My Heart Is Full of Christ

My Heart Is Full of Christ is a devotional hymn by Charles Wesley, written in the 1740s during the height of the Methodist revival. The hymn expresses the intimate, personal experience of union with Christ, emphasizing both the believer’s joy in Him and the transformative power of His indwelling presence. It reflects Wesley’s deep commitment to personal holiness, vibrant worship, and heartfelt expression of faith.

The hymn opens with a declaration that the singer’s heart is filled with Christ, highlighting the centrality of Christ in the believer’s life. This theme is rooted in Galatians 2:20, which speaks of living by faith in the Son of God, and Colossians 1:27, which emphasizes Christ dwelling in the hearts of believers. Wesley presents this fullness as both a source of joy and a call to obedience.

A key theme of the hymn is spiritual transformation. The presence of Christ within the believer changes daily life, guiding actions, shaping thoughts, and inspiring devotion. Philippians 1:21, “For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain,” resonates with the hymn’s tone, emphasizing that life is meaningful only through union with Christ.

Wesley also incorporates the imagery of abiding in Christ, drawn from John 15:5. The believer’s joy and spiritual vitality flow from remaining in Him, echoing the biblical metaphor of the vine and branches. The hymn blends personal meditation with worshipful expression, creating a devotional experience that is both introspective and communal.

Musically, the hymn has been paired with various tunes over the centuries, often using traditional hymn meters that make it suitable for congregational singing. Its enduring appeal lies in its devotional depth, theological richness, and heartfelt celebration of Christ’s indwelling presence.

My Heart Is Full of Christ remains a treasured hymn in Methodist and broader Protestant traditions, reminding believers that true spiritual fullness and joy are found only in a life centered on Jesus.