Here is the history of the Hymn How Great Thou Art and a closer look at it's lyrics.
Let's journey through time as we go over the history of "How Great Thou Art." This timeless masterpiece, which has been around for centuries, finds its roots in the scenic landscapes of Sweden and resonates with the hearts of worshippers everywhere.
Imagine the late 1800s in the Swedish countryside, where Pastor Carl Boberg found himself in the middle of a sudden thunderstorm. Nature, in all its grandeur and power, unfolded before him, giving him a sense of awe and humility.
In the wake of this divine encounter, Boberg penned the initial version of "How Great Thou Art," capturing the heart of a soul stirred by the wonders of creation.
Scripture: Psalm 19:1-2
"The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky above proclaims his handiwork. Day to day pours out speech, and night to night reveals knowledge."
Now, fast forward to a different time and place, where English missionary Stuart K. Hine comes across the Swedish version of Boberg's hymn. The melody, full of the spirit of worship, deeply moves Hine, prompting him to take on the task of translating and expanding the hymn.
This collaborative effort went beyond the borders, resulting in the version known and loved today. The hymn journeyed from Sweden to the hearts of worshippers worldwide, a testament to the lyrics' power to resonate with believers everywhere.
Psalm 96:3
"Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous works among all the peoples!"
Now, let's unpack the meaningful lyrics of "How Great Thou Art," verse by verse, with insights into scripture for each line.
"O Lord my God, When I in awesome wonder, Consider all the worlds Thy Hands have made."
In this opening verse, Boberg invites us to contemplate the vastness of God's creation. It's a moment of reflection, acknowledging God's handiwork in the universe.
Job 37:14-16
"Hear this, O Job; stop and consider the wondrous works of God. Do you know how God lays his command upon them and causes the lightning of his cloud to shine?"
"I see the stars, I hear the rolling thunder, Thy power throughout the universe displayed."
The imagery intensifies as Boberg draws our attention to the cosmic wonders – stars glittering in the night sky and the reverberating echoes of thunder. Nature becomes a canvas, displaying God's omnipotence.
Isaiah 40:26
"Lift up your eyes on high and see: who created these? He who brings out their host by number, calling them all by name; by the greatness of his might and because he is strong in power, not one is missing."*
"Then sings my soul, my Savior God, to Thee; How great Thou art, how great Thou art!"
The refrain serves as a crescendo of praise. The soul responds to the contemplation of God's creation with a song of adoration, and a recognition of His greatness.
Psalm 103:1
"Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless his holy name!"
"And when I think of God, His Son not sparing, Sent Him to die, I scarce can take it in."
The hymn takes a turn, reflecting on the sacrificial love of God. The weight of this truth, that Christ died for us, is overwhelming.
Romans 8:32
"He who did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all, how will he not also with him graciously give us all things?"
"That on the Cross, my burden gladly bearing, He bled and died to take away my sin."
The cross becomes a symbol of love and redemption. Christ, willingly bearing our burdens, sheds His blood to cleanse us from sin.
1 Peter 2:24
"He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed."*
When Christ shall come with shout of acclamation, And take me home, what joy shall fill my heart."
The hymn turns toward the anticipation of Christ's return – a future moment of triumph for believers!
1 Thessalonians 4:16-17
"For the Lord himself will descend from heaven with a cry of command, with the voice of an archangel, and with the sound of the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive, who are left, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we will always be with the Lord."
"Then I shall bow in humble adoration, And there proclaim, my God, how great Thou art!"
The final verse envisions a future posture of worship before God's throne. It's a proclamation of His greatness, echoing the awe-inspired sentiment that began the hymn.
If you prefer to hear about the history and lyrics, be sure to watch this Youtube video where I did a live "Hymn Highlight" segment on this hymn. I even go over a bonus verse that wasn't mentioned here on the blog.
We pray our hand lettered hymn boards are a reflection of God's greatness and a reminder to praise Him as you see them in your homes!
You can find this hymn in two different formats. I couldn't decide between showcasing "How Great Thou Art" or "Then Sings My Soul" so I created one for each set of lyrics.
Thank you for taking the time to read the blog today! I'd love to hear which verse from How Great Thou Art is your favorite!
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"Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing" is a much-loved hymn that's been sung by Christians for ages. Its beautiful melody and deep lyrics have touched the hearts of many, making it one of the most popular hymns in Christian worship. In this blog post, we'll look at the fascinating story behind "Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing", the profound message conveyed in each verse, the importance of engaging our minds in worship, and the personal story of its author, Robert Robinson.
Singing the hymn "Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing" in worship for years, I always loved its beautiful melody. However, one Sunday as I began to sing the lyrics, I realized that there were words I didn't fully understand. What did it mean to raise my Ebenezer or to have goodness bind my wandering heart like a fetter? It left me feeling somewhat disconnected from the depth of the hymn's meaning.
Curiosity and a desire to dig deeper caused me to seek the definitions of these words. I discovered that an Ebenezer symbolizes a stone of remembrance, representing God's faithfulness throughout history. A fetter is a chain or restraint that binds. Understanding these definitions brought a new level of richness to the hymn's lyrics, allowing me to connect more deeply with the message the author was trying to convey. It reminded me of the importance of being aware of what we sing in worship, not just blindly following along, but engaging our minds and actually knowing the profound truths we sing to our God.
"Come, thou Fount of every blessing,
Tune my heart to sing thy grace;
Streams of mercy, never ceasing,
Call for songs of loudest praise."
In this opening verse, we find the author recognized God as the source of all blessings. The streams of mercy that never cease invite us to respond with songs of the loudest praise, expressing our gratitude and awe for God's abundant grace in our lives.
"Teach me some melodious sonnet,
Sung by flaming tongues above;
Praise the mount! I'm fixed upon it,
Mount of thy redeeming love."
As I looked into the meaning of the lyrics, I discovered that the "mount" symbolizes Calvary, where Christ's redeeming love was demonstrated through His sacrifice. This verse invites you to fix your gaze upon God's love, to learn from the melodious songs sung by heavenly beings, and to join in praising the mount of His redeeming love.
"Here I raise my Ebenezer;
Hither by thy help I'm come;
And I hope, by thy good pleasure,
Safely to arrive at home."
Knowing the reference to raising an Ebenezer causes you to reflect on your own personal journey of experiencing God's faithfulness. With each milestone and testimony, we can acknowledge God's guidance and provision. The lyrics continue to resonate as we sing in hopefulness that by God's good pleasure, we will safely arrive at our eternal home. It reminds me that faith is a journey, and in every step, we raise our own Ebenezers, acknowledging the faithfulness of God in our lives.
"Jesus sought me when a stranger,
Wandering from the fold of God;
He, to rescue me from danger,
Interposed His precious blood."
The lyrics of this verse took on a new meaning as I reflected on my own moments of doubt and uncertainty and how Jesus sought me even when I was a stranger, wandering away from the fold of God. The realization that He willingly interposed His precious blood to rescue me from danger fills me with awe and gratitude. It reminds me that even in my weakest moments, Jesus never gives up on me. His relentless pursuit and sacrificial love are the foundations of my faith and the reason I persevere.
"O to grace how great a debtor
daily I’m constrained to be!
Let that grace now, like a fetter,
bind my wandering heart to thee.
Prone to wander, Lord, I feel it,
prone to leave the God I love;
here’s my heart; O take and seal it;
seal it for thy courts above."
As we come to the last verse I am reminded of my own sinfulness and wandering heart. I am such a debtor to God's grace, and it is in His goodness, like a comforting fetter, that my wandering heart finds comfort and is bound to Him.
This imagery of God binding our wandering hearts to Himself reminds me of His unwavering love and faithfulness. It speaks of His desire to sanctify us and conform us into the image of Christ. In those moments when doubt or distraction seek to lead me astray, I find comfort in knowing that His faithfulness will prevail, anchoring my heart to Him and guiding me safely along my journey of faith. My salvation is not based on how I feel. My salvation is based on the character of God and His faithfulness in spite of my feelings and failings.
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:9
Through this last verse, we see the author pen a prayer asking God to seal his heart. It invites us to surrender our wandering hearts, finding comfort and steadfastness in His unfailing presence.
One interesting aspects of "Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing" is the personal story of its author, Robert Robinson. Robinson, an English pastor who lived in the 18th century, experienced a difficult childhood and grew up in poverty. However, he eventually found his way to faith and became a minister.
During his time as a pastor, Robinson wrote the words to "Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing." The hymn was first published in 1758 in a collection of hymns called "A Collection of Hymns for Public Worship." The melody that is now associated with the hymn was added a few years later by composer John Wyeth.
Despite writing such a beautiful hymn, Robinson's own journey was marked by seasons of doubt and unbelief. At one point in his life, he even walked away from his faith altogether. However, he eventually returned to God and found peace and reconciliation. This personal struggle adds an even deeper layer of meaning to the hymn. It speaks of the profound truth that even those who have wrestled with doubt can find peace and renewal in their relationship with God.
As we sing "Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing," let us remember the importance of engaging our minds in worship. May we not simply sing the words, but immerse ourselves in their meaning.
My heart behind offering these hand lettered hymn boards of "Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing" is to place these timeless truths in your home and cause you to reflect on the depth of God's mercy, the power of Christ's redeeming love, and our daily dependence on His grace. The lyrics were so good I even have two different versions of the hymn board.
"Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing" continues to be a timeless anthem of worship, touching the hearts and souls of believers throughout history. Its melody and lyrics have the power to draw us closer to God, inviting us into a deeper understanding of His love and faithfulness. May this hymn be a source of inspiration and a reminder of the transformative journey from doubt to worship as we sing with reverence and gratitude to the fount of every blessing.
]]>"A Tale of Two Kings" is a beautifully written and illustrated children's book that teaches the gospel through the contrast between the first Adam and the second Adam, Jesus Christ. Written by Gloria Furman and illustrated by Catalina Echeverri, this book takes young readers on a journey through the story of creation, the fall, and redemption.
The book begins with the story of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden. The illustrations depict the beauty and wonder of the garden, and the text describes how God created everything and declared it good. But when Adam and Eve disobeyed God, sin entered the world and everything was changed.
Furman does a great job of explaining sin in a way that young children can understand. She writes, "Sin is when we don't do what God says. We want to do things our way instead of God's way." This simple explanation sets the stage for the rest of the book, which contrasts the first Adam's disobedience with the second Adam's obedience.
I appreciated the way she explained what sin is. Instead of simply saying "sin is the bad things we do", she expounds to say it is when we do things our way instead of God's way. This creates conversation about sin being more than just wrong acts, but also a matter of our heart towards God.
The next part of the book focuses on Jesus Christ as the second Adam. The book beautifully unfolds the story of Jesus' purpose on earth, showcasing His perfect life and sacrificial death on the cross for our sins. It delves into the depths of Jesus' journey, recounting His triumphant victory over temptation in the wilderness—a stark contrast to Adam's inability to resist. In this powerful narrative, children witness the redemption and restoration brought forth by Jesus, who fulfills what the first Adam could not.
This revelation opens the door for heartfelt conversations with our children, assuring them that even in their moments of weakness and failure, Jesus stands as their perfect representative. It is through His righteousness that they find solace, knowing that in Him, their shortcomings are covered by boundless grace.
Moving towards His crucifixion, the illustrations show the darkness that covered the land when Jesus died, and the text explains how Jesus defeated sin and death by rising from the dead. The book concludes by saying that we can now be friends with God again because of what Jesus did for us.
Overall, "A Tale of Two Kings" is a wonderful resource for parents and teachers who want to teach young children about the gospel. The book presents the story in a clear and simple way, while also capturing the beauty and wonder of God's creation. Through this book, children can learn about sin, obedience, and redemption, and ultimately, the love of God through Jesus Christ.
As Christians, it is important to share the gospel with children and help them understand the love and sacrifice of Jesus Christ. "A Tale of Two Kings" is an excellent tool for doing just that. It presents the gospel in a way that is easy to understand and engaging for children. May we continue to share the good news of Jesus Christ with the next generation, and may this book be a helpful resource in that endeavor.
Having witnessed the profound impact that "A Tale of Two Kings" has had on our family for over a year now, I am excited to share my heartfelt review. From the very first time we read this book, it captivated our children's hearts and ignited meaningful conversations about God's love and redemption. Its pages have become a gateway to exploring the truths of the gospel in a way that speaks directly to our children's hearts. Seeing how our little ones connect with the characters (knowing they relate to Adam's failures) and understand the deep significance of Christ's sacrifice has been amazing. This book has become an invaluable resource in nurturing our children's faith and equipping them with a foundation rooted in God's love and grace.
The reading level of 'A Tale of Two Kings' is primarily aimed at children between the ages of 5 to 8. However, in our family, we have found it to be a wonderful read-aloud book that engages readers of all ages. Just yesterday, I had the joy of witnessing my 6-year-old confidently reading it aloud on his own, though he did seek help with a few bigger words like 'representatives.' Hearing the words of truth flow from his mouth filled my heart with love for this book, and it compelled me to share my thoughts through this blog post. I wholeheartedly believe that 'A Tale of Two Kings' deserves a special place in every Christian child's home.
Don't miss out on the opportunity to nurture their hearts with the profound truths of sin, redemption, and the immeasurable love of Jesus Christ. Grab your copy here today!
Interested in other books we have and recommend? You can check out this "Christian Children's Books We Love" Idea List I created on Amazon!
About the Author:
Gloria Furman is an author, speaker, and mom of four children who lives in the Middle East with her family. She has written several books on Christian living and motherhood, including "Glimpses of Grace," "Treasuring Christ When Your Hands Are Full," and "Missional Motherhood." Furman is also a contributor to the Gospel Coalition and other publications.
In her writing and speaking, Furman emphasizes the grace and love of God in the midst of the challenges of life. She shares candidly about her own struggles with chronic illness, and how God has been faithful to her in the midst of those struggles. She is passionate about helping women and families to see the beauty and goodness of God in every area of life.
Furman's heart for sharing the gospel with children is evident in her book, "A Tale of Two Kings." She writes with a clear and simple style that engages young readers and helps them to understand the deep truths of the gospel. Her desire is for children to see the love and sacrifice of Jesus Christ and to be drawn to him in faith and trust.
The hymn "Because He Lives" is a beloved hymn that has been sung by millions of people around the world since it was first written in 1971. The song was written by Bill and Gloria Gaither, a husband-and-wife duo who have composed over 700 Christian songs together.
The story behind the hymn begins in the late 1960s when Gloria Gaither was pregnant with their third child. At the time, the couple was facing many challenges in their personal and professional lives, and Gloria was especially worried about bringing a child into such an uncertain world. Despite their fears, the couple held onto their faith and trusted that God would guide them through whatever trials they might face.
It was during this time of uncertainty that Bill Gaither wrote the lyrics to "Because He Lives." The words of the hymn reflect the couple's deep belief in the power of God to overcome any obstacle and bring hope to those who put their trust in Him. The chorus of the hymn proclaims:
"Because He lives, I can face tomorrow
Because He lives, all fear is gone
Because I know He holds the future
And life is worth the living, just because He lives"
The hymn quickly became popular and was included in many church hymnals. You can usually count on it to be a part of your Easter Sunday service!
Over the years, "Because He Lives" has continued to inspire and uplift people in times of joy and sorrow. The hymn's simple yet powerful message of hope and faith in God's love has touched the hearts of countless individuals and remains a beloved hymn in the Christian tradition.
We pray our "Because He Lives" hymn board reminds you that you can trust your future in God's hands, because of the hope we have in Jesus Christ!
Which verse is your favorite?
]]>Horatio Spafford was a successful lawyer, businessman, and devout Christian who lived in Chicago in the late 19th century. However, his life was marked by tragedy and loss, including the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, which destroyed much of his real estate holdings, and the death of his only son shortly thereafter. Despite these setbacks, Spafford remained committed to his faith and continued to work tirelessly to help others, including those affected by the fire and those in need of spiritual guidance.
In 1873, Spafford decided to take his family on a trip to Europe, hoping that the change of scenery and the opportunity to meet with fellow Christians would lift their spirits. Spafford's wife Anna and their four daughters boarded a ship named the Ville du Havre and set sail for Europe. However, tragedy struck once again when the Ville du Havre collided with another ship in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean and sank, killing 226 passengers, including Spafford's four daughters.
Can you even imagine?
Upon receiving news of the tragedy, Spafford immediately set out for Europe to be with his grieving wife. While on the journey, Spafford wrote a poem that would later be set to music and become one of the most beloved hymns of all time: "It is Well with My Soul."
The hymn, which speaks of finding peace in the midst of suffering and loss, has resonated with millions of people around the world for over a century. Its haunting melody and powerful lyrics have been sung at countless funerals, memorial services, and other occasions where people seek comfort and solace.
The lyrics of "It is Well with My Soul" were inspired by Spafford's own personal tragedy and his unwavering faith in God. The first verse reads:
"When peace like a river, attendeth my way, When sorrows like sea billows roll; Whatever my lot, Thou hast taught me to say, It is well, it is well, with my soul."
The hymn goes on to describe the hope and comfort that Spafford found in his faith, even in the face of this overwhelming tragedy:
"Though Satan should buffet, though trials should come, Let this blest assurance control, That Christ hath regarded my helpless estate, And hath shed His own blood for my soul."
"It is Well with My Soul" quickly became a popular hymn in churches around the world, and it continues to be a source of comfort and inspiration for people of all faiths. Its timeless message of finding peace in the midst of suffering is a testament to the power of faith and the resilience of the human spirit.
My favorite part is the third verse that reads:
"My sin, oh the bliss of this glorious thought, My sin, not in part, but the whole, Is nailed to the cross, and I bear it no more, Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul."
What a comfort to know we can have peace with our Father in Heaven through the shed blood of His Son, Jesus Christ!
Our hand-lettered hymn board using the sheet music of "It is Well with my Soul" seeks to serve as a constant reminder of this comfort! I pray knowing the story behind the hymn makes it that much sweeter to you!
-Danielle
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One bit of information I recently discovered about the hymn "My Jesus I Love Thee" since that Facebook Live that made it even more miraculous was that it was written by a teenager!
William Ralph Featherston of Montreal, Canada, is thought to have written these deep theological truths and lines of thankfulness to Christ at the time of his conversion when he was only 16 years old.
]]>For this Hymn Highlight, I asked my son to help me. It was brought to my attention that since our church does not use the hymnals during worship anymore, he was unaware of how to properly read the hymns in their sheet music form.
I really missed the boat here, and saw it as an opportunity to teach my children. We decided to bring the hymns into our homeschooling, and this Hymn Highlight was an overflow of what we learned while studying the hymn "My Jesus I Love Thee".
You can watch the live and see it through the eyes of a 10 year old as we talk about uncommon words like "folly" and discuss what they mean.
One bit of information I recently discovered about the hymn "My Jesus I Love Thee" since that Facebook Live that made it even more miraculous was that it was written by a teenager!
William Ralph Featherston of Montreal, Canada, is thought to have written these deep theological truths and lines of thankfulness to Christ at the time of his conversion when he was only 16 years old.
It is believed that he then sent a copy of the poem he had written to an aunt in Los Angeles, and she then sought its publication.
It wasn’t until several years after Featherston’s death at the age of 27 that a well known American Baptist Pastor, Dr. A.J. Gordon, discovered the anonymous hymn and decided to add a melody to it. He published it in his book of hymns, altering his poem to a song that would be sung frequently be believers everywhere.
How amazing is it that God in His sovereignty had these lines that William penned as a poem of devotion preserved and recreated into the hymn we know and love today.
May the lyrics of this hymn, featured below, cause us to renew our devotion to God and reflect on what He accomplished for us through the sacrifice of our Lord Jesus Christ.
I pray your love for Christ will overflow to the people around you and that your life brings glory to God.
If you would like to have a reminder of your devotion to Christ, you can display our "My Jesus I Love Thee" hymn board in your home or gift it to a friend as an encouraging piece of decor.
Lyrics:
It was while preaching in California that he encountered a young Jewish man that challenged Alfred by posing the question, “Why should I worship a dead Jew?”
]]>The hymn “He Lives” has always been a favorite to sing on Resurrection Sunday. I had it on my mind this week and wondered about the history behind it.
I was surprised to learn the background of why it was written and that I had something in common with it’s author.
Alfred Ackley was born in 1887 in Pennsylvania and showed great musical potential as a child. (This is NOT what we have in common! 🤪)
His father was a musician and taught him all he knew. Alfred went on to study music in New York City, and eventually went to the Royal Academy of Music in London where he played the cello and piano. He could compose music too!
Alfred later returned to the states to attend Westminster Theological Seminary. After he was ordained as a Presbyterian minister in 1914, he became a pastor in Pennsylvania, but he never stopped writing hymns and music.
Ultimately, Ackley was called to preach in California. He even worked with the well known evangelist Billy Sunday.
It was while preaching in California that he encountered a young Jewish man that challenged Alfred by posing the question, “Why should I worship a dead Jew?”.
It is recorded that Ackley responded with passion by saying, “He lives! I tell you, He is not dead, but lives here and now! Jesus Christ is more alive today than ever before. I can prove it by my own experience, as well as the testimony of countless thousands!”.
His response is backed up by scripture as well. In Matthew 28:6 we read, “He is not here: for he is risen, as he said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay”.
With this conversation still circulating in his mind, Ackley woke and began shaving to prepare for church that day. He was listening to a special Easter broadcast on the radio as he dressed when he heard a well known preacher address the listeners.
What he heard him say made him furious!
“Good morning!” The preacher began. “It’s Easter! You know folks, it really doesn’t make any difference to me if Christ be risen or not. As far as I am concerned His body could be as dust in some Palestinian tomb. The main thing is, His truth goes marching on!”
Ackley shouted at the radio set and some say he threw it across the room causing his wife to hear the commotion.
This is where me and Alfred have something in common. False teaching and bad theology really grind my nerves!
His wife checked on him and encouraged him to pen out his frustration in the form of music.
After returning home from preaching a passionate Resurrection Sunday sermon, Ackley did just that.
He wrote the words and composed the music to the classic hymn we know and love today as “He Lives”. In some hymnals it is also known as “I Serve a Risen Savior”.
The lyrics answered the question of that young Jewish man, and challenged the preacher on the radio with truth.
I pray these lyrics minister to you and have an even more special meaning now that you know the hymn’s history.
Knowing the background of the hymn makes it that much richer. Now when I sing it, I understand the writers motivation!
Can you attest to Jesus being alive in your heart as well?
Our hand lettered hymn board of He Lives is a wonderful reminder of God's power and goodness! Use it to decorate your home and have the song in your heart every time you pass it by.
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I love finding a Christian children's book that plainly presents the gospel of Jesus Christ to our kids. We currently have 9, 7 and 5 year old boys, and we try our best to incorporate talks of salvation with them as often as we can. Here are 3 books that we love for fostering those conversations!
]]>I love finding a Christian children's book that plainly presents the gospel of Jesus Christ to our kids. We currently have 9, 7 and 5 year old boys, and we try our best to incorporate talks of salvation with them as often as we can.
Here are 3 books that we love for fostering those conversations! If you have others, please let me know in the comments!
To briefly see inside the books, watch my quick video here.
1. The Ology
This one goes beyond just a bible story and tells small life stories that relate to theological concepts. It is broken into chapters, and then the chapters are broken into smaller segments, which makes it perfect for bedtime when you need to find a good stopping point. It takes biblical concepts and puts them into easy-to-understand language for kids, without watering down the truth or weight of the story.
2. The Garden, The Curtain, and The Cross
I love how this book takes you from the Garden of Eden when Adam and Eve were kicked out to the Old Testament temple curtain separating the people from the presence of God. There is a big emphasis on our sin being the reason we are separated from God. The climax comes, when God sends His Son to pay the penalty for our sin, and the curtain tore giving us access to God again!
In the beginning, we hear "Because of your sin, you can't come in." multiple times, but when Jesus died and rose again that line changes. Now, "all of Jesus' friends can come in"!
3. A Tale of Two Kings
I loved the approach this book takes! It talks about God's plan for man, and how Adam failed to live up to His perfect standard. God's grace is then displayed when He sends Jesus to fulfill what Adam could not. He would "undo what Adam had messed up", and "bring us back to God".
You can find all these books and more that our family loves on my Amazon Idea List. These all make great gifts too! I actually make it a point to gift "The Garden The Curtain, and The Cross" to new moms at baby showers. I think it is a must have for all Christian families!
Danielle
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I was happy to find out The Clinging Cross was also a small business started by a lady named Jane Davis. She had created the cross after spending time with her father in the hospital. Someone had given her a cross to hold on to, but it was uncomfortable in her hand. She made it her mission to create a comfortable cross that fits perfectly in anyone’s hand.
Let me tell you, she DID! I have seen this cross in my daddy’s big rough hands, and my 7 year old’s hand as he sleeps at night. It is the perfect mold!
I have gifted one to a friend as she rode in an ambulance afraid after a stroke, and another friend as she went back for surgery.
I have also gifted one to a grieving family member to cling to the hope of seeing their loved one again.
Whatever the circumstances, we can find hope in the cross of Jesus Christ.
Who do you know that needs a reminder? Maybe it’s you!
We offer the option of gifting just a cross, but if you are looking for a gift that is even more meaningful we offer a substantial sympathy gift box.
The gift box includes your choice of one of our best-selling hymn boards, The Clinging Cross, an Antique Candle Co. candle, and a Comfort and Care Scripture Card Collection.
I pray these faith focused gifts remind the receiver they are so loved and cherished in the eyes of God.
For God has not destined us for wrath, but to obtain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ, who died for us so that whether we are awake or asleep we might live with Him. Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing. - 1 Thessalonians 5:9-11
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I've had this hymn on my heart for some time now. I am currently walking through a sweet time with Jesus. He is my greatest friend, and He doesn't just listen to my burdens. He takes them from me and exchanges them for peace that passes all understanding.
As I typed this, tears streamed from my face thinking about how kind He has been to me. Oh how we can trust Him!
There is a difference in having a religious tradition and a personal relationship. One requires us to work and labor towards perfection. It is joyless and heavy. The other is full of grace and companionship. Jesus offers freedom. His sacrifice made a way so you can come to the Father boldly and without shame.
If I could persuade you to one thing today, it would be to tell Jesus all of your burdens. You are not meant to bear them alone. I am adding the lyrics to this song.
Read them slowly and let them minister to your soul.
I must tell Jesus all of my trials,
I cannot bear these burdens alone.
In my distress He kindly will help me,
He ever loves and cares for His own.
I must tell Jesus! I must tell Jesus!
I cannot bear my burdens alone.
I must tell Jesus! I must tell Jesus!
Jesus can help me, Jesus alone.
I must tell Jesus all of my troubles,
He is a kind, compassionate Friend.
If I but ask Him He will deliver,
Make of my troubles quickly an end.
Tempted and tried I need a great Savior,
One who can help my burdens to bear.
I must tell Jesus, I must tell Jesus
He all my cares and sorrows will share.
What must I do when worldliness calls me?
What must I do when tempted to sin?
I must tell Jesus, and He will help me
Over the world the victory to win.
Lord, please help us to come to you speedily when tried and tempted. You are so faithful and we praise You for Your mercy upon us! Thank you for calling us a friend!
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There are a million thoughts the enemy can throw your way. When we begin to believe the lies he tells, we may come to doubt the goodness of our Heavenly Father. So easily we can find ourselves in the middle of worry and anxiety about our current situation or future possibilities. I want to remind you today that your creator loves you so much!
“Therefore I say to you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds of the air, for they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, YET your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?
Which of you by worrying can add one cubit to his stature? “So why do you worry about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow…they neither toil nor spin, and yet I say to you that even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.
Now if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will He not much more clothe you, oh you of little faith?
“Therefore do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For after all these things the Gentiles seek. For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day isits own trouble. -Matthew 6:25-34
Are not two sparrows sold for a copper coin? And not one of them falls to the ground apart from your Father’s will. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Do not fear therefore, you are of more value than many sparrows. -Matthew 10:29-31
What an amazing proclamation by Jesus!
Lord, please grant us the faith to lay our worry at Your feet and trust You with every aspect of our lives. We give You this day and pray to honor You with it!
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During my Facebook Live a few weeks ago, one of my subscribers said she was wearing a shirt that said, “Life is hard, but God is good” while she was following along with my lettering, and I just loved that! God knows the year 2020 will be one we all remember. Over the past few months there has been more interest in lettering on my Facebook lives. The involvement surrounding these live videos is what led to the creation of my new project, Digital Dust! It’s a subscription service of hand lettered designs. I created it so I could spend more time connecting with y'all and sharing some of the messages God has been laying on my heart.
Why a Lettering Subscription Might Be Your New Favorite Hobby
Digital Dust is a lettering file subscription that gives you access to 10 new, original files every month.
The best part of this subscription is its versatility! It is truly a catch all for lettering beginners and pros alike! Want to practice your muscle memory through traceable designs? Want to become more proficient in the Procreate app? Interested in creating custom merchandise, like t-shirts and totes, with Imperfect Dust quotes? Digital Dust will help you make all the things happen. Think of it as the short-cut, the template, the perfect jumping off point to finally begin creating your own calligraphy content.
Most importantly, it will give you the tools to practice and master something that brings you joy, create beauty in your life, and reflect on God’s word.
So, How Does It Work?
Each month, you’ll be able to log into your subscriber account and download 10 unique files. Make sure you download them before the end of the month, or they will disappear! Once you download them, you will have them forever.
If you’re already running out of room practicing in your “Lettering for Absolute Beginners” Workbook, these traceable designs are a great addition to your lettering practice.
As a subscriber, I also let you in on a special deal. If you are a small business, you are welcome to use my designs to create products, free of charge. All I ask is that you don’t mass produce or sell on something like Amazon. There are no extra fees required for this commercial option. I’m just excited to extend it to my subscribers to help share the Good News.
For each of the 10 files you receive each month, you’ll be able to download four versions to meet your various needs.
I’m In! How Do I Get Started?
You can choose the monthly subscription option for $15 per month if you just want to dip your toes in and see what this lettering life is all about. Or, you can go all in and get the yearly subscription for $150, and save $30. When you become a subscriber, you receive my files for $1.50 instead of the $3.00-$5.00 they usually sell for on my website. It’s a steal!
If you want to get a sneak peek at Digital Dust, what you’ll be receiving as a subscriber, and how to use the files, check out my live on Facebook. I also have an FAQ section on the sign up page where I go over more details.
Hop on over to Digital Dust to begin your subscription!]]>I am loving a new set of books that a sweet friend sent to me. The books tell the story behind many of the hymns that I grew up singing. Now, I am a “back row Baptist”. I fully believe in sitting on the back row but I believe the Lord said to make a joyful noise and that is what I try to do. I mean I am not a good singer by any means. When the congregation starts singing, I am the one who makes all the other singers turn around to see where that horrible noise is coming from. But I do love to sing the old hymns.
These books tell about the song's author and what led the author to write the song. Some of the stories are amazing, and I want to share them with you over the next few months. As I read about each hymn, I'm learning more about them. It makes it so much more meaningful as I hand letter them onto these hymn boards.
Recently, I packaged up a “Victory in Jesus” hymn board. It made me want to open the books to see the history behind the song. The lyrics truly speak to the salvation story!
It was penned by Eugene M. Bartlett in 1939. He had been well known in southern gospel circles as a teacher or music and founder of Hartford Music Company.
When Mr. Bartlett was 54, he suffered a life-altering stroke that left him paralyzed and confined to his bedroom. Can you imagine not being able to move and never being able to leave the house? He was no longer able to teach music and go to church like he was accustomed to doing. It must have been very depressing for him. He couldn’t travel to churches for singing engagements or teach his students in the classroom. His arms were paralyzed making It difficult for him to write letters. He could barely put notes down on a score to continue writing songs for his music company.
Despite Mr. Bartlett’s limitations, he could still study his bible. God must have surely spoken to him in his situation since the last song he completed was filled with such hope for generations to come. His song, “Victory in Jesus” contains solid theology that he had gathered from his time studying his bible. I cannot imagine the time it must have taken for him to write out all these words to this song.
I am so moved by this song and want to share the five things that spoke to me through reading the lyrics.
How He gave His life on Calvary to save a wretch like me
Some may say “wretch” is a harsh word for Bartlett to use in the first verse. I have to say that I am thankful for the bluntness of his choice of words. I truly was a wretch when Christ saved me. The beautiful thing is that Romans 5:8 reminds us, “God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
He sought me and bought me with His redeeming blood
I love how the song references that Jesus sought us and bought us! In John 15:16 Jesus says, “You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last—and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you.”
He loved me 'ere I knew Him and all my love is due Him
I always try to sing this part a little louder! Yes, I know that is painful for those sitting in front of me but how can you not want to love this Him? He is so worthy of all my love and devotion!
The last verse that speaks of our heavenly home always fills me with so much hope! I love singing about a mansion, streets of gold, a crystal sea, and the angels singing, but it will be nothing in comparison to seeing Jesus face to face and singing the song of victory beside Him.
Some of my absolute favorite scriptures are found 1 Corinthians 15:50-58. Verse 57 in particular could be the theme verse of “Victory in Jesus” as it says, “Thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.”! I encourage you to read these verses and meditate on how God has given you the victory over sin and death through Christ. I have had so much victory in my life through Jesus Christ. I cannot tell you how much this victory means to me but I would love to talk with you about it.
Lastly, if you don’t know this “victory” I’m writing about today, I pray that you would read these lyrics and know how much Christ loves you, that He died for you, and can “heal your broken spirit”! If you ever need someone to talk to or have questions about how to know Christ as your Savior, please email me danielle@imperfectdust.com. I would love to pray with you and encourage you!
My husband and I always struggle to know what to read to our kids at night. Finding the bedtime book that is not too short, not too long, or has easy stopping points AND has a teachable lesson or moral of the story is tough, y’all! However, thanks to a good friend’s recommendation (and all the books Amazon recommended on top of that!) I think I’ve found some TREASURES worth sharing.
Here’s my run down of wholesome, kid-friendly reads to make quarantine a little more bearable. If you’re thinking ahead, these would also be great Easter gifts! You can also see us showing all the books over on Facebook!
#1: The Ology
This gets the number one spot on my list because it is packed with goodness and scripture. The second reason it’s my favorite is because it is broken into chapters, and then the chapters are broken into smaller segments, which makes it perfect for bedtime when you need to find a good stopping point. It takes biblical concepts and puts them into easy-to-understand language for kids, without watering down the truth or weight of the story.
#2: The Garden, the Curtain, and the Cross
This book is a short one, but it explains the gospel in the most brilliant, simple way. My kids absolutely love this one because it’s basically a very clever summary of the bible. Their favorite quote of the book is “Because of your sin, you can’t come in.” It illustrates how the fall of man prevents us from being in union with God, but that because of His grace and Jesus’ sacrifice, we are reunited.
#3: The Donkey Who Carried A King
My 2nd grader summarizes this one for me in my video overview of these books on my Facebook, because this one is his top pick! The story is from the perspective of a young boy who kept getting picked last when he would play games with his friends. His grandpa tells him the story of a Donkey who was always carrying ordinary things, but then one day was chosen to carry Jesus. This book is on the longer end of the spectrum, just an FYI in case you’re starting bedtime with already heavy eyes!
After reading that title, you might be thinking “Wait, I thought it was Daniel and the Lions' Den?” You’re right! But that’s what is so neat about this book. It teaches kids how to find Jesus in scripture, and see how each story in the Old Testament reflects the prophecy of Jesus’ coming to save us. For example, Daniel is ridiculed and persecuted for speaking the truth and praying, just how Jesus was during his time on earth. This kind of storytelling is called “typology” and this is a wonderful book to help introduce this method of study to your kids at a young age!
The title of this one says it all. This book tells the story of Peter’s denial and how Jesus forgave him.
I’m always looking for good reads to help build my kids’ library up! So if you have more suggestions, send them my way!
]]>Y’all, I am so thrilled. My book “Lettering for Absolute Beginners” launched last week and the response has me in shock and deeply grateful for all of you! Seriously. Call it lack of confidence or maybe I just didn’t want to get my hopes up, but I never could have imagined it would be flying off the shelves the way it is! Glory to God!
To celebrate, I recently did a Facebook Live and Instagram TV video to give you an idea of what is inside the hand-lettering book, how to use it, what you’ll need to get started, and some of my personal lettering tips.
Why This Book
In case you didn’t know, I started teaching myself calligraphy and hand-lettering from mimicking the technique of others, looking up lettering on Pinterest and practicing. Once I got the basics down, I was able to begin developing my own personal, unique style. So, if I can do it, you can!
And that’s exactly why I created this book. This is a “faux” calligraphy book, meaning you can use regular, everyday markers. For example, in my video, I’m using a Crayola fine tip marker. This is a good one to start with because it’s cheap, easy to use, and stays the same weight when you press down on it. My hope is that with these practical tips, you’ll get the method down so you can use your new hand-lettering skills for real life projects.
What You’ll Learn
The book is filled with practice pages that show you how to write five different lettering styles of lowercase and uppercase letters, transition between letters, and put it all together with common words. It also highlights common hand-lettering mistakes so you can avoid them. It’s formatted as a workbook to help you bring each letter to life and develop muscle memory as you build your new skill. At the back of the book, there is free perforated art that you can tear out and frame, and art you can do yourself and share with others!
Getting started is really simple. Here’s how I like to break it down:
Thank You!
To everyone who has already ordered, thank you! Your support means the world. Keep tagging me on social media when you get your book and start using it, because it makes me so happy to see it in your hands!
“All this is for your benefit, so that the grace that is reaching more and more people may cause thanksgiving to overflow to the glory of God.” - 2 Corinthians 4:15
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When a friend, family member, or loved one is grieving, all you want to do is ease their pain and provide comfort. However, it’s often challenging to know what to give and most people resort to the classic gift of flowers.
While flowers are beautiful and certainly bring joy to a heavy heart, I’ve found that sometimes thinking outside the box can help you bring your loved one a gift that lasts long after the flowers have lost their petals.
Warm, Home-Cooked Meal
This simple act of service can mean more than a gift. When your loved one is struggling, taking care of even a basic need like feeding themselves or their family can feel overwhelming. Take this to-do item off their plate by bringing them a delicious, nourishing home-cooked meal.
Hymn of Hope
While the present moment may be hard, these are the moments that shape who we are. If your loved one is struggling, consider gifting a hymn frame that proclaims the Lord’s faithfulness and puts a song on their heart each time they see it.
Wisdom Sign
The wisdom of the Word can bring great comfort to those in distress or grieving. Psalm 23 “The Lord is my Shepherd” or Psalm 46:10 “Be still and know that I am God” are encouraging words your loved one can have in their home to remind them of His love.
Giving Blanket
When life feels overwhelming, gifting a beautiful blanket can be like wrapping your friend in a big, warm, fuzzy hug. This blanket is made of super soft polyester fleece and comes in ready-to-gift packaging so you can ship directly to your loved one.
Self Care Package
Put together a little basket that reminds your loved one to rest during this difficult time. A candle, some lotion, a bath bomb, or anything else that encourages them to relax.
I hope that these five simple sympathy gifts offer you inspiration and ideas to walk alongside your loved ones when they are in a difficult season of life.
"The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." - Psalm 34:18
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