1866
(Article re-printed from ‘A Hymn A Day by Graham McKay)
Words: John Bode 1816-1874
Music: Arthur H. Mann 1850-1929
“Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for He who promised is faithful.”
Hebrews 10:23
John Bode was the minister of Castle Camp Parish near Cambridge, England when he wrote this hymn. The occasion was the confirmation of his daughter and two sons. Since there were three, he first wrote, “We Have Promised.”
Bode based the song on Luke 9:57, “I will follow you wherever you go.” Read the words slowly. This is a good baptism or dedication hymn.
Prayer Focus: May we keep our promises.
O Jesus, I have promised to serve Thee to the end;
Be Thou forever 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 hasten 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.
My hope to follow duly is in Thy strength alone.
O guide me, call me, draw me, uphold me to the end;
And then in Heaven receive me, my Savior and my Friend