Wide Open (feat. Matthew West)
Austin French
Embracing Divine Guidance: The Journey of Surrender in 'Wide Open'
Austin French's song 'Wide Open,' featuring Matthew West, is a heartfelt declaration of surrender and openness to divine guidance. The lyrics reflect a journey from self-reliance and pride to a place of humility and trust in a higher power. French admits to having been a 'fool' for thinking his plans were superior, only to be met with failure and closed doors. This realization leads him to a pivotal moment where he decides to let go of his own dreams and desires, symbolically 'lighting a match' to them, and instead, seeks to align his life with what he believes is God's will.
The chorus, with its repeated affirmation of being 'wide open,' underscores a profound willingness to be led and used for a greater purpose. French's surrender is not just a passive act but an active commitment to follow wherever he is sent. This openness is portrayed as a source of newfound hope and possibility, as he believes that with his focus on divine guidance, 'anything is possible.' The song conveys a sense of liberation and empowerment that comes from trusting in something greater than oneself.
In the final verses, French looks forward to the ultimate fulfillment of his faith, envisioning a future where he will see the promises of eternity realized. This eschatological hope adds a layer of depth to the song, suggesting that the surrender and openness he advocates are not just for this life but have eternal significance. The imagery of 'parting clouds' and 'trumpet sounds' evokes a sense of divine revelation and final redemption, reinforcing the theme of trust and hope in a divine plan.