HYMN #0463 SSS #463 • SS&S Meter: CM. Sacred Songs & Solos (1,200)

SS&S Hymn #463: Afflictions tho' they seem

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

Afflictions, though they seem severe,
In mercy oft are sent;
They stopped the prodigal’s career,
And caused him to repent.
"I’ll not pine here for bread,
I’ll not pine here for bread, "he cries;
"Nor starve in foreign lands:
My father’s house has large supplies,
And bounteous are his hands."

"What have I gained by sin, "he said,
"But hunger, shame, and fear?
My father’s house abounds in bread,
While I am starving here!"

"I’ll go and tell him all I’ve done,
Fall down before his face;
Unworthy to be called his son,
I’ll seek a servant’s place."

His father saw him coming back;
He saw, he ran, he smiled,
And threw his arms around the neck
Of his rebellious child!

"O father, I have sinned—forgive!"
"Enough!" the father said:
"Rejoice, my house; my son’s alive,
For whom I mourned as dead!"

’Tis thus the Lord His love reveals,
To call poor sinners home;
More than a father’s love He feels,
And welcomes all that come.

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Hymnological Reference • Historical Notes

Background, Themes & Devotional Notes for "Afflictions tho' they seem"

Collection: Sacred Songs & Solos

📜 Historical Background & Origin

This hymn is cataloged as Hymn #463 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 6 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: CM.
Stanza Structure: 6 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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