Hymns/Songs Menu
Above All Powers
Guiding Light
A Gift to You
Hark! Hark! My Soul!
A Child Of The King
Rehema Marvanne
Road To Zion Is In You
Jesus Lover Of My Soul
All Hail the Power of Jesus' Name
Hold The Fort
It is well with my Soul
'Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus
Nearer, Still Nearer
Almost Persuaded
Amazing Grace
Abide With Me
The Power Of The Cross
In Christ Alone
The Seventh-Day Adventist Hymnal website can be found here!
Above All Powers
Composers: Lenny LeBlanc and Paul Joseph Baloche.
The Bible says that Jesus is preeminent as found in Colossians 1:18, meaning that He is truly above all. Above Him there is no one else. Surely you've been taught that His ways are higher than our ways and His thoughts are higher than our thoughts as found in Isaiah 55:9.
Is it not right then, to be mindful in our worship that we give all praise, all honor and all glory to Him who gave all, just to be with us and who is the highest all! God alone is worthy of our worship - Above All!
Paul Baloche is one of the best-known modern worship artists and leaders of this day and age. He has written hundreds of songs, many of which have been covered by artists such as Michael W. Smith, Randy Travis, and SonicFlood. He has produced and co-produced albums, such as “God of Wonders” with Marc Byrd and Steve Hindalong.
Mediation Song - Guiding Light©
This song has a very special meaning for many people. The song was performed with singer Donna Taggart and the Omagh Community Youth Choir. It was written by Foy Vance. The Choir was created in the wake of the Omagh bombing 21 years ago. It was a direct response to the tragedy that befell that town in those dark days of the Troubles. The Choir has since been around the world, performing at Glastonbury and the Royal Variety. The actual video of Guiding Light with the Omagh Choir and Donna Taggart is deeply moving and should be seen. Copyright is owned by Celtic Lady Productions 2018.
The actual song, as performed by Donna Taggart and the Omagh Youth Choir here.
Music Day - The Most Popular Hymns
On Music Day, held on 30 June 2018 Bilston Church members and visitors took part in a survey of their favourite hymns.
Here's a list of the top 5 hymns as voted by those who took part:
Hymns Survey Results
| Position | Hymn | SDA Hymnal # |
|---|---|---|
| 1st | 'It is Well with my Soul' | 530 |
| 2nd | 'Great is Thy Faithfulness' | 100 |
| 3rd | 'How Great Thou Art' | 86 |
| 4th | 'What a Friend we Have in Jesus' | 499 |
| 5th | 'We're Marching to Zion' |
422 |
Thanks to all those who attended and took part. on our Music Day. May God continue to bless you!
Lord Make Us Instruments of Your Peace
The Children have song this song twice now and each time it seems to get better. The congregation response to their rendition was very good. Clarence Crosdale was on the piano and he was great, more so, because he only had the morning of the rendition to run through the song with the children.
Follow this link.
A Gift to You By Betsy Hernandez
This song as become a favourite of our children classes at Bilston Church. For the last four 13 Sabbath programme it has been song and even used for the meditation song for Divine Worship on our 2016 Children’s Day Sabbath. The children enjoy singing it, from our two year olds, right up to the ten years. Special focus on the introduction of the song by the two to five year old children and along with the last line. Children are a special gift from God, one that we should always give back to Him!
The Video
Lyrics for A Gift to You by Betsy Hernandez
Everything I'be
I gift it to you Lord
And do it thankfully
Every praise I bring
Everything I do
Is a gift to you
All you've given
I gift it to you Lord
And do it thankfully
Every praise I bring everything I do
Is a gift to you
Everything I'be
I gift it to you Lord
And do it thankfully
HARK! HARK! MY SOUL! by Frederick W. Faber
Article by Sister Pernel Harvey
This hymn resonates deep with my childhood because it evokes memories of my maternal grandmother’s funeral. Even though I was very young at the time and many other hymns were sung, this is the only one I remember. Although this hymn is sung at funerals predominantly, it also shows that angelic hosts are actively engaged in our salvation and pilgrimage here on earth.
Verse 1 is theologically sound, reaffirming the truth that sin shall be no more in the new earth. Verse two and three encourage pilgrims to continue the journey, even through the dark periods of their lives because Jesus extends the invitation to come, thus embodying the invitation of the gospel ‘Come unto me’. We can build a mental picture of the ‘laden souls by thousands meekly stealing’, winding their way home, through the maze of life, in response to the voice of the Shepherd.
Verse four reminds us that the night of weeping will come to an end and God’s children will experience the joy which comes in the morning of our eternity. Let us endeavour to be in constant communion with heaven, so that we will be encouraged in our sojourn in this world of sin, by the singing of the angels.
Frederick William Faber 1814 - 1863
"A noted English hymn writer and theologian, who converted from Anglicanism to the Catholic priesthood. His best known work is Faith of Our Fathers."
Reference: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Frederick_William_Faber
A Child of The King
Article by Sister Pernel Harvey
I like the personal pronoun used to begin the first verse. My Father – because through the atonement of Jesus Christ, our Redeemer, and Elder Brother, we’ve been adopted and all who believe on Him can claim Him as Father. Through the great sacrifice of Christ, we are royalty! As Father and King, the world is His domain. He owns everything; therefore, His children can never lack anything.
In the past I’ve usually said to my friends, it doesn’t matter if I can’t own a house on earth, or if I do own one, it might be just basic. That statement is really insignificant because again, through Christ, all who have become heirs will be given mansions in the new earth. We’ll not only be given mansions but also robes and crowns! Oh precious thought!
Even though through sin man has been exiled from his Eden home, we look forward to the day when Eden will be restored and we’ll live and reign with Christ. Until then, we can sing with gusto and assurance, because of the great sacrifice of our blessed Lord – All glory to God, I’m a child of the King!
The History
The words of this hymn, as with many of these old songs began as a poem written by Harriet E. Buell in 1877 (1834 – 1910). It was written while walking home from Sunday service from her Methodist Church service. She sent the words to the Northern Christian Advocate and it was printed in the February 1, 1877 issue, entitled The Child of a King.
Romans 8:16-17 … we are the children of God: And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ…
John Sumner (a noted musician) had been praying for a Gospel song to replace the one that would have been written by his friend and teacher Philip Bliss, who had recently suffered an untimely death. When Sumner saw these words, he knew his prayer had been answered.
Mr. Peter P. Bilhorn relates the following incident in connection with this hymn, which happened when he was engaged in evangelistic work among the cowboys in the West, in 1883. We had started up the Missouri River for Bismarck, and on Sunday we stopped at a new town, named Blunt, to unload some freight. A crowd of men and boys came down to the wharf. I took my little organ, went on the wharf-boat, and sang a few songs—among others the glorious hymn, ‘I’m a child of a King.’ I thought nothing more of the occasion until long afterward, when I sang the same song in Mr. Moody’s church in Chicago [Illinois]. Then a man in the back part of the house arose, and said in a trembling voice: Two years ago I heard that song at Blunt, Dakota; I was then an unsaved man, but that song set me to thinking, and I decided to accept Christ, and I am now studying for the ministry.’
Sankey, pp. 258-59
The Hymn - 468
My Father is rich in houses and lands,
He holdeth the wealth of the world in His hands!
Of rubies and diamonds, of silver and gold,
His coffers are full, He has riches untold.
Refrain
I'm a child of the King,
A child of the King:
With Jesus my Savior,
I'm a child of the King.
My Father's own Son, the Savior of men,
Once wandered on earth as the poorest of them;
But now He is pleading our pardon on high,
That we may be His when He comes by and by.
I once was an outcast stranger on earth,
A sinner by choice, an alien by birth,
But I've been adopted, my name's written down,
An heir to a mansion, a robe and a crown.
A tent or a cottage, why should I care?
They're building a palace for me over there;
Though exiled from home, yet still may I sing:
All glory to God, I'm a child of the King.
Rehema Marvanne
A tiny twelve year, this powerful, soul stirring singer sings with a passion that matches many far older than her. Her story begins with the passing of her mom to cancer at the age of three. Her mom, also a passionate gospel singer encouraged her daughter to sing as soon as she could sing, the problem was tiny Rehema made up her own words!
Rehema was not shielded by her parents from the grief of her mother’s illness and was there with her in the grimmest of moments. This experience shaped the young singer, it strengthen her determination to sing for Christ and bring joy to those around her.
Road To Zion Is In You
I heard this song at Church as a special song for divine worship one Sabbath. It was song by Bobby Christopher; he is such a grifted singer, he made the song come alive as he song it. It was deeply enriching to hear the song and singer combine in this way.
I tried to find the background for the song but there wasn't anything on it. I did find information on the band and the albums that the song can be found on.
Petra band is noted as a pioneer Christian rock and contemporary Christian music. The band was first formed in 1972. They disbanded in 2006 and have reformed over the years on a number of collaboration and albums with members changing along the way. 2013 was reported to be the last time they came together and went on tour.
I am not a fan of christian rock but do enjoy contemporary music. Should one have listened to Petra before, you might not think this song came from them. I would encourage you to listen to the song and judge it not be the origins but by the soulful music and the deep thought provoking lyrics of the song.
Albums
- More Power to Ya: 30th Anniversary Edition
- 40th Anniversary (Deluxe Edition)
Petra - Road To Zion
Petra Youth Choir Collection - Road To Zion (1985)
The Lyrics
There is a way that leads to life,
the few that find it never die
Past mountain peaks graced white with snow,
the way grows brighter as it goes
Chorus:
There is A road inside of you,
inside of me there is one too.
No stumbling pilgrim in the Dark,
the road to Zion's in your heart,
the road to Zion's in your heart
The river runs beside the road,
it's waters living as they flow,
in liquid voice the water calls,
on thirsty knees a pilgrim falls
(Chorus)
Sometimes a shadow dark & cold
falls like a mist across the road,
but be encouraged by the sight,
where there's a shadow there's a light
(Chorus)
Sometimes it's good to look back down ,
we've come so far we've gained
such ground but joy is not in where we've been,
Joy is Who's waiting at the end
(Chorus)
No stumbling pilgrim in the Dark,
the road to Zion's in your heart
the road to Zion's in your heart,
the road to Zion's in your heart
Songwrites: Irving Berlin
Published by: Lyrics Copyrigth U.S. LLC
BBC One ranking - Songs Of Praise: UK Top 100 Hymns: n/a
SDA Hymnal Number: n/a
Jesus Lover Of My Soul
There are several versions to this hymn. Sometimes I like to sing Aberystwyth, but this is my favourite. Whatever version is preferred, the words are profound.
Instinctively, we gravitate to the bosom of a friend or lover for comfort, and solace in our moments of greatest need. Jesus is the quintessential lover whose arms are ever open wide to encircle all who turn to Him. For some, the process is a long journey.
However long it takes, we go to Him eventually, as we come to the realization that no one else is able to help us; consequently, we cling to Him for dear life. As He holds us to His bosom, we are enveloped in His loving care and protection. Our fears are calmed and our anxieties soothed.
As a result of the assurance and safety enjoyed in His protection, conviction is brought to the heart that everything is in Jesus – in fact, He is more than everything. He is full of grace – plenteous grace - and so we delight to be washed in the healing streams which flow from Him, which are able to keep us pure.
He becomes our Fountain from which we can take freely. Our desire should therefore be, ‘Spring Thou up within my hear, Rise to all eternity’.
Submitted by Sister Pernel Henry.
Editor - I whole heartedly agree with Sister Pernel. I fell in love with this hymn the moment I first heard it. I fell deeper in love with it when I read the background story and found the Fernando Ortega version.
The Hymn
1
Jesus, lover of my soul, let me to Thy bosom fly,
While the nearer waters roll, while the tempest still is high.
Hide me, O my Savior, hide, till the storm of life is past;
Safe into the haven guide; O receive my soul at last.
2
Other refuge have I none, hangs my helpless soul on Thee;
Leave, ah! leave me not alone, still support and comfort me.
All my trust on Thee is stayed, all my help from Thee I bring;
Cover my defenseless head with the shadow of Thy wing.
3
Thou, O Christ, art all I want, more than all in Thee I find;
Raise the fallen, cheer the faint, heal the sick, and lead the blind.
Just and holy is Thy Name, I am all unrighteousness;
False and full of sin I am; Thou art full of truth and grace.
4
Plenteous grace with Thee is found, grace to cover all my sin;
Let the healing streams abound; make and keep me pure within.
Thou of life the fountain art, freely let me take of Thee;
Spring Thou up within my heart; rise to all eternity.
The History of the Hymn
On one particular occasion in 1740, Wesley was preaching in the fields of a parish in Ireland when he was attacked by men who did not approve of his doctrines. He escaped to a farmhouse, where the farmer's wife hid him in the milkhouse. When the mob approached her home to demand the fugitive, the brave Christian lady quieted them temporarily with refreshments. While Charles' would-be captors were eating and planning their next move, she snuck out to the milkhouse and directed Wesley to go through a rear window and to hide under a hedge.
From his hiding place, which was situated by a quiet babbling brook, Wesley could hear the movement and angry voices of his pursuers. He settled back into the hedge to await their departure. He filled his waiting time by composing a hymn; a prayer of trust in God as his refuge: Jesus, Lover of My Soul.
Over the years, several musical scores have been written to accompany this hymn. The most popular has been a melody and arrangement by Joseph Parry (1841-1903), in 1879.
“For he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me” (Hebrews 13: 5b-6)
Written by Connie Ruth Christiansen. Article source: ShareFaith (http://www.sharefaith.com/guide/Christian-Music/hymns-the-songs-and-the-stories/jesus-lover-of-my-soul-the-song-and-the-story.html)
The Video
Song by Fernando Ortega - Jesus Lover of my Soul
BBC One ranking - Songs Of Praise: UK Top 100 Hymns: n/a
SDA Hymnal Number: 490
All Hail the Power of Jesus' Name
Composer Edward Perronet Writes All Hail the Power of Jesus
Reverend E. P. Scott was a missionary, living in India during the 1800s. At the prompting of the Holy Spirit, but against advice of his fellow missionaries, Scott set out alone to visit a remote village. He was determined to share the Gospel with a dangerous savage tribe.
Several days into his journey. Scott was met by a large group of warriors who quickly surrounded him, each one pointing a spear towards his heart. Expecting to die, Scott made a decision to use his last few breaths to glorify God, and to hopefully stir something within the hearts of his captors. He took out his violin (which he always carried on him), closed his eyes, and began to play and sing All Hail the Power of Jesus Name, in the native language of the warriors.
After singing the first verse, the second, the third, and then beginning the fourth, Rev. Scott realized he was still standing, and that all around him was a peaceful quiet. Opening his eyes he saw every spear lowered. There stood those mighty warriors, with tears in their eyes. Throughout the remainder of his life, Scott spent much time with this tribe, sharing the love of God.
All Hail the Power of Jesus Name has been hailed as the "National Anthem of Christendom." It was written in 1779 by Rev. Edward Perronet (1726-1792) The music was composed by Oliver Holden (1765-1844). The hymn has been translated into almost every existing language.
The Hymn
All hail the power of Jesus' name! Let angels prostrate fall;
Bring forth the royal diadem, and crown Him Lord of all.
Bring forth the royal diadem, and crown Him Lord of all.
Ye chosen seed of Israel's race, ye ransomed from the fall,
Hail Him who saves you by His grace, and crown Him Lord of all.
Hail Him who saves you by His grace, and crown Him Lord of all.
Let every kindred, every tribe on this terrestrial ball
To Him all majesty ascribe, and crown Him Lord of all.
To Him all majesty ascribe, and crown Him Lord of all.
O that with yonder angel throng we at His feet may fall!
We'll join the everlasting song, and crown Him Lord of all.
We'll join the everlasting song, and crown Him Lord of all.
BBC One ranking - Songs Of Praise: UK Top 100 Hymns: n/a
SDA Hymnal Number: 229.
Hold The Fort
Bliss wrote this song after hearing Daniel Whittle relate the following incident from the American civil war:
Just before [William Tecumseh] Sherman began his famous march to the sea in 1864, and while his army lay camped in the neighbourhood of Atlanta [Georgia] on the 5th of October, the army of Hood, in a carefully prepared movement, passed the right flank of Sherman’s army, gained his rear, and commenced the destruction of the railroad leading north, burning blockhouses and capturing the small garrisons along the line.
Sherman’s army was put in rapid motion pursuing Hood, to save the supplies and larger posts, the principal one of which was located at Altoona Pass. General Corse, of Illinois, was stationed there with about fifteen hundred men, Colonel Tourtelotte being second in command. A million and a half rations were stored here and it was highly important that the earthworks commanding the pass and protecting the supplies be held.
Six thousand men under command of General French were detailed by Hood to take the position. The works were completely surrounded and summoned to surrender. Corse refused and a sharp fight commenced. The defenders were slowly driven into a small fort on the crest of the hill. Many had fallen, and the result seemed to render a prolongation of the fight hopeless. At this moment an officer caught sight of a white signal flag far away across the valley, twenty miles distant, upon the top of Kenesaw Mountain. The signal was answered, and soon the message was waved across from mountain to mountain:
“Hold the fort; I am coming. W. T. Sherman.”
Cheers went up; every man was nerved to a full appreciation of the position; and under a murderous fire, which killed or wounded more than half the men in the fort—Corse himself being shot three times through the head, and Tourtelotte taking command, though himself badly wounded—they held the fort for three hours until the advance guard of Sherman’s army came up. French was obliged to retreat.
Sankey, pp. 150-1
Reference
The Cyber Hymnal - http://cyberhymnal.org/htm/h/o/holdfort.htm
Civil War Talk - http://civilwartalk.com/threads/battle-at-allatoona.85474/
The Hymn
Ho, my comrades! see the signal waving in the sky!
Reinforcements now appearing, victory is nigh.
Refrain
“Hold the fort, for I am coming,” Jesus signals still;
Wave the answer back to Heaven, “By Thy grace we will.”
See the mighty host advancing, Satan leading on;
Mighty ones around us falling, courage almost gone!
Refrain
See the glorious banner waving! Hear the trumpet blow!
In our Leader’s Name we triumph over ev’ry foe.
Refrain
Fierce and long the battle rages, but our help is near;
Onward comes our great Commander, cheer, my comrades, cheer!
Refrain
BBC One ranking - Songs Of Praise: UK Top 100 Hymns: n/a
SDA Hymnal Number: n/a (Can be found in the old hymnal).
It is well with my Soul
This fits well with how I feel since my traffic accident July. I am relieved that God has seen it fit that I am alive; not angry that it happened, but alive to tell of His tender mercies towards me. There have been other cyclists of that week in accidents across the world. One in particular comes to mind involving Billie Piper and a teenage cyclists in London that was so much worse than mine. I pray the Lord will show mercy towards him too. I will let the video tell it's story...
The Spaffords later had three more children. In 1881, the Spaffords, including baby Bertha and newborn Grace, set sail for Israel. The Spaffords moved to Jerusalem and helped found a group called the American Colony; its mission was to serve the poor. The colony later became the subject of the Nobel prize winning Jerusalem, by Swedish novelist Selma Lagerlöf.
The Hymn - 530
When peace, like a river, attendeth my way,
when sorrows like sea billows roll;
whatever my lot, thou hast taught me to say,
It is well, it is well with my soul.
Refrain
It is well with my soul,
it is well, it is well with my soul.
My sin--oh, the joy of this glorious thought--
My sin, not in part but the whole,
is nailed to the cross, and I bear it no more,
praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul!
And, Lord, haste the day when my faith shall be sight,
the clouds be rolled back as a scroll;
the trump shall resound, and the Lord shall descend,
even so, it is well with my soul.
Original lyrics
When peace like a river, attendeth my way,
When sorrows like sea billows roll;
Whatever my lot, Thou hast taught me to know,a
It is well, it is well, with my soul.
Refrain:
It is well, (it is well),
With my soul, (with my soul)
It is well, it is well, with my soul.
Though Satan should buffet, though trials should come,
Let this blest assurance control,
That Christ has regarded my helpless estate,
And hath shed His own blood for my soul.
My sin — oh, the bliss of this glorious thought! —
My sin — not in part but the whole, —
Is nailed to the cross, and I bear it no more,
Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul!
For me, be it Christ, be it Christ hence to live:
If Jordan above me shall roll,
No pang shall be mine, for in death as in life,
Thou wilt whisper Thy peace to my soul.
But Lord, 'tis for Thee, for Thy coming we wait,
The sky, not the grave, is our goal;
Oh, trump of the angel! Oh, voice of the Lord!
Blessed hope, blessed rest of my soul.
And Lord, haste the day when my faith shall be sight,
The clouds be rolled back as a scroll;
The trump shall resound, and the Lord shall descend,
A song in the night, oh my soul!
"It Is Well with My Soul" was composed by Philip Bliss. It is possibly the most influential and enduring in the Bliss repertoire and is often taken as a choral model, appearing in hymnals of a wide variety of Christian fellowships. Bliss called his tune Ville du Havre, from the name of the stricken vessel that sunk with the Spafford family - the SS Ville du Havre.
References
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/It_Is_Well_with_My_Soul
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Philip_Bliss
BBC One ranking - Songs Of Praise: UK Top 100 Hymns: n/a
SDA Hymnal Number: 530
'Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus
This particular hymn is the result of the heartfelt joys of love for God from Louisa M. Stead the writer of the words for this week hymn. The story is moving and touching, the video more so.
It was a beautiful sunny day. Louisa M. R. Stead, her husband, and her daughter Lily, decided to go for a picnic. They went picnicking on Long Island Sound. While having their picnic, the Steads heard a scream. It was from a young boy. Mr. Stead ran to the rescue. Louisa Stead and young Lily watched helplessly as Mr. Stead and the boy drowned. Their troubles were not over yet, however, and without her husband, Mrs. Stead became very poor and destitute.Yet God never left her. He provided for her always and she and her daughter made it through. Louisa learned to trust God, and thus the words to the song 'Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus.' Shortly after this incident, Louisa and her daughter Lily moved to South Africa where they became missionaries.
The Video
Biography
Louisa M.R. Stead (1850-1917) felt the call to the mission field at an early age. That dream was hindered due to her frail health. At age 25 she married and a year later gave birth to a beautiful baby girl; Lily. Several years after Lily's birth, Stead's young husband suddenly died while trying to save a drowning child. In response to her grief, Stead penned the words to Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus.
Years later, Stead would remarry. She would also realize her dream to be a missionary. Her daughter Lily would continue that dream by also entering the mission field. Stead's life was a testimony to the faithfulness of God.
The words of Stead's poem were put to music by famed musician William J. Kirkpatrick, and subsequently published in several hymnals. The tragedy that prompted the lyrics of Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus has resulted in bringing comfort to many souls, for close to 130 years.
'Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus" had its music written by William J. Kirkpatrick. The lyrics were written in 1882. They appeared in Stead's Songs of Triumph.
The Hymn
Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus
Refrain:
Jesus, Jesus, how I trust Him!
How I've proved Him o'er and o'er
Jesus, Jesus, precious Jesus!
O for grace to trust Him more!
'Tis so sweet to trust in Jesus,
And to take Him at His Word;
Just to rest upon His promise,
And to know, 'Thus says the Lord!'
Refrain
O how sweet to trust in Jesus,
Just to trust His cleansing blood;
And in simple faith to plunge me
'Neath the healing, cleansing flood!
Refrain
Yes, 'tis sweet to trust in Jesus,
Just from sin and self to cease;
Just from Jesus simply taking
Life and rest, and joy and peace.
Refrain
I'm so glad I learned to trust Thee,
Precious Jesus, Savior, Friend;
And I know that Thou art with me,
Wilt be with me to the end.
Refrain
“In You our fathers put their trust; they trusted and You delivered them.” (Psalm 22:4-5)
BBC One ranking - Songs Of Praise: UK Top 100 Hymns: n/a
SDA Hymnal Number: 524
Sources
http://www.sharefaith.com/guide/Christian-Music/hymns-the-songs-and-the-stories/tis-so-sweet-to-trust-in-jesus-the-song-and-the-story.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/'Tis_So_Sweet_to_Trust_in_Jesus
Nearer, Still Nearer
"There are many hymns in our hymnal which have had special appeal to me over the years but this one gets the bouquet. I've been singing this hymn for many years but the real impact of the words came forcibly to me during devotion with my prayer partner one morning. Since then, it has become my favourite and my daily prayer. The words and music of this hymn were written by Lelian Naylor Morris. They were written as a result of her personal experience with Christ.
Verse 1 echoes the heart's cry, to be drawn ever nearer to Christ so that we become like Him. Closeness to the heart conjures an image of intimacy. It is my desire to have an intimate relationship with Christ - as intimate as any human being can have. Being 'folded close to His breast' is indeed being in a 'haven' which provides tranquillity and security. These attributes are characteristic of those who surrender their lives to Him and are therefore in a living relationship with Him. We can go to Him for cleansing, just as we are. No prior 'decontamination' is needed. He will 'clean us up' through the application of His blood, which still has the power to change lives today. This thought is encapsulated in verse 2. In verse 3 there's an illustration of what ensues as that 'drawing effect' takes place. As we desire to become like Christ, the encounter with Him initiates such a great longing in our hearts to be like Him so that we are willing to sacrifice everything dear to us, if necessary, in order to have Jesus.
Finally, as He draws us closer to Himself, ultimate transformation is effected; we become like Him and are able to live with Him throughout eternity in eternal bliss. I think this song should be a part of the daily prayer of every Christian."
Submitted by Sister A
Date 11 July 2014
Biography
Leilya Naylor Morris wrote the hymn (words and music) Near, Still Near among many other famous hymns such as “Sweeter As the Years Go By” and “Let Jesus Come Into Your Heart.”
As a child, Leila lived in Malta and McConnelsville, Ohio. In 1881, she married Charles H. Morris. Leila was active in the Methodist church, camp meetings, and song writing, authoring about 1,500 hymns. When her eyes began to fail in 1913, her son built a 28-foot blackboard with oversized staff lines, so she could continue composing.
Sources:
http://www.appalachianhistory.net/2011/07/she-wrote-1500-hymns.html
A list of hymns written by Leilya can be found here: http://www.hymnary.org/person/Morris_CHMrs
Nearer, Still Nearer Lyrics
Nearer, still nearer, close to Thy heart,
Draw me, my Savior, so precious Thou art;
Fold me, O fold me close to Thy breast,
Shelter me safe in that haven of rest,
Shelter me safe in that haven of rest.
Nearer, still nearer, nothing I bring,
Nought as an offering to Jesus my King-
Only my sinful now contrite heart,
Grant me the cleansing Thy blood doth impart,
Grant me the cleansing Thy blood doth impart.
Nearer, still nearer, Lord, to be Thine;
Sin, with its follies, I gladly resign,
All of its pleasures, pomp and its pride;
Give me but Jesus, my Lord crucified,
Give me but Jesus, my Lord crucified.
Nearer, still nearer, while life shall last;
Till safe in glory my anchor is cast;
Through endless ages, ever to be,
Nearer, my Savior, still nearer to Thee,
Nearer, my Savior, still nearer to Thee.
The Hymn
A beautiful solo that I think Sister A will very much appreciate. With over 5,000 views, I think I am in good company of those who like Mark Hogan's rendition of Nearer, still Nearer. Well done Mark and thanks very much for this performance.
Sheet Music
Sheet music can be downloaded from here: http://library.timelesstruths.org/music/Nearer_Still_Nearer/pdf/
BBC One ranking - Songs Of Praise: UK Top 100 Hymns: n/a
SDA Hymnal Number: 301
Editor: I am looking forward to see more members and even visitors to the website sharing their deep love for a special hymn. Please leave a comment at the bottom of this page on how you feel about your special hymn.
Almost Persuaded, the Song and the Story
Composer Philip Paul Bliss Writes Almost Persuaded
More than 2,000 years ago King Agrippa told the Apostle Paul “Almost, you persuade me to be a Christian.” (Acts 26:28). In 1871 Reverend Brundage expounded upon this sad story in Acts, and then ended his Sunday Morning sermon with the words "He who is almost persuaded is almost saved, and to be almost saved is to be entirely lost".
Philip Paui Bliss (1838-1876), an American composer of many hymns, including The Light of the World is Jesus and Dare to Be a Daniel, was among the congregants listening to Reverend Brundage's sermon. The pastor's powerful closing words left such an impression upon Bliss that he set about composing a song with the same sentiment.
Phillip Bliss qualified as a teacher in 1856. He later became a music teacher and a great singer under the influences of J. G. Towner and his wife Lucy Young. He did a concert in 1864 and was handsomely paid $100 for a fortnight (this in a time when a month’s wage could be high as $150!).
In 1869 he formed an association with Dwight L. Moody, who along with friends urged him to become a missionary singer. In 1874 Bliss was convinced that he should be winning souls and became a full-time evangelist. By this time he was making a significant amount of money from royalties acquired from his music compositions and gave them to charity.
He died in 1876 along with his wife in a tragic train accident – the Ashtabula River Railroad disaster in Ohio. Found in his trunk, which somehow survived the crash and fire, was the manuscript bearing the lyrics of the only well-known Bliss Gospel song for which he did not write a tune, which was specially written by James McGranahan and it became the first song recorded by Thomas Alva Edison – I Will Sing of My Redeemer. SDA Hymn 343.
Almost Persuaded was published that same year in The Charm: A Collection of Sunday School Music, and quickly found its way into the majority of English Christian hymnals; the compelling words have since been sung at many an alter call.
Stories of Great Hymns by Sunlite Video (YouTube)
Sources:
http://www.sharefaith.com/guide/Christian-Music/hymns-the-songs-and-the-stories/almost-persuaded,-the-song-and-the-story.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Philip_Bliss
Almost Persuaded Lyrics
Almost persuaded now to believe;
Almost persuaded Christ to receive;
Seems now some soul to say,
Go, Spirit, go Thy way,
Some more convenient day
On Thee I'll call.
Almost persuaded, come, come today;
Almost persuaded, turn not away;
Jesus invites you here,
Angels are lingering near
Prayers rise from hearts so dear;
O wanderer, come!
Almost persuaded, harvest is past!
Almost persuaded, doom comes at last!
Almost cannot avail;
Almost is but to fail!
Sad, sad, that bitter wail
Almost, but lost!
Video
BBC One ranking - Songs Of Praise: UK Top 100 Hymns: n/a
SDA Hymnal Number: 228
Amazing Grace
A ruthless salve trader becomes a messenger of amazing grace.
John Newton wrote the words to one of the most beloved hymns of all time between 1760 and 1770, while working as an evangelical pastor. Son of the commander of a merchant ship, Newton was captain of a slave ship for many years, until he underwent a dramatic religious conversion while steering his vessel through a storm.
Repenting and regretting the misery he had inflicted on the thousands of human cargo he had transported across the Middle Passage for many years, he devoted his life to the Church, and wrote the lyrics to many hymns which are still popular today.
In 1780 Newton left Olney to become rector of St. Mary Woolnoth, St. Mary Woolchurch, in London. There he drew large congregations and influenced many, among them William Wilberforce. Newton continued to preach until the last year of life, although he was blind by that time. He died in London December 21, 1807.
The Lyrics of the Song
Amazing Grace (How sweet the sound)
That sav'd a wretch like me!
I once was lost, but now am found,
Was blind, but now I see.
'Twas grace that taught my heart to fear,
And grace my fears reliev'd;
How precious did that grace appear,
The hour I first believ'd!
Thro' many dangers, toils and snare,
I have already come;
'Tis grace has brought me safe thus far,
And grace will lead me home.
The Lord has promised good to me.
His word my hope secures;
He will my shield and portion be,
As long as life endures.
Yes, when this flesh and heart shall fail,
And mortal life shall cease;
I shall profess, within the vail,
A life of joy and peace.
The earth shall soon dissolve like snow,
The sun forbear to shine;
But God, who call'd me here below,
Will be for ever mine.
BBC One ranking - Songs Of Praise: UK Top 100 Hymns: 16th
SDA Hymnal Number: 108
Abide With Me
Henry Francis Lyte (1793-1847) and his wife Ann were faithful pastors of a little fishing town in Devonshire England, for 23 years. Although Henry's health was compromised, he worked tirelessly ministering to his parish, taking care of his family, and writing poems and hymns.
In 1844, Henry was diagnosed with Tuberculosis. Over the next three years his physical condition deteriorated until finally on September 4, 1847, at the age of 54, he stood in the pulpit for the last time to deliver his farewell message.
That same afternoon, after taking a walk on the beach, Henry retired to his room. He emerged about an hour later with a written copy of Abide With Me. He left soon after for a trip to Italy, to get away from the cold, damp coastal weather. While en route to his destination, he mailed a revised copy of Abide With Me to his wife. A few days later while resting in a hotel on the French Riviera, Henry went home to be with Jesus. A fellow clergyman who was with Henry during his final hours reported that Henry's last words were Peace! Joy!
Abide With Me was put to music by William H. Monk, and made its debut at Henry's memorial service. William set the words of the hymn to his composition known as "Eventide."
The Penang English Seventh-day Adventist Church. Presented by 103 Praise Ministry with help from Adventist Youth and accompanied by Michael Wong on the piano.
YouTube.com Published 0n November 29 2012
The hymn has since been popular within many Christian denominations. It was reported to have been a favourite of King George V, and of Mahatma Gandhi. It was sung at the weddings of King George VI and of Queen Elizabeth II. It is sung before kick off at every FA Cup Final and Rugby League, and at various annual celebrations in Austria, New Zealand, Canada and the United Kingdom. It has been recorded by various jazz and gospel music artists, and has been included in the soundtrack of no less than 10 movies and television shows, including Shane and Touched by an Angel.
The hymn is a prayer for God to remain present with the speaker throughout life, through trials, and through death. The opening line alludes to Luke 24:29, "Abide with us: for it is toward evening, and the day is far spent." As He often does, God took the sad ending of a life and made something lasting and beautiful.
Reference: http://www.sharefaith.com/guide/Christian-Music/hymns-the-songs-and-the-stories/abide-with-me,-the-song-and-the-story.html .
Abide With Me, song by Hayley Westenra
Abide With Me, Words
Abide with me; fast falls the eventide;
the darkness deepens; Lord, with me abide.
When other helpers fail and comforts flee,
Help of the helpless, O abide with me.
Swift to its close ebbs out life's little day;
earth's joys grow dim; its glories pass away;
change and decay in all around I see;
O thou who changest not, abide with me.
I need thy presence every passing hour.
What but thy grace can foil the tempter's power?
Who, like thyself, my guide and stay can be?
Through cloud and sunshine, Lord, abide with me.
I fear no foe, with thee at hand to bless;
ills have no weight, and tears not bitterness.
Where is death's sting? Where, grave, thy victory?
I triumph still, if thou abide with me.
Hold thou thy cross before my closing eyes;
shine through the gloom and point me to the skies.
Heaven's morning breaks, and earth's vain shadows flee;
in life, in death, O Lord, abide with me.
Abide With Me, Sheet Music
Sheet music can be downloaded from here: http://library.timelesstruths.org/music/Abide_with_Me/pdf/
Emeli Sandé - Abide With Me (1 Mic 1 Take)
I am particularly fond of this version of the hymn. I know that there are those who will not get by the face of the singer, but it's the words, the voice and the music that are of the subject here. God uses everyone to further the work of salvation. There is a solemness that Emeli gives to the hymn that I find adictive to listen to.
I found this quote on the internet that I found very potent:
How can you find true peace and comfort when change and confusion in the world becomes overwhelming? You can find solace by turning to God in prayer. Learn how the words from the hymn 'Abide with Me' can strengthen you during times of despair.
Just listen to the hymn and think about the what the words are saying to you. Think of what the writer experienced and wants you to hear and let the music move your heart closer to God.
BBC One ranking - Songs Of Praise: UK Top 100 Hymns: 7th
SDA Hymnal Number: 50
Let me know how you feel about this song, does it have a special meaning to you or do you just simply enjoy it? Leave a comment below or Email me.
Please write the name of hymn. If you have an experience to share based on another hymn please submit that too!
Writer: E. Vickers
In Christ Alone
The hymn "In Christ Alone" is a popular modern Christian song written by Keith Getty (Northern Ireland) and Stuart Townend, both songwriters of Christian hymns and contemporary worship music. It's not a song heard in Adventist cycles though, hence the freshness of it will readily come to mind. The song, comes with an Irish melody and is copyrighted by Getty and Townend ©2001 Kingsway Music Thankyou Music. It is the first the two songwriters penned down in their partnership. The music was by Getty and the original lyrics by Townend.
"In Christ Alone" the theme of the song is the life, death and resurrection of Christ and that he is God who even death cannot hold.
The song is commonly known as "In Christ Alone (My Hope Is Found)" and "In Christ Alone (I Stand)" taking verses from the song and has become very popular and has been subject of many cover versions and many language translations.
The Getty/Townend song should not be confused with the similarly titled song "In Christ Alone" co-written by Don Koch and Shawn Craig, originally recorded by Michael English on his self-titled debut solo album, and covered by Brian Littrell on his album Welcome Home, and others.
Reference: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/In_Christ_Alone
Solo performance
Keith Getty talks about In Christ Alone, 2011
Lyrics
In Christ alone my hope is found;
He is my light, my strength, my song;
This cornerstone, this solid ground,
Firm through the fiercest drought and storm.
What heights of love, what depths of peace,
When fears are stilled, when strivings cease!
My comforter, my all in all—
Here in the love of Christ I stand.
In Christ alone, Who took on flesh,
Fullness of God in helpless babe!
This gift of love and righteousness,
Scorned by the ones He came to save.
Till on that cross as Jesus died,
The wrath of God was satisfied;
For ev'ry sin on Him was laid—
Here in the death of Christ I live.
There in the ground His body lay,
Light of the world by darkness slain;
Then bursting forth in glorious day,
Up from the grave He rose again!
And as He stands in victory,
Sin's curse has lost its grip on me;
For I am His and He is mine—
Bought with the precious blood of Christ.
No guilt in life, no fear in death—
This is the pow'r of Christ in me;
From life's first cry to final breath,
Jesus commands my destiny.
No pow'r of hell, no scheme of man,
Can ever pluck me from His hand;
Till He returns or calls me home—
Here in the pow'r of Christ I'll stand.
"In Christ Alone"
Words and Music by Keith Getty & Stuart Townend
Copyright © 2001 Kingsway Thankyou Music
In Christ Alone Chord Sheet
BBC One ranking - Songs Of Praise: UK Top 100 Hymns: 2nd
Let me know how you feel about this song, would you use it at your church? Or does it have a special meaning to you? Or do you simply just enjoy it? Please let me know: Email Link.
Please write the name of hymn. If you have an experience to share based on another hymn please submit that too!
Writer: E. Vickers
Date: June 16 2014
The Power Of The Cross
For some time I have been thinking of promoting great hymns and the stories behind them. After coming in contact with Keith Getty and Stuart Townend collaboration on the song “The Power Of The Cross” song by Kristyn Getty (see the video here…), I decided to follow up this thought.
Here’s the story behind the song “The Power of the Cross (Oh, to See the Dawn). This video can be found at Gettymusic.com and YouTube.
After watching this video I can see that Keith is very passionate about his music and for the Gospel of Christ. I hope you will enjoy the song as much as I do! The song can be found here - Power Of The Cross.
BBC One ranking - Songs Of Praise: UK Top 100 Hymns: N/A
This is going to be a regular feature of the website. Music plays a very important role in our lives, hymns can reach the most lost of souls, can break down a heart of stone and can bring tears to the eyes. We all have our moments, when great hymns of Christ's love, sacrifice and redemption has touched our hearts. I would you like you to share these moments, that time when the words of the hymn touched your heart, lighten that burden, cleared that storm, brought joy and hope when there was none. Let me share that experience with others and let the light of the Lord that touched you reach out to others. Email me at enroy.bilstonsdaatgmail.com (just change the "at" for the correct symbol. Its there to stop the sprammers and bots!).
Writer: E. Vickers
Date: June 9 2014
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