HYMN #0846 SSS #846 • SS&S Sacred Songs & Solos (1,200)

SS&S Hymn #846: A long time I wandered

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

1

A long time I wandered in darkness and sin,
And wondered if ever the light would shine in;
I heard Christian friends speak of raptures divine,
And I wished—how I wished—that their Saviour were mine.
I wished He were mine, yes, I wished He were mine;
I wished—how I wished—that their Saviour were mine.

2

I heard the glad gospel of" good-will to men";
I read" whosoever" again and again;
I said to my soul, "Can that promise be thine?"
And then began hoping that Jesus was mine.
I hoped He was mine, yes, I hoped He was mine;
And then began hoping that Jesus was mine.

3

Oh, mercy surprising! He saves even me!
"Thy portion for ever, "He says,"will I be;"
On His word I am resting—assurance divine:
I am" hoping" no longer; I know He is mine.
I know He is mine, yes, I know He is mine!
I’m hoping no longer, I know He is mine.

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Hymnological Reference • Historical Notes

Background, Themes & Devotional Notes for "A long time I wandered"

Collection: Sacred Songs & Solos

📜 Historical Background & Origin

This hymn is cataloged as Hymn #846 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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