Traditional Hymns That Motivate People

By Cynthia West


Hymns are songs of devotion, usually to a diety. Americans associate them with songs of praise to God, but they can be written for patriotic reasons or to advance a particular cause which may or may not have God's blessing. However, most of the best loved hymns that motivate people were written and are sung to celebrate God and invite others into the church.

The Greek word from which we get our 'hymn' means a song of praise. We have ancient examples of devotional music from Greece and Egypt. A hymnal is a collection of worship songs, written to express thanksgiving, belief, repentance, joy, or pure worship of God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit. Most churches have hymnals; some sing acapella and some have magnificent choirs and accompanists.

A good example of a motivational hymn written for a secular purpose is 'The Battle Hymn Of The Republic'. It was written by Julia Ward Howe in the middle of the American Civil War, using a traditional tune and 'Glory, Glory, Hallelujah' chorus. This hymn, written to equate the Union cause with the judgement and victory of Jesus as found in 'end times' books in the Bible, was immediately popular and has remained so. Most 'Baby Boomers' learned this song in school.

'Amazing Grace', another beloved song, speaks of salvation from a state of wretchedness to one of 'saved by grace'. The story of this song is as inspirational as the words. John Newton, a sailor and later slave trader, cried out to God in desperation during a violent storm at sea. He became a clergyman and wrote this song to reinforce a sermon. The tune that Americans love was settled on later. Newton became an ardent abolitionist and helped to bring about the end of the slave trade in Britain.

Today television, radio, and the internet are great resources for those who love this kind of music. Gospel hours, spiritual classics, and popular Christian music flood the airways. Cable television has special channels for traditional and modern worship music and song. YouTube has great renditions of favorite songs and clips of talent shows when a contestant wows the audience with a hymn of praise. You can visit Mennonite churches, monasteries, and convents to hear amazing renditions of songs of faith.

A hymn can extol the majesty and worthiness of God, the love of Jesus, or the price the Lord paid for sinners of every tribe and nation. Children learn 'Jesus Loves Me' and 'This Little Light Of Mine'. "The Old Rugged Cross' and 'At The Cross' remind us of Jesus' last gift to mankind, and 'What A Friend We Have In Jesus' celebrates the treasures of salvation.

People have written about their personal relationship to God, and others use their words to express similar feelings. "I Come To The Garden Alone' and 'Blessed Assurance' speak of the peace of knowing god and accepting Jesus as savior. Many songs are Psalms set to music, and singing scripture back to God who inspired it is a special pleasure.

Children and adults love Christmas carols. One of the best things about Easter is the triumphant music sung on that special Sunday morning. Fall harvest is celebrated in song. Funerals are made more bearable and memorable by playing favorite and traditional hymns. These songs enrich our lives in all seasons of the year and of life.




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