O the joy to be, joy to know
It's when I decrease, You fill up my soul
What a joy to see, joy to hold
It's when You increase, I want nothing more
Open my hands, humble my heart
All that I have is Yours
Color my prayers, widen my eyes
Wash me in glorious light
O the joy to be, joy to know
It's when I decrease, You fill up my soul
What a joy to see, joy to hold
It's when You increase, I want nothing more
Hasten my ears, bridle my tongue
Focus my heart to hear
Settle my pace, purge me of pride
Again and again, You provide
(O the joy to be) O the joy to be (Joy to know) joy to know
It's when I decrease, You fill up my soul
What a joy to see, joy to hold
It's when You increase, I want nothing more
O the joy to be (Ooh-ooh) joy to know
It's when I decrease, You fill up my soul
What a joy to see, joy to hold
It's when You increase, I want nothing more
"Joy To Be" by Citizens is a song that exudes a profound sense of joy and contentment in the presence of God. It speaks to the beauty and fulfillment found in surrendering ourselves to Him and allowing His love to fill our souls.
The lyrics of the song express the joy that comes from decreasing ourselves and making room for God to increase in our lives. It is a reminder that true joy is found not in seeking our own desires and ambitions, but in surrendering them to God and finding satisfaction in His presence. The song captures the essence of the verse in John 3:30, which says, "He must increase, but I must decrease." It is in letting go of our own desires and allowing God to take control that we find true joy and fulfillment.
Throughout the song, there is a plea for God to work in our hearts and transform us. The lines "Open my hands, humble my heart" and "Hasten my ears, bridle my tongue" express a desire for God to shape us and mold us into His image. It is a recognition that true joy is found in aligning ourselves with God's will and allowing Him to guide our every step. This sentiment echoes the verse in Psalm 37:4, which says, "Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart."
The song also speaks to the idea of finding joy in simplicity and contentment. It reminds us that true joy is not found in worldly possessions or achievements, but in the presence of God. The line "What a joy to see, joy to hold, It's when You increase, I want nothing more" emphasizes the idea that true joy is found in God alone and that He is enough to satisfy our deepest longings. This concept is echoed in Philippians 4:11-12, which says, "I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation."
The song "Joy To Be" is a beautiful reminder of the joy that comes from surrendering ourselves to God and finding contentment in His presence. It encourages us to decrease ourselves and allow God to increase in our lives, knowing that true joy is found in Him alone. It reminds us to seek God's will and let go of our own desires, finding fulfillment in His love and guidance. As we embrace this perspective, we can experience the joy and contentment that comes from a deep and intimate relationship with our Heavenly Father.
