Why Not Now – Hymn (Invitation, Special Meetings, etc.)

Our church recently concluded evangelistic meetings.

This is one of those songs that has a tremendous message and has played in my mind during the course of the week.

The lyrics are fantastic!

The lyricist also wrote other songs such as “Christ Liveth in Me” and “I Know Whom I Have Believed.”

Great song!!!

Where to find:

Many hymnals contain this song (examples: Great Hymns of the Faith, Living Hymns, etc.)

Online

(fyi – The song may also go by the words “While we pray and while we plead . . . .”)

Perfect Peace by Joe Zichterman

“When life’s burdens get so heavy . . . “

At the moment, maybe that describes how you are feeling. Yes, you know God is in control, yet humanly speaking, you are feeling overwhelmed.

Or perhaps in reflecting on current events, you feel burdened about what is occurring in the world.

However, as the song continues, it emphasizes a focus upon Jesus. Then and only then “I find His grace sufficient.” Our perspective is truly vastly different when our eyes are directed to Christ! (“Casting all your care upon Him; for He careth for you.” I Pet. 5:7)


The second verse is what I would like to focus upon next.  

“I will seek for souls in darkness . . .”

– it is a challenging quote!

– It is a challenging quote! 

We are thick in the midst of missions’ conference season.  Perhaps you are searching for a missions-based song.

As such, I could see this beneficial as a missions song.

This is one of those songs that touches my heart.  It provides encouragement as well as prodding to be steadfast  (I Cor. 15:58)  I think you likewise will find this song beneficial in your life and ministry opportunities.

Joe Zichterman has also written other songs such as “A Passion for Thee” and “Be an Example.” Both of these likewise have phenomenal, godly messages.

Samples:

Recording of lyrics and music. (for demonstration use only)

This is an excellent piano edition.

Same music as above, but with lyrics included. Link

Where to find:

We’re Singing by The Wilds (I have the 7th edition; I know it is also contained in several other editions.)

Choral arrangement

Hymn setting (The Wilds has graciously provided this.)

Recordings – it was also featured on recordings by The Wilds

In Faith I Follow by Matt Herbster – Choir or Solo Special

The words to this song invoke dedication from your heart. They were written by Matt Herbster in loving memory following the passing of his wife.

An amazing rendition by young people – 2018 graduation special.

Where to find:

Wilds (cello and violin obligado and audio sample also available)
J.W. Pepper

Audio – digital Amazon – 99c

(hymn format pdf)

In you’re not familiar with the Matt Herbster family and God’s grand working through their life, the following video provides a blessed encouragement of testimony of God’s greatness. Video link

Not My Will – Luke 22:42

How precious is this passage of Scripture:

“Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:
Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God:
But made Himself of no reputation, and took upon Him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men:
And being found in fashion as a man, He humbled Himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.”

Phil. 2:5-8

How incomprehensible that the God of the universe would come as a man to redeem sinful man!

Wow!!

I treasure this song for its message. Additionally, it wonderfully conveys the account of God’s Son choosing to yield Himself to the will of His Father.


So often I struggle in the flesh, seeking my own will.

The words and tune of this song come to mind:

“Not my will but Thine, Lord;
Lead me to Calvary…”

-Ron Hamilton

A video sample of the song is provided here.

Where to find:

Majesty Hymns #408

Our Great God in Troubling Times

Our God is great!

As believers, there is such a contrast between world events/ emotions and the peace and hope found in God.

We know we can trust our powerful God. He is in control.

The same God Who brought the Israelites to the Promised Land is the same God Who controls our life and world circumstances.


“A Mighty Fortress Is Our God” is such an apropos piece at such as time as this.

Church orchestra:

Majestic organ:

(Incredible – he played entirely from memory)

Other video links: BJU & congregation link
Orchestral rendition link

Trumpet
Piano solo

Piano/organ with lyrics

Where to find:

Most hymnals contain this hymn.