HYMN #0724 SSS #724 • SS&S Sacred Songs & Solos (1,200)

SS&S Hymn #724: How dear to my heart

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

1

How dear to my heart, when the pathway is lonely,
That wonderful promise of Jesus my Lord—
That message of mercy, of love and compassion,
I read on the page of His own blessed Word.
"Fear not I am with thee, "thy strength and Redeemer,
The Rock where in safety My own shall abide;
I’ll never forsake thee—My Word hath declared it;
I’ll never forsake thee, whatever betide.

2

When chilled by the waves that are surging around me,
And clouds of affliction like billows may roll,
I’ll cling to His word, which can never be broken,
And joy in the comfrot it brings to my soul.

3

Though tried in the furnace, my faith shall not falter,
But, trusting in Jesus, the cross I will bear;
And hoping, enduring, believing, obeying,
I’ll cling to His promise, and rest in His care.

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Hymnological Reference • Historical Notes

Background, Themes & Devotional Notes for "How dear to my heart"

Collection: Sacred Songs & Solos

📜 Historical Background & Origin

This hymn is cataloged as Hymn #724 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: Standard Metrical Hymnody
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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