HYMN #0181 SSS #181 • SS&S Meter: PM. Sacred Songs & Solos (1,200)

SS&S Hymn #181: Watch, earnestly watch

Complete lyrics, stanzas, and pipe organ accompaniment • Sacred Songs & Solos

1

Watch, earnestly watch,
the Lord’sapproach is nearing;
Pray, fervently pray,
no man can know the hour;
Like as a thief at night is
His appearing;
He cometh to judge the world
in truth and power.
Watch ye, pray ye,
soldiers of the Lord;
Work ye, wait ye,
trusting in His word;
Keep His commandments?
and His law obey,
And He will reward you
in the last great day.

2

Work, joyfully work,
all ye who know His chastening;
Wait, patiently wait,
for your reward is nigh;
Lift up your heads,
the day of rest is hastening;
Rest, glorious rest,
with Jesus by and by.

3

Trust, loyally trust,
and as to Him thou’rt clinging,
Keep, faithfully keep the Saviour’s
blest commands;
Then in thy heart the blest assurance
ringing,
Know surely thy name is written
in His hands.

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Hymnological Reference • Historical Notes

Background, Themes & Devotional Notes for "Watch, earnestly watch"

Collection: Sacred Songs & Solos

📜 Historical Background & Origin

This hymn is cataloged as Hymn #181 in Sacred Songs & Solos (1,200 Hymns), compiled by the American gospel singer and hymnologist Ira David Sankey (1840–1908).

Sankey popularized these sacred songs during the transatlantic evangelistic campaigns led alongside Dwight L. Moody between 1873 and 1903. The compilation became one of the most widely printed hymnals in Christendom, cherished by Methodist, Baptist, Anglican, Presbyterian, and Pentecostal congregations throughout the world.

🕊️ Devotional Themes & Reflection

Composed of 3 stanzas, the text centers on foundational biblical themes: adoration and praise to God, humble reliance upon divine grace, steadfast faith amid trials, and the everlasting hope of salvation in Jesus Christ.

Whether sung during Sunday corporate worship or read during family devotions and personal prayer, these stanzas guide the believer to reflect on God's unending mercies and steadfast faithfulness across every season of life.

🎼 Musical Structure & Liturgy

Poetic Meter: PM.
Stanza Structure: 3 Verses with cathedral pipe organ accompaniment
Liturgical Placement: Suitable as an Opening Hymn of Praise, Call to Worship, Offertory, or Closing Doxology
Pipe Organ Audio: Multi-verse accompaniment synthesized to support organists, choir rehearsals, and home worship

⚖️ Public Domain Archival: This historic hymn text and tune are in the worldwide public domain and may be freely printed in church bulletins or projected for public worship.

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