Great Is Thy Faithfulness

During times of uncertainty and stress (had any of those days recently?!), it’s always good to turn to the Scriptures. In the Psalms, especially, we find much needed consolation – even direction. The Psalm writers, mainly David and Asaph, wrote so well out of their own difficulties. They wrote Psalms that were actually songs and represented the full range of human emotion: lament and sorrow, triumph and joy and everything in between. The songs they composed helped to redirect their thinking toward the One Who would bring peace, comfort and strength to their troubled spirits. Reading them can help us to do the same.

Through the years, many songs of faith were composed and published in hymnals. God has used them to speak to the hearts of hurting people looking for encouragement and direction through various challenges in life. I love the choruses that we’ve learned over the past many years; however, I find myself going back to those older hymns that are so full of theology, of meatier thoughts that really speak to my soul. One song has especially touched my heart and mind. As a matter of fact, many years ago it was adopted as the theme song for this ministry. You, no doubt, are familiar with “Great Is Thy Faithfulness”. You’ve probably sung it many times. I would encourage you to take a very careful and thorough look at the words that you probably know very well. Grab hold of the deep theology in each verse.

For instance, I love the way the song begins: “Great is Thy Faithfulness, O God, my Father.”

”O God” – Oh, the faithfulness of the Creator; the Almighty One Who rules and reigns over the universe, over the kingdoms of this world and, lovingly, over the circumstances that enter the lives of each of His people.

“My Father” - That phrase implies the personal tenderness, love, provision and care of the One Who is available 24/7. Wow!!!

And that’s just the beginning of the hymn!! I encourage you to thoughtfully and prayerfully read through the rest of the words. I believe you’ll come away built up in the Lord and encouraged because it will draw your attention away from the turmoil, the uncertainty and fear that may be assaulting your life. Your eyes will see Him in a new way, not only as your Redeemer, but as your Guide and Provider for the days ahead. You may even find yourself singing in a more meaningful way, “All I have needed Thy Hand hath provided. Great is Thy Faithfulness, Lord unto me.”

One last thought. The hymn was written by Thomas O. Chisholm as a testimony of God’s provision in his own life. May it be true of you and me, as well.