I have gleaned these stories from conversations with these wonderful songwriters, from friends who knew them and from periodicals and books of hymnology. Although this book is primarily a devotional volume, the contents can be used as sermon illustrations, Sunday school lesson illustrations or story backgrounds for youth or children's gatherings. Schoolteachers have often found them to be exciting to their students. - Preface.
From the moment the pilgrims landed on the shores of the New World, to the dark days following September 11, songs of faith have inspired, comforted, and rallied our beloved country. Stories Behind the Hymns That Inspire America describes the people, places, and events that have shaped the heart and soul of America. The stories behind these songs will fascinate you and bring new meaning and richness to special spiritual moments in the history of our nation. Discover how:§ “Faith of Our Fathers,” sung at Franklin Delano Roosevelt’s funeral, had its roots not with the pilgrims but with a Catholic fighting for the right to worship freely in Anglican England§ World events, from the downing of Flight 007 in Russian airspace to Desert Storm and September 11, propelled Lee Greenwood’s “God Bless the U.S.A.” § The author of “Battle Hymn of the Republic” lived the words “His truth is marching on” until the day she died§ Combining African rhythms and southern folk melodies, slaves brought Bible truths to life with songs such as “Roll, Jordan, Roll”The songs in this book have energized movements, illuminated dark paths, commemorated historic events, taken the message of freedom and faith across this nation and beyond, healed broken spirits, and righted wrongs. Their stories will make you proud of your heritage as you realize anew that in America, even one voice can make a lasting influence.
In times of doubt, fear, and loss, we turn to the songs and hymns that remind us that this world is not all there is--that what awaits us as followers of Jesus is a heavenly kingdom. Songs like "Face to Face," "Amazing Grace," "Heaven Came Down," "Victory in Jesus," and "I'll Fly Away." And behind every song about heaven is a story. So many were written amid circumstances of great personal pain on the part of the songwriter. And in sharing their story, we can find even more comfort in our own circumstances. Award-winning author Ace Collins offers this collection of 30 inspiring stories that provide hope for this world and insight into the next, painting a picture of eternal life filled with joy, peace, and happy reunions. This book is perfect for those who love the stories behind the great hymns of the faith as well as anyone who has experienced loss, and pastors, hospice workers, and counselors will find it the perfect pass-along for the grieving.
This revised best-seller is an inspiring daily devotional based on 366 great hymns of the faith. It contains a portion of each hymn along with Scripture readings, meditations, and practical applications.
Perhaps you've heard the stories of the Adventist pioneers. However these are the stories that are not often told. The stories that bring out the human nature of each one. Heartwarming stories will give you a different perspective. You'll get to know the pioneers. None of them were perfect--but all of them did their best, by God's grace, to spread the message of Jesus' soon return and the good news of the seventh-day Sabbath. You'll laugh, cry, and celebrate the God who uses imperfect people to do His work. - A Word to the Reader; CHAPTER; 1 William Miller: "Today, Today, and Today, Till He Comes"; 2 Hiram Edson: Bible Student, Preacher, Healer; 3 Joseph Bates: Herald of the Saggath; 4 James White: "You Will See Your Lord A-Coming"; 5 Ellen Gould Harmon: Messenger of the Lord; 6 William Foy and Hazen Foss: One Who Willingly Obeyed, and One Who Refused to Obey; 7 Heman S. Gurney: The Singing Blacksmith; 8 James and Ellen White: They Worked Together; 9 Uriah Smith: "Yours in the Blessed Hope"; 10 John Nevins Andrews: "The Ablest Man in Our Ranks"; 11 Annie Smith: Poet, Artist, Editor; Bibliography
52 Hymn Story Devotions is ideal for anyone who enjoys hymns and leads devotions at church meetings, choir rehearsals, and Sunday school. The volume can also be used by individuals for personal devotions. Key Features: • Each devotion includes a Scripture reference, printed hymn text, and commentary • Provides devotionals based on 52 familiar hymns • Devotions can be read verbatim by leader or party member Key Benefits: • Helps choirs with the spiritual aspect of choir membership • Can be given to a choir member to read with no advanced preparation • Allows choir directors to use devotions to strengthen the choir ministry
From worldwide sources, these songs were heavily recorded and published throughout the last century. They include chart successes, movie hits, modern hymns, and contemporary choruses. Each story is preceded by an appropriate Bible text. This book is ideal for the pastor, preacher, teacher, student, layperson, music fan, Christian reader, and the casual reader alike.
