Hymns powerfully express the response of Christians to the love and grace of God. They bring comfort in life’s dark days and express shared joys at times of celebration. This volume includes 40 of history’s most popular hymns, ranging from old and new, from great communal anthems to personal worship songs. Andrew Barr skillfully weaves insights into the origins and authors of each song with contemporary stories of the part they have played in people’s lives.

After the Bible, the church's greatest book for spiritual challenge, encouragement, and faith-building thought may be the hymnal. This brand-new devotional draws upon classic hymn lyrics, both familiar and lesser known, as the basis for brief, contemporary, daily meditations-365 in all. Author Daniel Partner delves into the deeper meaning of the great hymns, creating devotional readings that inform and inspire. Daily Wisdom from the Classic Hymns is perfect for those who love traditional hymns-but also an excellent resource for people who prefer more contemporary worship.

It is possible to find hymns in which the most profound emotions are expressed. They are also essential to the literary history of the English speaking people. References to hymns are constant and quotatons from hymns in modern English usage are frequent. The ever popular presenter of Songs of Praise has now made her own selection of hymns in this charming and beautifully illustrated anthology. The selection is very personal as the author explains how each hymn has had a particular message or significance for her at key moments in her own life- sometimes these are moments of joy and happiness and sometimes at times of tragedy and sadness. Sally Magnusson also explains why she dislikes many hymns and why they are not included. Who is these days of political correctness for example can sing lustily words like `The rich man in his castle, the poor man at his gate`. More pertinent to our day and age are hymns with phrases such as ` Change and decay in all around I see` and the celebrated hymn by Martin Luther which runs `A Firm Stronghold is our God`. In a reference to a number of hymns which do not appeal to her Sally Magnusson writes:`I can only take so much blood-stained imagery before lunch`. At all times, Sally Magnusson writes with great charm - a charm which those who watch Songs of Praise will recognise as being entirely her own. This is a perfect gift book.

Many hymns are great poems in their own right - they take us out of the daily round by expressing in images those feelings or thoughts which most of us find hard to put into words. But to know a little of the personal and cultural context from w

In this special seasonal edition, bestselling author Robert J. Morgan shares the incredible stories behind traditional holiday hymns of faith, including Christmas, Easter, and more. Is there a festive season of the year that is complete without one of your favorite hymns? Not only do hymns connect you to great memories, but they also reveal the faith of those who lived throughout history. As Robert Morgan explored the stories behind some of the best-loved hymns, he found fascinating accounts of tribulations, triumphs, struggles, and hope—ordinary people who connected with God in amazing ways, sharing their experiences through song. Included inside this special edition are: 150 devotional-style stories with the words and music to each hymn Includes hymns for holidays including Christmas, Easter, Thanksgiving, and more Jagged edged paper, giving it a classic feel Includes a complete hymn index by title, first line, and songwriter Perfect for use as a daily devotional, teaching illustration, or for song leaders and music ministers Discover the inspiration behind your favorite hymns. Find new favorites as you relate to the people whose walk of faith led them to write these classic songs of praise. Share these stories with your family, friends, and church, and find more depth and meaning as you worship God through song.

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