Friday, November 3, 2017

Inspirational Hymns That Motivate Us

By Cynthia West


Devotional songs are often associated with worship, but they can also be secular. Sometimes they celebrate allegiance to cause or country. In America, the word is taken to mean church music, and the list holds many of the most beloved songs we have. Hymns that motivate us to take care of what is important - belief, country, family, or friends - remain a popular subject for songwriters.

The very word, which comes from the Greek, means a song of praise. Early religious music of the ancients has been found; historians have recovered odes from the Greeks and devotional songs of Egypt. Most churches have collections of songs and music called hymnals that are used in worship services.

A good example of a motivational hymn written for a secular purpose is 'The Battle Hymn Of The Republic'. It was written by Julia Ward Howe in the middle of the American Civil War, using a traditional tune and 'Glory, Glory, Hallelujah' chorus. This hymn, written to equate the Union cause with the judgement and victory of Jesus as found in 'end times' books in the Bible, was immediately popular and has remained so. Most 'Baby Boomers' learned this song in school.

The story behind many of our best-loved hymns is as inspiring as the words themselves. 'Amazing Grace' was written by a former sailor and slave trader to describe his conversion and salvation experiences. John Newton became an Anglican minister and a formidable opponent of the British slave trade, which was abolished during his lifetime.

The internet is a boon to those who love church music. YouTube has wonderful renditions of hymns like 'How Great Thou Art' and 'Holy, Holy, Holy'. Cable TV has Gospel and Worship channels, and choirs and choral groups regularly appear on television. For many, church without singing would seem strange. Some Mennonite churches invite outsiders in to hear their musical evenings - outstanding - and monasteries and convents still practice the ancient chants.

A hymn can extol the majesty and worthiness of God, the love of Jesus, or the price the Lord paid for sinners of every tribe and nation. Children learn 'Jesus Loves Me' and 'This Little Light Of Mine'. "The Old Rugged Cross' and 'At The Cross' remind us of Jesus' last gift to mankind, and 'What A Friend We Have In Jesus' celebrates the treasures of salvation.

Peace and joy are other aspects of the Christian life that are extolled in song. 'I Come To The Garden Alone' and 'Blessed Assurance' try to tell others of personal experiences with a personal God. Many churches put the Psalms to music and sing the biblical words back to the One who inspired them.

Everyone loves Christmas carols. Easter is marked with triumphant paeans of praise and exaltation. Thanksgiving and harvest time have special music, as do funerals and weddings. Hymns enrich our lives at all seasons, both of the year and of our lives.




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