Devotion

Hillsong United's song 'Devotion' is a profound exploration of faith, redemption, and the commitment to follow a higher calling. The lyrics reflect a personal journey of seeking salvation and understanding one's place in the divine plan. The opening lines, 'I've been running, trying to be one who sees / I've been working salvation out on my knees,' suggest a relentless pursuit of spiritual clarity and redemption. This pursuit is not just a passive hope but an active engagement, symbolized by the act of praying on one's knees, a traditional posture of humility and supplication.

The song emphasizes the transformative power of faith, as seen in the lines, 'When you stand the tall trees and mountains bow / When you speak the fiercest of oceans is still.' These natural metaphors illustrate the awe-inspiring power of the divine, capable of calming the most tumultuous seas and commanding the respect of the tallest trees and mountains. This imagery serves to highlight the omnipotence of the divine and the profound impact it has on the believer's life. The transformation is further emphasized with 'I see the sinner seek devotion / The lost become chosen,' indicating a shift from a state of sin and lostness to one of devotion and being chosen by the divine.

Central to the song is the theme of following the divine path, encapsulated in the repeated commitment to 'take up my cross and follow you, Lord.' This phrase is a direct reference to the Christian concept of bearing one's cross, symbolizing the acceptance of trials and sacrifices in the pursuit of a higher spiritual purpose. The song acknowledges the struggles and the world's denial of faith, yet it reinforces the idea that true life and purpose are found in unwavering devotion and following the divine lead. The closing lines, 'I will take up my cross and follow Lord where you lead me / And I will take up my cross and follow wherever you go,' reaffirm this commitment, portraying a deep, unwavering faith and dedication to the divine path.