By Christ in mercy offered,
Who anguish bore, and took my place,
When on the cross He suffered.
His precious blood He Shed to free,
From sin and all its stinging,
Death destined sinners such as we!
How can I keep form singing?
2. Who live in Christ are blest to know
A joy beyond all measure,
His Spirit's gifts the heart overflow
Our comfort, grace and treasure.
His word of grace, through endless years
New blessedness still bringing,
Is heaven's music in my ears.
How can I keep form singing?
3. The storms of earth may rend and tear
And never cease distressing,
But we, safe kept in Jesus' care,
Know endless peace and blessing.
Then as we watch and wait and yearn,
And prayers on high are winging,
While I await our Lord's return,
How can I keep form singing?
Who anguish bore, and took my place,
When on the cross He suffered.
His precious blood He Shed to free,
From sin and all its stinging,
Death destined sinners such as we!
How can I keep form singing?
2. Who live in Christ are blest to know
A joy beyond all measure,
His Spirit's gifts the heart overflow
Our comfort, grace and treasure.
His word of grace, through endless years
New blessedness still bringing,
Is heaven's music in my ears.
How can I keep form singing?
3. The storms of earth may rend and tear
And never cease distressing,
But we, safe kept in Jesus' care,
Know endless peace and blessing.
Then as we watch and wait and yearn,
And prayers on high are winging,
While I await our Lord's return,
How can I keep form singing?
Scripture; 2 Corinthians 5:17; Psalm 46:1-2; Psalm 46:1-2; Revelation 21:1-2
The hymn “My Life Flows On in Endless Song,” often known by its refrain “How Can I Keep from Singing,” has a rich history rooted in spiritual perseverance and social consciousness. First published in 1868 in The New York Observer under the title “Always Rejoicing” and credited to a writer named “Pauline T.,” the lyrics express a deep inner peace grounded in faith, even amid turmoil. A year later, Baptist minister and composer Robert Lowry included the hymn in his song collection Bright Jewels for the Sunday School and set it to music, which gave the hymn its now-familiar melody. The hymn experienced a revival during the 20th-century American folk movement, particularly through the influence of folk singer Pete Seeger, who used it as a song of protest and resilience during times of social and political unrest. Seeger’s version highlighted lines that spoke to justice and moral integrity, making it especially meaningful in civil rights and anti-war contexts. In 1950, social activist Doris Plenn added a fourth verse to emphasize these themes even more strongly, and her addition has been embraced in various hymnals, especially within Unitarian Universalist communities. Over time, the hymn has become a powerful expression of hope, courage, and unwavering faith, making it beloved across many spiritual and secular traditions.
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