March on, O Soul, with Strength - Hymn With Lyrics

1. March on, my soul, with strength,
march forward, void of fear;
he who has led will lead,
through each succeeding year;
and as you journey on your way,
his hand shall hold you day by day.

2. March on, my soul, with strength,
in ease you dare not dwell;
your Master calls you forth;
then up, and serve him well!
Take up your cross, take up your sword,
and fight the battles of your Lord!

3. March on, my soul, with strength,
with strength, but not your own;
the conquest you shall gain,
through Christ your Lord alone;
his grace shall power your feeble arm,
his love preserve you safe from harm.

4. March on, my soul, with strength,
from strength to strength march on;
warfare shall end at length,
all foes be overthrown.
And then, my soul, if faithful now,
the crown of life awaits your brow.

Scripture; 

Judges 5:21, 

Psalm 18:35, 

Isaiah 40:28-31, Matthew 10:38

The hymn "March On, O Soul, with Strength" was written by George Thomas Coster, an English Congregational minister and hymn writer, in 1900. It was set to the tune "Arthur's Seat" by John Goss in 1874. The hymn is a call to spiritual courage and steadfastness, urging believers to draw strength from their faith and heritage as they face life's challenges.hymnary.org+1blueletterbible.org+1blueletterbible.org+1ehymns.org+1

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📜 Background and Inspiration

George T. Coster was born in 1835 in Chatham, Kent, England. He studied for the Congregational ministry at New College, London, and was ordained in 1859. Throughout his ministry, Coster was known for his poetic contributions to Christian literature, including hymns and tracts. His works often reflected themes of faith, perseverance, and the Christian journey.hymnary.org

"March On, O Soul, with Strength" was written during a time when the Christian church was experiencing various social and political challenges. The hymn reflects a call to believers to stand firm in their faith, drawing inspiration from the courage of past saints and the strength found in God's presence.

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🎶 Musical Composition

The hymn was set to the tune "Arthur's Seat" by John Goss, a prominent English composer and organist. Goss composed this tune in 1874, and it has since been associated with various hymns, including "March On, O Soul, with Strength." The melody complements the hymn's themes of strength and perseverance, providing a musical backdrop that enhances its message.blueletterbible.org+1ehymns.org+1

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📖 Scriptural Foundations

The hymn draws inspiration from several biblical passages that encourage believers to stand firm in their faith and draw strength from God:

• Ephesians 6:10–18 – This passage describes the "armor of God," urging believers to be strong in the Lord and to stand firm against spiritual adversaries.

• 2 Timothy 2:3–4 – Paul instructs Timothy to endure hardship as a good soldier of Jesus Christ, highlighting the discipline and commitment required in the Christian faith.

• Romans 13:12 – This verse calls believers to cast off the works of darkness and put on the armor of light, resonating with the hymn's theme of marching forward under the "banner of light."

• 1 Thessalonians 5:5–6 – Believers are described as children of the light, urged to be sober and vigilant, reflecting the hymn's call to march onward undaunted.

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🌍 Legacy and Impact

"March On, O Soul, with Strength" has been included in various hymnals and continues to be sung in churches, especially during times of spiritual reflection and commitment. Its message of perseverance and reliance on God's strength resonates with believers facing challenges and striving to live out their faith boldly