Hymns on the Battlefield- When I Can Read My Title Clear

It is related of a Christian officer at the battle of Shiloh, that he lay all night on the field, wounded in both thighs. Said he, “The stars shone out clear over the dark battlefield, and I began to think about that God who had given His Son to die for me, and that He was up above those glorious stars. I felt that I ought to praise Him, even while wounded and on that battle-ground. I could not help singing that beautiful hymn:–

 “When I can read my title clear,
To mansions in the skies,
I’ll bid farewell to every fear,
And wipe my weeping eyes.”
 

“There was  a Christian brother in the brush near me. I could not see him; but I could hear him. He took up the strain. Another beyond him heard it, and joined in and still others too.  We made the field of battle ring with the hymn of praise to God.” To which one adds; “What an exquisite touch that is in ancient Job, where a ‘widow’s heart is made to sing for joy.’ So Paul and Silas felt such inward gratitude and joy that even at midnight, in their noxious and filthy dungeon, they pealed out God’s praises. When a soul is filled with the love of Jesus, the voice of praise is irrepressible.”

The above passage is from the "Illustrated History of Hymns and Their Authors," published in 1875, page 412.

Colossians 3:16

Melody Publications’ focus is to reawaken the melody of truth in believers' hearts and minds at home and abroad. Our prayer is that our work would aid churches and families as they sing "Psalms and Hymns and Spiritual Songs" in praise and worship to our God.

 

 

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1 comment

thjis is very beautiful. i feel the great need to give praise to God in all circumstances. thank you for your good work

Elizabeth King

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