HYMN OF THE MONTH
AMAZING GRACE
John Newton (1773)
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Amazing grace (how sweet the sound)
that saved a wretch like me!
I once was lost, but now am found,
was blind, but now I see.
'Twas grace that taught my heart to fear,
and grace my fears relieved;
how precious did that grace appear
the hour I first believed!
Through many dangers, toils and snares
I have already come:
'tis grace has brought me safe thus far,
and grace will lead me home.
The Lord has promised good to me,
his word my hope secures;
he will my shield and portion be
as long as life endures.
Yes, when this flesh and heart shall fail,
and mortal life shall cease:
I shall possess, within the veil,
a life of joy and peace.
The earth shall soon dissolve like snow,
the sun forbear to shine;
but God, who called me here below,
will be forever mine.
God's Grace: Past, Present and Future
Did you know “Amazing Grace” was originally a New Year’s Day hymn? John Newton introduced it as “Faith’s Review and Expectation” to his Olney, England congregation on January 1, 1773.
Much of Newton’s congregation were lace-makers and they loved to chant poems and sing hymn as they worked so Newton made it a custom to regularly introduce new hymns on Sundays. Each hymn corresponded to that morning’s sermon so the truth would be easier for the hearers to remember.
A closer look at “Amazing Grace” reveals its similarities to the Scripture text for the morning, 1 Chronicles 17, which also serves as a good overview of David’s life and relationship with the Lord.
In this familiar hymn as well as David’s prayer in 1 Chronicles 17, we’re pointed to God’s grace in the past, present and future.
We’re reminded that we were saved when we were lost and blind. And we have already come through many dangers, toils and snares.
And we rejoice that now we’re found and now we see. And His word now secures our hope.
And we know that God’s grace will lead us home and that God will always be our shield and portion. We know He will be forever ours.
As you begin a new year, take a moment today to reflect on God’s grace past, present and future. It will do your soul good.
