For the joy of innocence
Dreaming things that don't make sense
Keep me as a child
And for the things we've left behind
The space between our heart and mind
Keep me as a child
For we've grown older than our God
We've grown older than our God
You are forever young
Bright morning star and unsetting sun
You are forever young
Here our Father singing out to us
When we've grown older than our God
For the gift of mountainside
Open fields and running wild
Keep me as a child
And for the times we've locked our doors
Built up walls and started wars
Keep me as a child
For we've grown older than our God
We've grown older than our God
You are forever young
Bright morning star and unsetting sun
You are forever young
Here our Father singing out to us
When we've grown older than our God
Love is running
Toward the shadows
Dying rising
Like an echo
Growing younger
In surrender, I'm letting go
Love is running
Toward the shadows
Dying rising
Like an echo
Growing younger
In surrender, I'm letting go whoa-oa
Love is running
Toward the shadows
Dying rising
Like an echo
Growing younger
In surrender, I'm letting go
Eternity is in His blood
When we've grown older than our God
Oh, eternity's running through my blood
When we've grown older than our God
"Older Than Our God (Forever Young)" is a captivating song by Chris Renzema that explores the concept of maintaining childlike faith and wonder in a world that often tries to make us grow up too quickly. The lyrics remind us of the joy of innocence and dreaming without limitations, urging us to keep that childlike spirit alive even as we grow older.
The song begins with the plea to be kept as a child, to hold on to the joy and wonder that comes with innocence. It acknowledges the tendency we have to let go of our childlike faith and become jaded as we face the challenges and disappointments of life. But it also acknowledges the beauty and importance of maintaining that childlike perspective, for it is in that state that we are closest to God.
One scripture verse that comes to mind when listening to this song is Matthew 18:3, where Jesus says, "Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven." This verse emphasizes the significance of childlike faith in our relationship with God. It reminds us that we need to approach God with humility, trust, and a sense of wonder, just as a child does.
The chorus of the song declares that God is forever young. This line may initially seem contradictory since God is eternal and transcends time, but it speaks to the idea that God's character and nature are unchanging and always vibrant and full of life. It reflects the truth that God's love, mercy, and grace are continuously flowing, always fresh and new, and that His presence brings life and renewal to our weary souls.
The bridge of the song beautifully captures the essence of the message, as it speaks of love running toward the shadows, dying and rising like an echo, and growing younger in surrender. This imagery paints a picture of God's relentless pursuit of us, His sacrificial love on the cross, and the transformative power of surrendering our lives to Him. It reminds us that in surrendering to God, we find true life and become more like Him, growing younger in spirit as we let go of our burdens and trust in His goodness.
Overall, "Older Than Our God (Forever Young)" is a thought-provoking and inspiring song that encourages us to hold on to childlike faith, to approach God with wonder and trust, and to surrender our lives to Him. It reminds us that no matter how old we become, we can always find renewal and restoration in God's presence. May this song serve as a reminder to embrace the childlike joy and wonder that comes from knowing and walking with our forever young God.
