Heavenly Sunlight

Songbook Hymn Sermons

Heavenly Sunlight

A Sermon based on the Hymn by Henry J. Zelley

Introduction:
“Walking in Sunlight” is a radiant hymn that expresses the joy and peace of living daily in the presence of Jesus. Life brings storms, shadows, and struggles—but the Christian walks in sunlight, not because the path is easy, but because the Savior walks beside us. This hymn reminds us of God’s nearness and love in every season. It invites us to walk with confidence, not in self, but in the guiding light of our Lord.

Stanza 1: “Walking in sunlight all of my journey, over the mountains, through the deep vale…”
The Christian life is a journey marked by hills and valleys—both joyful moments and painful trials. Yet through it all, we walk in sunlight. Psalm 84:11 says, “The Lord God is a sun and shield.” Even in the valley of the shadow of death, we fear no evil (Psalm 23:4), because God walks with us. This stanza paints a vivid picture of continual fellowship with the Savior across all terrain.

Stanza 2: “Heavenly sunlight, heavenly sunlight, flooding my soul with glory divine…”
The chorus emphasizes the brightness and warmth of Christ’s presence. John 8:12 records Jesus saying, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness but will have the light of life.” That divine light brings joy and assurance that no earthly shadow can dim.

Stanza 3: “Shadows around me, shadows above me, never conceal my Savior and Guide…”
Though shadows may surround us, they cannot blot out the light of Christ. Romans 8:38–39 assures us that nothing—neither death nor life, nor things present nor things to come—can separate us from His love. As our constant Guide (Psalm 48:14), Jesus leads us through darkness into glory.

Stanza 4: “Ever rejoicing in His great love, I’m walking with Jesus all the way…”
Joy is the natural response of a heart secure in Christ’s love. 1 Peter 1:8 calls it “joy inexpressible and full of glory.” When we trust and walk with Jesus, every step becomes one of peace and praise. This final stanza encourages continual rejoicing and confidence in our Savior’s enduring presence.

Walking in Sunlight Sermon Outline:

Stanza 1 – Christ’s Presence in Every Step

• Psalm 84:11 – God is our sun and shield

• Psalm 23:4 – I will fear no evil

• Isaiah 41:10 – Fear not, I am with you

Chorus – The Light of Christ Illuminates the Way

• John 8:12 – The light of life

• Psalm 27:1 – The Lord is my light and salvation

• 2 Corinthians 4:6 – God has shone in our hearts

Stanza 3 – Shadows Cannot Hide Him

• Romans 8:38–39 – Nothing can separate us

• Psalm 139:11–12 – Even darkness is light to God

• Psalm 48:14 – He will be our guide

Stanza 4 – Rejoicing in His Love Daily

• 1 Peter 1:8 – Joy inexpressible

• Philippians 4:4 – Rejoice in the Lord always

• 1 Thessalonians 5:16–17 – Rejoice and pray continually

Call to Action:
Are you walking in sunlight with the Savior? Or are you wandering in darkness, lost and afraid? The light of life is found only in Christ. Obey the gospel today: believe in Jesus (John 8:24), repent of your sins (Acts 17:30), confess Him (Romans 10:9–10), and be baptized (Acts 2:38). Then walk faithfully in His light every day, rejoicing in His love.

Scripture Reference List:
Psalm 84:11 – The Lord is our sun and shield
Psalm 23:4 – He is with us in every valley
Isaiah 41:10 – Fear not, for I am with you
John 8:12 – Jesus is the light of the world
Psalm 27:1 – The Lord is my light
2 Corinthians 4:6 – God shines in our hearts
Romans 8:38–39 – Nothing can separate us from God’s love
Psalm 139:11–12 – Darkness is not dark to Him
Psalm 48:14 – God will guide us forever
1 Peter 1:8 – Joy inexpressible and full of glory
Philippians 4:4 – Rejoice in the Lord always
1 Thessalonians 5:16–17 – Rejoice and pray without ceasing
John 8:24 – Believe or die in sin
Acts 17:30 – God commands all men to repent
Romans 10:9–10 – Confess unto salvation
Acts 2:38 – Be baptized for the remission of sins

Song Author Credit:
Henry J. Zelley penned the lyrics to “Walking in Sunlight” in the early 20th century. The music was composed by George H. Cook. Zelley was a Methodist preacher whose hymns focused on joyful Christian living and assurance in Christ’s presence.

Song History:
“Walking in Sunlight” (also known as “Heavenly Sunlight”) became popular in American gospel hymnals and continues to be cherished for its upbeat tone and encouraging message. Its call to walk daily with Jesus through all of life’s shadows still resonates deeply in the hearts of believers today.

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

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