A Perfect Heart

 

Dony McGuire and Reba Rambo are familiar to many of us in this present age. The 1980s is still very close in heart to many of us senior Christians.

Both Dony and Reba come from a rich musical family heritage. As a young boy, Dony toured with his four brothers and many popular Gospel singing groups before joining The Downings. At the age of 13, Reba began traveling with her parents, Buck and Dottie Rambo, in the legendary southern Gospel music group, The Rambos. They both launched solo careers in the late ‘70s becoming trendsetters in contemporary Christian music before joining forces as Rambo-McGuire.

Dony spent his early years performing in churches and concert halls with such popular Gospel groups as The Downings, The Galileans, and The Rebels Quartet. He is a well-known singer, pianist, arranger, and producer and is one of Christian music’s most beloved and sought after artists. Reba is a GRAMMY and Dove Award-winning singer, songwriter, author, minister and teacher. She’s the walking definition of a pioneering woman.

One of the major highlights of Dony’s career was receiving the 1980 GRAMMY Award for Best Contemporary Gospel Album for the musical he wrote with Reba, The Lord’s Prayer, and performed at the 1981 GRAMMY Awards show with other acclaimed artists. They also received a Dove Award that year for the same project. 

Dony continues to compose and write songs and produces projects for other artists. Two of his most recent productions are Mark Lowry’s, What’s Not To Love, and The Freemans, Tower of Song.

Dony and Reba taught creative writing workshops giving young and seasoned writers practical instruction in the craft of writing songs, stories, sermons, and speeches. “I wish someone had taught me these principles and secrets when I was young because it would have shaved years off my creative learning process,” says Reba.

Reba continues to write and teach creative writing. She has collaborated with her daughter, Destiny, in recording a new project which will be released as Rambo Women in the near future.

The story behind "A Perfect Heart" begins when friends invited the McGuires to vacation with them on their houseboat on a lake near Nashville. They had determined to work diligently on their songwriting during that time, and they did so. They prayed earnestly that the Lord would do something special through them that week. At the end of the week they had completed a number of songs and done some work on a musical. Reba tells the story.

"On the very last morning we were to be on the boat, Dony got up very early to try to catch a catfish for breakfast. He's an early riser. I was so full of faith in his fishing ability that I proceeded to the kitchen and started to cook bacon and eggs.

"The sun was peeking over the hills and a mist was rising from the water. It was a glorious morning. I looked out of a small porthole and caught a glimpse of Dony with a strange look on his face. Some people come down with a cold, while Dony comes down with a song! I couldn't explain it, but I knew something good was about to happen. I turned off the burners where I was cooking and removed the food. I gathered our songwriting materials and sat down to wait for him to come in.

"When he came in a few minutes later, he sat down before a small electric piano and began to play. As he played what the Lord was giving to him, I began to write lyrics as they were being given to me. That kind of inspiration had only occurred a few times in our short songwriting career together. It was as if God was saying, 'You've been faithful in your praying and studying for a week, now I'm going to give you something just because I have the power to do so.' I wrote as fast as I could write while Dony continued to play. We both completed the whole composition and have never changed a word or the musical setting.

"It became our 'little lake song.' We used it for a time around our offices as a devotional song and sang it at a few small churches. One day Bill Gaither came by our offices and heard us singing it during one of our devotional periods. He asked where we got it. We told him it was our 'lake song.' He expressed such a keen interest in it that Dony made a tape of it for him. That started it on its way."

Several years later, halfway around the world in Zimbabwe, the McGuires heard their "little lake song" being sung by the great host of Africans gathered there. They arrived at a large gathering in Zimbabwe, Africa, where thousands of happy Christians sang their beautiful song, first in their native language and then in charming, heavily accented English. Reba reports, "I was so moved that I was reduced to an emotional basket case for a few moments."

Verse
“Morning sun light of creation,
Grassy fields of velvet floor.
Silver clouds a shimmering curtain,
He's designed a perfect world.

I'm amazed at His talents,

I stand in awe of One so great,

Now my soul begins to sing out,

To the source from which it came.”

“Morning sun light of creation”

Genesis 1:5

“God called the light “day,” and the darkness he called “night.” And there was evening, and there was morning—the first day.”

Biblehub.com, Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary: God said, Let there be light; He willed it, and at once there was light. Oh, the power of the Word of God! And in the new creation, the first thing that is wrought in the soul is light: the blessed Spirit works upon the will and affections by enlightening the understanding.

“Grassy fields of velvet floor.”

Genesis 1:10

“God called the dry ground “land,” and the gathered waters he called “seas.” And God saw that it was good.”

Scripturesavvy.com: It is essential for us to understand that God’s Word holds immense power. When He speaks, things happen. This is a foundational truth in how we view the narrative of creation. The act of God saying, “Let the dry land appear” demonstrates His authority. From nothing, God made something substantial and beautiful. He created the Earth, which would eventually bear life. We can draw parallels to our lives today. Just as God spoke the world into existence with His Words, He can impact our lives through his promises and commands.

“Silver clouds a shimmering curtain”

Genesis 1:8

“God called the vault 'sky.' And there was evening, and there was morning—the second day.”

Studylight.org, Gill’s Exposition of the Whole Bible: Including the starry and airy heavens: it has its name from its height in the Arabic language, it being above the earth, and reaching to the third heaven.

“He's designed a perfect world.”

Genesis 1:1

“In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.”

Christianitypath.com: Genesis 1:1 is a profound verse that sets the stage for the entire Bible. It tells us that at the very beginning of everything, there was God. The verse does not start with a description or explanation of God; instead, it simply states God’s action – creation. This is significant because it emphasizes the sovereignty and authority of God, highlighting the fact that all creation originates from Him. The phrase “In the beginning” indicates a point in time when the universe was created, which is crucial for understanding the biblical narrative.

“I'm amazed at His talents, I stand in awe of One so great”

Proverbs 30:18

"There are three things that are too amazing for me, four that I do not understand.”

Godsbless.ing, Reverend Michael Johnson: The powerful message in this verse is clear: God’s might is beyond comprehension, deserving our highest reverence and admiration. The use of the word “awesome” emphasizes the magnitude of God’s power and the awe-inspiring nature of His actions. By acknowledging and praising His power, we remind ourselves of our humble position in the presence of such greatness . . . Think about the wonders of the universe, the beauty of nature, and the countless blessings in your life. All of these incredible things are a testament to God’s power and presence. When we acknowledge and honor His greatness, we are filled with a sense of gratitude and humility. This verse serves as a powerful reminder to reflect on God’s majesty and offer Him the praise and honor He deserves.

Scripturesavvy.com: Proverbs 30:18 invites us to embrace the wonders and mysteries of life with open hearts and minds. As we journey through learning and discovery, we find beauty in the things we do not fully understand. Humility, curiosity, and trust in God all play vital roles in shaping our perspective as we navigate the uncertainties of life.

As we apply these teachings into our daily lives, we get the opportunity to delve deeper into our relationships with others and God. It is through embracing the unknown that we nurture faith, empathy, and gratitude. The next time we find ourselves in awe of an experience or a question we cannot answer, let us celebrate that moment—knowing it draws us closer to wisdom and to God every step of the way.

This chapter also emphasizes a strong connection to the natural world and God’s creation, reinforcing how our experiences are influenced by the environment around us. As we read through this chapter, we may discover admiration for how God shaped the world and the incredible balance maintained within it. The speaker aims to open our eyes and hearts to these treasures of knowledge and wisdom, urging us to value the journey of discovery.

“Now my soul begins to sing out, To the source from which it came.”

Psalm 68:32

“Sing to God, you kingdoms of the earth, sing praise to the Lord.”

Godsbless.ing: The directive to “Sing to God, you kingdoms of the earth” extends a universal call to worship, emphasizing God’s dominion over all nations and peoples. It invites individuals to celebrate and honor God’s greatness collectively. The imagery of God riding across the heavens underscores His majestic and active involvement in the world, highlighting His omnipotence and creative power.

Refrain

“Bless the Lord Who reigns with beauty.
Bless the Lord Who reigns with wisdom and with power.
Bless the Lord Who reigns my life with so much love,
He can make a perfect heart.
Praise the Lord Who reigns in beauty.
Praise the Lord Who reigns with wisdom and with power.
Praise the Lord Who reigns my life with so much love,
He can make a perfect heart.”

Compellingtruth.org: To bless God simply means to praise Him or to honor His name. The Hebrew word translated "bless" in the Old Testament literally means to kneel, indicating the idea of honoring the Lord. We do not add anything to Him when we bless Him, yet we worship Him as our appropriate response to His greatness and His love for us.

Psalm 103 is a good psalm to read to bless the Lord. On Enduringword.com: David did not mean this in the sense that a greater person bestows a blessing on a lesser person. God is infinitely greater than man, and man could never give a blessing to God. David meant this in the sense that it blesses and honors God when His creatures praise Him and thank Him appropriately . . . David called upon his soul to bless Yahweh. It was as if David looked at his soul and understood that it was not praising God enough. He called upon his soul to do more . . . David understood that true worship was something deeply inward, of the soul. It is not just about outward forms or expressions, but also about something real from the soul.

 

I am indebted to the website of rambomcguire.com

By His Grace . . . 

In Times Like These

Stress and strain was part of daily living during the height of World War II.  Many did not know what to expect or what was coming next. Many families experienced personal “sorrows or tragedies.” Ruth Caye Jones was one of these women.

In the year 1943, Ruth Caye Jones, a pastor’s wife in Pennsylvania and the mother of five, was distressed by the headlines of her Pittsburgh newspaper. She saw the World War II causality lists and she knew the Allies were making slow progress through the boot of Italy. Supplies were rationed at home, and everyone was living under incredible strain.

Opening her Bible to 2 Timothy, Ruth studied the page and pondered the opening words. A song began composing itself in her mind. She jotted some lyrics on a small pad in her apron pocket. A series of musical notes also played in her mind. Only later did she realize they came from the old clock on the mantle with its iconic Westminster Chimes. Soon the notes and music congealed to become one of the most beloved Gospel songs of the 1940s and 1950s, “In Times Like These.”

Several years later, the words provided comfort to the writer as she recovered from a serious surgery. She is said to have tears come to her eyes when she watched George Beverly Shea sing her song on a Billy Graham telecast. She said “I can’t believe I had any part in writing this song. I just feel that God gave it to me, and I gave it to the world.”

In 1948, the Jones’ founded a radio ministry in Erie, PA, broadcasting a weekly family devotional program from their home called “A Visit with the Jones.”

Mrs. Jones wrote fifteen other hymns, but “In Times Like These” remains her best known. Ruth Caye Jones died on August 18, 1972 in Erie, Pennsylvania.

Barry Kauffman, a Millersville PA resident, shared these words on his blog (barryshymns.blogspot.com):

 “We live in very troubling times.  Terrorism is increasing worldwide.   Wars and threats of wars abound. Christians are being killed, persecuted, and forced to flee their homes.  Fires, floods and earthquakes are devastating large areas.  Judges are overturning Biblical standards.  It is easy to become discouraged, worried and fearful.  But in a society which no longer has absolutes, believers do have absolutes upon which they can rest.  In times like these we need the Bible.  In times like these we need a Savior.  In times like these we need a solid Rock and an Anchor.  And thankfully we do have those to build our lives on and depend upon.“

We are certainly living in times like this. None of us are free from the worries of life. On andalusiastarnews.com these words were shared: “Another song gives similar assurance. A couple, known for their prolific and popular songwriting, penned the words and music during troubling times. They were expecting their third child. The husband was recovering from a serious illness. The world was in turmoil around them – the Vietnam War, racial tension with violence in the streets, and increasing drug abuse. They worried about the kind of world their children would face growing up.  Gloria Gaither recalls being filled with fear that New Year’s Eve. But, then she felt a calming peace within. After her son was born, she and her husband, Bill, wrote, ‘God sent His son, they called Him, Jesus; He came to love, heal and forgive; He lived and died to buy my pardon. An empty grave is there to prove my Savior lives!’”

The daughter of Ruth Caye Jones wrote these words in 2021: “Mrs. Ruth Caye Jones was my mother, and I was there the day she wrote the song. That is 78 years ago, but the words are truer today than ever before. It is the message this old, troubled world needs to hear!”

Verse One

“In times like these we need a Savior;

In times like these we need an anchor.

Be very sure, be very sure,

Your anchor holds and grips the Solid Rock!”

Hebrews 6:19

“We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. It enters the inner sanctuary behind the curtain.”

Studylight.com, Barnes’ Notes on the Whole Bible: Hope accomplishes for the soul the same thing which an anchor does for a ship. It makes it fast and secure. An anchor preserves a ship when the waves beat and the wind blows, and as long as the anchor holds, so long the ship is safe, and the mariner apprehends no danger. So with the soul of the Christian. In the tempests and trials of life, his mind is calm as long as his hope of heaven is firm

Studylight.com, Contending for the Faith: An "anchor" (agkura) in ancient times, as well as in modern times, is used as a symbol of hope. In this passage it is used figuratively signifying a "safeguard" (Thayer 7). The Christian’s anchor is his "hope" of salvation in Jesus Christ

Truthaccordingtoscripture.com, Spurgeon’s verse expositions of the Bible: Sailors throw their anchors downwards; we throw ours upwards. Their anchor goes within the veil of the waters into the depths of the sea; ours goes within the veil of glory, into the heights of heaven, where Jesus sits at the right hand of God: “within the veil.”

Verse Two

“In times like these we need the Bible.

In times like these O be not idle.

Be very sure, be very sure,

Your anchor holds and grips the Solid Rock!”

2 Timothy 3:16-17

“All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.”

Crossway.org: The testimony of God’s Holy Word is that it is His breath and that it is everything to believers. The book of Deuteronomy records that when Moses had finished writing the words of the law and had given it to the Levites to place beside the ark and had sung his song, the song of Moses, he said, “Take heart all the words by which I am warning you today, that you may command them to your children, that they may be careful to do all the words of this law. For it is no empty word for you, but your very life”

Godsbless.ing: This powerful verse highlights the divine inspiration of all Scripture, emphasizing that every word is from God and carries a purpose. It serves as a guide for believers, providing them with valuable lessons and teachings for their spiritual journey. Just imagine the impact of knowing that every word in the Bible is divinely inspired, offering wisdom and guidance for navigating life’s challenges and victories. The verse underscores the practical application of Scripture in our lives. It reminds us that the Bible is not merely a historical document but a living and active tool for growth and development. It can correct our mistakes, rebuke us when we stray from God’s path, and train us to live a righteous and holy life. How amazing is it to have a resource that not only teaches us about God’s love but also guides us in our day-to-day decisions and actions? This verse ultimately encourages us to cherish and study the Scriptures, understanding their profound value in shaping our character and deepening our faith. Approach God’s Word with reverence and eagerness, ready to be transformed and equipped for every good work through its divine wisdom and guidance . . . To live in accordance with God’s Word is to accept its authority in our lives and allow it to transform us from the inside out. This involves not only reading the Scriptures but also meditating on them, studying them, and applying their teachings to our daily lives. We can mature in our faith, deepen our relationship with God, and walk in obedience to His commands by doing so. A heart that is willing to submit to His truth and align our beliefs and actions with the principles and teachings found in Scripture is ultimately required to live in accordance with God’s Word. It is a continual process of seeking God’s will, allowing His Word to convict and mold us, and striving to live a life that reflects His love, grace, and righteousness to the world around us.

Verse Three

“In times like these I have a Savior,

In times like these I have an anchor;

I’m very sure, I’m very sure,

My anchor holds and grips the Solid Rock!”

Titus 2:13

“While we wait for the blessed hope—the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ.”

Biblehub.com, Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary: I know what a faithful, promise-keeping God He is. It is not, I know how I have believed, but, I know WHOM I have believed; a feeble faith may clasp a strong Saviour.

2 Timothy 1:12

“That is why I am suffering as I am. Yet this is no cause for shame, because I know whom I have believed, and am convinced that he is able to guard what I have entrusted to him until that day.”

Biblehub.com, Barnes’ Notes on the Bible: The idea is, that he understood the character of that Redeemer to whom he had committed his eternal interests and knew that he had no reason to be ashamed of confiding in Him. He was able to keep all that he had entrusted to His care and would not suffer Him to be lost.

Refrain

“This Rock is Jesus, es He's the One.

This Rock is Jesus, The only One!

Be very sure, be very sure,

Your anchor holds and grips the Solid Rock!”

Psalm 18:2

“The Lord is my Rock, my Fortress and my Deliverer; my God is my Rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold."

Scripturesavvy.com: This verse beautifully captures the essence of God as a protector and a safe haven. When we think of a rock, we picture something strong and unyielding. That’s how God’s presence in our  lives is described—we can lean on Him for support during difficult times . . . As we reflect on the phrase “my God is my Rock,” it suggests a personal connection. It’s not just about God being a generalized rock of salvation; it’s about each of us recognizing Him as our own. It’s about knowing that God offers us a shelter against the storms of life, whether they be physical, emotional, or spiritual. It’s an invitation for us to approach Him for refuge. God invites us into an intimate relationship where we can find solace., strength, and assurance . . . It reminds us that God is unchanging amidst the shifting sands of life’s circumstances. He remains a firm foundation for us to stand upon.

Today, we still live in perilous times. And unlike in the 1940s, we as a society have grown further and further from God. The solid Rock is still there and always has been, but too many people have chosen to throw their anchor on sinking sand.  The words written 60 years ago ring more true today than they ever have. In our lives we will encounter storms of life, some which threaten to tear our whole ships apart. But if your anchor grips onto the solid Rock, there is no storm that can destroy you.  Rest from the turmoil of these times and claim these truths this week.

  

I am indebted to the following resources:

DianaLeaghMatthews.com

Robertjmorgan.com

Barryshymns.blogspot.com

101 More Hymn Stories, Kenneth W. Osbeck

By His Grace . . . 

 

I SurrenderAll

Songs of personal commitment to Christ often stem from a particular experience in the life of the author. This hymn is no different. And you can probably write your own story of that once in a lifetime moment when you surrendered all to Christ.

Billy Graham, evangelist of our century, wrote this tribute to Judson Van DeVenter: “One of the evangelists who influenced my early preaching was also a hymnist who wrote ‘I Surrender All.’ He was a regular visitor at the Florida Bible Institute (now Trinity Bible College) in the late 1930’s. We students loved this deeply spiritual gentleman and often gathered in his winter home at Tampa, Florida, for an evening of fellowship and singing.”

Judson Van DeVenter was born on a farm in Michigan in 1855 to a farmer, John Wesley and his wife, Eliza Ann. Judson had an older brother, Virgil and at least two younger siblings, Nelson and Fanny.

At the age of 17 he accepted Jesus into his heart. However, he struggled with surrendering it all. Following graduation from Hillsdale College, he married Malissa Miller, in 1880. Van DeVenter lived with his in-laws and worked as a painter, before teaching art in the public schools of Sharon, PA. He was, in addition, an accomplished musician, singer, and composer. Van DeVenter was also an active layman in the Methodist Episcopal Church, involved in the church's evangelistic meetings.

Over the years Van DeVenter mastered thirteen different musical instruments, along with singing and composing music, and he became very involved in the music ministry at his church.

Van DeVenter began to struggle with the call upon his life.  He was torn between continuing his teaching career or leaving and entering evangelistic ministry.  His friends greatly encouraged him to enter evangelism, because of his fervent faith. 

Van DeVenter describes the day he surrendered. “The song was written while I was conducting a meeting at East Palestine, Ohio, and in the home of George Sebring (founder of Sebring Camp Meeting Bible Conference) . . . For some time, I had struggled between developing my talents in the field of art and going into full-time evangelistic work.

"At last the pivotal hour of my life came, and I surrendered all. A new day was ushered into my life. I became an evangelist and discovered down deep in my soul a talent hitherto unknown to me. God had hidden a song in my heart, and touching a tender chord, he caused me to sing.”

Following his decision to surrender his life to Christ, he traveled extensively throughout the United States, England, and Scotland in evangelistic work. Van DeVenter had a radio program, “The Gospel in Song and Story.” 

He retired to Tampa, Florida and was a regular professor of hymnology at Florida Bible Institute in the 1920s.  After his retirement, he was a regular visitor to the Bible Institute.  He remained active with speaking and ministry engagements even after he retired.

Verse One

“All to Jesus I surrender,

All to Him I freely give;

I will ever love and trust Him,

In His presence daily live.”

 

1 Timothy 1:12

“I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength, that He considered me trustworthy, appointing me to His service.”

Scripturesavvy.com: The conclusion of Paul’s testimony is a beautiful affirmation of God’s eternal Kingship, His immortality, and His invisibility. It is a declaration of praise and honor to the only God, highlighting His eternal nature and ultimate authority. It reminds us that no matter what challenges we may face in this life, our hope and focus should always be on God and giving Him the glory He deserves.

Psalm 35:18

“I will give you thanks in the great assembly; among the throngs I will praise you.”

Studylight.org, Gill’s Exposition of the Whole Bible: This is the resolution the psalmist came unto; the promise he made, that should he be delivered from his enemies, he would give God thanks in the most public manner; that is, he would acknowledge God to be the Author of the mercy, and himself unworthy of it; and would ascribe glory, honor, blessing, and thanksgiving to Him, in the midst of the church and people of God.

Verse Two

“All to Jesus I surrender,

Humbly at his feet I bow,

Worldly pleasures all forsaken,

Take me, Jesus, take me now.”

Titus 2:12

“It teaches us to say ‘No’ to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age.”

Biblehub.com, Barnes’ Note on the Whole Bible: That denying ungodliness and worldly lusts – ‘That by denying ourselves of these, or refusing to practice them, we should lead a holy life.’ The word ungodliness here means all that would be included under the word impiety; that is, all failure in the performance of our proper duties towards God. The phrase ‘worldly lusts’ refers to all improper desires pertaining to this life - the desire of wealth, pleasure, honor, sensual indulgence. It refers to such passions as the people of this world are prone to and would include all those things which cannot be indulged in with a proper reference to the world to come. The gross passions would be of course included, and all those more refined pleasures also which constitute the characteristic and special enjoyments of those who do not live unto God.

Verse Three

“All to Jesus I surrender;

Make me, Savior, wholly thine;

Let me feel the Holy Spirit,

Truly know that thou art mine.”

Psalm 51:11

“Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me.”

Scripturesavvy.com: This plea for the presence of the Holy Spirit is a reminder of empowerment. We can’t do anything worthwhile in our own strength. This realization can be a freeing, albeit humbling, acknowledgment. As followers of Christ, we need to lean into His strength, drawing on His wisdom, and allow the Holy Spirit to guide our paths every day. When we seek God’s presence, we are ensured of His provision for our lives, just like David was when he continually sought the Lord during his reign as king.

Verse Four

“All to Jesus I surrender,

Lord, I give myself to thee,

Fill me with thy love and power,

Let thy blessing fall on me.”

Ephesians 3:19

“And to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.”

Scripturesavvy.com: The verse Ephesians 3:19 speaks to a profound experience that we, as believers in Christ, can have. It highlights the love of Christ, an unconditional and everlasting love that goes beyond our human understanding. This love is not just for intellectual knowledge but is meant to be experienced and felt deeply in our hearts. The phrase “that you may be filled with all the fullness of God” suggests that when we grasp the depth of Christ’s love, it leads us toward a richer and more complete life filled with God’s presence . . . Knowing the love of Christ is transformational . . . It’s about a personal relationship with Him, where we can feel His love, mercy, and grace in our lives. This love not only shapes who we are but also helps us understand how we interact with others. By understanding Christ’s love, we can also love others deeply and selflessly. This verse encourages us to seek a deeper relationship with God, embracing His love that is both vast and profound.

“That you may be filled with all the fullness of God” summarizes the outcome of knowing Christ’s love. This fullness represents all that God is—the wisdom, love, joy, and peace that come from Him. It assures us that God desires for us to be complete and fulfilled. When we embrace Christ’s love, God fills us with the essence of Himself, allowing us to represent His character in our everyday lives.

Refrain

“I surrender all,

I surrender all,

All to thee, my blessed Savior,

I surrender all”

Surrender is a powerful word. To give oneself up into the power of another. That is what we do. We give all of us into Jesus.

We have no need to fear giving God our all. He loves us deeply and knows what is truly best for us. On whatever path He takes us, we can be sure that the result will be a happier and more fruitful life than the one we would have planned for ourselves. May we sing with wholehearted confidence:

“All to Jesus I surrender, All to Him I freely give;
I will ever love and trust Him, In His presence daily live.”

 

 I am indebted to the following Resources:

101 More Hymn Stories, Kenneth W. Osbeck

Umcdiscipleship.org

Godtube.com

Dianaleaghmatthews.com

Iblp.org

 By His Grace . . .

When Morning Gilds the Skies

I’ve always loved the title and first line of this hymn: “When morning gilds the skies my heart awakening cries: May Jesus Christ be praised!” I loved singing it as I drove to work and the sun broke through the darkness. My heart sang out: “May Jesus Christ be praised!” These five words form a brief refrain that encapsulates the intent of the entire hymn.

The hymn we sing today has 19th-century German roots, with a translation by Edward Caswall (1814-1878), a Roman Catholic and one of the foremost translators of hymns of his era; adapted by Robert Bridges (1844-1930), a British poet, and set to music by English choirmaster, Joseph Barnby (1838-1896).

We don’t always know the writer of a hymn, the story of a hymn writer’s life or how a hymn came to be. Yet hymns are not anonymous. Somebody wrote the text. Somebody was influenced by life’s circumstances, and somebody felt the touch of God.

The hymn first appeared in a Roman Catholic hymnal, Catholisches Gesangbuch in 1828. That hymnal originated in Wurzburg, on the Main River near Frankfurt.  That is a lovely country, with hills and streams.  It’s no wonder that a poet, seeing that beauty, would be inspired to write a hymn praising God for natural wonders.

The hymn celebrates more than natural wonders.  It calls us to praise God whether we are at work or at prayer––whether in the night or the day–– even when faced with the powers of darkness, which lose their power when subjected to praise to God.  It calls us to praise God “thro’ all the ages long.”

To praise God morning, noon and night, and by everyone, everywhere, is exactly what the author of “When Morning Gilds the Skies” had in mind.  

The hymn was translated from German into English by Edward Caswell, born in 1814. Caswell was the son of an Anglican clergyman and was ordained as an Anglican. He studied at Brasenose College, Oxford. He converted to Catholicism in 1847, prior to translating this hymn in 1854.

He was known for his interest in helping the poor, the sick and little children. He translated many Latin hymns into English. In addition to this hymn, Caswell translated the well-known, “Jesus, the Very Thought of Thee.”

Distinguished English poet and translator, Robert Bridges, tried his hand at improving the text, noting in 1899 that, “It is of great merit, and I have tried to give a better version of it than the current one, keeping the original metre, preserving the first lines of the old translation, since it is by them that the hymn is known.”

Robert Seymour Bridges was a British poet who was Poet Laureate 1913 to 1930. A doctor by training, he achieved literary fame only late in life. His poems reflect a deep Christian faith, and he is the author of many well-known hymns.

Bridges was born in England, the son of John Thomas Bridges and Harriett Elizabeth. He was the fourth son and eighth child. Bridges was educated at Eton College in Oxford. He went on to study medicine in London at St. Bartholomew’s Hospital intending to practice until the age of forty and then retire to write poetry.

Lung disease forced Bridges to retire from his post as physician in 1885, and from that point on he devoted himself to writing and literary research. However, Bridges's literary work started long before his retirement, spending the rest of his life in rural seclusion.

He was elected to the Fellowship of the Royal College of Physicians of London in 1900. He was appointed Poet Laureate in 1913, the only medical graduate to have held the office.

Verse One

“When morning gilds the skies,

my heart awakening cries:

May Jesus Christ be praised!

Alike at work and prayer,

to Jesus I repair:

May Jesus Christ be praised!”

Psalm 59:16

“But I will sing of your strength, in the morning I will sing of your love; for you are my fortress, my refuge in times of trouble.”

Studylight.org, Gill’s Exposition of the Whole Bible: Of providential mercies, which are new every morning; and of special mercy in the heart of God, in the covenant of His grace, in redemption, in regeneration, in the pardon of sin, and in eternal life and salvation.

Scripturesavvy.com: Mornings often symbolize fresh starts, new hope, and an opportunity to renew our spirits. When we begin our day by reflecting on God’s love, we set a positive tone for everything that follows. It reminds us that God is with us in every moment, no matter the struggles we face. Each day offers a chance to approach life with renewed grace, allowing God’s love to saturate our hearts.

Verse Two

“To God, the Word on high,

the hosts of angels cry:

May Jesus Christ be praised!

Let mortals too upraise,

their voices in hymns of praise:

May Jesus Christ be praised!”

Psalm 148:2

“Praise Him, all His angels; praise Him, all His heavenly hosts.”

Enduringword.com The psalmist called upon all angelic beings to give God praise. This is the constant occupation of the living creatures surrounding God’s throne. The company of faithful angels is like a great army (all His hosts).

Studylight.org, Smith’s Bible Commentary: The calling forth for praise unto God by all of His created hosts: the angels, the hosts, the stars, and planets, and the universe.

Scripturesavvy.com: This verse speaks to our responsibility as humanity to recognize the power and majesty of God. Just as angels and celestial beings are called to praise, we too should join in. It serves as a reminder that every creation, from the stars to the trees and the animals we see, has a role in glorifying God. This brings a sense of purpose not only to us as individuals but also to the entire universe. God desires for all to worship Him, encompassing both the seen and the unseen realms.

Verse Three

“Let earth’s wide circle round,

in joyful notes resound:

May Jesus Christ be praised!

Let air and sea and sky,

from depth to height reply:

May Jesus Christ be praised!”

Psalm 96:11

“Let the heavens rejoice, let the earth be glad; let the sea resound, and all that is in it.”

Barnes’ Notes on the Whole Bible: Let all worlds be full of joy, as they are all interested in the fact here stated. The universe is one. It has been made by the same hand; it is under the control of the same mind; it is governed by the same laws. The God who reigns on earth reigns in heaven; and what affects one part of the universe affects all. Hence, in all the manifestation of the character of God, whether made in heaven or in the earth, it is proper to call on all the universe to partake in the general joy . . . In praise to God, it is not uncommon in the Scriptures to call on inanimate things to praise God . . . His reign is an occasion for universal gladness. All in the inanimate world; all among the irrational tribes of being; all in the air, in the waters, or on the earth, have occasion for praise, and would render praise if they could appreciate the wisdom and goodness evinced in their creation.

Verse Four

“Be this, when day is past,

of all our thoughts the last:

May Jesus Christ be praised!

The night becomes as day,

when from the heart we say:

May Jesus Christ be praised!”

Revelation 22:5

“There will be no more night. They will not need the light of a lamp or the light of the sun, for the Lord God will give them light. And they will reign for ever and ever.”

Studylight.org, Coffman’s Commentaries on the Bible: All of the dread and fear of the darkness which have dogged the steps of humanity through the ages shall disappear in the light and bliss of heaven. "The saved will need no sun nor lamp, because of the light of the divine glory with them." Isbon T. Beckwith, op. cit., p. 767.

Studylight.org, Gill’s Exposition of the Whole Bible: The Lord God giveth them light; immediately from Himself, without the use of means and ordinances; and in His light the saints will see all things clearly; who will be always communicating it to them, and will be their everlasting light; and they shall reign for ever and ever.

Verse Five

“Be this, while life is mine,

My canticle divine,

May Jesus Christ be praised!

Be this th' eternal song

Through all the ages long,

Colossians 3:16 

“Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts.”

Bibleref.com: Paul encourages the singing of various types of spiritual songs. Paul never gives preference to one type of music over another. His purpose here is simply to state that all types of music were to be used to let the word of Christ dwell richly within us. This singing was to be done with an attitude of thanksgiving. Singing praise to God is largely associated with showing our gratitude to Him, rather than focusing on ourselves or our own desires.

Biblehub.com: A canticle is a hymn or song of praise drawn directly from Scripture (outside the Book of Psalms) or composed in a manner intentionally reflective of scriptural praise

Jesus Christ deserves our praise. Day or night must not pass without words and songs of praise to our Lord. Whether our day is hard or our night lonely, the praise we bring forth for our Savior must come from a steadfast spirit and firm faith.

 

I am indebted to the following resources:

Sermonwriter.com

Umcdiscipleship.org

En.wikipedia.org

The Complete Book of Hymns, William J. Petersen and Ardythe Petersen

By His Grace . . .

“Since Jesus Came Into My Heart”

 

Photographer Unknown

Rufus Henry McDaniel, writer of this hymn, said: “I feel in my soul that God has something for me to do in brightening the experience of struggling souls. My chief desire is to be a blessing, if possible, to my fellowmen through these hymns and thereby glorify God in the name of His dear Son ‘whose I am and whom I serve.’”

McDaniel lost a son, and following his son’s untimely death he penned the words to this hymn as an expression of his faith and hope. And the words of this hymn certainly do that for every Christian.

McDaniel wrote how “a wonderful change in my life has been wrought.” How light had come into his soul, and he had “ceased from my wandering and going astray.” How his sins were “washed away.”

This testimonial poem is not some quick sparkling firework celebration of faith but the testimony of an authentic Christian journey of faith with a clear spiritual vision of God’s salvation and kingdom.

McDaniel was born in 1850 in Brown County, Ohio. He was educated in the public schools there and attended Parker’s Academy in Clermont County, Ohio. He started preaching at age nineteen and then became a minister with the Christ Church (Disciples of Christ) in 1873.

McDaniel married and had three children. One son became a minister. Another son died. A daughter married Frank R. Liesenhoff of Dayton, OH.

McDaniel was a poet and would often send his poems out to be published as songs.  One poem he wrote in preparation for the upcoming Billy Sunday revivals in Philadelphia.  He sent six poems to song writer Charles Gabriel as many seemed to enjoy singing Gabriel’s songs.  But he waited and waited and never heard anything.  As such, he just felt the poems were rejected.

He then began to read of the words to his poem in various publications. Not only did Gabriel take one of his poems and put it to music, it was sung at most of those revival meetings with Billy Sunday and folks were singing this song in the streets of Philadelphia.  The song? "Since Jesus Came Into My Heart.”

The song was introduced in pamphlet form at Billy Sunday campaigns at Philadelphia, PA, in 1915 and was first published later that year in Songs for Service edited by Homer A. Rodeheaver, who purchased the copyright and then renewed it in 1942. 

After serving various local churches in southern Ohio, including Hamersville, Higginsport, Centerburg, Sugar Creek, and Cincinnati, McDaniel retired in Dayton, Ohio. During his life, he produced more than one hundred songs, many of which were found in the collections published by the Rodeheaver Company, before his death on Feb. 13, 1940, in Dayton.

McDaniel expressed regret for not entering into the field of hymn writing earlier in his career, but he had a great passion for leading song services. “Since Jesus Came into My Heart” stands out as his most popular and beloved hymn, having been included in at least 224 hymnals

Verse One

“What a wonderful change in my life has been wrought,

Since Jesus came into my heart!

I have light in my soul for which long I had sought,

Since Jesus came into my heart!”

2 Corinthians 4:6

“For God, who said, 'Let light shine out of darkness,' made His light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of God’s glory displayed in the face of Christ.”

Studylight.org, Clarke’s Commentary: He has given our hearts the glorious light of the Gospel, as he has given the world the glorious light of the sun. As sure, therefore, as God is the author of the light and the creator of the universe, so sure is he the author of the Gospel; it is no human invention; and is as far beyond the power of man's wisdom and might, as the creation of the world is beyond all created power, energy, and skill.

Verse Two

“I have ceased from my wandering and going astray,

Since Jesus came into my heart!

And my sins, which were many, are all washed away,

Since Jesus came into my heart!”

1 Corinthians 6:11

“And that is what some of you were. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God.”

Enduringword.com: God’s great work for us in Jesus Christ is described in three terms. (1) We are washed clean from sin by the mercy of God. (2) We are set apart, away from the world and unto God, by the work of Jesus on the cross, by God’s Word, by faith in Jesus, and by the Holy Spirit. (3) We are declared “just” before the court of God, not merely “not guilty,” but declared as “just” before Him. We are justified by God’s grace through the work of Jesus on the cross, by faith and not by our own deeds.

Verse Three

“I’m possessed of a hope that is steadfast and sure,

Since Jesus came into my heart!

And no dark clouds of doubt now my pathway obscure,

Since Jesus came into my heart!”

Hebrew 6:19

“We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. It enters the inner sanctuary behind the curtain.”

Studylight.com, Coffman’s Commentaries on the Bible: Hope is the great anchor, or stabilizer, of the human soul; and that hope for the Christian is Christ the Lord . . . The aptness of the figure of an anchor appears in the fact that an anchor is not doing any good at all as long as it is visible. It is only when it disappears in the deep beneath that it stabilizes and protects the ship; how beautiful is the imagery of Christ's also being out of sight from Christians, having disappeared into the unseen world, but who is nevertheless connected with Christians by the strong and effective cable of his love, just as the anchor, though unseen, is connected to the ship by a mighty chain . . . It is literally and gloriously true that the Christian's hope is in heaven where the Lord has already entered.

Studylight.org, Barnes’ Notes on the Whole Bible: Hope accomplishes for the soul the same thing which an anchor does for a ship. It makes it fast and secure . . . In the tempests and trials of life, his mind is calm as long as his hope of heaven is firm.

Isaiah 26:3

“You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.”

Crosswalk.com: Everyone who chooses to keep their minds steadfast because they trust in God can count on experiencing perfect peace while they do so, according to this verse. That means you can enjoy a state of perfect peace as long as you focus your mind from beyond your circumstances to God, and trust him to help you no matter what. As a result of choosing to trust God, you welcome God’s peace into your mind.

Verse Four

“I shall go there to dwell in that city, I know,

Since Jesus came into my heart!

And I'm happy, so happy, as onward I go,

Since Jesus came into my heart!”

Hebrew 12:22

“But you have come to Mount Zion, to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem. You have come to thousands upon thousands of angels in joyful assembly.”

Biblestudytools.com: The Gospel church is a city, built on Christ, the foundation; and is full of habitants, true believers, at least it will be, in the latter day; it is pleasantly situated by the river of God's love, and by the still waters of Gospel ordinances; it is governed by wholesome laws, of Christ's enacting, and is under proper officers, of his appointing; and is well guarded by watchmen, which he has set upon the walls of it; and it is endowed with many privileges, as access to God, freedom from the arrests of justice, and from condemnation, adoption, and a right to the heavenly inheritance: and this may be called "the city of God," because it is of his building, and here he dwells, and protects, and defends it; and who is styled "the living God," to distinguish him from the idols of the Gentiles, which are lifeless and inanimate, no other than sticks and stones.

Psalm 68:3

“But may the righteous be glad and rejoice before God; may they be happy and joyful.”

Barnes’ Notes on the Whole Bible: That is, let them be prosperous and happy; let them be under thy protecting care, and partake of thy favor. While the wicked are driven away like smoke, let the righteous live, and flourish, and be safe . . . the righteous will be admitted to his presence, and will rejoice before him. Yea, let them exceedingly. The expression is designed to express great joy; joy that is multiplied and prolonged. It is joy of heart accompanied with all the outward expressions of joy.

Refrain

“Since Jesus came into my heart,

Since Jesus came into my heart,

Floods of joy o’er my soul

Like the sea billows roll,

Since Jesus came into my heart.”

Romans 10:9

“If you declare with your mouth, 'Jesus is Lord,' and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”

In Acts 3:19b it says: “. . . that times of refreshing may come from the Lord.” And when Jesus comes into your heart that is just what you get. Times of refreshing. Joy. Never to depart. Relief. Calm. Peace. So many positive words and thoughts come when Jesus comes into your heart. A wonderful change in your outlook. A light that has never been there before.

Studylight.org, Clarke’s Commentary: This was a time of respite, which God gave them to repent of their sins, and be converted to himself. Taking the word in the sense of refreshment in general, it may mean the whole reign of the kingdom of grace, and the blessings which God gives here below to all genuine believers, peace, love, joy, and communion with himself. 

 

I am indebted to the following resources:

Dianaleaghmatthews.com

Hishymnhistory.blogspot.com

Hymnstudiesblog.wordpress.com

Inspiration.org

Umcdiscipleship.org

By His Grace . . .

Praise God From Whom All Blessings Flow

When Thomas Ken, writer of “Praise God From Whom All Blessings Flow,” better known as the “Doxology,” was a chaplain at Winchester College, England, he wanted to encourage the devotional habits of the boys he instructed. Ken wrote three hymns and suggested to the boys they use the hymns privately in their rooms. This was revolutionary because English hymns had not yet appeared in public writings. Only Psalms were sung in public worship.

There was a morning hymn; an evening hymn, and a third to be sung at midnight if sleep didn’t come. All three hymns ended with a common stanza: “Praise God, from Whom all blessings flow; Praise Him, all creatures here below; Praise Him above, ye heavenly host; Praise, Father, Son, and Holy Ghost.”

Ken was born in Little Berkhampstead on the fringes of greater London. His father was Thomas Ken of Furnival's Inn, an Inn of Chancery, in Somerset; his mother was the daughter of English poet, John Chalkhill. When his parents died, he was raised by his half sister and her husband, who enrolled him in Winchester College, an historic boy’s school.

Ken was later ordained to the ministry and returned to Winchester College as a chaplain. Ken held various church and academic positions. He even served as chaplain to Princess Mary until he stood firmly against her in “a case of immorality at the Court.”

In 1646 Ken's stepsister, Anne, married Izaak Walton, author of The Compleat Angler, a connection which brought Ken under the influence of this gentle and devout man.

Ken was a man of conscience and independent mind who did not avoid conflicts with royalty. In 1680, Ken was appointed chaplain to England’s King Charles II. It was a thankless job, as Charles kept a variety of mistresses.  Once the king asked to lodge a mistress in the chaplain’s residence. Thomas rebuked him, saying: “Not for the King’s Kingdom!” Afterward the king referred to him as “that little man who refused lodging to poor Nellie.”

Ken’s hymns have by no means been lost today. However, it is his final verse — our beloved “Doxology” — that has endured. So well-known is it that it needs no placeholder in our hymnbooks. Christians the world over simply know it, almost without fail — both Ken’s timeless words and the tune.

Ken did not write the tune, called Old One-Hundredth, originally designed to accompany the singing of Psalm 134, and later Psalm 100. It first appeared in the Geneva Psalter in 1551 and was written by Louis Bourgeois (1510–1561), who served as head of choirs and music, alongside famous pastor and theologian John Calvin.

A story is told by Bishop McCabe. He said that while the prisoners of the Union Army during the Civil War were incarcerated in Libby Prison, day after day they saw comrades passing away and their numbers increased by living recruits. One night, about ten o’clock, through the darkness they heard the tramp of feet that soon stopped before the prison door, until arrangements could be made inside. In the company was a young Baptist minister, whose heart almost fainted when he looked on those cold walls and thought of the suffering inside. Tired and weary, he sat down, put his face in his hands, and wept.

Just then a lone voice sang out from an upper window, “Praise God, from whom all blessings flow”; a dozen joined in the second line, more than a score in the third line, and the words, “Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost,” were sung by nearly all the prisoners.

Despite its brevity, the Doxology beautifully declares the glory of the Trinity: This God, utterly complete in goodness and power, has revealed Himself to His people. He is one and three — one God, three persons, working in history to redeem and restore His people from their sin and rebellion. He is a God three times for us in a great salvation, which is arranged by the Father, accomplished by the Son, and applied by the Spirit.

For one, our God is indeed the one from whom all genuine blessings flow. He Himself is the Blessed One, the only One in whom is fullness of joy and pleasures forever . . . God delights to give, to overflow with joy, to bless his creatures and share His own happiness in them. He is the giver of “every good gift and every perfect gift.”

This blessed God is also sovereign over all. He is both the singular source of all true good, and He is the Almighty. He is the Creator and Sustainer of all nature, and all the heavenly hosts above, and “all creatures here below.” Here and there, above and below, He is God and “does all that He pleases.” As the great humbled king of Babylon learned to declare in his own doxology, our God “does according to His Will among the host of heaven and among the inhabitants of the earth; and none can stay His hand.”

“God is glorified in our heartfelt expression of praise. God made us for praise. He made us for doxology.”

Here are the first, second and third verses of Thomas Ken’s “Morning Hymn,” which originally contained fourteen stanzas:

“Awake, my Soul, and with the Sun, Thy daily stage of duty run, Shake off dull sloth, and early rise, To pay thy Morning Sacrifice.”

“Lord, I my vows to Thee renew, Disperse my sins as morning dew; Guard my first springs of thought and will; And with Thyself my spirit fill.”

“Direct, control, suggest, this day, All I design or do or say, That all my pow'rs, with all their might, In Thy sole glory may unite.”

Next are the first, second and third verses of the Evening Hymn:

“All praise to You, my God, this night, For all the blessings of the light. Keep me, O keep me, King of kings, Beneath the shelter of Your wings.”

“Forgive me, Lord, for this I pray, The wrong that I have done this day. May peace with God and neighbor be, Before I sleep restored to me.”

“Lord, may I be at rest in You, And sweetly sleep the whole night thro'. Refresh my strength, for Your own sake, So I may serve You when I wake.”

And these are the first, second and third verses of the Midnight hymn:

“My God, I now from sleep awake, The sole possession of me take; From midnight terrors me secure, And guard my heart from thoughts impure.”

“Blest angels, while we silent lie, Your hallelujahs sing on high; You joyful hymn the ever-blest, Before the throne, and never rest.”

“I with your choir celestial join, In offering up a hymn divine; With you in Heav’n I hope to dwell, And bid the night and world farewell.”

Doxology

“Praise God, from all blessings flow,

Praise Him all creatures here below;

Praise Him above, ye heav’nly host,

Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost.”

Ephesians 1:3

“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ.”

Enduringword.com, David Guzik: Paul called for a blessing upon the Father (in the sense of recognizing His glory and honor and goodness), because the Father has already blessed the believer with every spiritual blessing. Moule wrote that the idea behind blessed is, “Praised with worshipping love.” This blessing is ours. God’s resources are there for us always. This speaks of an attitude of certainty and assurance.

Studylight.org, Bridgeway Bible Commentary: Paul reminds his readers that they are saints, God’s holy people, who live their lives in union with Jesus Christ . . . God’s blessings, which believers receive because of their union with Christ, are not limited to the things of this world. They lift the lives of believers above everyday things so that now, in the present world, they can enjoy the spiritual blessings of the heavenly world. God planned His purposes for His people before the universe was created. In His love He chose them to be His children, His aim being that they should be holy and blameless, and so bring praise to Him.

Psalm 103:21

“Praise the Lord, all his heavenly hosts, you his servants who do his will.”

Enduringword.com, David Guzik: David began the psalm by telling his own soul to bless the Lord, but he knew the praise and honor to God should go beyond what he could give. It should extend all the way to the angels, who excel in strength, who do His Word: The angels are strong and obedient, but even they should bless the LORD, giving Him praise and honor. Bless the LORD, all you His hosts: The angels also make up God’s hosts: His heavenly army under His command who do His pleasure. As God’s soldiers, they should give Him the honor and praise due to Him.

Our Joy, His Glory. Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. The “Doxology” has served as a ready-made form, and occasion, for Christians to connect the very purposes of God in all He does with our heart’s deepest desire. God made our hearts to ache for happiness. And He made the world, and us, to glorify Him. And in this act of praise (which the “Doxology” directs and assists), our souls both rejoice and go public in expressing their delight in Him.

God is glorified in our heartfelt expression of praise. God made us for praise. He made us for doxology. He made the world that He might be praised. And these simple yet profound words serve that simple yet most profound human act of devotion — and all the more when we join our voices and sing together.

 

I am indebted to the following resources:

Robert J. Morgan, Then Sings My Soul, Special Edition

Umcdiscipleship.org

Reasonabletheology.org

Christianitytoday.com

Godtube.com

DesiringGod.org, David Mathis

En.wikipedia.org

 By His Grace . . . 

Praise to the Lord, The Almighty

Joachim Neander (1650-1680) lived a short and turbulent life in Bremen, a town in northwest Germany.

One day, as a 21-year-old student of Latin and poetry, Neander went with two friends to a local church service seeking to mock and criticize its new pastor. “Let’s go have some fun and heckle those stuffy churchgoers!” With a fiendish chuckle, Neander sauntered through the twisting streets of Bremen. That particular morning, Neander had no idea how his life would change.

Entering a church with the intent to disrupt the sermon, his attitude quickly changed from being disrespectful to being reverent as the Holy Spirit opened the young man’s eyes and heart to the Gospel message. Convicted, the rebellious young man repented and gave his life to Jesus Christ.

Neander’s family line included faithful preachers of the Gospel! For four generations, the name “Joachim” had been bestowed upon the family’s baby boys. Joachim’s father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and great-great-grandfather were all named “Joachim.” 

Neander studied theology in Bremen.  For several years afterward, Neander served as an assistant to the preacher who had led him to the Lord. Next, he began tutoring other young men while holding a position at a school in Dusseldorf.

A vibrant believer, he encouraged prayer and preaching at the school. Not far from Dusseldorf, the Dussel River ran through a beautiful gorge where Neander loved to walk. He went there so often that people eventually began calling it “Neander Valley.”

Neander became a Calvinist educator who was influenced by pietist theologians Philipp Spener and Johann Jakob Schütz.  Johann was also a hymn-writer.  In 1674, Neander became the clergyman of the Latin School at Düsseldorf, a Calvinist German Reformed institution.

The Pietists emphasized individual piety, and instituted small groups for prayer, scripture study, personal accountability, and good works. They believed that trust in Christ rather than correct theology constituted the core of the faith.  This de-emphasis on theology brought the Pietists into conflict with the more traditional Lutherans. Neander experienced considerable opposition there because of his pietism, and was eventually dismissed from that position.

At the age of thirty, Neander was diagnosed with tuberculosis. After only ten years of loving and serving his Savior, the young pastor and teacher passed from this life to heaven. During his illness, he wrote the hymn “Praise to the Lord, the Almighty.”

Neander’s poetic gifts were put to use in his composition of over 60 hymns before his tragic death. Like many of his hymns, his most famous composition, “Praise to the Lord, the Almighty,” was inspired by his love of the beautiful Neander Valley where he walked. The majesty he saw in creation evoked praise of its majestic Creator! 

John Julian described this hymn in 1892 as "a magnificent song of praise to God, possibly the outstanding creation of its author, and of the first rank in its class," and that assessment certainly remains true today! Both its text and its tune have been celebrated for centuries, presented as a triumphant hymn of praise, perhaps most notably by Johann Sebastian Bach, whose 1725 cantata based on this hymn is among the Lutheran composer's most famous works.

The text's greatest strength is its reliance on Scripture, especially the psalms. In particular, this hymn draws heavily from Psalms 146-150, which are known as the "Hallelujah Psalms." This closing section of the Bible's hymn book features repeated exhortations to "Praise the LORD!" followed by descriptions of who God is, what He has done, how He blesses His people, and the limitlessness of His reign.

Verse One

“Praise to the Lord, the Almighty, the King of creation!

O my soul, praise Him, for He is thy health and salvation!

All ye who hear, now to His temple draw near;

Join me in glad adoration.”

1 Chronicles 29:11-14

“Yours, Lord, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the majesty and the splendor, for everything in heaven and earth is Yours. Yours, Lord, is the Kingdom; You are exalted as Head over all. Wealth and honor come from You; You are the Ruler of all things. In Your hands are strength and power to exalt and give strength to all. Now, our God, we give You thanks and praise your glorious name.”

Biblehub.com, Gill’s Exposition of the Entire Bible: God is possessed of all greatness and immensity, of dignity of nature, and of all perfections; of almighty power, of excellent glory, of superiority to all beings and of honor, and majesty, and all that grandeur, might, and honor in men, and victory over others; the majestic appearance they make, and exaltation above others they have, are all of God: for all that is in the heaven and in the earth is Thine; they are both made by Him, and all that is in them, and therefore He has the sole right unto them: Thine is the Kingdom, O Lord; of nature and Providence; He has the sole dominion over all creatures, and the sovereign disposal of all things: and Thou art exalted as Head above all; men on earth, and angels in heaven.

Verse Two

“Praise to the Lord, who o'er all things so wondrously reigneth,

Shelters thee under His wings, yea, so gently sustaineth!

Hast thou not seen how Thy desires have been,

Granted in what He ordaineth?”

Psalm 91:4

“He will cover you with His feathers, and under His wings you will find refuge; His faithfulness will be your shield and rampart.”

Biblehub.com, Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary: He that by faith chooses God for his protector, shall find all in Him that he needs or can desire. And those who have found the comfort of making the Lord their refuge, cannot but desire that others may do so. The spiritual life is protected by Divine grace from the temptations of Satan. Wisdom shall keep them from being afraid without cause, and faith shall keep them from being unduly afraid. Whatever is done, our heavenly Father's will is done; and we have no reason to fear.

Exodus 15:18

“The Lord reigns for ever and ever.”

Biblehub.com, Gill’s Exposition of the Entire Bible: Even that same Lord that is spoken of throughout this song, and to whom everything in it is ascribed, and who is no other than the Lord Jesus Christ; His reign began in eternity, when He was set up and anointed as King over God's holy hill of Zion, His church, the elect, who were a kingdom put under His care and charge, and which He will deliver up again one day, complete and perfect.

Verse Three

“Praise to the Lord, who doth prosper Thy work and defend Thee!

Surely His goodness and mercy here daily attend Thee;

Ponder anew what the Almighty can do,

If with His love He befriend thee.”

 Psalm 119:154

“Defend my cause and redeem me; preserve my life according to your promise.”

Studylight.org, Dr. Constable’s Expository Notes: The writer prayed for deliverance, appealing to his commitment to God’s law . . . the psalmist could have hope because He valued it. The righteous have many enemies who despise God’s revelation. The poet appealed for personal restoration because he loved the righteous law.

 Psalm 111:2

“Great are the works of the Lord; they are pondered by all who delight in them.”

Biblehub.com, The Treasury of David: He hath made His wonderful works to be remembered. He meant them to remain in the recollection of His people, and they do so: partly because they are in themselves memorable, and because also He has taken care to record them by the pen of inspiration, and has written them upon the hearts of His people by His Holy Spirit . . . Deeds such as God has wrought are not to be admired for an hour and then forgotten, they are meant to be perpetual signs and instructive tokens to all coming generations; and especially are they designed to confirm the faith of His people in the divine love, and to make them know that "the Lord is gracious and full of compassion."

Verse Four

“Praise to the Lord, O let all that is in me adore Him!

All that hath life and breath: come now with praises before Him!

Let the amen sound from His people again!

Gladly forever adore Him.”

2 Peter 3:18

“But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be glory both now and forever! Amen.”

Wernerbiblecommentary.org, Hans Werner: Jesus Christ is Lord, in fact, the King of kings and Lord of lords and so in possession of far greater dignity and authority that any human ruler might have. Glory, majesty, or splendor are rightly His, and that is the case now and will be so forever, or throughout all the endless ages to come.

 Psalm 89:2

“I will declare that Your love stands firm forever, that You have established Your faithfulness in heaven itself.”

Studylight.org, Henry’s Complete Commentary on the Bible: We must sing of God's mercies as long as we live, train up others to sing of them when we are gone, and hope to be singing them in heaven world without end; and this is singing of the mercies of the Lord forever. With my mouth, and with my pen (for by that also do we speak), will I make known Thy faithfulness to all generations, assuring posterity, from my own observation and experience, that God is true to every word that He has spoken, that they may learn to put their trust in God . . . However it be, the everlasting covenant is firm and sure.

Biblical worship is both vertical (between God & man) and horizontal (we sing to one another), and this hymn is rich in each. The opening lines of each stanza contain declarations of praise, often addressing one's own soul, much as David did in Psalm 103:1-2. The Lord is worthy of praise because He is our Sovereign Creator and Sustainer, our Provider and our Defender!

No matter what God allows in our lives, whether pleasant or unpleasant, we can trust and praise Him. As we trust God and His goodness in all things, we will develop reverence for Him. We can joyfully worship God, who is worthy of all our praise!

  

I am indebted to the following resources:

Umcdiscipleship.org

Dianaleaghmatthew.com

Sdahymnals.com

En.wikipedia.org

Godtube.com

Iblp.org

Fbchurch.org, John Gardner

Hishymnhistory.blogspot.com

By His Grace . . . 

Wherever He Leads I'll Go

 

It was 1936 and two friends serving together at a Sunday school conference in Alabama were at lunch, sharing what God was doing in their lives.

One, a missionary to Brazil home on furlough, told the other, a hymn writer leading the music for the conference, that a health issue would keep him from returning to the country he had grown to love. The news, received just days before, had broken his heart.

The hymn writer asked, “What will you do?” And through tears, the missionary, R.S. Jones, told the hymn writer, B.B. McKinney, “Wherever He leads, I’ll go.”

McKinney was born to James Calvin and Martha Annis (Heflin) McKinney in Heflin, Louisiana, on July 22, 1886. He was educated at Mt. Lebanon Academy, Louisiana. He served in the United States Army in 1918. On June 11, 1918, he married Leila Irene Routh, to whom two sons were born, Baylus Benjamin, Jr., and Eugene Calvin.

McKinney also studied at Louisiana College, Pineville, La.; Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, Fort Worth, Tex.; Siegel-Myers School of Music, Chicago, Ill. (B.M., 1922); Bush Conservatory of Music, Chicago, Ill. Oklahoma Baptist University, Shawnee, Okla., awarded him the honorary Doctor of Music degree, 1942.

McKinney was at the top of his career when he traveled to the Alabama Sunday School Convention in January 1936.  The year before, the Heflin, Louisiana native was named editor for the Baptist Sunday School Board of the Southern Baptist Convention. That’s where he met with his good friend of many years, R. S. Jones, when he heard the famous words, “Wherever He leads I’ll go.”

McKinney was unable to get his friend’s words out of his mind.  Before the convention session that evening, the Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary alumni and faculty member, had expanded his friend’s words to write both the lyrics and melody to the hymn, “Wherever He Leads I’ll Go.”

When McKinney shared the previous conversation with the congregation, he then premiered his new hymn as he began to sing, “Take up that cross and follow me.  I heard my Master say.”

McKinney wrote the words and music to 149 hymns and gospel songs. His most famous are "The Nail Scarred Hand" (1924), "Let Others See Jesus in You" (1924), "Satisfied with Jesus" (1926), "Speak to My Heart" (1927), "Neath the Old Olive Trees" (1934), "Breathe on Me" (1937), and "Wherever He Leads I'll Go" (1937). He was also the editor of the widely-used Broadman Hymnal (1940, Nashville).

On Sunday, September 7, 1952, McKinney had just left a conference in Ridgecrest, NC and was headed for another engagement in Gatlinburg, TN.  While near Bryson City, NC, McKinney was killed in a car accident.  In addition to his wife, two sons, and several brothers, he left behind a legacy that included numerous hymns.

His hometown of Heflin holds an annual McKinney song service each July to celebrate his 149 hymns and gospel songs.

According to the Baptist Press, Jones served on the Southern Baptist Convention Foreign Mission Board for thirty-seven years. He and his wife served as missionaries to Brazil from 1920 until 1930. He retired from a life of service in 1958, having served as treasurer to the Foreign Mission Board for the last decade of his service.

Verse One

“Take up thy cross and follow Me,

I heard my Master say;

"I gave My life to ransom thee,

Surrender your all today."

2 Timothy 2:21

“Those who cleanse themselves from the latter will be instruments for special purposes, made holy, useful to the Master and prepared to do any good work.”

Bibleref.com: Paul has in mind both a spiritual and literal understanding here. Timothy is to be set apart and holy. However, he is also still talking about vessels. Clean, set apart vessels are "useful to the master of the house." The Master is a reference to the Lord. Those set apart as holy are "ready for every good work."

Luke 9:23

“Then He said to them all: ‘Whoever wants to be My disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow Me.’”

Studylight.org, Dr. Constable’s Expository Notes: Coming after Jesus means becoming a disciple of His. Denying self is more fundamental than denying things. It involves forsaking one’s personal ambitions and desires to fulfill the Will of God. It means living for His sake rather than our own.

Verse Two

“He drew me closer to His side,

I sought His Will to know;

And in that Will I now abide,

Wherever He leads I'll go.”

John 15:4

“Remain in Me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in Me.”

Enduringword.com, David Guzik: Jesus emphasized a mutual relationship. It isn’t only that the disciple abides in the Master; the Master also abides in the disciple. Something of this close relationship is described in Song of Solomon 6:3: “I am my beloved’s, and my beloved is mine.” Jesus used this picture to assure His disciples of continued connection and relationship even though He was about to depart from them. Yet He spoke this in a way that also indicated an aspect of choice on their part. Abiding was something they must choose . . . “When our Lord says: Abide in me He is talking about the will, about the choices, the decisions we make. We must decide to do things which expose ourselves to Him and keep ourselves in contact with Him. This is what it means to abide in Him.” (Boice)

Verse Three

“It may be through the shadows dim,

Or o'er the stormy sea:

I take my cross and follow Him,

Wherever He leadeth me.”

Psalm 23:4

“Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.”

Bibleref.com: David could walk through a dark ravine, perhaps even death, fearlessly, because the Lord walked with him. David explains his lack of fear because "You are with me." It is interesting to observe that the "shadow of death" drew David closer to the Lord. He addresses the Lord as "You," whereas in the peaceful places he called the Lord "He."

Psalm 77:19

“Your path led through the sea, Your way through the mighty waters, though Your footprints were not seen.”

Biblehub.com, Pulpit Commentary: The quiet paths of righteousness and peace remind the poet of the exact opposite - the dark and dismal way through the valley of the shadow of death. Even when so situated, he does not, he will not, fear. I will fear no evil, he says. And why? For Thou art with me. The same Protector, the same gracious and merciful God, will be still with him - leading him, guiding his steps, shepherding him, keeping him from evil. Thou art with me, Thy rod and Thy staff - i.e. Thy shepherd's crook, and Thy staff of defense - they comfort me. They make me feel that, however long and however dreary the way through the dark vale, I shall still have Thy guidance and Thy protection.

Verse Four

“My heart, my life, my all I bring,

To Christ who loves me so;

He is my Master, Lord, and King,

Wherever He leads I'll go.”

Psalm 57:7

“My heart, O God, is steadfast, my heart is steadfast; I will sing and make music.”

Bibleref.com: The description David claims here is from the Hebrew word nākon, which implies stability, preparation, and firmness. David's faith is well-prepared and entirely committed to the Lord God. He has no intention of abandoning his faith, even in the face of danger. Thriving trust in the Lord leads to thankfulness and praise. While those who reject God bring themselves punishment and shame, a Christian believer's sense of joy can be intensely reassuring.

Refrain

“Wherever He leads I'll go,

Wherever He leads I'll go,

I'll follow my Christ who loves me so,

Wherever He leads I'll go.”

2 Corinthians 2:14

“But thanks be to God, Who always leads us as captives in Christ’s triumphal procession and uses us to spread the aroma of the knowledge of Him everywhere.”

Biblehub.com, Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary: Paul regarded himself as a signal trophy of God's victorious power in Christ. His Almighty Conqueror was leading him about, through all the cities of the Greek and Roman world, as an illustrious example of His power at once to subdue and to save. The foe of Christ was now the servant of Christ. As to be led in triumph by man is the most miserable, so to be led in triumph by God is the most glorious lot that can befall any [Trench]. Our only true triumphs are God's triumphs over us. His defeats of us are our only true victories [Alford]. The image is taken from the triumphal procession of a victorious general. The additional idea is perhaps included, which distinguishes God's triumph from that of a human general, that the captive is brought into willing obedience to Christ, and so joins in the triumph: God "leads him in triumph" as one not merely triumphed over, but also as one triumphing over God's foes with God.

We may not always know where He will lead, but we do know we can choose to follow. The next time we stand at a crossroads of indecision and are asked what we will do, may we have the grace to reply like R.S. Jones and B.B. McKinney, “Wherever He leads, I’ll go.”

  

I am indebted to the following resources:

Dianaleaghmatthews.com

Believersportal.com

Mike Harland

Barryshymns.blogspot.com, Barry Kauffman

Sbhla.org

En.wikipedia.org

Tshaonline.org

 By His Grace . . .