COUNT YOUR BLESSINGS

COUNT YOUR BLESSINGS

Author: Rev. Johnson Oatman Jr.

Introduction:

The Author Rev. Johnson Oatman Jr. was one of the important and prolific gospel song writers of the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. He was born near Medford, New Jersey on April 21, 1856. At the age of nineteen, Oatman joined the Methodist Church and several years later was granted license to preach in local Methodist congregations. Although Oatman wrote over 5,000 Hymn texts. He was gainfully engaged in mercantile business and later as an administrator for a large insurance company in New Jersey.

“Count your blessings” is generally considered to be Oatman’s finest Hymn. It first appeared in “Songs for young people” compiled and published by Edwin O. Excell in 1897. It is said that no American Hymn was ever received with such enthusiasm in Great Britain as this Hymn. The London Daily reported that in South London the men sing it, the boys whistle it and the women rock their babies to sleep on this Hymn. During the great revival in Wales it was one of the Hymns sung at every Service.

The composer of the Music, E. O. Excell was born in Ohio on December 13, 1851. At the age of twenty, he became a singing teacher, travelling the country and establishing singing schools. For twenty years, he was associated with Sam Jones a well known Southern revivalist.

Excell was recognized as one of the finest song leaders of his day. In addition to writing and composing 2,000 Gospel Songs, publishing about fifty song books, he also administered a successful music publishing business in Chicago.

He died suddenly at the age of seventy during an evangelistic campaign in Louisville, Kentucky in 1921.

Let us begin to retrospect on God’s faithfulness as we sing this Hymn.

Count your Blessings

1. When upon life’s billows you are tempest tossed,
When you are discouraged, thinking all is lost,
Count your many blessings name them one by one,
And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done.

Chorus:
Count your blessings name them one by one;
Count your blessings see what God hath done;
Count your blessings name them one by one;
Count your many blessings see what God hath done.

2. Are you ever burdened with a load of care?
Does the cross seem heavy you are called to bear?
Count your many blessings ev-‘ry doubt will fly,
And you will be singing as the days go by.

3. When you look at others with their lands and gold,
Think that Christ has promised you His wealth untold;
Count your many blessings money cannot buy
Your reward in heaven nor your home on high.

4. So amid the conflict, whether great or small,
Do not be discouraged God is over all;
Count your many blessings angels will attend,
Help and comfort give you to your journey’s end.

Adesegun Akitoye

http://www.repeatrichrelief.com

WHAT SHALL I RENDER TO MY GOD

WHAT SHALL I RENDER TO MY GOD

Author: Charles Wesley (1707-1788)

Scripture Reference: What can I offer the Lord for all his goodness to me? I will bring a wine-offering to the Lord to thank Him for saving me”.-Psalm 116 : 12 & 13.

Introduction:

This thought provoking Hymn was written by Charles Wesley and has been listed under “Dedication” in the Methodist Hymn Book.

Charles Wesley was born just before Christmas in 1707. He was premature and neither cried nor opened his eyes. His mother Susanna kept him tightly wrapped in wool until the actual date where upon he opened his eyes and cried.

At thirteen he became a King’s scholar at Westminister and upon graduating, Charles enrolled at Oxford at age 19. Charles said about himself “My first year at College I lost in diversions”. During his second year at Oxford he grew serious about spiritual things. On Sunday, May 21, 1738, Charles at 31, (after ill health brought him back from his missionary journeys to England) wrote, “I now found myself at peace with God and rejoice in hope of loving Christ. I saw that by faith I stood”.

Charles was reputed to have written over 6,000 Hymns after this event. “What shall I render to my God” is one of the popular ones. He took stock of his life and was overwhelmed by God’s goodness to him.

Let us join in singing this Hymn in offering God a sacrifice of Praise.

EMHB 399

What shall I render to my God
For all His mercy’s store?
I’ll take the gifts He hath bestowed,
And humbly ask for more.

The sacred cup of saving grace
I will with thanks receive,
And all His promises embrace,
And to His glory live.

My vows I will to His great name
Before His people pay,
And all I have, and all I am,
Upon His altar lay.

Thy lawful servant, Lord, I owe
To Thee whate’er is mine,
Born in Thy family below
And by redemption Thine.

Thy hands created me, Thy hands
From sin have set me free,
Thy mercy that hath loosed my bands
Hath bound me fast to Thee.

The God of all-redeeming grace
My God I will proclaim,
Offer the sacrifice of praise,
And call upon His name.

Praise Him, ye saints, the God of love,
Who hath my sins forgiven,
Till, gathered to the church above,
We sing the songs of heaven.

Adesegun Akitoye

http://www.repeatrichrelief.com

THROUGH THE LOVE OF GOD OUR SAVIOUR

THROUGH THE LOVE OF GOD OUR SAVIOUR – EMHB 525

Author: Mary Peters (1813-1856)

Tune: South Gate

Introduction

Mary Bowley was born in Cirencester in 1813 and married John McWilliams Peters, Rector of Quennington Glorcestershire. Mary Peters first published her Hymn in Hymns intended to help the Communion of Saints in 1847 under the title “Security in Christ”. Mary Peters has to her credit, a collection of Hymns Twenty-Six of which are quite noteworthy. Also her prose “The world’s History from the creation to the Ascension of Queen Victoria “ in Seven Volumes.

The Hymn “Through the love of God our Saviour all will be well” is listed under “Trustfulness and Peace” in the Methodist Hymn Book and emphasises the fact that although we will pass through trials and tribulations, we should continue to have faith and confidence in God whose favour is free and changeless and “all will be well” with us. She concludes that once we rely on our Father’s love, Jesus will supply our every need. This is no doubt is also the strong conviction of many of us who are facing trials and tribulations.

Mary Peters died at Clifton on 29th July, 1856 aged 43.

EMHB 525


1.Through the love of God our Saviour,
All will be well;
Free and changeless is His favour,
All, all is well:
Precious is the blood that healed us,
Perfect is the grace that sealed us;
Strong the hand stretched forth to shield us,
All must be well.

2. Though we pass through tribulation,
All will be well;
Christ hath purchased full salvation,
All, all is well:
Happy still in God confiding;
Fruitful, if in Christ abiding;
Holy, through the Spirit’s guiding;
All must be well.

3. We expect a bright to-morrow,
All will be well;
Faith can sing through days of sorrow,
All, all is well:
On our Father’s love relying,
Jesus every need supplying,
Then in living or in dying,
All must be well.

Adesegun Akitoye

http://www.repeatrichrelief.com

BLESSED ASSURANCE JESUS IS MINE

BLESSED ASSURANCE JESUS IS MINE – EMHB 422

Author: Frances Jane Van Alstyne (1820-1915)

Tune: Phobe P. Knapp (1839-1880)

Scripture Reference: “Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water” – Hebrews 10:22

Introduction:

Frances Jane Van Alstyne (or Mrs. Fanny Crosby) was born in 1820. She lived in the Manhattan Slums and worked in rescue missions. One day in 1873 while Fanny was staying with her friend Phobe Knapp in her palatial residence in Brooklyn, her friend sat at the Piano and played a new composition of her own while the blind Hymnist Fanny listened.

Fanny immediately clapped her hands and exclaimed “Why, that says, Blessed Assurance!” she quickly composed the words and a great Hymn was born.

Many years later, D. L. Moody was preaching in New York and the Church was filled to the brim. On this occasion Fanny Cosby attended the service and could not find a seat, while Moody’s son offered to find her a seat but to her bewilderment, she was led on to the platform just as the crowd was singing “Blessed Assurance”.

Moody Snr., jumped to his feet, raised his hand and interrupted the singing. “Praise the Lord!” He shouted “Here comes the Authoress!”

Fanny took her seat amidst a thunderous ovation, humbly thanking God for making her a blessing to so many.

One of Fanny’s friends (A Pew Pal) because they never met. Francis Ridely Harvegal who was one of the most famous Hymnist in England wrote these words about her friend “Sweet blind singer over the sea, tuneful and jubilant! How can it be, that the songs of gladness which float so far as if they fell from the evening star, are the notes of one who may never see visible music of flower and tree. Oh her heart can see, her heart can see and its sight is strong and swift and free”.

EMHB 422

Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine:
O what a foretaste of glory divine!
Heir of salvation, purchase of God;
Born of His Spirit, washed in His blood.

This is my story, this is my song,
Praising my Saviour all the day long.

Perfect submission, perfect delight,
Visions of rapture burst on my sight;
Angels descending, bring from above
Echoes of mercy, whispers of love.

Perfect submission, all is at rest,
I in my Saviour am happy and blest;
Watching and waiting, looking above,
Filled with His goodness, lost in His love.

Adesegun Akitoye

http://www.repeatrichrelief.com

SPIRIT DIVINE ATTEND OUR PRAYER

SPIRIT DIVINE ATTEND OUR PRAYER – EMHB 289

Author: Andrew Read (1787-1862)

Tune: St. Agnes J. B. Dykes (1823-1876)

Introduction:

Very little is known about the Author of this Hymn which is listed in the English Methodist Hymn Book under “The Holy Spirit, his person, mission and work”.

This is an invitation to the Holy Spirit, asking for His presence in the midst of worshipers. The Holy Spirit is invited to come in various forms. To come as the light to lead us in paths of life where all the righteous go, as fire to purge our hearts like a sacrificial flame, to come as the dew to bless the consecrated hour and so that the barren may rejoice in the Spirit’s fertilizing power. The Spirit should come as the dove and spread its wings of peaceful love to bless the Church on earth as the Church in heaven.

As we sing this Hymn, let us believe in our hearts that the Holy Spirit will accept our invitations and will descend with all His gracious powers and make His home amongst us.

EMHB 289

1. Spirit divine, attend our prayers
And make this house Thy home;
Descend with all Thy gracious powers;
O come, great Spirit, come!

2. Come as the light: to us reveal
Our emptiness and woe;
And lead us in those paths of life
Where all the righteous go.

3. Come as the fire, and purge our hearts
Like sacrificial flame;
Let our whole soul an offering be
To our Redeemer’s name.

4. Come as the dew, and sweetly bless
This consecrated hour;
May barrenness rejoice to own
Thy fertilizing power.

5. Come as the dove, and spread Thy wings
The wings of peaceful love;
And let Thy Church on earth become
Blest as the Church above.

6. Come as the wind, with rushing sound
And Pentecostal grace,
That all of woman born may see
The glory of Thy face.

7. Spirit divine, attend our prayers;
Make a lost world Thy home;
Descend with all Thy gracious powers;
O come, great Spirit, come.

Adesegun Akitoye

http://www.repeatrichreliefcom

"T'OLORUN LAWA OSE" - NATIVE AIR

“T’OLORUN LAWA OSE” – NATIVE AIR

Author: Unknown

The name of the original composer of the tune is unknown. But the story has it that a man was said to have quarrel with his wife who packed up all her belongings and went to her father’s house. The father-in-law sent for the husband to settle the quarrel between him and his wife.

However, the husband sent a message back to his father-in-law stating that when there was a quarrel between him and his wife, the quarrel had to be settled in his own house and not in his father-in-law’s house, and for that reason he could not answer his father-in-law’s call.

This message annoyed his father-in-law. When the husband heard of this, he started to sing the following song:

“The greatest sacrifice a man can make is death. When a father-in-law is annoyed, the best he can do is to retain his daughter”.

The first Christian Pastor known to have used this tune for a religious service was the late Rev. J. J. Ransome Kuti.

His own song was:

“We shall do God’s will,
All that the devil can do
Will be of no avail,
We shall do God’s will”.

A few alterations have been made in the original verses to provide only one music for the three verses of the song and which is now rendered as a three-part song in Yoruba Language.

T’OLORUN L’AWA O SE

1. E t’Olorun l’ awa o se o,
E t’Olorun l’ awa o se o, /2ce
Esu nse sa, Oluwa,
Esu nse sa ko ri pa kan sa,
E t’Olorun l’ awa o se o.

2. Awa o juba Olorun o
Awa o juba Olorun o, /2ce
Oba t’ oni wa, t’ oda wa
Oba t’ oni wa l’ awa o maa sin,
Awa o juba Olorun o.

3. O ye ka fi yin f’Olorun o
O ye ka fi yin f’Olorun o, /2ce
Oba to naiye, to d’ orun,
Oba to naiye l’ awa o maa yin,
O ye ka fi yin f’Olorun o.

Adesegun Akitoye

http://www.repeatrichrelief.com

CHRIST IS OUR CORNER STONE

CHRIST IS OUR CORNER STONE – EMHB 702

Author: Unknown

Translator: John Chandler M.A. (1806-1876)

Tune: Harewood – Samuel S. Wesley (1810-1876)

Introduction:

The Author of this Hymn is unknown but was originally written in Latin around 6th or 7th century. However, John Chandler M. A. (1806-1876) translated the Hymn from Latin to English. He lifted it from the “PARIS BREVIARY” text of a grandly rugged Latin Hymn known as “URBS BEATA HIERUSALEM DITCH PACIS VISIO” which he first published in “Hymn of the Primitive Church in 1837.

Chandler the son of the Vicar of Witley, Surrey also became Vicar in the same Church in 1837. He was one of the earliest and most successful morden translator of Latin Hymns. He died in 1876.

The Tune “Harewood” was composed by Samuel S. Wesley – Grandson of Charles Wesley.

Please join me in confirming that Christ is indeed our Cornerstone on Him alone we Build.

EMHB 702

1. Christ is our corner stone,
On Him alone we build;
With His true saints alone
The courts of heaven are filled;
On His great love our hopes we place
Of present grace and joys above.

2. O then with hymns of praise
These hallowed courts shall ring;
Our voices we will raise
The Three in One to sing,
And thus proclaim in joyful song,
Both loud and long, that glorious name.

3. Here, gracious God, do Thou
For evermore draw nigh;
Accept each faithful vow,
And mark each suppliant sigh;
In copious shower on all who pray
Each holy day Thy blessings pour.

4. Here may we gain from heaven
The grace which we implore;
And may that grace, once given,
Be with us evermore,
Until that day when all the blest
To endless rest are called away.

Adesegun Akitoye

http://www.repeatrichrelief.com

PRAISE MY SOUL THE KING OF HEAVEN

PRAISE MY SOUL THE KING OF HEAVEN – EMHB 12

Author: Henry Francis Lyte (1793-1847)

Tune: Sir. John Goss (1800-1880) – “Praise my soul”

Scripture Reference: Psalm 103 “Bless the Lord O my soul and all that is within me, bless His Holy Name”.

Introduction:

Henry Francis Lyte who is also the Author of “Abide with me” wrote this Hymn for his congregation at lower Brxham in Devon, and it was first published in 1834 in a collection called Spirit of the Psalms.

This Hymn is reported to be one of the favourite Hymns of her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II and she chose it for her wedding in 1947.

Lyte created new vivid images from phrases in the original psalm, although in his case it was achieved through compression rather than amplification when compared with Isaac Watts’ “O God our help in ages past”. Lyte used the eighth verse of the Psalm “The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger and plenteous in mercy. He will not always chide”, became ‘slow to chide and swift to bless’ in the Hymn.

The tune praise my soul was written by Sir. John Goss (1800-1880) and first appeared in 1869. Sir. John Goss was born in Fareham Hampshire where his father was the Parish Church Organist. John was a Chorister at the Chapel Royal and later became Organist at St. Luke’s Chelsea. From 1838 to 1872 he was Organist at St. Paul’s Cathedral.

Please, let us lift up our voices as we praise the King of Heaven!

EMHB 12

1. Praise my soul, the King of heaven,
To His feet thy tribute bring;
Ransomed, healed, restored, forgiven,
Who like thee His praise should sing?
Praise Him! Praise Him!
Praise the everlasting King.

2. Praise Him for His grace and favour
To our fathers in distress
Praise Him, still the same for ever,
Slow to chide and swift to bless;
Praise Him! Praise Him!
Glorious in His faithfulness.

3. Father-like He tends and spares us;
Well our feeble frame He knows;
In His hands He gently bears us,
Rescues us from all our foes:
Praise Him! Praise Him!
Widely as His mercy flows.

4. Angels in the height, adore Him;
Ye behold Him face to face;
Sun and moon, bow down before Him;
Dwellers all in time and space,
Praise Him! Praise Him!
Praise with us the God of grace.

Adesegun Akitoye

http://www.repeatrichrelief.com

WHERE SHALL MY WONDERING SOUL BEGIN

WHERE SHALL MY WONDERING SOUL BEGIN – EMHB 361

Author: Charles Wesley (1708-1788)

Tune: Whitsuntide (1738)

This is one of Charles and John Wesley’s Conversion Hymns. The Hymn describes their experiences from birth to their conversion. Charles on May 21st, 1738 wrote, “I now found myself at peace with God and rejoiced in hope of loving Christ. I saw that by faith I stood”. John on the other hand, came to Christ about the same time saying, “I felt my heart strangely warmed”.

John (the elder) and Charles were born to Rev. Samuel and Susannah Wesley. John (1703-1791), Charles (1707-1788).

Both John and Charles lived and died in full communion with the Church of England, though their Ministry was exclusively to independent congregation. Methodism was never established as a separate, organised dissenting group until 1808 following the deaths of both Wesleys.

Charles wrote this Hymn for their special congregations. Verse 4 says, “Outcasts of men, to you I call, Harlots and Publicans and Thieves! He spreads his arms to embrace you all”. He concludes by saying, “He came (Jesus) the lost to seek and save – come O my guilty brethren come….”

Let us accept Charles’ invitation to come before the throne of Grace as we sing this wonderful Hymn.

EMHB 361

1. Where shall my wondering soul begin?
How shall I all to heaven aspire?
A slave redeemed from death and sin.
A brand plucked from eternal fire,
How shall I equal triumphs raise,
Or sing my great Deliverer’s praise?

2. O how shall I the goodness tell,
Father, which Thou to me hast showed?
That I, child of wrath and hell,
I should be called a child of God,
Should know, should feel my sins forgiven,
Blest with this antepast of heaven!

3. And shall I slight my Father’s love?
Or basely fear His gifts to own?
Unmindful of His favours prove?
Shall I, the hallowed Cross to shun,
Refuse His righteousness to impart,
By hiding it within my heart?

4. Outcasts of men, to you I call,
Harlots, and publicans, and thieves!
He spreads His arms to embrace you all;
Sinners alone His grace receives:
No need of Him the righteous have;
He came the lost to seek and save.

5. Come, O my guilty brethren, come,
Groaning beneath your load of sin!
His bleeding heart shall make you room,
His open side shall take you in;
He calls you now, invites you home:
Come, O my guilty brethren, come!

Adesegun Akitoye

http://www.repeatrichrelief.com

LORD DISMISS US WITH THY BLESSING

LORD DISMISS US WITH THY BLESSING – EMHB 693

Author: John Fawcett (1740-1817)

Tune: Dismissal by Williams Viner (1840)

This popular Hymn was written by Dr. John Fawcett (1740-1817). He was born at Lidget Green near Bradford in Yorkshire England. He was converted under Whitefield’s Ministry at age sixteen and later became a Methodist Minister. After three years he became a Baptist Minister and was transferred from his home town church in Yorkshire to a larger and more prosperous church in London.

On the day of his departure to London after preaching his last sermon, Dr. Fawcett and his family began to load their belongings into a wagon that would take them on their journey to the new posting.

While he and the members of his family were saying farewell to the congregation that came to see them off. Dr. Fawcett noticed the tear strained faces of the church members and friends. He was so moved by this gesture of love and affection shown by members of his church that he ordered the off-loading of his family belongings in order to continue their stay there by turning down the more lucrative posting saying that he prefers to stay in their small home and parish but most importantly among his friendly congregation and neighbours.

The tune “Dismissal” was composed by Williams Letton Viner around 1840 and has continued to be used at evening services, holiday breaks or school breaks.

My brothers and sisters in the Lord, kindly join me in singing this Hymn of prayer while committing our departure to our various destinations, into the loving caring hand of God.

EMHB 693

1. Lord, dismiss us with Thy blessing,
Fill our hearts with joy and peace;
Let us each, Thy love possessing,
Triumph in redeeming grace;
O refresh us,
Travelling through this wilderness.

2. Thanks we give, and adoration,
For Thy gospel’s joyful sound;
May the fruits of Thy salvation
In our hearts and lives abound;
May Thy presence
With us evermore be found.

Adesegun Akitoye

http://www.repeatrichrelief.com

I KNOW THAT MY REDEEMER LIVES

I KNOW THAT MY REDEEMER LIVES – EMHB 235

Author: Samuel Medley (1738-1799)

Tune: New Sabbath or Maryton or Handel

Scripture Reading: Job 19 : 25-27 “For I know that my redeemer liveth and He shall stand at the latter day upon the earth”.

This Hymn appeared anonymously in the 21st Edition of George Whitefields Psalms and Hymns – 1775. It was also published in Samuel Medley’s Hymns – 1800. This may explain why the authorship was ascribed to Medley.

Further publications were in Primitive Methodist Hymnal – 1812, Methodist Hymn Book – 1933, and The School Hymn Book of the Methodist Church 1950.

Samuel Medley retired from the Navy early in life due to injuries sustained in the line of duty and his conversion came from listening to Isaac Watts’ Sermon. He eventually became a Baptist Minister in 1767 and later moved to Liverpool and built a strong Church which he pastured for over 27 years.

This Hymn, “I know that my redeemer lives” was based on Job’s vicissitudes of life, his unshaken belief in God’s total authority on all his creation – He could give and He could take-away.

Handel set the words of this Hymn to Music and it is arguably the greatest single piece of Christian Music Sung usually at each Advent and Easter Season.

Please join me in affirming that we know our redeemer lives.

EMHB 235

I know that my Redeemer lives
What joy the blest assurances gives!
He lives, He lives, who once was dead;
His lives, my everlasting Head.

He lives, to bless me with His love;
He lives, to plead for me above;
He lives, my hungry soul to feed;
He lives, to help in time of need.

He lives, and grants me daily breath;
He lives, and I shall conquer death;
He lives, my mansion to prepare;
He lives, to lead me safely there

He lives, all glory to His name;
He lives, my Saviour, still the same;
What joy the blest assurance gives,
I know that my Redeemer lives!

Adesegun Akitoye

http://www.repeatrichrelief.com

SOMETIMES A LIGHT SURPRISES

SOMETIMES A LIGHT SURPRISES – EMHB 527

Author: William Cowper (1731-1800)

Tune: Petition by F. J. Haydn (1732-1809)

Introduction:

William Cowper came of a distinguished literary and ecclesiastical family. His father was a Chaplain to King George II and his mother a descendant of John Donne, the metaphysical poet and dean of St. Paul’s. William is the most honoured poet between Pole and Shelley and is viewed by some as one of the finest of all English writers.

Cowper was born in Great Berkhamstead England on November 15, 1731. He was know to be physically frail and emotionally sensitive. Contributing to his instability was the death of his mother when he was only six years old.

He studied Law at an early age at the direction of his father. However, the prospect of appearing for his final examination before the Bar frightened him that it caused a mental breakdown and even an attempted suicide. Later he was placed in an insane asylum for a period of eighteen months.

After his conversion and mental recovery in 1764, Cowper made friends with the family of Reverend Morley Urwin. After Reverend Urwin’s death in 1767, John Newton persuaded Mrs. Urwin and her family along with William Cowper to move to Olney England where Newton was Pastor at an Anglican Church. It was here Newton and Cowper combined talents and produced the famous Olney Hymns Hymnal in 1799. It was a collection of 349 Hymns of which 67 were written by Cowper of which the above is one of the most popular. Throughout his life Cowper suffered periodic melancholia and contemplated suicide on these occasions. It is however interesting to note some of his most meaningful Hymns were written after these times.

On his death bed, however it is said that his face lit up as he uttered these words. “I am not shut out of heaven after all”.

EMHB 527

Sometimes a light surprises
The Christian while he sings;
It is the Lord who rises
With healing in His wings;
When comforts are declining,
He grants the soul again
A season of clear shining,
To cheer it after rain.

In holy contemplation,
We sweetly then pursue
The theme of God’s salvation,
And find it ever new,
Set free from present sorrow,
We cheerfully can say,
E’en let the unknown to-morrow
Bring with it what it may.

It can bring with it nothing
But He will bear us through;
Who gives the lilies clothing
Will clothe His people too;
Beneath the spreading heavens
No creature but is fed:
And He who feeds the ravens
Will give His children bread.

Though vine nor fig-tree neither
Their wonted fruit should bear,
Though all the field should wither
Nor flocks nor herds be there,
Yet, God the same abiding,
His praise shall tune my voice;
For, while in Him confiding,
I cannot but rejoice.

Adesegun Akitoye

http://www.repeatrichrelief.com

WE PLOUGH THE FIELD AND SCATTER

WE PLOUGH THE FIELD AND SCATTER – EMHB 963

Author: Matthias Claudius (1740-1815)

Translation from German: Jane Montgomery Campbell (1817-1878)

Introduction:

This popular Harvest Hymn has its origin from Germany. “Wir pflugen and Wir Streun/Den Semen auf das Land” (We plough the field and scatter). It was written by Matthias Claudius who was born in Reinfield near Lu beck. He was the son of a Lutheran Pastor and was originally destined for the same profession. He however changed to journalism having been influenced by the University of Jena where he studied. He edited several newspapers, wrote poetry and was a close friend of the Poet Geothe. After a period of atheism he renewed his Christian faith. He wrote this Hymn when he was Editor of the Local Newspaper in Hesse Darmstat where he also served as a Commissioner of Agriculture. This Hymn which he wrote in 1783 first appeared in a play which he wrote about a Harvest Thanksgiving in a North German Village. It was closely based on a peasants’ song which he heard sung at the home of one of the farmers. Initially Matthias wrote seventeen verses with a refrain for each verse but when the Hymn was published in a collection of melodies for schools in 1800, it was shortened to six verses with a chorus.

It was this shortened version of the Hymn which was translated into English in 1861 by Jane Montgomery Campbell (1817-1878). She too was the daughter of the Vicar of St. James Paddington. She lived in Bovey Tracey Devon, and met an unfortunate death in a carriage accident while driving across Dartmoor. The tune ‘Wir Pflugen’ or ‘Dresden’ was written by J. A. P. Schultz (1747-1800) and set to this Hymn in 1800.

EMHB 963

We plough the fields, and scatter
The good seed on the land,
But it is fed and watered
By God’s almighty hand;
He sends the snow in winter,
The warmth to swell the grain
The breezes, and the sunshine,
And soft refreshing rain.

All good gifts around us
Are sent from heaven above:
Then thank the Lord, O thank the Lord,
For all His love.

He only is the Maker
Of all things near and far;
He paints the wayside flower,
He lights the evening star;
The winds and waves obey Him,
By Him the birds are fed:
Much more to us, His children,
He gives our daily bread.

We thank Thee then, O Father,
For all things bright and good,
The seed-time and the harvest,
Our life, our health, our food,
Accept the gifts we offer
For all Thy love imparts,
And, what Thou most desirest,
Our humble, thankful hearts.
Amen.

Adesegun Akitoye

http://www.repeatrichrelief.com

THROUGH ALL THE CHANGING SCENES OF LIFE

THROUGH ALL THE CHANGING SCENES OF LIFE – EMHB 427

Authors: Nahum Tate (1652-1715); Nicholas Brady (1639-1726)

Tune: Wiltshire by Sir. George Smart (1776-1867)

Scripture Reference: This Hymn is a paraphrase of Psalm 34 – “I will bless the Lord at all times, His praise shall continually be in my mouth”.

Introduction:

The Hymn comes from the new version of the Psalter produced in 1696 by Nahum Tate and Nicholas Brady. This particular paraphrase has generally been credited to Nahum Tate (1652-1715). Tate is regarded as one of the most colourful figures in the history of English Hymnody. He was born in Dublin where his father, Faithful Tate, was a divine. Young Nahum changed his name to Tate when he came to London to make a living as a poet. To keep body and soul together he did other jobs like translating French and Latin texts for publishers, including a cautionary treatise on syphilis or a Poetic History of the French Disease.

As well as Poems, he wrote plays and altered the works of established dramatists including Shakespear. Probably his best known work besides the version of the Psalms on which he collaborated with his Irishman, Nicholas Brady is his Libretto for Purcell’s Opera-Dido and Aeneas.

In 1692, he became Poet Laureate and was later appointed Historiographer Royal. The fine tune, “Wiltshire” was written by Sir. George Smart (1776-1867) when he was only nineteen and Organist at St. James’ Chapel London. When it was first published it was a setting for Psalm 18. Sir. George Smart went on to become Organist at the Chapel Royal.

Tate however turned to drinking and died ignominiously in a debtors’ refuge housed within the precincts of the Royal Mint.

Brothers and Sisters let us all unite our voices and do justice to this Hymn.

HYMN 427

Through all the changing scenes of life,
In trouble and in joy,
The praises of my God shall still
My heart and tongue employ.

Of His deliverance I will boast,
Till all that are distressed
From my example comfort take,
And charm their griefs to rest.

O magnify the Lord with me,
With me exalt His name;
When in distress to Him I called,
He to my rescue came.

The hosts of God encamp around
The dwellings of the just;
Deliverance He affords to all
Who on His succour trust.

O make but trial of His love;
Experience will decide
How blest they are, and only they,
Who in His truth confide.

Fear Him, ye saints, and you will then
Have nothing else to fear;
Make you His service your delight,
He’ll make your wants His care.

Adesegun Akitoye

http://www.repeatrichrelief.com

YES GOD IS GOOD

YES GOD IS GOOD – EMHB 968

Author: John Hampden Gurney (1802 – 1862)

Tune: “Williams” from Tempti Carmina (1829)

Introduction

John Hampden Gurney was born in London on the 15th of August, 1802 and was educated at the Trinity College, Cambridge. Gurney entered the Church after studying for a legal career and for twenty-three years he was Curate at Lutterworth in Leicestershire and later became Rector of St. Mary’s in Marylebone. Amongst other Hymns he wrote are “Fair waved the golden corn” and “Lord as to thy dear cross we flee.

“Yes God is Good” is listed under ‘Times and Seasons’ in the Methodist Hymn Book. The Hymn proclaims the goodness of God in earth and sky, in everything that God created and expresses a sense of Harmony between the living and organic in God’s creation.

The sun keeps his trackless way. The merry birds prolong the strain. The roaring seas and human voices all unite to proclaim – “Yes God is Good”.

People of God, let us join all the heavenly bodies and all nature to sing this wonderful Hymn to the glory of the everlasting God.

HYMN 968

1. Yes, God is good – in earth and sky,
From ocean depths and spreading wood,
Ten thousand voices seem to cry:
God made us all, and God is good.

2. The sun that keeps his trackless way,
And downward pours his golden flood,
Night’s sparkling hosts, all seem to say
In accents clear, that God is good.

3. The merry birds prolong the strain,
Their song with every spring renewed;
And balmy air, and falling rain,
Each softly whispers : God is good.

4. I hear it in the rushing breeze;
The hills that have for ages stood,
The echoing sky and roaring seas,
All swell the chorus : God is good.

5. Yes, God is good, all nature says,
By God’s own hand with speech endued;
And man, in louder notes of praise,
Should sing for joy that God is good.

6. For all Thy gifts we bless Thee, Lord,
But chiefly for our heavenly food;
Thy pardoning grace, Thy quickening word,
These prompt our song, that God is good.

Adesegun Akitoye

http://www.repeatrichrelief.com

ALL HAIL THE POWER OF JESUS NAME

ALL HAIL THE POWER OF JESUS NAME – EMHB 91

Author: Edward Perronet (1726-1792)

Scripture Rederence: Revelation 19 : 12, 16

Introduction:

“Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and power; for Thou hast created all things, and for Thy pleasure, they are and were created” (Rev. 4 : 11).

This Hymn is often called the “National Anthem of Christendom”. This text has been translated into almost every language where Christianity is known and wherever it is sung, it communicates to the spiritual needs of human hearts. One writer has said, “So long as there are Christians on earth, it will continue to be sung; and after that, in heaven”.

Edward Perronet was born at Sundridge, Kent, England in 1726 a descendant of a distinguished French Huguenot family who had fled to Switzerland and later to England because of the religious persecution in France.

Edward became a Minister in the Anglican Church but always critical of his ways. He once wrote “I was born and I am likely to die in the tottering communion of the Church of England, but I despite her nonsense”. Soon, he broke from the Church and threw himself into the evangelistic endeavours of the Wesley’s during the 1740’s and 1750’s. This was when the Wesley’s and their followers suffered much persecution and even violence from those who disagreed with their ministry.

An interesting account regarding the relationship between the Wesley’s and Perronet was when John Wesley announced to a congregation that Edward Perronet would peach at the next service. Desiring to avoid a public conflict with Wesley, Perronet mounted the pulpit but quickly explained that he had never consented to preach. However, he added “I shall deliver the greatest sermon that has ever been preached on earth. He then read the sermon on the mount and sat down without a comment.

Perronet left the Wesley’s due to some misunderstanding and became a Pastor of an Independent Church at Canterbury, England.

Many interesting accounts have been associated with the use of this Hymn. E. P. Scott, a pioneer missionary to Indian said he was waylaid by a murderous band of tribesmen on impulse he took his violin and began to play and sung this Hymn when he reached the stanza “Let every kindred, every tribe”, he saw to his surprise every spear lowered and many of these tribesmen moved to tears. God in his providence used this simple Hymn as a means of introducing the gospel to a group of needy Pagans.

EMHB 91

All hail the power of Jesu’s name;
Let angels prostrate fall;
Bring forth the royal diadem
To crown Him Lord of all.

Crown Him, ye martyrs of our God,
Who from His altar call;
Extol Him in whose path ye trod,
And crown Him Lord of all.

Ye seed of Israel’s chosen race,
Ye ransomed from the fall,
Hail Him who saves you by His grace,
And crown Him Lord of all.

Sinners! Whose love can ne’er forget
The wormwood and the gall;
Go spread your trophies at His feet,
And crown Him Lord of all.

Let every tribe and every tongue
Before Him prostrate fall,
And shout in universal song
The crowned Lord of all.

O that with yonder sacred throng
We at His feet may fall,
Join in the everlasting song,
And crown Him Lord of all!

Adesegun Akitoye

http://www.repeatrichrelief.com

I CANNOT TELL WHY HE, WHOM ANGELS WORSHIP

I CANNOT TELL WHY HE, WHOM ANGELS WORSHIP – EMHB 809

Author: William Young Fullerton (1857-1932)

Scripture Reference: Philippians 2 : 7 & 8 “Made himself of no reputation taking the form of a bond servant and coming in the likeness of men…… He humbled himself and became obedient to the point of death even death on the Cross”.

This is a Hymn that traces the Christian journey from the Birth of Christ to the commission given to all men and even entreats us to go and concretise that commission.

The Author of this Hymn, William Young Fullerton was born in Belfast Ireland on 8th March 1857. Fullerton heard Charles Spurgeon preaching the name of Jesus when he was a young man and offered his life to God. Spurgeon became his friend and mentor and Fullerton eventually wrote Spurgeon’s biography.

“I cannot tell why He, whom angels worship, should set His love upon the sons of men”, ponders William Fullerton. The sacrificial love of Jesus Christ who left his heavenly abode to take up residence in a manger in Bethlehem, who suffered humiliation on the Cross where a Crown of thorns was placed on his head and spear thrust through his heart because of you and I (sons of men).

Fullerton however concludes that although he couldn’t tell why Jesus had to go through all these pains to win nations back and claim his earthly heritage, however, he was convinced that “……the skies will thrill with rapture and myriad, myriad human voices will sing, and earth to heaven, and heaven to earth, will answer: At last the Saviour, Saviour of the World is King!.

Let us all unite our voices with the rest of the World to sing, - At last the Saviour of the World is King!

EMHB 809

1. I cannot tell why He, whom angels worship,
Should set His love upon the sons of men,
Or why, as Shepherd, He should seek the wanderers,
To bring them back, they know not how or when.
But this I know, that He was born of Mary,
When Bethlehem’s manger was His only home,
And that He lived at Nazareth and laboured,
And so the Saviour, Saviour of the world, is come.

2. I cannot tell how silently He suffered,
As with His Peace He graced this place of tears,
Or how His heart upon the Cross was broken,
The crown of pain to three and thirty years.
But this I know, He heals the broken-hearted,
And stays our sin, and calms our lurking fear,
And lifts the burden from the heavy laden,
For Yet the Saviour, Saviour of the world, is here.

3. I cannot tell how He will win the nations,
How He will claim His earthly heritage,
How satisfy the needs and aspirations
Of East and West, of sinner and of sage.
But this I know, all flesh shall see His glory,
And He shall reap the harvest He has sown,
And some glad day His sun shall shine in splendour
When He the Saviour, Saviour of the world, is known.

4. I cannot tell how all the lands shall worship,
When, at His bidding, every storm is stilled,
Or who can say how great the jubilation
When all the hearts of men with love are filled.
But this I know, the skies will thrill with rapture,
And myriad, myriad human voices sing,
And earth to heaven, and heaven to earth, will answer;
At last the Saviour, Saviour of the world, is King!

Adesegun Akitoye

http://www.repeatrichrelief.com

O JESUS I HAVE PROMISED

O JESUS I HAVE PROMISED – EMHB 526

Author: Rev. John Ernest Bode (1816-1874)
Tune: (i) “Woluercote” Composed around 1910 by Rev. Williams
Harold Ferguson (1874-1950)
(ii) “Thornbury” by Basil Harwood (1859-1949)

Introduction:

This Hymn was originally written by Rev. John Ernest Bode in 1866 for the confirmation of his three children. The opening lines are intended to refer to the promise made by candidates at confirmation but used widely by churches of all denominations in ordinary Sunday Worship.

Rev. Bode was born in St. Pancras, London, his father was head of the Foreign Department of the General Post Office. He was educated at Elon, Charter house and Christ Church Oxford. He was ordained in 1841. From 1847 to 1860 he was Rector of Westwell Oxford Fordshire. He was a poet, he published several volumes of verses and became a runner up for the Professorship at Oxford in 1857.

This Hymn was published as a leaflet by the society for the propagation of Christian knowledge in 1868 with the title “A Hymn for the newly Confirmed”.

Rev. Williams Harold Ferguson in 1910 composed what was regarded as the best tune for this Hymn and was called “Woluercote” for use in the Chapel of Lancing College, where he was teaching and later found its way to Salisbury Cathedral.

Other tunes include “Thornbury” by Basil Harwood (1859-1945) was also introduced in 1875.

Let us unite our voices Ladies and Gentlemen and make this commitment to God of our preparedness to serve Him to the end.

EMHB 526

O Jesus, I have promised
To serve Thee to the end;
Be Thou for ever near me,
My Master and my Friend:
I shall not fear the battle
If Thou art by my side,
Nor wander from the pathway
If Thou wilt be my Guide.

O let me feel Thee near me;
The world is ever near;
I see the sights that dazzle,
The tempting sounds I hear;
My foes are ever near me,
Around me and within;
But, Jesus, draw Thou nearer,
And shield my soul from sin.

O let me hear Thee speaking
In accents clear and still,
Above the storms of passion,
The murmurs of self-will;
O speak, to reassure me,
To chasten or control;
O speak, and make me listen,
Thou Guardian of my soul.

O Jesus, Thou hast promised,
To all who follow Thee,
That where Thou art in glory
There shall Thy servant be;
And, Jesus, I have promised
To serve Thee to the end:
O give me grace to follow,
My Master and my Friend.

Adesegun Akitoye

http://www.repeatrichrelief.com

TO GOD BE THE GLORY

TO GOD BE THE GLORY – EMHB 313

Author: Frances Jane Alstyne (1820-1915)
Tune: W. H. Doane (1832-1916)

Introduction:

Mrs. Frances Jane Van Alstyne also known as Fanny Crosby, though blinded from six weeks old by an incompetent Doctor, wrote over 8,000 hymns. About her blindness she said, “It seemed intended by the blessed providence of God that I should be blind. If all my earthly sight were offered me tomorrow I would not accept it. I might not have sung hymns to the praise of God, if I had been distracted by the beautiful and interesting things around me.”

“To God be the glory” was written in the early 1870s and was popular with Ira Sanky who used it in his British Crusade with fellow American Evangelist Dwight Moody in 1873.

The hymn it seems lapsed into relative obscurity for nearly three quarters of a century until it was re-discovered by members of Bill Graham Evangelistic Organization and it was included by Cliff Barrows, one of the Bill Graham’s team in the song book for the 1954 London Crusade. It was later used the same year in their Crusade in Nashville Tennessee in America and has now found its way into several American and British hymnals.

Much of the hymns popularity is undoubtedly attributed to the tune by W. H. Doane (1832-1916).

Fanny Crosby was married to a blind musician known as Alexander Van Alstyne. She died on the 12th of February 1915. Engraved on her grave stone at Bridge Port Connecticut are these words “She hath done what she could” (Mark 14:8).

EMHB 313

To God be the glory! Great things He hath done!
So loved He the world that He gave us His son;
Who yielded His life an atonement for sin,
And opened the life gate that all may go in.

Praise the Lord! Praise the Lord! Let the earth hear His voice!
Praise the Lord! Praise the Lord! Let the people rejoice!
O come to the Father, through Jesus the Son:
And give Him the glory! Great things He hath done!

O perfect redemption, the purchase of blood!
To every believer the promise of God;
The vilest offender who truly believes,
That moment from Jesus a pardon receives.

Great things He hath taught us, Great things He hath done,
And great our rejoicing through Jesus the Son;
But purer, and higher, and greater will be
Our wonder, our rapture, when Jesus we see.

Adesegun Akitoye
http://www.repeatrichrelief.com

INTRODUCING PRAISE WORSHIP HYMNS AND SONGS

I've just launched a new blog on Praise Worship Hymns and Songs.

I am imploring you to stay tuned and enjoy the wonderful Hymns and Songs.

Best regards,

Adesegun Akitoye
http://www.repeatrichrelief.com