O God, Our Help in Ages Past Lyrics
O God, Our Help in Ages Past Lyrics
“O God, Our Help in Ages Past” lyrics are the words of a well-known hymn that carries a rich history and profound spiritual significance.
These lyrics express a profound faith in God’s eternal nature and His protective care over humanity throughout time.
The hymn was first published in 1719 and is based on Psalm 90 from the Book of Psalms in the Bible.
Below are the original lyrics to the hymn:
O God, Our Help in Ages Past Lyrics
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 defense is sure. 3. Before the hills in order stood, or earth received its 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 op’ning 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!
Who Wrote “O God, Our Help in Ages Past” Lyrics?
The lyrics of the hymn “O God, Our Help in Ages Past” were penned by Isaac Watts, one of the most prolific English hymn writers in Christian history.
He was a theologian and logician, often referred to as the “Father of English Hymnody.”
Isaac Watts was born on July 17, 1674, in Southampton, England, to Isaac Watts Sr. and Sarah Watts. He was the eldest of nine children.
Watts displayed exceptional intelligence from an early age and received his primary education at the Free School of Southampton.
At the age of four, he started learning Latin, and by the age of nine, he had mastered Greek.
Later, he attended the Nonconformist Academy in Stoke Newington, London, under the tutelage of Thomas Rowe, a Congregationalist minister.
Watts’ education was primarily focused on theology, and he showed a keen interest in religious matters from a young age.
Isaac Watts made significant contributions to the world of Christian worship through his extensive hymnody and theological writings.
In 1698, he published his first book of hymns titled “Hymns and Spiritual Songs.” This marked the beginning of his prolific career as a hymnwriter.
Watts’ hymns were characterized by their theological depth, emotional resonance, and accessibility to congregations. They departed from the exclusively psalm-based hymnody of the time.
Some of his most famous hymns include “When I Survey the Wondrous Cross,” “Our God, Our Help in Ages Past,” and “Joy to the World.”
Aside from hymns, Watts authored various theological and philosophical treatises. His notable works include “The Improvement of the Mind” and “Logic.”
Watts was a nonconformist Christian, meaning he did not conform to the practices of the Church of England. He was a fervent advocate for religious tolerance.
Legacy and Later Years
Isaac Watts’ hymns have had a profound influence on Christian worship across denominations. Many of his hymns continue to be sung and cherished around the world.
He is often credited with revolutionizing English hymnody by introducing a more personal and emotional element into worship music.
Watts’ health began to decline in his later years, and he passed away on November 25, 1748, in Stoke Newington, London.
Isaac Watts’ enduring contributions to Christian worship and hymnody continue to be celebrated, and his legacy lives on through the timeless beauty and spiritual depth of his compositions.
The Hymn Details
| Hymn | O God, Our Help in Ages Past |
| Year | 1719 |
| Language | English |
| Author | Isaac Watts |
| First Line | O God, Our Help in Ages Past |
| Famous Tune | St. Anne |
| Tune Composer | William Croft |
| Meter | 8.6.8.6 (or C.M) |
| Copyright | Public Domain |
Final Note
The lyrics of the hymn “O God, Our Help in Ages Past” are a reflection on the eternal and unchanging nature of God’s protection and guidance throughout time.
It emphasizes God’s role as a source of help, hope, shelter, and eternal security for believers.
The hymn reflects on the transient nature of human existence and contrasts it with the everlasting nature of God.
It’s a hymn of comfort and reassurance, reminding believers of God’s steadfast presence and His role as a refuge in times of trouble.
It ultimately serves as a prayer for God’s continued guidance and protection throughout the course of life.
The timeless themes and poetic beauty of “O God, Our Help in Ages Past” continue to resonate with worshippers around the world.
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