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The Family Hymnal 2012

Eden Books

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Eden Books 2012 Eden Books

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Table of Contents Page: 1........................................................Great is Thy Faithfulness 2.......................................................Amazing Grace 3.......................................................When I Survey the Wondrous Cross 4.......................................................Blessed Assurance, Jesus is Mine! 5.......................................................My Hope is Built on Nothing Less 6.......................................................Come Thou Font of Every Blessing 7.......................................................A Mighty Fortress is Our God 8.......................................................Take My Life and Let it Be 9.......................................................Let Other See Jesus in You 10.....................................................Be Thou My Vision 11......................................................How Great Thou Art 12.....................................................America (My Country, 'Tis of Thee) 13......................................................Faith of Our Fathers 14.....................................................We Gather Together 15......................................................Holy, Holy, Holy! Lord God Almighty 16.....................................................It is Well With My Soul 17......................................................Power in The Blood 18.....................................................What a Friend We Have in Jesus 19.....................................................To God be the Glory 20.....................................................Standing on the Promises 21.....................................................Rock of Ages 22.....................................................All Hail the Power of Jesus Name 23.....................................................All Creatures of our God and King 24.....................................................For the Beauty of the Earth 25.....................................................Praise to the Lord 26...................................................How Firm a Foundation 27.....................................................Christ the Lord is Risen Today 28...................................................The Church's one Foundation 29.....................................................Trust and Obey 30.....................................................What Wondrous Love is This 31......................................................Fairest Lord Jesus 33.....................................................O Come All ye Faithful 34.....................................................Angels We Have Heard on High 35.....................................................The First Noel 36.....................................................Good Christian men rejoice 37.....................................................O little town of Bethlehem 38.....................................................Lo how a Rose eer blooming 39.....................................................Away in a Manger 40.....................................................Hark! The Herald Angels Sing 41.....................................................Joy to the World 42.....................................................O Come, O Come, Emmanuel 43.....................................................God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen 44.....................................................Silent Night, Holy Night 45.....................................................We Three Kings 46.....................................................Liturgical Aids 48 The Directory for Family-Worship 52 Family Favorite Hymns

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You shall fear the LORD your God. You shall serve him and hold fast to him, and by his name you shall swear. He is your praise. He is your God, who has done for you these great and terrifying things that your eyes have seen. (Deuteronomy 10:20-21 ESV)

And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit, addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to the Lord with your heart, giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, (Ephesians 5:18-20 ESV)

Oh come, let us sing to the LORD; let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation! Let us come into his presence with thanksgiving; let us make a joyful noise to him with songs of praise! For the LORD is a great God, and a great King above all gods. In his hand are the depths of the earth; the heights of the mountains are his also. The sea is his, for he made it, and his hands formed the dry land. Oh come, let us worship and bow down; let us kneel before the LORD, our Maker! For he is our God, and we are the people of his pasture, and the sheep of his hand. Today, if you hear his voice, (Psalm 95:1-7 ESV)

The Hymns

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Hymns For All Occasions

VII

Great is Thy Faithfulness


Thomas O. Chisholm
Know therefore that the LORD your God is God; he is the faithful God, keeping his covenant of love to a thousand generations of those who love him and keep his commands. Deuteronomy 7:9

"Great is Thy faithfulness," O God my Father, There is no shadow of turning with Thee; Thou changest not, Thy compassions, they fail not As Thou hast been, Thou forever wilt be. Refrian "Great is Thy faithfulness!" "Great is Thy faithfulness!" Morning by morning new mercies I see; All I have needed Thy hand hath provided "Great is Thy faithfulness," Lord, unto me! Summer and winter, and springtime and harvest, Sun, moon and stars in their courses above, Join with all nature in manifold witness To Thy great faithfulness, mercy and love. Refrain Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth, Thy own dear presence to cheer and to guide; Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow, Blessings all mine, with ten thousand beside! Refrain

VIII

Amazing Grace
John Newton
The saying is trustworthy and deserving of full acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am the foremost. 1 Timothy 1:15 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. T'was 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. Yea, when this flesh and heart shall fail, And mortal life shall cease, I shall possess within the veil, A life of joy and peace. When we've been there ten thousand years, Bright shining as the sun, We've no less days to sing God's praise Than when we've first begun.

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When I Survey the Wondrous Cross


Isaac Watts
For the word of the cross is folly to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. 1 Corinthians 1:18

When I survey the wondrous cross On which the Prince of Glory died; My richest gain I count but loss, And pour contempt on all my pride. Forbid it, Lord, that I should boast, Save in the death of Christ, my God; All the vain things that charm me most, I sacrifice them to His blood. See, from His head, His hands, His feet, Sorrow and love flow mingled down. Did e'er such love and sorrow meet, Or thorns compose so rich a crown. Were the whole realm of nature mine, That were a present far too small; Love so amazing, so divine, Demands my soul, my life, my all.

Blessed Assurance, Jesus is Mine!


Joseph F. Knapp
The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: Romans 8:16

Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine! O what a foretaste of glory divine! Heir of salvation, purchase of God, Born of His Spirit, washed in His blood. Refrain This is my story, this is my song, Praising my Savior all the day long; This is my story, this is my song, Praising my Savior all the day long. Perfect submission, perfect delight, Visions of rapture now burst on my sight; Angels descending bring from above Echoes of mercy, whispers of love Refrain Perfect submission, all is at rest; I in my Savior am happy and blest, Watching and waiting, looking above, Filled with His goodness, lost in His love. Refrain

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My Hope Is Built on Nothing Less


Edward Mote
my God, my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold and my refuge, my savior; you save me from violence. 2 Samuel 22:3 My hope is built on nothing less Than Jesus' blood and righteousness. I dare not trust the sweetest frame, But wholly lean on Jesus' name. Refrain: On Christ the solid rock I stand, All other ground is sinking sand; All other ground is sinking sand. When darkness veils his lovely face, I rest on His unchanging grace. In every high and stormy gale, My anchor holds within the veil. Refrain His oath, His covenant, His blood Supports me in the whelming flood. When all around my soul gives way, He then is all my hope and stay. Refrain When he shall come with trumpet sound, O may I then in Him be found! Dressed in His righteousness alone,

XII Faultless to stand before the throne! Refrain

Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing


Robert Robinson
Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Psalm 23:5 Come, Thou Fount of every blessing, Tune my heart to sing Thy grace; Streams of mercy, never ceasing, Call for songs of loudest praise. Teach me some melodious sonnet, Sung by flaming tongues above. Praise the mount! Im fixed upon it, Mount of Thy redeeming love. Sorrowing I shall be in spirit, Till released from flesh and sin, Yet from what I do inherit, Here Thy praises Ill begin; Here I raise my Ebenezer; Hither by Thy great help Im come; And I hope, by Thy good pleasure, Safely to arrive at home. Jesus sought me when a stranger, Wandering from the fold of God; He, to rescue me from danger, Interposed His precious blood; How His kindness yet pursues me Mortal tongue can never tell, Clothed in flesh, till death shall loose me I cannot proclaim it well. O to grace how great a debtor Daily Im constrained to be! Let Thy goodness, like a fetter, Bind my wandering heart to Thee. Prone to wander, Lord, I feel it, Prone to leave the God I love; Heres my heart, O take and seal it, Seal it for Thy courts above. O that day when freed from sinning, I shall see Thy lovely face; Clothed then in blood washed linen How Ill sing Thy sovereign grace; Come, my Lord, no longer tarry, Take my ransomed soul away; Send thine angels now to carry Me to realms of endless day.

XIII

A Mighty Fortress is Our God


Martin Luther
The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous man runs into it and is safe.
Proverbs 18:10

A Mighty Fortress is Our God A Bulwark never failing; Our Helper He amid the flood Of mortal ills prevaling. For still our ancient foe Doth seek to work us woe; His craft and power are great, And armed with cruel hate, On earth is not his equal Did we in our own strength confide, Our striving would be losing, Were not the right man on our side, The man of God's own choosing. Dost ask who that may be? Christ Jesus, it is he; Lord Sabbaoth, his name, From age to age the same, And he must win the battle.

And though this world, with devils filled, Should threaten to undo us, We will not fear, for God hath willed His truth to triumph through us. The Prince of Darkness grim, We tremble not for him; His rage we can endure, For lo, his doom is sure; One little word shall fell him. That word above all earthly powers, No thanks to them, abideth; The Spirit and the gifts are ours, Thru him who with us sideth. Let goods and kindred go, This mortal life also; The body they may kill; God's truth abideth still; His kingdom is forever.

XIV

Take My Life and Let it Be


Frances Havergal
Let my soul live and praise you, and let your rules help me. Psalm 119:175 Take my life, and let it be Consecrated, Lord, to Thee. Take my moments and my days; let them flow in ceaseless praise. Let them flow in ceaseless praise Take my hands, and let them move at the impulse of Thy love. Take my feet, and let them be swift and beautiful for Thee. Swift and beautiful for Thee. Take my voice, and let me sing always, only, for my King. Take my lips, and let them be filled with messages from Thee. Filled with messages from Thee. Take my silver and my gold; not a mite would I withhold. Take my intellect, and use every power as Thou shalt choose. Every power as Thou shalt choose. Take my will, and make it Thine; it shall be no longer mine. Take my heart, it is Thine own; it shall be Thy royal throne. It shall be Thy royal throne. Take my love, my Lord, I pour at Thy feet its treasure store. Take myself, and I will be ever, only, all for Thee. Ever, only, all for Thee.

XV

Let Others See Jesus In You


B.B. McKinney
Do all things without grumbling or questioning, that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, holding fast to the word of life, so that in the day of Christ I may be proud that I did not run in vain or labor in vain. Even if I am to be poured out as a drink offering upon the sacrificial offering of your faith, I am glad and rejoice with you all. Likewise you also should be glad and rejoice with me. Philippians 2:14-18

While passing thro' this world of sin, and others your life shall view, Be clean and pure without, within; Let others see Jesus in you. Let others see Jesus in you, Let others see Jesus in you. Keep telling the story, be faithful and true; Let others see Jesus in you. Your life's a book before their eyes, They're reading it thro' and thro' Say, does it point them to the skies, Do others see Jesus in you? Let others see Jesus in you, Let others see Jesus in you. Keep telling the story, be faithful and true; Let others see Jesus in you. Then live for Christ both day and night, Be faithful, be brave and true, and lead the lost to life and Christ. Let others see Jesus in you. Let others see Jesus in you, Let others see Jesus in you. Keep telling the story, be faithful and true; Let others see Jesus in you.

XVI

Be Thou My Vision
Thought to be Dallan Forgail
Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. Psalm 119:105 Be Thou my Vision, O Lord of my heart; Naught be all else to me, save that Thou art. Thou my best Thought, by day or by night, Waking or sleeping, Thy presence my light. Be Thou my Wisdom, and Thou my true Word; I ever with Thee and Thou with me, Lord; Thou my great Father, I Thy true son; Thou in me dwelling, and I with Thee one. Be Thou my battle Shield, Sword for the fight; Be Thou my Dignity, Thou my Delight; Thou my souls Shelter, Thou my high Tower: Raise Thou me heavenward, O Power of my power. Riches I heed not, nor mans empty praise, Thou mine Inheritance, now and always: Thou and Thou only, first in my heart, High King of Heaven, my Treasure Thou art. High King of Heaven, my victory won, May I reach Heavens joys, O bright Heavens Sun! Heart of my own heart, whatever befall, Still be my Vision, O Ruler of all.

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How Great Thou Art


Carl G. Boberg, translated by: Stuart K. Hine
For you, O LORD, have made me glad by your work; at the works of your hands I sing for joy. How great are your works, O LORD! Your thoughts are very deep! Psalm 92:5 O Lord my God, when I in awesome wonder Consider all the worlds thy hands have made, I see the stars, I hear the rolling thunder, Thy power throughout the universe displayed: Refrain Then sings my soul, my Savior God, to thee: How great thou art! How great thou art! Then sings my soul, my Savior God, to thee: How great thou art! How great thou art! When through the woods and forest glades I wander And hear the birds sing sweetly in the trees, When I look down from lofty mountain grandeur, And hear the brook and feel the gentle breeze: Refrain And when I think that God, his Son not sparing, Sent him to die, I scarce can take it in, That on the cross, my burden gladly bearing, He bled and died to take away my sin: Refrain When Christ shall come with shout of acclamation And take me home, what joy shall fill my heart! Then I shall bow in humble adoration, And there proclaim, My God, how great thou art!

XVIII Refrain

America (My Country, 'Tis of Thee)


Samuel F. Smith
So Jesus said to the Jews who had believed in him, "If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." They answered him, "We are offspring of Abraham and have never been enslaved to anyone. How is it that you say, 'You will become free'?" Jesus answered them, "Truly, truly, I say to you, everyone who commits sin is a slave to sin. The slave does not remain in the house forever; the son remains forever. So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed. John 8:31-36

My country, tis of thee, Sweet land of liberty, Of thee I sing; Land where my fathers died, Land of the pilgrims pride, From every mountainside, Let freedom ring! My native country, thee, Land of the noble free, Thy name I love; I love thy rocks and rills, Thy woods and templed hills; My heart with rapture thrills, Like that above. No more shall tyrants here With haughty steps appear, And soldier bands; No more shall tyrants tread Above the patriot dead

No more our blood be shed By alien hands. Let music swell the breeze, And ring from all the trees, Sweet freedoms song; Let mortal tongues awake; Let all that breathe partake; Let rocks their silence break, The sound prolong. Our fathers God, to Thee, Author of liberty, To Thee we sing; Long may our land be bright With freedoms holy light; Protect us by Thy might, Great God, our king.

XIX

Faith of our Fathers


Fredrick W. Faber
The God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, the God of our fathers, glorified his servant Jesus, whom you delivered over and denied in the presence of Pilate, when he had decided to release him. Acts 3:13 Faith of our fathers, living still, In spite of dungeon, fire and sword; O how our hearts beat high with joy Whenever we hear that glorious Word! Refrain Faith of our fathers, holy faith! We will be true to thee till death. Faith of our fathers, Gods great power shall Win all nations unto Thee; And through the truth that comes from God, We all shall then be truly free. Refrain Faith of our fathers, we will love Both friend and foe in all our strife; And preach Thee, too, as love knows how By kindly words and virtuous life. Refrain

XX

We Gather Together
Adrianus Valerius not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near. Hebrews 10:25 We gather together to ask the Lords blessing; He chastens and hastens His will to make known. The wicked oppressing now cease from distressing. Sing praises to His Name; He forgets not His own. Beside us to guide us, our God with us joining, Ordaining, maintaining His kingdom divine; So from the beginning the fight we were winning; Thou, Lord, wast at our side, all glory be Thine! We all do extol Thee, Thou Leader triumphant, And pray that Thou still our Defender will be. Let Thy congregation escape tribulation; Thy Name be ever praised! O Lord, make us free!

XXI

Holy, Holy, Holy! Lord God Almighty


Reginald Heber
They called to each other and said, "Holy, holy, holy is the LORD of Armies! The whole earth is filled with his glory." Isaiah 6:3 Holy, Holy, Holy! Lord God Almighty! Early in the morning our song shall rise to thee. Holy, Holy, Holy! merciful and mighty, God in three persons, blessed Trinity! Holy, holy, holy! All the saints adore thee, Casting down their golden crowns around the glassy sea; Cherubim and seraphim falling down before Thee, Who wert, and art, and evermore shalt be. Holy, Holy, Holy! Though the darkness hide Thee, though the eye of sinful man Thy glory may not see, Only thou art holy; there is none beside Thee, Perfect in power, in love and purity. Holy, Holy, Holy! Lord God Almighty! All Thy works shall praise thy name, in earth and sky and sea, Holy, holy, holy! merciful and mighty, God in three Persons, blessed Trinity.

XXII

It is Well With My Soul


Horatio G. Spafford
For thus says the LORD: "Behold, I will extend peace to her like a river, and the glory of the nations like an overflowing stream; and you shall nurse, you shall be carried upon her hip, and bounced upon her knees. As one whom his mother comforts, so I will comfort you; you shall be comforted in Jerusalem. You shall see, and your heart shall rejoice; your bones shall flourish like the grass; and the hand of the LORD shall be known to his servants, and he shall show his indignation against his enemies. Isaiah 66:12-14 When peace, like a river, attendeth my way, When sorrows like sea billows rollWhatever my lot, Thou hast taught me to say, It is well, it is well with my soul. Refrain It is well (It is well) With my soul (with my soul) It is well, it is well with my soul. My sin - O the joy of this glorious thoughtMy sin, not in part, but the whole, Is nailed to the cross, and I bear it no more: Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul! Refrain And, Lord, haste the day when my faith shall be sight, The clouds be rolled back as a scroll: The trump shall resound and the Lord shall descend, "Even so"- it is well with my soul. Refrain

XXIII

Power in the Blood


Lewis E. Jones
I said to him, "Sir, you know." And he said to me, "These are the ones coming out of the great tribulation. They have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb. Revelation 7:14
Would you be free from the burden of sin? Theres power in the blood, power in the blood; Would you oer evil a victory win? Theres wonderful power in the blood. Refrain There is power, power, wonder working power In the blood of the Lamb; There is power, power, wonder working power In the precious blood of the Lamb. Would you be free from your passion and pride? Theres power in the blood, power in the blood; Come for a cleansing to Calvarys tide; Theres wonderful power in the blood. Refrain Would you be whiter, much whiter than snow? Theres power in the blood, power in the blood; Sin stains are lost in its life giving flow. Theres wonderful power in the blood. Refrain Would you do service for Jesus your King? Theres power in the blood, power in the blood; Would you live daily His praises to sing? Theres wonderful power in the blood.

XXIV
Refrain

What a Friend We Have in Jesus


Joseph M. Scriven
Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends. John 15:13 What a Friend we have in Jesus, All our sins and griefs to bear! What a privilege to carry everything to God in prayer! O what peace we often forfeit, O what needless pain we bear, All because we do not carry everything to God in prayer. Have we trials and temptations? Is there trouble anywhere? We should never be discouraged; take it to the Lord in prayer. Can we find a friend so faithful, Who will all our sorrows share? Jesus knows our every weakness - Take it to the Lord in prayer. Are we weak and heavy laden, Cumbered with a load of care? Precious Savior, still our Refuge - Take it to the Lord in prayer. Do thy friends despise, forsake thee? Take it to the Lord in prayer! In His arms Hell take and shield thee; thou wilt find a solace there. Blessed Savior, Thou hast promised Thou wilt all our burdens bear May we ever, Lord, be bringing all to Thee in earnest prayer. Soon in glory bright unclouded there will be no need for prayer Rapture, praise and endless worship will be our sweet portion there.

XXV

To God be the Glory


Fanny Crosby

Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, who gave himself for our sins to deliver us from the present evil age, according to the will of our God and Father, to whom be the glory forever and ever. Amen. Galatians 1:3-5 To God be the glory, great things He has done; So loved He the world that He gave us His Son, Who yielded His life an atonement for sin, And opened the life gate that all may go in. Refrain Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, Let the earth hear His voice! Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, Let the people rejoice! O come to the Father, through Jesus the Son, And give Him the glory, great things He has done. O perfect redemption, the purchase of blood, To every believer the promise of God; The vilest offender who truly believes, That moment from Jesus a pardon receives. Refrain Great things He has taught us, great things He has done, And great our rejoicing through Jesus the Son; But purer, and higher, and greater will be Our wonder, our transport, when Jesus we see. Refrain

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Standing on the Promises


R. Kelso Carter
Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful. Hebrews 10:23

Standing on the promises of Christ my King, Through eternal ages let His praises ring, Glory in the highest, I will shout and sing, Standing on the promises of God. Refrain Standing, standing, Standing on the promises of God my Savior; Standing, standing, Im standing on the promises of God. Standing on the promises that cannot fail, When the howling storms of doubt and fear assail, By the living Word of God I shall prevail, Standing on the promises of God. Refrain

Standing on the promises I now can see Perfect, present cleansing in the blood for me; Standing in the liberty where Christ makes free, Standing on the promises of God. Refrain Standing on the promises of Christ the Lord, Bound to Him eternally by loves strong cord, Overcoming daily with the Spirits sword, Standing on the promises of God. Refrain Standing on the promises I cannot fall, Listening every moment to the Spirits call Resting in my Savior as my all in all, Standing on the promises of God. Refrain

XXVII

Rock of Ages
Augustus M. Toplady The LORD is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer, my God, my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold. Psalm 18:2 Rock of Ages, cleft for me, Let me hide myself in Thee; Let the water and the blood, From Thy wounded side which flowed, Be of sin the double cure; Save from wrath and make me pure. Not the labors of my hands Can fulfill Thy laws demands; Could my zeal no respite know, Could my tears forever flow, All for sin could not atone; Thou must save, and Thou alone. Nothing in my hand I bring, Simply to the cross I cling; Naked, come to Thee for dress; Helpless look to Thee for grace; Foul, I to the fountain fly; Wash me, Savior, or I die. While I draw this fleeting breath, When mine eyes shall close in death, When I soar to worlds unknown, See Thee on Thy judgment throne, Rock of Ages, cleft for me, Let me hide myself in Thee.

XXVIII

All Hail the Power of Jesus Name


Edward Perronet
Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. Philippians 2:9-11 All hail the power of Jesus name! Let angels prostrate fall; Bring forth the royal diadem, and crown Him Lord of all. Bring forth the royal diadem, and crown Him Lord of all. Crown Him, ye morning stars of light, who fixed this floating ball; Now hail the strength of Israels might, and crown Him Lord of all. Now hail the strength of Israels might, and crown Him Lord of all. Crown Him, ye martyrs of your God, who from His altar call; Extol the Stem of Jesses Rod, and crown Him Lord of all. Extol the Stem of Jesses Rod, and crown Him Lord of all. Ye chosen seed of Israels race, Ye ransomed from the Fall, Hail Him Who saves you by His grace, and crown Him Lord of all, Hail Him Who saves you by His grace, and crown Him Lord of all. Let every kindred, every tribe, on this terrestrial ball To Him all majesty ascribe, And crown Him Lord of all; To Him all majesty ascribe, And crown Him Lord of all! Sinners, whose love can neer forget the wormwood and the gall, Go spread your trophies at His feet, and crown Him Lord of all. Go spread your trophies at His feet, and crown Him Lord of all. O that, with yonder sacred throng, we at His feet may fall, Join in the everlasting song, and crown Him Lord of all, Join in the everlasting song, and crown Him Lord of all!

XXIX

All Creatures of our God and King


Saint Francis of Assisi
Let heaven and earth praise him, the seas and everything that moves in them. Psalm 69:34 All creatures of our God and King Lift up your voice and with us sing, Alleluia! Alleluia! Thou burning sun with golden beam, Thou silver moon with softer gleam! Refrain O praise Him! O praise Him! Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia! Thou rushing wind that art so strong Ye clouds that sail in Heaven along, O praise Him! Alleluia! Thou rising morn, in praise rejoice, Ye lights of evening, find a voice! Refrain Thou flowing water, pure and clear, Make music for thy Lord to hear, O praise Him! Alleluia! Thou fire so masterful and bright, That givest man both warmth and light. Refrain

Dear mother earth, who day by day Unfoldest blessings on our way, O praise Him! Alleluia! The flowers and fruits that in thee grow, Let them His glory also show. Refrain And all ye men of tender heart, Forgiving others, take your part, O sing ye! Alleluia! Ye who long pain and sorrow bear, Praise God and on Him cast your care! Refrain Let all things their Creator bless, And worship Him in humbleness, O praise Him! Alleluia! Praise, praise the Father, praise the Son, And praise the Spirit, Three in One! Refrain

XXX

For the Beauty of the Earth


Folliot S. Pierpoint
And one called to another and said: "Holy, holy, holy is the LORD of hosts; the whole earth is full of his glory!" Isaiah 6:3

For the beauty of the earth For the glory of the skies, For the love which from our birth Over and around us lies. Refrain Lord of all, to Thee we raise, This our hymn of grateful praise. For the wonder of each hour, Of the day and of the night, Hill and vale, and tree and flower, Sun and moon, and stars of light. Refrain For the joy of ear and eye, For the heart and minds delight, For the mystic harmony Linking sense to sound and sight. Refrain For the joy of human love, Brother, sister, parent, child,

Friends on earth and friends above, For all gentle thoughts and mild. Refrain For Thy Church, that evermore Lifteth holy hands above, Offering up on every shore Her pure sacrifice of love. Refrain For the martyrs crown of light, For Thy prophets eagle eye, For Thy bold confessors might, For the lips of infancy. Refrain For Thy virgins robes of snow, For Thy maiden mother mild, For Thyself, with hearts aglow, Jesu, Victim undefiled. Refrain

XXXI For each perfect gift of Thine, To our race so freely given, Graces human and divine, Flowers of earth and buds of Heaven. Refrain

Praise to the Lord


Joachim Neander
Praise the LORD! Praise the LORD, all nations! Extol him, all peoples! For great is his steadfast love toward us, and the faithfulness of the LORD endures forever. Psalm 117

Praise to the Lord, The Almighty, the King of creation! O my soul, praise Him, For He is thy health and salvation! All ye who hear, Now to His temple draw near; Praise Him in glad adoration. Praise to the Lord, Who over all things so wondrously reigneth, Shelters thee under His wings, Yea, so gently sustaineth! Hast thou not seen How all your longings have been Granted in what He ordaineth? Praise to the Lord, Who doth prosper thy work and defend thee; Surely His goodness And mercy here daily attend thee. Ponder anew What the Almighty can do, If with His love He befriend thee. Praise to the Lord, O let all that is in me adore Him! All that hath life and breath, Come now with praises before Him. Let the Amen Sound from His people again, Gladly for aye we adore Him.

How Firm a Foundation


John Rippon
But God's firm foundation stands, bearing this seal: "The Lord knows those who are his," and, "Let everyone who names the name of the Lord depart from iniquity." 2 Timothy 2:19

How firm a foundation, ye saints of the Lord, Is laid for your faith in His excellent Word! What more can He say than to you He hath said, You, who unto Jesus for refuge have fled? In every condition, in sickness, in health; In poverty's vale, or abounding in wealth; At home and abroad, on the land, on the sea, As thy days may demand, shall My strength ever be. "Fear not, I am with thee, O be not dismayed, For I am thy God and will still give thee aid; I'll strengthen thee, help thee, and cause thee to stand Upheld by my righteous, omnipotent hand." "When through the deep waters I call thee to go, The rivers of grief shall not thee overflow For I will be with thee, thy troubles to bless, And sanctify to thee thy deepest distress." "When through fiery trials thy pathway shall lie, My grace, all sufficient, shall be thy supply; The flame shall not hurt thee; I only design Thy dross to consume, and thy gold to refine." "The soul that on Jesus hath leaned for repose, I will not, I will not desert to his foes; That soul, though all hell should endeavor to break, I'll never, no never, no never forsake."

Christ the Lord is Risen Today


Charles Wesley
But the angel said to the women, "Do not be afraid, for I know that you seek Jesus who was crucified. He is not here, for he has risen, as he said. Come, see the place where he lay. Matthew 28:5-6

Christ, the Lord, is risen today, Alleluia! Sons of men and angels say, Alleluia! Raise your voice and triumphs high, Alleluia! Sing, ye heavens, and earth, reply, Alleluia! Vain the stone, the watch, the seal, Alleluia! Christ has burst the gates of hell, Alleluia! Death in vain forbids His rise, Alleluia! Christ has opened Paradise, Alleluia! Lives again our glorious King, Alleluia! Where, O death, is now thy sting? Alleluia! Once He died, our souls to save, Alleluia! Where thy victory, O grave? Alleluia! Soar we now where Christ has led, Alleluia! Following our exalted Head, Alleluia! Made like Him, like Him we rise, Alleluia! Ours the cross, the grave, the skies, Alleluia! Hail, the Lord of earth and heaven! Alleluia! Praise to Thee by both be given, Alleluia! Thee we greet triumphant now, Alleluia! Hail, the Resurrection, thou! Alleluia!

The Church's one Foundation


Samuel Stone
So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone, Ephesians 2:19-20 ESV

Th e church's one foundation Is Jesus Christ her Lord, She is His new creation By water and the Word. From heaven He came and sought her To be His holy bride; With His own blood He bought her, And for her life He died. Elect from every nation, Yet one oer all the earth; Her charter of salvation, One Lord, one faith, one birth; One holy Name she blesses, Partakes one holy food, And to one hope she presses, With every grace endued. Though with a scornful wonder Men see her sore oppressed, By schisms rent asunder, By heresies distressed, Yet saints their watch are keeping; Their cry goes up, "How long?" And soon the night of weeping Shall be the morn of song. The church shall never perish, Her dear Lord to defend To guide, sustain and cherish, Is with her to the end Though there be those that hate her, And false sons in her pale Against a foe or traitor, She ever shall prevail Mid toil and tribulation, And tumult of her war, She waits the consummation Of peace forevermore; 'Til, with the vision glorious, Her longing eyes are blessed, And the great church victorious Shall be the church at rest. Yet she on earth hath union With God the Three in One, And mystic sweet communion With those whose rest is won. O happy ones and holy! Lord, give us grace that we Like them, the meek and lowly, On high may dwell with Thee.

Trust and Obey


John H. Sammis
O LORD of hosts, blessed is the one who trusts in you! Psalm 84:12

When we walk with the Lord In the light of His Word, What a glory He sheds on our Way! While we do His good will, He abides with us still, And with all who will trust and Nbey. Refrain Trust and obey, for theres no other way To be happy in Jesus, but to trust and obey. Not a shadow can rise, Not a cloud in the skies, But His smile quickly drives it away; Not a doubt or a fear, Not a sigh or a tear, Can abide while we trust and obey. Refrain

Not a burden we bear, Not a sorrow we share, But our toil He doth richly repay; Not a grief or a loss, Not a frown or a cross, But is blessed if we trust and obey. Refrain But we never can prove The delights of His love Until all on the altar we lay; For the favor He shows, For the joy He bestows, Are for them who will trust and obey. Refrain Then in fellowship sweet We will sit at His feet. Or well walk by His side in the way. What He says we will do, Where He sends we will go; Never fear, only trust and obey. Refrain

What wondrous love is this


Donald R. McClarey
I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. (Galatians 2:20 ESV) What wondrous love is this, O my soul, O my soul! What wondrous love is this, O my soul! What wondrous love is this that caused the Lord of bliss To bear the dreadful curse for my soul, for my soul, To bear the dreadful curse for my soul. When I was sinking down, sinking down, sinking down, When I was sinking down, sinking down, When I was sinking down beneath Gods righteous frown, Christ laid aside His crown for my soul, for my soul, Christ laid aside His crown for my soul. To God and to the Lamb, I will sing, I will sing; To God and to the Lamb, I will sing. To God and to the Lamb Who is the great I Am; While millions join the theme, I will sing, I will sing; While millions join the theme, I will sing. And when from death Im free, Ill sing on, Ill sing on; And when from death Im free, Ill sing on. And when from death Im free, Ill sing and joyful be; And through eternity, Ill sing on, Ill sing on; And through eternity, Ill sing on.

Fairest Lord Jesus


Written by German Jesuits: trans, Joseph A. Seiss
Who is this who looks down like the dawn, beautiful as the moon, bright as the sun, awesome as an army with banners? (Song of Solomon 6:10 ESV) Fairest Lord Jesus, Ruler of all nature, O Thou of God and man the Son, Thee will I cherish, Thee will I honor, Thou, my souls glory, joy and crown. Fair are the meadows, fairer still the woodlands, Robed in the blooming garb of spring; Jesus is fairer, Jesus is purer, Who makes the woeful heart to sing. Fair is the sunshine, Fairer still the moonlight, And all the twinkling starry host; Jesus shines brighter, Jesus shines purer Than all the angels heaven can boast. All fairest beauty, heavenly and earthly, Wondrously, Jesus, is found in Thee; None can be nearer, fairer or dearer, Than Thou, my Savior, art to me. Beautiful Savior! Lord of all the nations! Son of God and Son of Man! Glory and honor, praise, adoration, Now and forever more be Thine.

Hymns For The Christmas Season

O Come, All ye Faithful


John F. Wade: trans. Frederick Oakeley, and William T. Brooke and assembling all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Christ was to be born. They told him, In Bethlehem of Judea, for so it is written by the prophet: And you, O Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for from you shall come a ruler who will shepherd my people Israel. (Matthew 2:4-6 ESV)
O come, all ye faithful, joyful and triumphant, O come ye, O come ye, to Bethlehem. Come and behold Him, born the King of angels; Refrain O come, let us adore Him, O come, let us adore Him, O come, let us adore Him, Christ the Lord. True God of true God, Light from Light Eternal, Lo, He shuns not the Virgins womb; Son of the Father, begotten, not created; Refrain Sing, choirs of angels, sing in exultation; O sing, all ye citizens of heaven above! Glory to God, all glory in the highest; Refrain See how the shepherds, summoned to His cradle, Leaving their flocks, draw nigh to gaze; We too will thither bend our joyful footsteps; Refrain Lo! star led chieftains, Magi, Christ adoring, Offer Him incense, gold, and myrrh; We to the Christ Child bring our hearts oblations. Refrain Child, for us sinners poor and in the manger, We would embrace Thee, with love and awe; Who would not love Thee, loving us so dearly? Refrain Yea, Lord, we greet Thee, born this happy morning; Jesus, to Thee be glory given; Word of the Father, now in flesh appearing. Refrain

Angels We Have Heard on High


Traditional French Carol: translated by James Chadwick And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, Glory to God in the highest,and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased! (Luke 2:13-14 ESV) Angels we have heard on high Sweetly singing oer the plains, And the mountains in reply Echoing their joyous strains. Refrain Gloria, in excelsis Deo! Gloria, in excelsis Deo! Shepherds, why this jubilee? Why your joyous strains prolong? What the gladsome tidings be Which inspire your heavenly song? Refrain Come to Bethlehem and see Christ Whose birth the angels sing; Come, adore on bended knee, Christ the Lord, the newborn King. Refrain See Him in a manger laid, Whom the choirs of angels praise; Mary, Joseph, lend your aid, While our hearts in love we raise.Refrain

The First Noel


William Sandys
And in the same region there were shepherds out in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with great fear. Luke 2:8-9
The first Noel the angel did say Was to certain poor shepherds in fields as they lay; In fields where they lay tending their sheep, On a cold winters night that was so deep. Refrain Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel, Born is the King of Israel. They lookd up and saw a star Shining in the east, beyond them far; And to the earth it gave great light, And so it continued both day and night. Refrain And by the light of that same star Three Wise Men came from country far; To seek for a King was their intent, And to follow the star wherever it went. Refrain This star drew nigh to the northwest, Over Bethlehem it took its rest; And there it did both stop and stay, Right over the place where Jesus lay. Refrain Then did they know assuredly Within that house the King did lie; One entered it them for to see, And found the Babe in poverty. Refrain Then entered in those Wise Men three, Full reverently upon the knee, And offered there, in His presence, Their gold and myrrh and frankincense. Refrain Between an ox stall and an ass, This Child truly there He was; For want of clothing they did Him lay All in a manger, among the hay. Refrain Then let us all with one accord Sing praises to our heavenly Lord; That hath made Heaven and earth of naught, And with His blood mankind hath bought. Refrain If we in our time shall do well, We shall be free from death and hell; For God hath prepared for us all A resting place in general. Refrain

Good Christian Men Rejoice


Heinrich Suso: trans, John M. Neale
For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. (John 3:16 ESV) Good Christian men, rejoice with heart and soul, and voice; Give ye heed to what we say: News! News! Jesus Christ is born today; Ox and ass before Him bow; and He is in the manger now. Christ is born today! Christ is born today! Good Christian men, rejoice, with heart and soul and voice; Now ye hear of endless bliss: Joy! Joy! Jesus Christ was born for this! He has opened the heavenly door, and man is blest forevermore. Christ was born for this! Christ was born for this! Good Christian men, rejoice, with heart and soul and voice; Now ye need not fear the grave: Peace! Peace! Jesus Christ was born to save! Calls you one and calls you all, to gain His everlasting hall. Christ was born to save! Christ was born to save!

O Little Town of Bethlehem


Phillip Brooks
But you, O Bethlehem Ephrathah, who are too little to be among the clans of Judah, from you shall come forth for me one who is to be ruler in Israel, whose coming forth is from of old, from ancient days. (Micah 5:2 ESV) O little town of Bethlehem, how still we see thee lie! Above thy deep and dreamless sleep the silent stars go by. Yet in thy dark streets shineth the everlasting Light; The hopes and fears of all the years are met in thee tonight. For Christ is born of Mary, and gathered all above, While mortals sleep, the angels keep their watch of wondering love. O morning stars together, proclaim the holy birth, And praises sing to God the King, and peace to men on earth! How silently, how silently, the wondrous Gift is givn; So God imparts to human hearts the blessings of His Heavn. No ear may hear His coming, but in this world of sin, Where meek souls will receive Him still, the dear Christ enters in. Where children pure and happy pray to the blessd Child, Where misery cries out to Thee, Son of the mother mild; Where charity stands watching and faith holds wide the door, The dark night wakes, the glory breaks, and Christmas comes once more. O holy Child of Bethlehem, descend to us, we pray; Cast out our sin, and enter in, be born in us today. We hear the Christmas angels the great glad tidings tell; O come to us, abide with us, our Lord Emmanuel!

Lo How a Rose Eer Blooming


15th Century Carol, trans, Theodor Baker
I am a rose of Sharon, a lily of the valleys. (Song of Solomon 2:1 ESV) Lo, how a Rose eer blooming from tender stem hath sprung! Of Jesses lineage coming, as men of old have sung. It came, a floweret bright, amid the cold of winter, When half spent was the night. Isaiah twas foretold it, the Rose I have in mind; With Mary we behold it, the virgin mother kind. To show Gods love aright, she bore to men a Savior, When half spent was the night. The shepherds heard the story proclaimed by angels bright, How Christ, the Lord of glory was born on earth this night. To Bethlehem they sped and in the manger found Him, As angel heralds said. This Flower, whose fragrance tender with sweetness fills the air, Dispels with glorious splendor the darkness everywhere; True Man, yet very God, from sin and death He saves us, And lightens every load. O Savior, Child of Mary, who felt our human woe, O Savior, King of glory, who dost our weakness know; Bring us at length we pray, to the bright courts of Heaven, And to the endless day!

Away in a Manger
Anonymous
And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in swaddling cloths and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn. Luke 2:7 Away in a manger, no crib for his bed, The little Lord Jesus laid down His sweet head. The stars in the sky looked down where he lay, The little Lord Jesus, asleep on the hay. The cattle are lowing, the poor baby awakes, But little Lord Jesus, no crying he makes; I love thee, Lord Jesus, look down from the sky And stay by my side till morning is nigh. Be near me, Lord Jesus, I ask thee to stay Close by me forever, and love me, I pray; Bless all the dear children in Thy tender care, And fit us for heaven to live with Thee there.

Hark! the Herald Angels Sing


Charles Wesley
And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!" Luke 2: 13-14 Hark! the herald angels sing, "Glory to the new born King, Peace on earth, and mercy mild, God and sinners reconciled!" Joyful, all ye nations rise, Join the triumph of the skies; With th' angelic host proclaim, "Christ is born in Bethlehem!" Hark! the herald angels sing, "Glory to the new born King!" Christ, by highest heaven adored; Christ, the Everlasting Lord! Late in time behold him come, offspring of a virgin's womb. Veiled in flesh the Godhead see; hail th' incarnate Deity, Pleased as man with men to dwell, Jesus, our Emmanuel. Hark! the herald angels sing, "Glory to the new born King!" Hail the heaven-born Prince of Peace! Hail the Son of Righteousness! Light and life to all He brings, risen with healing in His wings. Mild he lays his glory by, Born that men no more may die, Born to raise the sons of earth, Born to give them second birth. Hark! the herald angels sing, "Glory to the new born King!"

Joy to the World


Isaac Watts
And the angel said to them, "Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Luke 2:10 Joy to the world, the Lord is come! Let earth receive her King; Let every heart prepare Him room, And heaven and nature sing, And heaven and nature sing, And heaven, and heaven and nature sing. Joy to the world, the Savior reigns! Let all their songs employ; While fields and floods, rocks, hills, and plains Repeat the sounding joy, Repeat the sounding joy, Repeat, repeat the sounding joy. No more let sins and sorrows grow, Nor thorns infest the ground; He comes to make His blessings flow Far as the curse is found, Far as the curse is found, Far as, far as the curse is found. He rules the world with truth and grace, And makes the nations prove The glories of His righteousness, And wonders of His love, And wonders of His love, And wonders, and wonders of His love.

O Come, O Come, Emmanuel


From the Latin, 9th century Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel. Isaiah 7:14 O come, O come, Emmanuel, And ransom captive Israel That mourns in lonely exile here Until the Son of God appear. Refrain Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel Shall come to thee, O Israel! O come, Thou Day-Spring, come and cheer Our spirits by Thine advent here Disperse the gloomy clouds of night And death's dark shadows put to flight. Refrain O come, Desire of nations, bind All peoples in one heart and mind; Bid envy, strife, and discord cease; Fill the whole world with heaven's peace. Refrain

God Rest ye Merry Gentlemen


Unknown
And the angel said to them, "Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. Luke 2:10-11 God rest ye merry, gentlemen, Let nothing you dismay, Remember Christ our Savior Was born on Christmas Day; To save us all from Satans power When we were gone astray. Refrain O tidings of comfort and joy, Comfort and joy; O tidings of comfort and joy. In Bethlehem, in Israel, this blessed Babe was born, And laid within a manger upon this blessed morn; The which His mother Mary did nothing take in scorn. Refrain From God our heavenly Father a blessed angel came; And unto certain shepherds brought tidings of the same; How that in Bethlehem was born the Son of God by name. Refrain Fear not, then, said the angel, Let nothing you afright, This day is born a Savior of a pure Virgin bright, To free all those who trust in Him From Satans power and might. Refrain The shepherds at those tidings rejoiced much in mind, And left their flocks a-feeding in tempest, storm and wind, And went to Bethlehem straightaway this blessed Babe to find. Refrain But when to Bethlehem they came where our dear Savior lay, They found Him in a manger where oxen feed on hay; His mother Mary kneeling unto the Lord did pray. Refrain Now to the Lord sing praises All you within this place, And with true love and brotherhood Each other now embrace; This holy tide of Christmas All others doth deface. Refrain God bless the ruler of this house, and send him long to reign, And many a merry Christmas may live to see again; Among your friends and kindred that live both far and near

That God send you a happy new year, happy new year, And God send you a happy new year.

Silent Night, Holy Night


Joseph Mohr
And in the same region there were shepherds out in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with fear. Luke 2: 8-9 Silent night, holy night, All is calm, all is bright, Round yon Virgin mother and Child. Holy Infant, so tender and mild, Sleep in heavenly peace, Sleep in heavenly peace. Silent night, holy night, Shepherds quake at the sight, Glories stream from heaven afar, Heavenly hosts sing Alleluia! Christ the Savior is born, Christ the Savior is born! Silent night, holy night, Son of God, loves pure Light; Radiant beams from Thy holy face, With the dawn of redeeming grace, Jesus, Lord, at Thy birth, Jesus, Lord, at Thy birth. Silent night, holy night Wondrous Star, lend thy light; With the angels let us sing, Alleluia to our King; Christ the Savior is born, Christ the Savior is born!

We Three Kings
John Henry Hopkins, Jr. Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the east came to Jerusalem, Matthew 2:1 We three kings of Orient are; Bearing gifts we traverse afar, Field and fountain, moor and mountain, Following yonder star. Refrain O star of wonder, star of night, Star with royal beauty bright, Westward leading, still proceeding, Guide us to thy perfect Light. Born a King on Bethlehems plain, Gold I bring to crown Him again, King forever, ceasing never Over us all to reign. Refrain Frankincense to offer have I; Incense owns a Deity nigh; Prayer and praising, voices raising, Worshipping God on high. Refrain Myrrh is mine, its bitter perfume Breathes a life of gathering gloom; Sorrowing, sighing, bleeding, dying, Sealed in the stone cold tomb. Refrain Glorious now behold Him arise; King and God and sacrifice; Alleluia, Alleluia, Sounds through the earth and skies. Refrain

Liturgical Aids
The Doxology
Praise God, from Whom all blessings flow; Praise Him, all creatures here below; Praise Him above, ye heavenly host; Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost.

The Gloria Patri


Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost; As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, World without end. Amen, Amen.

The Nicene Creed


I believe in one God, the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth, and of all things visible and invisible. And in one Lord Jesus Christ, the only-begotten Son of God, begotten of the Father before all worlds; God of God, Light of Light, very God of very God; begotten, not made, being of one substance with the Father, by whom all things were made. Who, for us men and for our salvation, came down from heaven, and was incarnate by the Holy Spirit of the virgin Mary, and was made man; and was crucified also for us under Pontius Pilate; He suffered and was buried; and the third day He rose again, according to the Scriptures; and ascended into heaven, and sits on the right hand of the Father; and He shall come again, with glory, to judge the quick and the dead; whose kingdom shall have no end. And I believe in the Holy Ghost, the Lord and Giver of Life; who proceeds from the Father and the Son; who with the Father and the Son together is worshipped and glorified; who spoke by the prophets. And I believe in one holy catholic and apostolic Church. I acknowledge one baptism for the remission of sins; and I look for the resurrection of the dead, and the life of the world to come. Amen.

The Apostles Creed


I believe in God, the Father Almighty, the Maker of heaven and earth, and in Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord: Who was conceived by the Holy Ghost, born of the virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, dead, and buried; He descended into hell. The third day He arose again from the dead; He ascended into heaven, and sitteth on the right hand of God the Father Almighty; from thence he shall come to judge the quick and the dead. I believe in the Holy Ghost; the holy catholic church; the communion of saints; the forgiveness of sins; the resurrection of the body; and the life everlasting. Amen.

The Directory for Family-Worship


ASSEMBLY AT EDINBURGH, August 24, 1647, Sess. 10. ACT for observing the Directions of the GENERAL ASSEMBLY for secret and private Worship, and mutual Edification; and censuring such as neglect Family-worship. THE General Assembly, after mature deliberation, doth approve the following Rules and Directions for cherishing piety, and preventing division and schism; and doth appoint ministers and ruling elders in each congregation to take special care that these Directions be observed and followed; as likewise, that presbyteries and provincial synods enquire and make trial whether the said Directions be duly observed in their bounds; and to reprove or censure (according to the quality of the offence), such as shall be found to be reprovable or censurable therein. And, to the end that these directions may not be rendered ineffectual and unprofitable among some, through the usual neglect of the very substance of the duty of Family-worship, the Assembly doth further require and appoint ministers and ruling elders to make diligent search and enquiry, in the congregations committed to their charge respectively, whether there be among them any family or families which use to neglect this necessary duty; and if any such family be found, the head of the family is to be first adminished privately to amend his fault; and, in case of his continuing therein, he is to be gravely and sadly reproved by the session; after which reproof, if he be found still to neglect Family-worship, let him be, for his obstinacy in such an offence, suspended and debarred from the Lord's supper, as being justly esteemed unworthy to communicate therein, till he amend.

DIRECTIONS OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY, CONCERNING SECRET AND PRIVATE WORSHIP, AND MUTUAL EDIFICATION; FOR CHERISHING PIETY, FOR MAINTAINING UNITY, AND AVOIDING SCHISM AND DIVISION. BESIDES the publick worship in congregations, mercifully established in this land in great purity, it is expedient and necessary that secret worship of each person alone, and private worship of families, be pressed and set up; that, with national reformation, the profession and power of godliness, both personal and domestick, be advanced. I. And first, for secret worship, it is most necessary, that every one apart, and by themselves, be given to prayer and meditation, the unspeakable benefit whereof is best known to them who are most exercised therein; this being the mean whereby, in a special way, communion with God is entertained, and right preparation for all other duties obtained: and therefore it becometh not only pastors, within their several charges, to press persons of all sorts to perform this duty morning and evening, and at other occasions; but also it is incumbent to the head of every family to have a care, that both themselves, and all within their charge, be daily diligent herein.

II. The ordinary duties comprehended under the exercise of piety which should be in families, when they are convened to that effect, are these: First, Prayer and praises performed with a special reference, as well to the publick condition of the kirk of God and this kingdom, as to the present case of the family, and every member thereof. Next, Reading of the scriptures, with catechising in a plain way, that the understandings of the simpler may be the better enabled to profit under the publick ordinances, and they made more capable to understand the scriptures when they are read; together with godly conferences tending to the edification of all the members in the most holy faith: as also, admonition and rebuke, upon just reasons, from those who have authority in the family. III. As the charge and office of interpreting the holy scriptures is a part of the ministerial calling, which none (however otherwise qualified) should take upon him in any place, but he that is duly called thereunto by God and his kirk; so in every family where there is any that can read, the holy scriptures should be read ordinarily to the family; and it is commendable, that thereafter they confer, and by way of conference make some good use of what hath been read and heard. As, for example, if any sin be reproved in the word read, use may be made thereof to make all the family circumspect and watchful against the same; or if any judgment be threatened, or mentioned to have been inflicted, in that portion of scripture which is read, use may be made to make all the family fear lest the same or a worse judgment befall them, unless they beware of the sin that procured it: and, finally, if any duty be required, or comfort held forth in a promise, use may be made to stir up themselves to employ Christ for strength to enable them for doing the commanded duty, and to apply the offered comfort. In all which the master of the family is to have the chief hand; and any member of the family may propone a question or doubt for resolution. IV. The head of the family is to take care that none of the family withdraw himself from any part of family-worship: and, seeing the ordinary performance of all the parts of familyworship belongeth properly to the head of the family, the minister is to stir up such as are lazy, and train up such as are weak, to a fitness to these exercises; it being always free to persons of quality to entertain one approved by the presbytery for performing familyexercise. And in other families, where the head of the family is unfit, that another, constantly residing in the family, approved by the minister and session, may be employed in that service, wherein the minister and session are to be countable to the presbytery. And if a minister, by divine Providence, be brought to any family, it is requisite that at no time he convene a part of the family for worship, secluding the rest, except in singular cases especially concerning these parties, which (in Christian prudence) need not, or ought not, to be imparted to others. V. Let no idler, who hath no particular calling, or vagrant person under pretence of a calling, be suffered to perform worship in families, to or for the same; seeing persons tainted with errors, or aiming at division, may be ready (after that manner) to creep into houses, and lead captive silly and unstable souls. VI. At family-worship, a special care is to be had that each family keep by themselves; neither requiring, inviting, nor admitting persons from divers families, unless it be those who are lodged with them, or at meals, or otherwise with them upon some lawful occasion.

VII. Whatsoever have been the effects and fruits of meetings of persons of divers families in the times of corruption or trouble, (in which cases many things are commendable, which otherwise are not tolerable,) yet, when God hath blessed us with peace and purity of the gospel, such meetings of persons of divers families (except in cases mentioned in these Directions) are to be disapproved, as tending to the hinderance of the religious exercise of each family by itself, to the prejudice of the publick ministry, to the rending of the families of particular congregations, and (in progress of time) of the whole kirk. Besides many offences which may come thereby, to the hardening of the hearts of carnal men, and grief of the godly. VIII. On the Lord's day, after every one of the family apart, and the whole family together, have sought the Lord (in whose hands the preparation of men's hearts are) to fit them for the publick worship, and to bless to them the publick ordinances, the master of the family ought to take care that all within his charge repair to the publick worship, that he and they may join with the rest of the congregation: and the publick worship being finished, after prayer, he should take an account what they have heard; and thereafter, to spend the rest of the time which they may spare in catechising, and in spiritual conferences upon the word of God: or else (going apart) they ought to apply themselves to reading, meditation, and secret prayer, that they may confirm and increase their communion with God: that so the profit which they found in the publick ordinances may be cherished and promoved, and they more edified unto eternal life. IX. So many as can conceive prayer, ought to make use of that gift of God; albeit those who are rude and weaker may begin at a set form of prayer, but so as they be not sluggish in stirring up in themselves (according to their daily necessities) the spirit of prayer, which is given to all the children of God in some measure: to which effect, they ought to be more fervent and frequent in secret prayer to God, for enabling of their hearts to conceive, and their tongues to express, convenient desires to God for their family. And, in the meantime, for their greater encouragement, let these materials of prayer be meditated upon, and made use of, as followeth. "Let them confess to God how unworthy they are to come in his presence, and how unfit to worship his Majesty; and therefore earnestly ask of God the spirit of prayer. "They are to confess their sins, and the sins of the family; accusing, judging, and condemning themselves for them, till they bring their souls to some measure of true humiliation. "They are to pour out their souls to God, in the name of Christ, by the Spirit, for forgiveness of sins; for grace to repent, to believe, and to live soberly, righteously, and godly; and that they may serve God with joy and delight, walking before him. "They are to give thanks to God for his many mercies to his people, and to themselves, and especially for his love in Christ, and for the light of the gospel.

"They are to pray for such particular benefits, spiritual and temporal, as they stand in need of for the time, (whether it be morning or evening,) as anent health or sickness, prosperity or adversity. "They ought to pray for the kirk of Christ in general, for all the reformed kirks, and for this kirk in particular, and for all that suffer for the name of Christ; for all our superiors, the king's majesty, the queen, and their children; for the magistrates, ministers, and whole body of the congregation whereof they are members, as well for their neighbours absent in their lawful affairs, as for those that are at home. "The prayer may be closed with an earnest desire that God may be glorified in the coming of the kingdom of his Son, and in doing of his will, and with assurance that themselves are accepted, and what they have asked according to his will shall be done." X. These exercises ought to be performed in great sincerity, without delay, laying aside all exercises of worldly business or hinderances, not withstanding the mockings of atheists and profane men; in respect of the great mercies of God to this land, and of his severe corrections wherewith lately he hath exercised us. And, to this effect, persons of eminency (and all elders of the kirk) not only ought to stir up themselves and families to diligence herein, but also to concur effectually, that in all other families, where they have power and charge, the said exercises be conscionably performed. XI. Besides the ordinary duties in families, which are above mentioned, extraordinary duties, both of humiliation and thanksgiving, are to be carefully performed in families, when the Lord, by extraordinary occasions, (private or publick,) calleth for them. XII. Seeing the word of God requireth that we should consider one another, to provoke unto love and good works; therefore, at all times, and specially in this time, wherein profanity abounds, and mockers, walking after their own lusts, think it strange that others run not with them to the same excess of riot; every member of this kirk ought to stir up themselves, and one another, to the duties of mutual edification, by instruction, admonition, rebuke; exhorting one another to manifest the grace of God in denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, and in living godly, soberly and righteously in this present world; by comforting the feeble-minded, and praying with or for one another. Which duties respectively are to be performed upon special occasions offered by Divine Providence; as, namely, when under any calamity, cross, or great difficulty, counsel or comfort is sought; or when an offender is to be reclaimed by private admonition, and if that be not effectual, by joining one or two more in the admonition, according to the rule of Christ, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established. XIII. And, because it is not given to every one to speak a word in season to a wearied or distressed conscience, it is expedient, that a person (in that case,) finding no ease, after the use of all ordinary means, private and publick, have their address to their own pastor, or some experienced Christian: but if the person troubled in conscience be of that condition, or of that sex, that discretion, modesty, or fear of scandal, requireth a godly, grave, and

secret friend to be present with them in their said address, it is expedient that such a friend be present. XIV. When persons of divers families are brought together by Divine Providence, being abroad upon their particular vocations, or any necessary occasions; as they would have the Lord their God with them whithersoever they go, they ought to walk with God, and not neglect the duties of prayer and thanksgiving, but take care that the same be performed by such as the company shall judge fittest. And that they likewise take heed that no corrupt communication proceed out of their mouths, but that which is good, to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace to the hearers. The drift and scope of all these Directions is no other, but that, upon the one part, the power and practice of godliness, amongst all the ministers and members of this kirk, according to their several places and vocations, may be cherished and advanced, and all impiety and mocking of religious exercises suppressed: and, upon the other part, that, under the name and pretext of religious exercises, no such meetings or practices be allowed, as are apt to breed error, scandal, schism, contempt, or misregard of the publick ordinances and ministers, or neglect of the duties of particular callings, or such other evils as are the works, not of the Spirit, but of the flesh, and are contrary to truth and peace. A. Ker.

Family Favorite Hymns:

Family Favorite Hymns:

Family Favorite Hymns:

Family Favorite Hymns:

Family Favorite Hymns:

Family Favorite Hymns:

Oh sing to the LORD a new song; sing to the LORD, all the earth! Sing to the LORD, bless his name; tell of his salvation from day to day. Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous works among all the peoples! For great is the LORD, and greatly to be praised; he is to be feared above all gods. For all the gods of the peoples are worthless idols, but the LORD made the heavens. Splendor and majesty are before him; strength and beauty are in his sanctuary. Ascribe to the LORD, O families of the peoples, ascribe to the LORD glory and strength! Ascribe to the LORD the glory due his name; bring an offering, and come into his courts! Worship the LORD in the splendor of holiness; tremble before him, all the earth! Say among the nations, The LORD reigns! Yes, the world is established; it shall never be moved; he will judge the peoples with equity. Let the heavens be glad, and let the earth rejoice; let the sea roar, and all that fills it; let the field exult, and everything in it! Then shall all the trees of the forest sing for joy before the LORD, for he comes, for he comes to judge the earth. He will judge the world in righteousness, and the peoples in his faithfulness. Psalm 96

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