Sing to the Lord, all the earth; proclaim his salvation day after day. Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous deeds among all peoples. [1 Chron. 16:23-24]
Many of you will recognize the title of this article. Along with being great admonishments and reminders of how to live as followers of Jesus Christ, they are the titles of trusted, old, familiar hymns. They may be “old,” but they remain very relevant. Throughout this Lenten Season (and any time of the year), we can glean much wisdom, comfort, encouragement, and motivation (!) from singing traditional hymns as well as contemporary Christian music.
“Trust and Obey” was written by John H. Sammis and set to music by Daniel B. Towner, both in 1887. Ten years later, in 1897, “Count Your Blessings” was written by Johnson Oatman Jr., and set to music by Edwin O. Excell. [Both hymns in the Public Domain]
Even though these two hymns have been around for over 120 years, I remain grateful to the composers for the words and music, which not only remind me of childhood Sunday morning hymn singing but also, more presently, speak to me of God’s comfort, His trustworthiness, and His blessings. Music and lyrics can speak to you - as you journey through the Lenten season.
The message is still strong and clear – Trust and Obey: “Then in fellowship sweet we will sit at His feet, or we’ll walk by His side in the way; what He says we will do, where He sends we will go; never fear, only trust and obey.” (v. 4)
And Count Your Blessings: “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.” (v. 2) …. “Count your many blessings; see what God hath done.”
This Lenten Season, may you prayerfully and boldly sing out the words and music so graciously shared with us by talented musicians who are gifted and inspired by God. Traditional and contemporary music can enhance both personal and corporate worship as we journey to the cross with Christ.
And now let us pray … O God, as we pick up our cross to follow Christ, may we be strengthened by your Holy Spirit, encouraged and inspired by your Word as we learn to trust and obey. May we be bold in singing our praise and thanksgiving to you, O Lord, as we count [our] many blessings. Amen.
May these words of my mouth and this meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer. [Psalm 19:14]
