O God, our help in ages past

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1
O God, our help in ages past,
  Our hope for years to come,
Our shelter from the stormy blast,
  And our eternal home.
2
Under the shadow of Thy throne
  Thy saints have dwelt secure;
Sufficient is Thine arm alone,
  And our defence is sure.
3
Before the hills in order stood,
  Or earth received her frame,
From everlasting Thou art God,
  To endless years the same.
4
A thousand ages in Thy sight
  Are like an evening gone;
Short as the watch that ends the night
  Before the rising sun.
5
Time, like an ever-rolling stream,
  Bears all its sons away;
They fly forgotten, as a dream
  Dies at the opening day.
6
O God, our help in ages past,
  Our hope for years to come,
Be Thou our guard while life shall last,
  And our eternal home.
233
Ana Lara

Storrs, Connecticut, United States

If you ever visit South Hampton, down on the lower coast of England, you might be pleasantly surprised to hear the city bell tower ring out the tune of, “Oh, God, our help in ages past, ” right at the stroke of 12 noon. Written by Isaac Watts, who came from that great city, it has become a notable hymn, played at critical national events in Britain, including when Britain declared war at the start of World War II, as well as the funeral of Winston Churchill, arguably the greatest Englishman, who ever lived. Composed at another crucial moment in British history, when Queen Anne lay dying 300 years ago, without having left an heir to the throne, and leaving a lot of uncertainty about the nation’s future. It reflects some of the words of psalm 90. A rather somber statement written by Moses near the end of his life, this song reminds us that, just as God has watched over and guided us in the past, so He will do so in the future as well. These same thoughts are expressed in the hymn.

Rev. L. Codington


Anonymous

Nigeria

As I was praying this morning this song came to my mind. I searched for it, sang it and I was relieved of my burden. I believe the Lord is in control and will do us the Best in Jesus Name. Amen.


Ayorinde Olubo

Kaduna, Nigeria

I can’t but express my gratitude to God my Ebenezer. I pray for the sister in Miami that God will turn mourning to Joy. Because God is with her and has never left. His mercy will her through, IJN


Ed Johnson

Annetta, TX, United States

I don’t know who—-probably the Methodists—-changed the words of the second line in the fifth verse. I used to sing the song as written when I was a kid, but in the current Methodist Hymnal the line now reads “Bears all who breathe away”.

I fear we’re lost.


Cleopatra Bartlett

Brooklyn, New York, United States

As I was praying this morning this song came to my mind I remember singing this song as a child growing up in Barbados such an inspiration. We know that our GOD is everything. Just trust in Him.


Cavan Paul Mulvihill

Torquay, United Kingdom

God is good.


Newel

Ghana

I love love love this song.

The lyric, the tune, everything about it is soothing. So refreshing.


Loveth

Onitsha, Abia, Nigeria

I am longing to travel to Canada to further my studies but No sponsor. This hymn keeps giving me hope.


Phil

Burnham, Slough, Berks, United Kingdom

I have also prayed for you today, lady from Miami, that you will know Gods complete healing and his blessings in your life.


Geannerise Joyce

Mississauga, ON, Canada

I am in the process of praying for America and the world. Talking to the Lord about fair and free elections. Speaking to the Lord about those who wants to hurt the people of the world. God quickened this song to me. I have not heart it in years. Such a blessing to know that God has always been our help.