Devotional

This hymn begins where Scripture so often meets us — in honesty: “O soul, are you weary and troubled?” The Bible never dismisses moments like these. Psalm 34 reminds us that the Lord is near to the brokenhearted, and 2 Corinthians 4 speaks openly of seasons when light feels dim. The hymn gently names this reality and invites us to bring it into the presence of God. 

Then comes a tender question: “No light in the darkness you see?” There are times when our circumstances blur our vision or when our hearts feel too bloated to see clearly. Yet the hymn immediately offers hope: “There’s light for a look at the Savior.” 

This is the heart of 2 Corinthians 3:18. Paul tells us that when we behold the glory of the Lord, we do so with “unveiled face” — meaning our hearts are open, freed, and welcomed into the love of our Savior. As we look to Christ, the Spirit slowly, gently transforms us “from one degree of glory to another.” We are not changed by our own effort but by His faithful presence as we turn our gaze toward Him.

That’s why the hymn invites us so simply: “Turn your eyes upon Jesus…” It is not a demand; it is an invitation. Anyone can pause long enough to look toward Him. Scripture often speaks this way. The psalmist lifts his eyes to the Lord for help (Ps. 121:1–2). Peter walks on the water as long as his eyes remain on Jesus (Matt. 14:29). Israel finds healing when they look toward God’s provision (Num. 21:8–9). The pattern is clear: where we look shows us where we place our trust and ultimately shapes who we become.

And as we look, the hymn describes the quiet, surprising effect: “The things of earth will grow strangely dim…” Not because the world disappears, but because Christ becomes brighter. His glory puts everything else in its rightful place. This is the slow, gracious work of the Spirit renewing our minds — helping us see life through the clarity of His love. 

Finally, the hymn gives us the reason: “…in the light of His glory and grace.” We can turn our eyes to Jesus because He first turned His heart toward us. Through His life, death, and resurrection, He has given us access to the very light that restores us. His glory gives us perspective; His grace gives us rest. 

This simple hymn takes us on an entire journey — from weariness, to looking, to clarity, to worship — all by lifting our gaze to Christ. This is why God gives His people songs like this. They help us slow down. They point us to Scripture and teach us that spiritual renewal often begins with a quiet turning of our attention toward Jesus. 

So as you read or sing this hymn, take a moment to be still before the Lord. Close your eyes. Breathe deeply. Let your heart turn toward Jesus. Thank Him for melodies that help us remember His truth. And rest in the light of His glory and grace.