For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord
"Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."
So do not fear for I am with you
Do not be dismayed, for I am your God
I will strengthen you and help you
I will uphold you with my righteous right hand
Create in me a pure heart, O God
And renew a steadfast spirit within me
Do not cast me from Your presence
Or take Your Holy Spirit from me
Restore to me the joy of Your salvation
And grant me a willing spirit to sustain me
Open my lips, Lord
And my mouth will declare Your praise
You do not delight in sacrifice, or I would bring it
You do not take pleasure in burnt offerings
My sacrifice, O God, is a broken spirit
A broken and contrite heart
You, God, will not despise
I praise You because I am fearfully and wonderfully made
Your works are wonderful, I know that full well
Taste and see that the Lord is good
Blessed is the one who takes refuge in Him
He lifted me out of the slimy pit
Out of the mud and mire
He set my feet on a rock
And gave me a firm place to stand
He put a new song in my mouth
A hymn of praise to our God
Many will see and fear of Lord and put their trust in Him
"Hope, Pt. 3" by Michael W. Smith is a powerful song that encapsulates the theme of hope and God's faithfulness. It is part of his album "Still, Vol. 1," which was released in 2020. This song, like many of Smith's compositions, draws inspiration from biblical scriptures and reflects his deep faith in God.
The song begins with a profound declaration from Jeremiah 29:11: "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." This verse sets the tone for the entire song, reminding us that God has a purpose and a plan for each of our lives. It reassures us that even in the midst of uncertainty, we can find hope and trust in God's unfailing love.
As the song continues, Smith incorporates lyrics from various Psalms and passages from the book of Isaiah. He reminds us of God's promise to be with us and strengthen us in times of fear and despair: "So do not fear for I am with you, do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." These verses echo the comforting words of Psalm 23, where it says, "Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me."
Smith also includes a plea for restoration and renewal in the song: "Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me." These lyrics reflect the psalmist's desire for God's forgiveness and restoration, acknowledging that true joy and sustenance can only be found in God's presence.
Throughout the song, Smith encourages us to praise and worship God, declaring His goodness and faithfulness: "Open my lips, Lord, and my mouth will declare your praise." These lyrics resonate with the psalmist's exhortation to "taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in him" (Psalm 34:8).
"Hope, Pt. 3" is an anthem of hope and a reminder of God's steadfast love. It reminds us that even in the midst of trials and challenges, we can find comfort and strength in God's promises. It encourages us to seek God's presence, to offer our brokenness and contrite hearts to Him, knowing that He will not despise our sacrifices.
The song's melody and arrangement beautifully complement the lyrics, creating an atmosphere of worship and reflection. Smith's heartfelt vocals, combined with the uplifting and powerful instrumentation, evoke a sense of awe and reverence for God.
In conclusion, "Hope, Pt. 3" by Michael W. Smith is a song that draws inspiration from biblical scriptures and reflects the theme of hope and God's faithfulness. It encourages us to trust in God's plans, find refuge in His presence, and offer our praise and worship to Him. This song serves as a reminder that even in the darkest moments of our lives, there is hope, for God is with us and He has a purpose for our future.
