Take Courage

Himself

I was away for a week on somewhat of a vacation with limited internet access. I’ve enjoyed some time with family and friends, some beautiful fall weather and scenery and local attractions. I will write more about this during the week. I’ll give you a heads up; if you are ever near Cleveland, Ohio take the time to visit the West Side Market. You won’t be dissapointed. Plus if you get the chance to sit by a fire on a cool fall evening with some family and friends take advantage of it. I almost forgot how fun that can be. Toasting marshmallows and/or making smores can be fun too.

This old hymn  by Simpson is a favorite of mine. Simpson was a man that was radically changed by the power of God. He was not afraid to live by his convictions and faith. He trusted God to lead and provide for ministry. He went against the status quo in the church. He reached out to the forgotten or overlooked people. He was not afraid of difficulty or hardship and trusted a miracle working God. I hope you enjoy this hymn and take the time to learn a little about A. B. Simpson.

Stay faithful and hopeful,

Bill (a fellow laborer)

Romans 15:13; 2 Peter 3:18

Himself, Sunday’s Hymn

By A. B. Simpson (1843-1919), sung in 6/8 time

1.      Once, it was the blessing, Now it is the Lord; Once it was the feeling, Now it is His Word; Once His gift I wanted, Now the Giver own; Once I sought for healing, Now Himself alone.

(Refrain) All in all forever, Jesus will I sing; Everything in Jesus, And Jesus everything.

2.      Once ‘twas painful trying, Now ‘tis perfect trust; Once a half salvation, Now the uttermost! Once ‘twas ceaseless holding, Now He holds me fast; Once ‘twas constant drifting, Now my anchor’s cast.

(Refrain)

3.      Once ‘twas busy planning, Now ‘tis trustful prayer; Once ‘twas anxious caring, Now He has the care; Once ‘twas what I wanted, Now what Jesus says; Once ‘twas constant asking, Now ‘tis ceaseless praise.

(Refrain)

4.      Once it was my working, His it hence shall be; Once I tried to use Him, Now He uses me; Once the power I wanted, Now the Mighty One; Once for self I labored, Now for Him alone.

(Refrain)

5.      Once I hoped in Jesus, Now I know He’s mine; Once my lamps were dying, Now they brightly shine; Once for death I waited, Now His coming hail; And my hopes are anchored Safe within the vail.

(Refrain)