Sitting at No. 1 on this week’s Official UK Christian & Gospel Singles Chart is ‘Give Me Joy’ by Elle Limebear. The song enters straight at the top, making Elle the third female artist to reach No. 1 since the chart launched.

‘Give Me Joy’ opens with the familiar chorus of the much-loved hymn ‘Give Me Joy in My Heart’, but not in the slower traditional style many people know. Elle brings it into a bright, upbeat sound that keeps you on your feet from the start.

At its heart, the song is about choosing joy in every season. Beyond the familiar hymn chorus, the other verses reflect on where that joy comes from and how it stays. It speaks of walking by faith when troubles come like waves, remaining grateful whatever life brings and finding confidence in following Jesus.

Elle also acknowledges the hymn within the song, singing, ‘There’s an old church hymn that we’ll always sing’, before moving into the familiar chorus, ‘Give me joy in my heart, keep me praising.’

The chorus becomes more than a familiar melody. It carries the prayer running through the whole song, asking God for a joy that is not controlled by circumstances, but rooted in faith, gratitude and following Jesus.

Released as Elle’s first song since signing with Decca Records, ‘Give Me Joy’ marks the beginning of a new chapter in her music.

‘Give Me Joy’ by Elle Limebear is available now on all major streaming platforms.