UNBELIEF IS A BARREN FIELD
In a strange land: nothing lives there.
Unbelief is a deep hole
Full of heavy clay: I don’t want to be there.
I will rise up from my unbelief,
Up to the place of faith;
To fly up high on eagle’s wings
By grace.
I will fan the flame of faith,
fan the flame of faith,
Fan the flame of faith again. (Repeat)
Lost hope is a weary mind,
It’s a sickened heart, a stolen vision.
Lost hope is a downcast soul,
It’s the bitter taste of disappointment.
But I know a hope that is coming,
Hope that is a tree of life.
So I’m trusting in the living hope,
Jesus Christ.
Godfrey Birtill
Song Meaning
“Unbelief Is A Barren Field” centres on rising from unbelief and lost hope into faith by grace. Its repeated language turns doctrine into prayer and gives worshippers words for a faithful response to God.
Biblical Message
The song closely reflects Mark 9:24 and Isaiah 40:31. These passages illuminate its central images and anchor its message in Scripture: God acts in grace, his people respond in faith, and hope rests in what he has promised.
Reflection
Use this song to pause, name the truth it declares, and consider the response it invites. It is especially fitting for encouragement, prayer for faith, or spiritual renewal. Let its central confession become a personal prayer and a shared encouragement to the church.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is “Unbelief Is A Barren Field” about?
It is about rising from unbelief and lost hope into faith by grace.
Which Bible passages connect with this song?
Mark 9:24 and Isaiah 40:31 provide especially clear connections to its message.
How can this song be used in worship?
It can support encouragement, prayer for faith, or spiritual renewal, followed by Scripture reading, prayer, or quiet reflection.