Hymns have held a special place in the hearts of believers through the years. Many for good reason. Praises being sung to our God and King are worthy of singing. And then there are those whose lyrics ask us to surrender something to God. Today’s hymn does that.

When my children were younger, they learned “Take My Life and Let it Be” in youth group. I was surprised. Of course they sang all of the usual youth group songs. The silly ones along with the serious songs. But this one meant something to me. It meant something to the youth leaders too. I was thankful for Brian and Suzanne’s willingness to teach my children a hymn that pointed them to being devoted to God.

I wonder if we overlook the importance when we sing these lyrics during a worship service. Am I willing to live up to the words in this hymn? Is my life completely, totally, 100% dedicated to God? Have I consecrated (to make or declare something sacred) every portion of my being to Him? Am I withholding anything from God? Does praise constantly flow from my lips? And what about my will? Does it really belong to Him?

These are tough questions that require thought and decision-making on my part. You see, it’s not the hymn that asks, it’s God. He wants every portion of our life so that He can use us for His purposes and work.

Do you recall Jesus’ words in Mark 12:30 (NIV)? “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.” That’s all of us isn’t it?

God asks. What are you willing to give Him? Maybe today’s hymn is not one to take lightly. As you read through these words, take the time to concentrate on each phrase. Search your heart to find those areas that you haven’t given to God. And then, maybe today, give God every little bit of you.

“Take My Life”

Take my life and let it be consecrated Lord to Thee
Take my moments and my days, let them flow in ceaseless praise

Take my hands and let them move at the impulse of Thy love
Take my feet and let them be swift and beautiful for Thee

Take my voice and let me sing always, only for my King
Take my lips and let them be filled with messages from Thee

Take my silver and my gold, not a mite would I withhold
Take my intellect and use every power as You choose

Here am I, all of me, take my life, it’s all for Thee

Take my will and make it Thine, it shall be no longer mine

Take my heart, it is Thine own, it shall be Thy royal throne
Take my love, my Lord I pour at Your feet, it’s treasure store

Take myself and I will be ever, only, all for Thee

Here am I, all of me, take my life, it’s all for Thee[i]

Click here to listen to this beautiful hymn.

Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

Donna

[i] “Take My Life,” Words by Frances R. Havergal, Music by   Henry A. Malan, Additional chorus by Chris Tomlin and Louie Giglio, Worship Together Music, 2004.