There are a couple neat hymns by John B. Dykes that
switch from minor to major halfway through, and this is
one of them. The switch is appropriate; the hymn
appears to be about demons or worldly influences trying
to drag the Christian down, and the first half of the
stanzas contain doubt and discouragement. The second
halves, though, speak of triumph in Christ and
encourage us to hold fast against whatever this world
might throw at us. If you've never heard this tune
before, definitely check it...(+)
There are a couple neat hymns by John B. Dykes that
switch from minor to major halfway through, and this is
one of them. The switch is appropriate; the hymn
appears to be about demons or worldly influences trying
to drag the Christian down, and the first half of the
stanzas contain doubt and discouragement. The second
halves, though, speak of triumph in Christ and
encourage us to hold fast against whatever this world
might throw at us. If you've never heard this tune
before, definitely check it out!
1. Christian, dost thou see them
On the holy ground,
How the pow’rs of darkness
Rage thy steps around?
Christian, up and smite them,
Counting gain but loss,
In the strength that cometh
By the holy cross.
2. Christian, dost thou feel them,
How they work within,
Striving, tempting, luring,
Goading into sin?
Christian, never tremble;
Never be downcast;
Gird thee for the battle,
Watch and pray and fast.
3. Christian, dost thou hear them,
How they speak thee fair?
“Always fast and vigil?
“Always watch and prayer?”
Christian, answer boldly,
“While I breathe I pray!”
Peace shall follow battle,
Night shall end in day.
4. Hear the words of Jesus:
“O my servant true;
“Thou art very weary—
“I was weary too;
“But that toil shall make thee
“Some day all mine own,
“And the end of sorrow
“Shall be near my throne.”
PARTITION