Be Thou my Vision, O Lord of my heart
Naught be all else to me, save that Thou art
Thou my best Thought, by day or by night
Waking or sleeping, Thy presence my light
Be Thou my Wisdom, and Thou my true Word
I ever with Thee and Thou with me, Lord
Thou my great Father, I Thy true son
Thou in me dwelling, and I with Thee one
Be Thou my battle Shield, Sword for the fight
Be Thou my Dignity, Thou my Delight
Thou my soul's Shelter, Thou my high Tower
Raise Thou me heavenward, O Power of my power
Riches I heed not, nor man's empty praise
Thou mine Inheritance, now and always
Thou and Thou only, first in my heart
High King of Heaven, my Treasure Thou art
High King of Heaven, my victory won
May I reach Heaven's joys, O bright Heaven's Sun
Heart of my own heart, whatever befall
Still be my Vision, O Ruler of all
"Be Thou My Vision" is a powerful hymn that has been sung and cherished by believers for many years. Don Moen's rendition of this classic hymn brings a fresh and heartfelt perspective to its timeless message.
The song begins with the plea, "Be Thou my Vision, O Lord of my heart." This opening line sets the tone for the entire song - a prayerful request for God to be the center of our lives and the focus of our hearts. It acknowledges that nothing else should take precedence over our relationship with Him. In a world filled with distractions and competing priorities, this song reminds us to keep our eyes fixed on the One who truly matters.
As the lyrics continue, we are reminded that God is not only our Vision but also our Wisdom and true Word. He is the source of all knowledge and understanding, and when we align ourselves with Him, we gain access to His divine wisdom. This echoes the words of Proverbs 2:6, which says, "For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding."
The song also recognizes God as our Father and us as His children. It beautifully expresses the intimacy of our relationship with Him, acknowledging that He dwells within us and we dwell in Him. This echoes the words of Jesus in John 14:20, where He says, "On that day you will realize that I am in my Father, and you are in me, and I am in you."
One of the most striking aspects of this song is its emphasis on surrendering our own desires and ambitions to God. The lyrics say, "Riches I heed not, nor man's empty praise." This echoes the teachings of Jesus in Matthew 6:19-21, where He encourages us to store up treasures in heaven rather than on earth. It reminds us that true fulfillment and satisfaction can only be found in God, not in the material possessions or accolades of this world.
The song also expresses a longing for heaven and the eternal joy that awaits us there. It captures the hope and anticipation of being in the presence of God, the "High King of Heaven." It echoes the sentiment of Revelation 21:4, which says, "He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away."
Overall, "Be Thou My Vision" is a deeply meaningful and inspiring song that encourages us to keep our focus on God and surrender our lives to Him. It reminds us of the wisdom and guidance He offers, the intimacy of our relationship with Him, and the eternal joy that awaits us in His presence. Don Moen's rendition of this hymn beautifully captures the essence of its message and serves as a heartfelt prayer to God.