Still, Still With Thee

In the summer of 1853, when Harriet Beecher Stowe was visiting at the home of a friend, the results of her experiences of meditation while walking in the early morning hours led her to pen the words to this compelling and lovely hymn, “Still, Still With Thee.” Many hymnologists believe that for sheer poetic beauty, there is probably not a single American hymn that can excel it. As we are drawn into the silence of the dawn where we can be alone with the Lord, it is as if we are telling Him that there is no greater blessing in this life than being "Still, Still With Thee." Personally, I love the first verse of this delightful hymn which the last line says: “Dawns the sweet consciousness, I am with Thee.”

Stowe is mostly known for her novel, “Uncle Tom's Cabin,” which she wrote and first appeared in The National Era in 1852.  She was intensely interested in the abolition of slavery and this led her to write this well-known book which brought her national attention and is considered one of the factors that ultimately led to the Civil War. The Stowe’s home was a station on the Underground Railroad and helped runaway slaves escape to Canada.

Stowe was born at Litchfield, Connecticut, on June 14, 1811, the sixth child and third daughter of Congregational minister Lyman Beecher and his wife Roxana. She was raised in a fervently religious family. Her next-door neighbor was Mark Twain. Her brother, Henry Ward Beecher, also became a minister. Her mother died when she was four, and she went to live with her grandmother at Guilford, Connecticut, until her father’s remarriage. 

After being educated at the Academy at Litchfield, she taught at a seminary in Hartford, Connecticut, which had been founded by her sister Catherine.  In 1832, the Beecher family moved to Cincinnati, Ohio, where Harriet’s father became President of Lane Seminary and the sisters established another school.

At the age of twenty-two (1833), she attended a slave auction in Kentucky which made a profound and painful impression upon her young soul. Her novel contributed to the growing conviction in America that slavery was evil.

In 1836 she married a teacher of languages and biblical literature in the seminary, Professor Calvin E. Stowe Later, the couple moved to Maine, where Mr. Stowe taught at the Andover Theological Seminary. It was here that Mrs. Stowe published her famous novel, Uncle Tom’s Cabin. It first appeared, in serial form, in the Washington National Era paper, in 1851, and in the following year, it appeared as a complete book, reaching sales of more than a million copies as well as being translated into more than twenty languages. This book has generally been recognized as one of the strong influences that ushered in the Civil War against slavery.

Throughout her life, Mrs. Stowe was known as an avid abolitionist as well as a saintly, godly woman. In 1853, she even traveled to Europe for the purpose of arousing the women there in the fight against world-wide slavery. Harriet dated her conversion experience to her early teen years, after hearing one of her father’s sermons. She gives this account of that event:

“As soon as my father came home and was seated in his study, I went up to him and fell in his arms, saying, ‘Father, I have given myself to Jesus, and He has taken me.' Never shall forget the expression on his face as he looked down into my earnest childish eyes: ‘Is it so?’ he said, holding me silently to his heart, as I felt the hot tears on my head. ‘Then has a new flower blossomed in the kingdom this day.’”

In later years, in looking back over many of the difficulties she had experienced in her busy life of raising six children, along with other pursuits, Harriet wrote, “I thank God there is one thing running through all of them, from the time I was thirteen years old, and that is the intense unwavering sense of Christ’s educating, guiding presence, and care.”

In 1855, Harriet was introduced as a hymn writer when her brother, Henry Ward Beecher, included three of her poems in his new hymnal, Plymouth Collection of Hymns and Tunes. “Still, Still With Thee” was originally titled “Resting in God” and was written by Mrs. Stowe two years earlier, while meditating on Psalm 139:17-18, especially on the phrase “When I awake, I am still with Thee.”

Verse One

“Still, still with Thee, when purple morning breaketh,

When the bird waketh, and the shadows flee;

Fairer than morning, lovelier than daylight,

Dawns the sweet consciousness, I am with Thee.”

 
Exodus 16:7a
“And in the morning you will see the glory of the Lord”
 
Scripturesavvy.com: “In the morning” signifies hope and the promise of a new day and new mercies. Just as the dawn follows the darkest night, God’s provision reminds us that no matter the challenges of the current day, there is hope ahead.
 

Psalm 104:12
“The birds of the sky nest by the waters; they sing among the branches.”
 
Enduringword.com: “If these little choristers of the air, when refreshed by the streams near which they dwell, express their gratitude by chanting, in their way, the praises of their Maker and Preserver, how ought Christians to blush, who, besides the comforts and conveniences of this world, are so indulged with copious draughts of the water of eternal life, if, for so great blessings, they pay not their tribute of thanksgiving, and sing not unto the Lord the songs of Sion!” (Horne)
 

Verse Two

“Alone with Thee, amid the mystic shadows,

The solemn hush of nature newly born;

Alone with Thee in breathless adoration,

In the calm dew and freshness of the morn.”

 

Psalm 16:50
“Lord, You alone are my portion and my cup; You make my lot secure.”

Godsbless.ing: This verse speaks to the deep and personal relationship we have with God. When the psalmist says, “The Lord is my chosen portion and my cup,” it is a declaration of complete trust and reliance on God as the ultimate provider and sustainer of our lives. The psalmist chooses God above all else as the most important and satisfying aspect of their life, just as we carefully choose our favorite food or drink. This verse reminds us that our true fulfillment and satisfaction can only be found in God.

Psalm 133:3
“It is as if the dew of Hermon were falling on Mount Zion. For there the Lord bestows his blessing, even life forevermore.”
 
Studylight.org, Barnes’ Notes on the Whole Bible: The most probable and plausible interpretation is that the mind of the poet was turned to the dew of Hermon - to the gentleness, and the copiousness, and the vivifying nature of that dew - diffusing beauty and abundance all around - and that he thought of that dew, or dew like that, as descending on the mountains of Zion.

Verse Three

“As in the dawning o'er the waveless ocean,

The image of the morning star doth rest,

So in the stillness Thou beholdest only

Thine image in the waters of my breast.”

 

2 Peter 1:19
“We also have the prophetic message as something completely reliable, and you will do well to pay attention to it, as to a light shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts.”
 
Thegracecommentary.com: The day dawns. The day the Lord returns in glory . . . The morning star is Jesus himself. We already have His Spirit within us, but when He returns to earth we will have Him in person. When that day dawns and the morning star rises in our hearts, all things will be made new. There will be no more sorrow and no more death. When Christ returns it will be the beginning of life such as we can only dream of.
 
Hymnstudiesblog.wordpress.com: The third stanza says that looking for the morning star can help us draw nearer to God. The dawning of the morning is a good time to seek the Lord. Just as the dawn is heralded by the "morning star" so Jesus is our Bright and Morning Star
 

Verse Four

“So shall it be at last, in that bright morning,

When the soul waketh and life's shadows flee;

O in that hour, fairer than daylight dawning,

Shall rise the glorious thought, I am with Thee.”

 
Isaiah 41:10
“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
 
Godsbless.ing: This verse from the Bible is a powerful reminder of God’s presence and protection in our lives. It is a comforting reassurance that we do not have to face life’s challenges alone because God is always with us. When we feel afraid or discouraged, this verse encourages us to trust in God’s presence and to find strength in the knowledge that He is our God. It offers a sense of comfort and security, knowing that we are never truly alone in our struggles.
 
Studylight,org, Barnes’ Notes on the Whole Bible: This is a reason why they should not be afraid. God was their protector, and of whom should they be afraid. "If God be for us, who can be against us?" What higher consolation can man desire than the assurance that he is with him to protect him?
 
Studylight.org, Calvin’s Commentary on the Bible: For I am with thee. This is a solid foundation of confidence, and if it be fixed in our minds, we shall be able to stand firm and unshaken against temptations of every kind . . . God is present with us and takes care of our salvation.”
 
Studylight.org, Gill’s Exposition of the Whole Bible: Fear thou not, for I am with Thee . . . Not merely by His essence or power, who is everywhere; or by His providence supporting, preserving, observing, ordering, and overruling all things; but in a way of special grace, to guard and protect His people, support and supply them, comfort and strengthen their hearts; wherefore they need not fear any of their enemies.
 
1 Thessalonians 4:17
“After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever.”

Godsbless.ing: Paul’s words about the Lord descending from heaven with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and the trumpet call of God, resonate deeply with the believers. They are filled with anticipation and excitement, knowing that one day they will be caught up together with the Lord in the clouds to meet Him in the air . . . This verse reminds us to fix our eyes on this ultimate reunion and to live in a way that reflects our anticipation of Christ’s return . . . Let this promise of Christ’s return inspire you to continue in faith and hope, eagerly awaiting the day when we will be gathered together with Him.

As we are drawn into the silence of the dawn where we can be alone with the Lord, it is as if we are telling Him that there is no greater blessing in this life than being "Still, Still With Thee."
 
I am indebted to the following resources:
Barryshymns.blogspot.com
Bymnstudiesblog.wordpress.com
Aocinternational.org
Kenneth W. Osbeck, 101 More Hymn Stories

By His Grace . . . 

O, The Deep, Deep Love of God

 

We know God’s love primarily through His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ, whose work on the cross was motivated by an inestimably great love for the Father and an equally awesome love for us, His sheep, His bride, His elect.  The Bible doesn’t just tell us that He loves us; it proves it by His willingly giving Himself for us.  It was Jesus who told the disciples (and us) that He calls us not merely His servants, but His friends.

Samuel Trevor Francis was born in 1834 in Chestnut, Hertz, England.  He was raised by a godly mother and grandmother.  He was taught to read using the Bible as a textbook and remembers his mother praying that her sons would grow up to be God-fearing men.  Samuel attended church services regularly with his family and sang with the choir, but he was not saved.  

As a child, Samuel enjoyed poetry and even compiled a handwritten volume of his own work. He also developed a love for music and joined a church choir at age nine.  However, throughout his youth, religion was primarily a matter of tradition for him.

As he grew older, his father arranged for him to be an apprentice with a medical doctor.  He was in that program for 12 years.  But after that year his father passed away and Samuel dropped out of the program.  He went to stay with his uncle in Hull.  There he met Mr. Akester, a chemist who was leading youth Bible studies.  Samuel was exposed to clear gospel preaching through these meetings.  

At age 19 when traveling back to London, he had a spiritual turning point as a teenager, at one point even contemplating suicide. Lonely, walking home after work, he was asking God to have mercy on him. He had to cross the Hungerford Bridge. Mulling over his sadness and loneliness, he heard a whisper tempting him to end his misery and jump into the churning waters below.

When he drew back from that thought another emerged, a question: “Do you believe on the Lord Jesus Christ?”  Samuel immediately answered that he believed and he put his trust in Christ as his Savior.  He received the reply, “Then you are saved.”  With the joy of that response, Samuel ran across the bridge and went back home. 

Samuel searched for a home assembly.  He found a church similar to the assembly he attended in Hull.  Later, he joined the Moody and Sankey London campaign in 1873-1874 as their singing director during the meetings. 

Someone soon after invited him to come “see a man buried alive.” It was actually a baptismal service held by Andrew Jukes, an English theologian who greatly influenced Hudson Taylor (1832-1905), the famous English missionary to China.  It was Taylor whose work led to the China Inland Mission (which is today the Overseas Missionary Fellowship – OMF). Samuel was moved by the service and was introduced to people that spoke passionately about the gospel

Soon thereafter, Samuel began open-air preaching, and during the English Revival of 1859 (when Francis was in his 20s), his preaching led many people to the Lord. Francis was not only a gifted preacher, but he was a talented singer and hymn writer.

One friend wrote of Francis: “All his poetical work, as well as his spoken word, was permeated by a realization of the love of Christ, and with a heart desire to see the Savior’s face.”

The depths of the ocean are a frequent metaphor for the immensity of God. It makes perfect sense when we realize how big the ocean is and how little of it we actually know. Samuel utilized this imagery in picturing the love of Jesus. It was only the greater depths of Jesus’s love that were able to overwhelm the rivers of depression experienced by the teenaged Samuel.

Verse One

“O the deep, deep love of Jesus, vast, unmeasured, boundless, free,

Rolling as a mighty ocean in its fullness over me.

Underneath me, all around me, is the current of Thy love;

Leading onward, leading homeward to Thy glorious rest above.”

Ephesians 3:17b-18

“So that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ.”

Scripturesavvy.com: In Ephesians 3:18, we are encouraged to grasp the vastness of God’s love. The Apostle Paul uses vivid imagery to convey the dimensions of God’s love: width, length, depth, and height. This is not just a mere description but a call for us to truly understand how immense and all-encompassing the love of God is. It stretches beyond human comprehension, covering every aspect of our lives. We find ourselves in a relationship with a God whose love is boundless and limitless . . . The “depth” suggests that God’s love reaches deep into our hearts and souls, offering healing and restoration. Many of us carry wounds from our pasts, but God’s love can penetrate those depths, bringing about a profound transformation. His embrace comforts us and assures us that we are valued and cherished.

Verse Two

“O the deep, deep love of Jesus, Spread His praise from shore to shore!

How He loveth, ever loveth, Changeth never, nevermore!

How He watches o’er His loved ones, Died to call them all His own;

How for them He intercedeth, Watcheth o’er them from the throne!”

Romans 15:11

“And again, “Praise the Lord, all you Gentiles; let all the peoples extol him.”

Scripture.savvy.com: Praise is not just meant to be a private or sporadic act; it is a community-oriented response. When we worship together, we reflect God’s glory back into the world, providing a testimony of His character and goodness. United in praise, we can impact those around us, just as the early church transformed the world through their worship and love for one another.

Hebrews 13:8

“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.”

Studylight.org, Contending for the Faith: The statement about Jesus’ being unchangeable is Paul’s final plea to his readers to persevere in their faithfulness to Jesus Christ and His doctrine. It also presents the best possible argument that can be made to encourage one to remain steadfast to Jesus. This sentence emphasizes the importance of holding to their faith in Jesus’ doctrine because He is the same now as He was the first time they were taught about Him. He is forever unchangeable. 

Psalm 1:6

“For the Lord watches over the way of the righteous, but the way of the wicked leads to destruction.”

Godbless.ing: This verse from the book of Hebrews is a powerful reminder of the unchanging nature of Jesus Christ. It emphasizes His eternal consistency and reliability throughout all time. The verse highlights the timeless nature of Jesus’s character, teachings, and promises by stating that He is the same yesterday, today, and forever.

Verse Three

“O the deep, deep love of Jesus, love of every love the best!

’Tis an ocean vast of blessing, ’tis a haven sweet of rest!

O the deep, deep love of Jesus, ’tis a heaven of heavens to me;

And it lifts me up to glory, for it lifts me up to Thee.”

Psalm 123:1

“I lift up my eyes to you, to you who sit enthroned in heaven.”

Enduringword.com: The psalmist declares his intention and action – to lift up his eyes to the LORD. This means that his eyes are not on his circumstances or himself, but on the LORD . . .  “It is good to have someone to look up to. The Psalmist looked so high that he could look no higher. Not to the hills, but to the God of the hills he looked.” (Spurgeon)

Psalm 107:30

“They were glad when it grew calm, and he guided them to their desired haven.”

Barnes’ Notes on the Whole Bible: The word translated “haven” occurs nowhere else. By some it is rendered “shore,” but the word “haven” or “port” seems best to express the sense of the passage: “the haven of their desire.” No one can appreciate this fully who has not been long at sea, and who has not experienced the intense desire once more to see “land” . . . So God brings His people to rest in heaven - their haven, their home. After being tossed by the tempests of life, after encountering its storms and dangers, after the fear and agitation experienced, He stills the storms; the way becomes smooth and calm; the end of the voyage is serene; and death is like the ship smoothly gliding into port with its sails all set. The soul enters heaven - the desired haven - the port that was longed for; a safe haven, beyond all storms or tempests; an eternal home!

Thousands of years ago, the apostle Paul wrote of this love: "How wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ" (Eph. 3:18). And the beautiful hymn, "O the Deep, Deep Love of Jesus" echoes Paul's words. The melody ebbs and flows, reminding us of a boundless ocean, the ocean of God's love.

Underneath me, all around me. That's how the hymn writer described Jesus' love. And that's how His love affects us all. When we face the darkest trial of our life, God's comfort and encouragement surround us. When life brings happiness, His love is there in every blessing. No matter where we are, God's love always fills us with the greatest gift of all: new life.

It is a love that has no comparison among human relationships, even those of the highest purity.  It is a love that is tied to all of God’s attributes, so that His love is holy, it is eternal, it is compassionate, it is gracious, it is wise, it is powerful, it is patient, it is kind, it is merciful … it is all of these and vastly more.

 

I am indebted to the following resources:

Songsandhymns.org

En.wikipedia.org

Gospelreformation.net

Scripturetruth.org

Hymns4him.mjbhost.com

Thoughtsonchrist.com

Hymnologyarchive.com, Henry Pickering

By His Grace . . . 

'Til the Storm Passes By

 

There are some things you learn best in calm, and others in storm. How many storms have you been through? Everybody goes through storms. This hymn, written by Mosie Lister, provides us with words that take us right to the throne of God: “Lord, hear my cry.”

We don’t know how or why Lister wrote these words. He experienced storms that affected his life. As a writer for God, he knew if we cry out to God, we will be safe until the storm passes by.

Thomas Mosie Lister was born in Cochran, Georgia, to Willis and Pearl Lister. His parents were both musical and attempted to teach their son music at an early age on their farm in the Empire District of Dodge County. They placed their son in the church choir but soon discovered that he could not distinguish musical tones. It wasn't until he began studying the violin that his ear training abilities began to improve and by the time he was a teenager he was already studying harmony and composition.

Lister studied music at the Vaughan School of Music in Tennessee in 1939. He began his musical career as a singer, performing as an original member of the Sunny South Quartet before joining the Navy in World War II. At the end of his tour, he enrolled in Middle Georgia College where he continued to study harmony, counterpoint, arranging, piano and organ.

By the late 1940s, he had worked with a number of groups including a brief tenure as an original member of the Statesmen Quartet. As his career took off and his songs began to find favor, he retired from touring to spend more time songwriting.

In 1946 he met Wylene Whitten. They married that same year and moved to Atlanta. In 1949 their  identical twin daughters were born.

Lister soon gave up his professional singing career to devote his attention to writing, continuing to work as an arranger for the Statesmen. In 1953, he formed the Mosie Lister Publishing Company. Some of Lister’s better-known tunes include “Then I Met The Master,” “I’m Feelin’ Fine,” and “His Hand In Mine.”

After three decades as a Gospel singer, songwriter, and arranger, Lister, became an ordained Baptist minister. He was also an ordained deacon at the Riverside Baptist Church of Tampa.

Lister was inducted into the Gospel Music Hall Of Fame in 1976 and into the SGMA Hall Of Fame in 1997. Over the years, Lister also became a popular arranger of choral music for Lillenas Publishing. He has continued to write songs for popular Southern Gospel groups in the early 21st century.

Following the death of Wylene in 2001, he married Martha Jean Hunter April 7, 2002.

This hymn was originally intended for Mahalia Jackson but it never reached her. A man who was well acquainted with Lister asked him to write the song. Mahalia Jackson was well known for her rendition of the song “He’s Got the Whole World.” Lister said “Because I grew up among the minority groups, especially the African Americans, I had an idea about the background of Mahalia and wanted to write a song that would be a prayer for a person who has undergone struggles in life."

Our plans are not God’s plans. The man who asked for the song to be written never got it to Mahalia, but it was written, and many other people have actually been blessed with it.

God not only says we will make it through, but that He will go with us!

Verse One

“In the dark of the midnight have I oft hid my face,

While the storm howls above me, and there's no hiding place,

'Mid the crash of the thunder, Precious Lord, hear my cry,

Keep me safe till the storm passes by.”

Psalm 61:1-2

“Hear my cry, O God; listen to my prayer. From the ends of the earth I call to you, I call as my heart grows faint; lead me to the Rock that is higher than I.”

Biblestudytools.com, Pamela Palmer: David began this psalm with the request that God would hear his prayer. He knew that whatever was going on in his life, he could turn to God and cry out for help . . . David was authentic with the Lord about how he was feeling. He was having a hard time, he couldn’t handle it on his own, and so he came before God honestly in his desperation. David went on to express his trust in the Lord’s presence and protection. David believed that only God could save him. He recalled God’s faithfulness and that indeed, God could keep him safe.

Scripturesavvy.com: The psalmist reflects on a personal relationship with God. He understands that in his sheltering Rock, he finds solace. This principle holds true in our lives. God is not removed from our concerns; He is deeply familiar with them. Our circumstances may appear overwhelming, but God’s power transcends any challenge. In this context of reassurance, we can find the strength to rise again and move forward.

Verse Two

“Many times Satan whispered, "There is no need to try,

For there's no end of sorrow, there's no hope by and by.

But I know Thou art with me, and tomorrow I'll rise,

Where the storms never darken the skies.”

Mark 8:33

“But when Jesus turned and looked at his disciples, he rebuked Peter. ‘Get behind me, Satan!’ he said. ‘You do not have in mind the concerns of God, but merely human concerns.’”

Bibleref.com: Satan offers to give up his hold on the world and humanity if Jesus will worship him. Then, as now, Jesus knows that there is no way to truly save the world without the cross . . . The problem with Satan's offer is that it is the near-sighted "thing of man." Without Satan's influence on earth, life would undoubtedly be easier and more peaceful. Although mankind would still sin, that sin would not be strategically manipulated and amplified by demonic forces. But without the cross, there is no eternal life. In our natural state, sin still separates us from God, and even without Satan's interference, there is no way we can change that.

John 8:29

“The One who sent Me is with Me; He has not left Me alone, for I always do what pleases Him.”

Scripturesavvy.com: This scripture serves as a reminder that we are never alone. Jesus emphasizes that the Father has not abandoned Him, which is a comforting truth for us. It underlines the assurance that God is with us in our journey, watching over us and encouraging us to pursue righteousness. When we feel lost or isolated, we can draw strength from this promise and continue to seek God’s favor in our lives.

Verse Three

“When the long night has ended, and the storms come no more.

Let me stand in Thy presence, on the bright peaceful shore.

In that land where the tempest, never comes, Lord, may I,

Dwell with Thee when the storm passes by.”

Luke 21:19

“Stand firm, and you will win life.”

Scripturesavvy.com: When we look at Luke 21:19, we see a profound message that revolves around endurance. Jesus speaks about the trials and challenges that His followers will face, but He assures them that if they remain steadfast, they will ultimately gain their souls. This verse encapsulates a deep understanding of faith in the midst of suffering. It reminds us that life will bring obstacles and hardships, yet we have a promise of hope and salvation if we choose to remain firm in our convictions . . . Life is unpredictable, and challenges will come our way. However, if we remain persistent and steadfast, we will emerge strengthened and equipped for future battles.

This verse also teaches us the significance of community support. As believers, we are called to encourage one another through difficult times. By sharing our experiences and strength, we build a network of support that nourishes our faith. The church body acts as a safety net during periods of trial, making it crucial for us to engage in fellowship and shared encouragement.

Psalm 27:5

“For in the day of trouble He will keep me safe in His dwelling; He will hide me in the shelter of His sacred tent and set me high upon a rock.”

Studylight.org, Gill’s Exposition of the Whole Bible: This, with what follows, is given as a reason why the psalmist desired to dwell in the house of the Lord; because he considered it as a pavilion or booth, as the word h signifies in which he should be hid by the Lord, in times of trouble and distress, either through the heat of persecution, or of inward anxiety of mind, caused by the working of a fiery law; the allusion being, as some think, to the shepherd's tent or booth, into which he sometimes takes a poor sheep, and protects it from the scorching heat of the sun at noon: and of such use is the tabernacle of the Lord.

Scripturesavvy.com: This verse speaks volumes about how we can find solace in God’s sheltering presence during hard times. It reassures us that when life throws challenges our way, we can rely on God to be with us and protect us. To experience this protection, we must have faith and trust in God’s promises. When we acknowledge that He is always near, we can approach life’s chaos with confidence knowing He offers refuge.

Refrain

“Till the storm passes over,

till the thunder sounds no more,

Till the clouds roll forever from the sky,

Hold me fast, let me stand in the hollow of Thy hand

Keep me safe till the storm passes by.”

Isaiah 40:12

“Who has measured the waters in the hollow of his hand, or with the breadth of his hand marked off the heavens? Who has held the dust of the earth in a basket, or weighed the mountains on the scales and the hills in a balance?”

Studylight.org, Barnes’ Notes on the Whole Bible: The word “waters” here, therefore, may include all the water on the earth, and in the sky. The words, “the hollow of his hand,” mean properly the hand as it is closed, forming a hollow or a cavity by which water can be taken up. The idea is, that God can take up the vast oceans, and all the waters in the lakes, streams, and clouds, in the palm of his hand, as we take up the smallest quantity in ours.

The hymn, “Till the Storm Passes By” echoes the promise of God to Israel in Isaiah 43:3: “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned, nor shall the flame scorch you.” This assurance came in the midst of threatening clouds of judgment. It was the proverbial silver lining that the people could look for when the tempest came.

We are never without the protection of our Father. He will always walk with us until the storm passes by.”

 

I am indebted to the following resources:

Austinbhebe.wordpress.com

Barryshymns.blogspot.com

Baptistworldmission.org

Sharon Baptist Church, Iron Station NC Facebook Page

En.wikipedia.org

By His Grace . . .

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 . . .