BE THOU EXALTED

One of the best know hymn writers in history was Fanny Crosby (1820 - 1915).  Despite her blindness she made a major impact on the worship of evangelicals through her music.  By the end of the 19th century, she was "a household name" and "one of the most prominent figures in American evangelical life". Crosby was "the premier hymnist of the gospel song period", and one of the most prolific hymnists in history, writing over 8,000, with over 100 million copies of her songs printed.  And you and I have sung many of these great hymns over and over for years.  However, one of her most profound  hymns is one that very few people have ever heard or sung.  And the hymn that I am speaking about is this week's choice, "Be Thou Exalted".  Part of the reason that this hymn is not well known might be the actual music which was composed by Alfred Smith.  It is a tricky rhythm with the verses in 9/8 time and the chorus in 12/8 time.  The theme may be based on Psalm 97:9, "For Thou, Lord, art high above all the earth.  Thou art exalted for above all gods." The three verses share the Trinity, Father, Son and Holy Spirit, some of their attributes, and what each should mean to us.  So often in our daily lives we tend to exalt so many less important things, such as our jobs, our possessions, our successes, our ministries, and even our family.  We need instead to worship and exalt the triune God of eternity which alone is worthy of our praise.  And as you read the words this week may you join in singing "Thine be the glory forever Amen!".  Since I have not been able to locate a video of this being sung, I am linking to a great video of it being played by harps.  Hopefully you will be able to associate the words with the music as you worship this week.

(1)    Be Thou exalted, forever and ever,
God of eternity, Ancient of Days!
Wondrous in majesty, perfect in wisdom,
Glorious in holiness, and worthy of praise.
Be Thou exalted by seraphs and angels,
Be Thou exalted with harp and with song;
Saints in their anthems of rapture adore Thee,
Thine be the glory forever Amen!

(2)  Be Thou exalted, O Son of the Highest!

Gracious Redeemer, our Savior and King!

One with the Father, coequal in glory,

Here at Thy footstool our homage we bring.

Be Thou exalted by seraphs and angels,

Be Thou exalted with harp and with song;

Saints in their anthems of rapture adore Thee,

Thine be the glory forever Amen!

(3)  Be Thou exalted, O Spirit eternal!

Dwell in our hearts, keep us holy within;

Feed us each day with Thy Heavenly Manna

"Healer of wounded hearts" Thy praises we sing.

Be Thou exalted by seraphs and angels,

Be Thou exalted with harp and with song;

Saints in their anthems of rapture adore Thee,

Thine be the glory forever Amen!

Listen to it being sung here.   LISTEN 1

Listen to a beautiful rendition played by a harp choir.  LISTEN