UNDER HIS WINGS (TH#19)

 TIMELESS HYMN #19 - Another revised and repeated blog of one of the great hymns of the faith - UNDER HIS WINGS  - originally shared on January 11, 2009.

          The story is told of a fire in the Midwest that swept over dry fields destroying everything in its path.  When the fire was finally extinguished, someone noticed the body of a chicken that was burnt to a crisp.  However, when they heard some noise they pushed aside the body and under its wings found several small chicks alive.  They had been protected from the fire by the wings of their mother.  David shared a similar thought in Psalm 91:4, "He will cover you with his feathers,  and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart." (NIV).  He mentions a similar thought in Psalm 63:7, " Because you are my help,  I sing in the shadow of your wings."  Have you found this to be true in your life?  Has he protected you "under His wings" from the storms of life?  Has He given you a song in the midst of the strife?   How often in my life I have found His protection, when nothing else could help.   Safe and secure, sheltered and protected, under His wings of care.  The words of this hymn were written by William Orcott Cushing (1823-1902) in 1896.  Cushing faced many trials in his life.  After the death of his wife he developed a physical problem which took his voice and as a result his position as a preacher.  But the Lord gave him the gift of writing and he went on to pen the words for many great hymns, such as this one.  This hymn may have even been his personal testimony.  The music was added by Ira Sankey (1840-1908) who shared this hymn in many evangelistic crusades.  The truth of this hymn has been a source of comfort for many over the years.  Rejoice in the truth of His protection and refuge as you face the challenges of your daily walk with Christ.  May your prayer be, Psalm 17:8, "Hide me under the shadow of your wings."

(1)  Under His wings I am safely abiding;

Though the night deepens and tempests are wild,

Still I can trust Him; I know He will keep me;

He has redeemed me, and I am His child.

Under His wings, under His wings,

Who from His love can sever?

Under His wings, my soul shall abide,

Safely abide forever.

(2)  Under His wings, what a refuge in sorrow!

How the heart yearningly turns to its rest!

Often when earth has no balm for my healing,

Under His wings, under His wings,

Who from His love can sever?

Under His wings, my soul shall abide,

Safely abide forever.

(3)   Under His wings, O what precious enjoyment!

There will I hide till life's trials are over;

Sheltered, protected, no evil can harm me;

Resting in Jesus I'm safe evermore.

Under His wings, under His wings,

Who from His love can sever?

Under His wings, my soul shall abide,

Safely abide forever. 

You can listen to the melody here.    LISTEN