Jaci Velasquez - Shine Lyrics
Lyrics
You will make the change
And you'll begin today
You will turn around and
See the world another way
You'll stand up tall
And move with grace
And you will see yourself
In every face, every face
You'll open up your eyes
Like the sunrise
Your heart will fly and you'll realize
What a gift is to be alive, be alive
Be alive.
Chorus
Shine...Shine on
Shine...Shine on
On and on
You will feel the heat
So soft, so sweet
You will listen long and well
Before you humbly speak
You'll walk that mile
Be the first to smile
To reach out you hand and
Reconcile, reconcile
And in the end you'll make amends
Be a true friend, strong enough to bend
Be grateful when you start again,
Start again
When you start again.
Chorus
Video
Shine
Meaning & Inspiration
Jaci Velasquez’s song "Shine," released on January 1, 2012, as part of her album *Diamond*, delivers a profound message of transformation and purpose, directly reflecting a life lived in accordance with Christ's teachings. From its opening notes, the song transcends mere suggestion, issuing a confident declaration that speaks to the innate human potential for good, guided by spiritual principles. It envisions a journey of personal renewal, emphasizing not just an internal change of heart, but its outward manifestation in daily interactions and worldview, compelling the listener to embrace a renewed perspective and radiate kindness into the world.
The lyrical narrative of "Shine" begins with an affirmation of an imminent, powerful shift: "You will make the change / And you'll begin today / You will turn around and / See the world another way." This opening mirrors the biblical call to repentance and transformation, echoing Romans 12:2, which urges believers not to conform to the patterns of this world but to be transformed by the renewing of their minds. It’s a powerful invitation to spiritual awakening, a complete turning from old ways to embrace a fresh, God-centered perspective. The song continues to paint a picture of this transformed individual, stating, "You'll stand up tall / And move with grace / And you will see yourself / In every face, every face." This sentiment profoundly aligns with the Christian mandate to see others through the lens of God's love and grace, recognizing the imago Dei—the image of God—in everyone, as Jesus taught in Matthew 25:40: "Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me." It speaks to a deep empathy and universal love that transcends personal boundaries.
As the song progresses, it describes an awakening of the spirit, "You'll open up your eyes / Like the sunrise / Your heart will fly and you'll realize / What a gift is to be alive." This imagery beautifully evokes the daily mercies and new beginnings promised in Lamentations 3:22-23, where God's faithfulness is described as new every morning. It's an encouragement to cultivate gratitude for the precious gift of life itself, seeing each day as an opportunity for joy and purpose, much like Psalm 118:24 proclaims, "This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it." The recurring chorus, "Shine...Shine on," serves as the song's central imperative, a direct echo of Jesus’s command in Matthew 5:16: "Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven." It calls individuals to actively embody their faith, becoming beacons of hope and virtue in a world often overshadowed by darkness, much like Philippians 2:15 encourages believers to "shine among them like stars in the sky."
The latter verses delve deeper into the practical application of this transformed life. "You will feel the heat / So soft, so sweet / You will listen long and well / Before you humbly speak." This verse evokes the gentle guidance and comfort of the Holy Spirit, often described as a fire that refines and empowers, as well as the biblical wisdom found in James 1:19, which instructs us to be "quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry." It's a call to thoughtful, humble communication rooted in divine wisdom rather than impulsive reaction. The song then champions acts of selfless love and reconciliation: "You'll walk that mile / Be the first to smile / To reach out your hand and / Reconcile, reconcile." This is a powerful testament to the principles of going the extra mile, as taught in Matthew 5:41, and living in peace, actively seeking harmony as Romans 12:18 advises: "If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone." The ministry of reconciliation, central to the Gospel in 2 Corinthians 5:18-19, is clearly articulated here, urging personal initiative in mending broken relationships.
Finally, "Shine" culminates in a message of enduring friendship, forgiveness, and the grace of new beginnings: "And in the end you'll make amends / Be a true friend, strong enough to bend / Be grateful when you start again, / Start again." This verse beautifully encapsulates the essence of Christ-like character, emphasizing resilience, humility, and the willingness to offer and receive forgiveness. Proverbs 17:17 defines a true friend as one who "loves at all times," while Colossians 3:13 reminds us to "bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you." The ability to "start again" with gratitude reinforces the theme of God's unwavering mercy and the perpetual opportunity for renewal and growth, even after missteps, affirming the promise of 1 John 1:9 that He is faithful to forgive and cleanse. "Shine" by Jaci Velasquez is more than just a song; it's a lyrical sermon, a practical guide to living out one's faith with intentionality, grace, and an unwavering commitment to being a light in the world.