My Life Is a Gift LDS Song: Lyrics & Meaning

Finding Purpose and Direction: The Meaning Behind “I Will Follow God’s Plan”

Few songs from the Latter-day Saint Children’s Songbook capture foundational theology quite as simply or powerfully as “I Will Follow God’s Plan” (frequently recognized by its memorable opening line, “My life is a gift; my life has a plan”). Written and composed by Vanja Y. Watkins in 1981, this beloved primary song has spent decades helping children and adults alike anchor their identity in a broader eternal perspective.

Key Themes of the Song

The lyrics are dense with theological concepts packed into an accessible, uplifting melody. Each phrase builds upon a specific pillar of Latter-day Saint doctrine:

• 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”—emphasize that human existence didn’t start at birth. Instead, it teaches that every person lived as a spirit child of heavenly parents before coming to earth.
• Agency and Choice: The text notes, “My choice was to come to this lovely home on earth”, highlighting the doctrine of moral agency and the premortal choice to participate in mortality to gain a physical body and learn.
• Commitment and Action: The chorus shifts from reflection to commitment with the pledge: “I will follow God’s plan for me, / Holding fast to his word and his love. / I will work, and I will pray; / I will always walk in his way.”

A Timeless Legacy in Primary

While written primarily for children to learn and sing during Sunday gatherings, the song’s message carries profound weight for listeners of all ages. Its upbeat tempo and optimistic tone encourage a proactive approach to faith, framing obedience and prayer not as restrictions, but as practical ways to find true happiness both on earth and in a future heavenly home.

Decades after its publication, “I Will Follow God’s Plan” remains a staple in Latter-day Saint classrooms and homes, serving as a musical reminder of individual worth and divine direction.

I Will Follow God’s Plan Lyric Video

This video provides a lyric-based visual presentation of the song, making it easy to follow along with the classic primary tune.
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