Stepping in the Light

Songbook Hymn Sermons

Stepping in the Light

A Sermon based on the Hymn Stepping in the Light by Eliza E. Hewitt

Introduction:
“Stepping in the Light” is a joyful and uplifting hymn that calls Christians to follow the example of Jesus. Written by Eliza E. Hewitt, the song reflects the biblical command to walk in the light as Christ is in the light (1 John 1:7). Each stanza highlights the blessings, responsibilities, and joy of living a life that imitates our Savior. This is not merely a walk of morality but a walk of close discipleship—where we strive to speak, serve, and shine like Christ. The path may be narrow, but it is filled with peace and purpose for those who walk in it. As we reflect on each verse of this song, we are reminded of the daily decision to follow Jesus step by step, walking in obedience, truth, and love.

Stanza One – “Trying to walk in the steps of the Savior, trying to follow our Savior and King”
This opening line sets the tone of intentionality and effort. Walking in the steps of Jesus is not casual or accidental—it is purposeful. 1 Peter 2:21 tells us that Christ left us an example “that you should follow His steps.” The imagery of walking reflects consistency, forward motion, and discipleship. He is not just our Redeemer but our King, worthy to be followed in every aspect of life. The last line, “pressing more closely to Him who is leading,” evokes James 4:8, “Draw near to God and He will draw near to you.”

Stanza Two – “Pressing more closely to Him who is leading, when we are tempted to turn from the way”
Temptation is part of every Christian’s journey, but we are not left alone. This stanza acknowledges the struggle while offering the solution—pressing more closely to Jesus. Hebrews 4:15 reminds us that our Lord was tempted in all points as we are, yet without sin. When we are tempted, we are called not to retreat but to stay close to our Guide. The way is narrow (Matthew 7:14), but Christ walks with us, and His Word lights our path (Psalm 119:105).

Stanza Three – “Walking in footsteps of gentle forbearance, footsteps of faithfulness, mercy, and love”
The steps of Jesus were not rushed, rude, or reckless. He walked with forbearance—a word rich with patience and restraint. He showed faithfulness to His Father, mercy to the broken, and love to sinners. Colossians 3:12–13 urges us to put on these very qualities. As we walk like Jesus, we become gentle in word, pure in heart, and rich in compassion. His path teaches us how to treat others and how to glorify God.

Stanza Four – “Trying to walk in the steps of the Savior, upward still upward we follow our Guide”
This final stanza turns our attention heavenward. The Christian life is not stagnant—it ascends. Philippians 3:14 speaks of pressing “toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” The path of righteousness leads us closer to heaven with every faithful step. We are not walking in circles—we are walking upward, toward eternal glory, by following Christ.

Chorus – “How beautiful to walk in the steps of the Savior, stepping in the light…”
The chorus is a song of celebration. Walking with Christ is not burdensome—it is beautiful. It brings joy, peace, and clarity. Psalm 119:105 again reminds us that His Word is a lamp and light for the journey. As we step in the light, we grow more like Jesus, becoming lights in the world (Matthew 5:14–16) and glorifying the Father.

Stepping in the Light Sermon Outline:

Stanza 1: Following with Purpose

• 1 Peter 2:21; James 4:8

• Discipleship requires intent

• Closeness to Jesus brings strength

Stanza 2: Overcoming Temptation

• Hebrews 4:15; Matthew 7:14; Psalm 119:105

• Temptation is common, but Jesus is our Guide

• Stay close when tempted

Stanza 3: Walking in Christlike Character

• Colossians 3:12–13

• Forbearance, mercy, and love define our walk

• Our walk influences others

Stanza 4: Walking Toward Glory

• Philippians 3:14

• The Christian walk ascends toward heaven

• Each step draws us nearer to God

Chorus: The Joy of the Journey

• Psalm 119:105; Matthew 5:14–16

• Walking with Jesus is beautiful and light-filled

• We reflect His light to the world

Call to Action:
Are you stepping in the light? Not just believing in Jesus, but walking as He walked? The path of discipleship is not always easy, but it is always right. You are called to follow the Savior daily, to resist temptation, to grow in mercy, and to press upward toward heaven. If you have stumbled, return to the path. If you have strayed, come back to the light. Jesus is still leading. Will you walk with Him?

Key Takeaways:

• Following Jesus requires deliberate effort and closeness to Him (1 Peter 2:21)

• Temptation is conquered by staying near the Savior (Hebrews 4:15)

• The Christian walk is defined by patience, mercy, and love (Colossians 3:12–13)

• Faithful walking leads us closer to eternal glory (Philippians 3:14)

• Walking in the light brings joy and shines as a witness to others (Matthew 5:14–16)

Scripture Reference List:

• 1 Peter 2:21 – Christ left us an example to follow

• James 4:8 – Draw near to God and He will draw near to you

• Hebrews 4:15 – Jesus was tempted like us, yet without sin

• Matthew 7:14 – The narrow way that leads to life

• Psalm 119:105 – God’s Word is a lamp and a light

• Colossians 3:12–13 – Put on mercy, kindness, humility, patience

• Philippians 3:14 – Press toward the goal of heaven

• Matthew 5:14–16 – Be lights in the world for God's glory

Song History:
“Stepping in the Light” was written by Eliza E. Hewitt, a devoted Christian schoolteacher and hymn writer in the late 19th century. After suffering a spinal injury, she turned to hymn writing as a way to serve God from her bed. Her songs, including “More About Jesus” and “Sunshine in My Soul,” continue to uplift Christians today. This hymn encourages joyful, obedient discipleship, inviting all to walk faithfully in the radiant footsteps of Jesus.

Prepared by David Hersey of the church of Christ at Granby, MO

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