One of my favorite hymns is Be Thou My Vision, an oldie but goodie, that was written in either the 8th or 11th century. It originated in Ireland and was translated into English in 1912. The words to this tune captivated my heart instantly.
It’s one of those songs that comes to mind as life events swirl around me and I’m tempted to forget God’s supremacy. I’ll share two portions of the hymn that have been great reminders, whether the day is stormy or unruffled, that it’s really not about me. If Jesus is truly Lord of my life, then He’s in charge and it’s all about Him.
The first stanza articulates His supremacy well:
“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.”
The word naught means “nothing”, making the point that nothing should mean more to me than Jesus and my relationship with Him. In fact, things are SO not about me, that the 3rd and 4th lines of the verse help cast out from my thought closet all selfish pride. HE is my best thought! And from Him will come the thoughts, words, attitudes and actions that He desires for my good and His glory! Even when I’m sleeping, His presence is my light. AMAZING!! I need not fear ever being alone or in the dark!
The final two lines of the piece really sum up His sovereignty in my life and I will leave you with these words:
“Heart of my own heart, whatever befall,
Still be my vision, O Ruler of all.”