My Life Is a Gift: Meaning and Lyrics of the LDS Song

Understanding “I Will Follow God’s Plan”

The beloved primary song from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, officially titled “I Will Follow God’s Plan” (often recognized by its opening line, “My life is a gift; my life has a plan”), is a staple in Latter-day Saint children’s music. Written and composed by Vanja Y. Watkins, this piece is widely taught to children around the world to instill foundational doctrinal concepts about identity, purpose, and pre-mortal existence.

Key Themes and Lyrics

The song packs profound theological depth into a simple, uplifting melody. Its lyrics progress logically through the core timeline of the Latter-day Saint Plan of Salvation:

• Pre-mortal Existence: The opening lines—“My life is a gift; my life has a plan / My life has a purpose; in heav’n it began”—remind listeners that life did not start at birth. According to LDS doctrine, individuals lived as spiritual children of Heavenly Father before coming to earth.
• Agency and Choice: The song emphasizes personal accountability with the line, “My choice was to come to this lovely home on earth”. Coming to earth was an exercise of moral agency, accepting the physical experience of mortality.
• Guidance and Commitment: The chorus shifts to an active commitment: “I will follow God’s plan for me, Holding fast to his word and his love”. It encourages individuals to work, pray, and walk in the footsteps of Jesus Christ to find enduring happiness both during mortality and in a future heavenly home.

Cultural Impact in Primary

Within the children’s organization of the Church (known as Primary), songs like this serve as teaching tools as much as musical numbers. Because children learn concepts through rhythm and repetition, teachers frequently use visual aids, sign language, and storyboards to help youth internalize the message that their individual lives matter and are part of a divine design.

Reflection

Ultimately, “I Will Follow God’s Plan” serves as a gentle daily reminder of self-worth. By teaching that every person’s existence is an intentional gift with a destination, the hymn offers comfort, direction, and reassurance to listeners of all ages.

I Will Follow God’s Plan Lyric Video

This video provides a sing-along lyric presentation of the song, making it easy to listen to the melody and read along with the words.
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