, shining through me everyday," indicating not just an external force but an internal reality that influences daily existence and is expressed outwards. The repetition emphasizes the certainty and foundational truth of this promise for the believer.

The chorus provides the core experiential statement of the song: "You wake within me, wake within me / You're in my heart forever." This emphasizes an internal, dynamic indwelling of God's presence. "Wake within me" suggests an active, conscious stirring or realization of God's life and power inside the believer, not just a static presence. Coupled with "You're in my heart forever," it affirms the permanent dwelling of God's Spirit within those who believe. This section serves as a powerful affirmation of the intimate and lasting relationship with God.

The bridge extends the theme of permanence and commitment with the repeated declaration "Forever, forever, forever in Your love." This repetition creates a meditative and emphatic focus on abiding in God's love. It’s not just that God's love is forever, but the worshiper’s desire and intention are to remain "in Your love" eternally. This reflects a response of commitment and trust to the steadfast love described throughout the song. The phrase "we know that..." leading into the pre-chorus reinforces the message as a shared truth and collective declaration of faith within the community singing the song.

Overall, "Real Love" communicates a message of vibrant, assured faith grounded in the constant, active, and transformative presence of God's love. It moves from a personal devotion at the start of the day to an outward expression that impacts the world. The song's structure, with its repeating pre-chorus and chorus, builds a sense of strong conviction and celebrates the indwelling of God's Spirit. This aligns with biblical themes such as God's omnipresence (Psalm 139:7-10), His unfailing love (Psalm 136), the indwelling of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19), being a light to the world (Matthew 5:14-16), and the promise of eternal life and relationship (John 3:16). The song serves as an inspirational reminder that true, lasting love is found in God and that this divine love empowers believers to live passionately and influence their surroundings with hope and glory.