Michael W. Smith - Pursuit Of The Dream Lyrics
Lyrics
Wake up and dream about
The plans you have in store for you
But keep in mind
It's not just what you do
But what you do it for-and who
There are roads to discover
There are stories yet to be told
As you see the big picture
Just beginning to unfold (so)
Chorus:
Break down the barriers but
Don't bend the rules
Never forget your roots
As you head for something new
Ride thru the shades of desire
Letting the light be seen
And he'll stear the heart in the
Pursuit of the dream
It's alright to find yourself
Thinking now and then
About the way you wnat your life to be
Anticipating what lies
Just around the bend
Can't wait to see
Comes the time of decision
Some you dodge and some you should face
As you see the big picture
There will bsome dues to pay (so)
Wake up and dream about
The plans you have in store for you
But keep in mind
It's not just what you do
But what you do it for- and who
There are choices that build you
Choices that will make you fall
All part of the big picture
One day you will see it all
Video
Pursuit Of The Dream
Meaning & Inspiration
On November 6, 2014, Michael W. Smith gifted the world "Pursuit Of The Dream," a profound musical reflection that transcends mere aspiration, inviting us into a deeper consideration of purpose and divine guidance. This song is not just a call to chase one's goals; it’s an urgent whisper to the soul, prompting a discerning inquiry into the fundamental *why* behind our life’s endeavors and the *Whom* for whom they are ultimately intended. It frames life's journey not as a self-made path but as an unfolding narrative guided by a greater architect, encouraging us to seek His hand in every ambition and decision.
The core message of "Pursuit Of The Dream" immediately establishes a spiritual anchor, urging individuals to connect their personal plans with a divine blueprint. The song opens with an invitation to "Wake up and dream about / The plans you have in store for you," but quickly reorients that vision by adding, "But keep in mind / It's not just what you do / But what you do it for-and who." This crucial distinction resonates powerfully with biblical wisdom, echoing Proverbs 16:3, which instructs us to "Commit your works to the Lord, and your thoughts will be established." It’s a reminder that true success and contentment are found when our pursuits are surrendered to God, allowing Him to establish our steps and give meaning to our labor. The lyrics emphasize that there are "roads to discover" and "stories yet to be told," aligning with the journey of faith described in Proverbs 3:5-6, where we are encouraged to "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." This paints a picture of life as a grand adventure, where God's unfolding plan is far greater than any vision we could conceive on our own.
The song’s chorus serves as a powerful guide for navigating this journey with integrity and divine dependence. "Break down the barriers but / Don't bend the rules" is a powerful dual command, advocating for courageous perseverance in the face of obstacles while steadfastly adhering to God's unchanging principles. This evokes the resilience of faith found in Hebrews 12:1-2, urging us to "throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us." Yet, this pursuit must be grounded in righteousness, remembering that God's laws are not hindrances but protective boundaries, as illuminated in Psalm 119:105: "Your word is a lamp for my feet and a light for my path." The admonition to "Never forget your roots" as one heads for something new is a profound call to remember our identity and foundation in Christ. This mirrors Ephesians 2:19-20, reminding us that we are "members of God’s household, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone." Our spiritual heritage and grounding in faith are non-negotiable, providing stability as we step into uncharted territory.
Further into the chorus, the directive to "Ride thru the shades of desire / Letting the light be seen" speaks to the challenges of ambition and worldly temptations. It’s an acknowledgment that desires can be misleading, but with divine illumination, we can navigate these complexities, allowing Christ’s light to shine through us, as called for in Matthew 5:16: "Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven." The ultimate assurance comes with the declaration, "And he'll steer the heart in the / Pursuit of the dream." This line beautifully encapsulates the song's central message of God’s active involvement and faithful guidance. It affirms that our true dreams, aligned with His will, are not pursued alone but with the steady hand of the divine Helper, echoing Psalm 37:23-24: "The Lord makes firm the steps of the one who delights in him; though he may stumble, he will not fall, for the Lord upholds him with his hand."
The song also wisely acknowledges the reality of choices and consequences inherent in any significant endeavor. "Comes the time of decision / Some you dodge and some you should face," the lyrics observe, recognizing that the path to purpose is paved with moments of discernment and accountability. The mention of "dues to pay" underscores the biblical principle of sowing and reaping, and the sacrifices often required in pursuit of a righteous calling, a concept Jesus himself spoke of regarding the cost of discipleship (Luke 14:27-28). The final verses, "There are choices that build you / Choices that will make you fall," serve as a stark reminder of the profound impact of our decisions, emphasizing the need for wisdom and discernment that is so central to Proverbs. Ultimately, the song reassures us that all these experiences, all these choices, are "part of the big picture / One day you will see it all." This promise offers a glimpse into God’s sovereign plan, where even our struggles and detours are woven into a greater tapestry that will ultimately reveal His perfect design, strengthening our faith that He works all things for good for those who love Him and are called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28). "Pursuit Of The Dream" is an inspiring anthem for the soul, compelling all who engage with it to embark on their life's journey with intentionality, integrity, and an unwavering reliance on the One who truly steers the heart.