HYMN #0438 SSS #438 • SS&S Meter: P.M. Sacred Songs & Solos (1,200)

SS&S Hymn #438: Look not behind thee

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

1

Look not behind thee; O sinner, beware!
Haste to the mountain, thy refuge is there;
Trust not the voices that lure thee to stay;
Jesus is calling thee—then why still delay?
List to the warning! no longer remain!
Fly from the valley, escape from the plain!
Turn from the voices that lure thee to stay:
Angels are calling thee—then why still delay?

2

Look not behind thee; O lost one, beware!
Why dost thou linger ’twixt hope and despair?
Danger and darkness encompass thy way:
Jesus is calling thee—then why still delay?

3

Look not behind thee, the tempter is near;
Speed to the mountain, thy pathway is clear:
Jesus who loves thee is calling to- day:
Come to thy Father’s house—oh,why still delay?

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Hymnological Reference • Historical Notes

Background, Themes & Devotional Notes for "Look not behind thee"

Collection: Sacred Songs & Solos

📜 Historical Background & Origin

This hymn is cataloged as Hymn #438 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: P.M.
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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