Never Give Up

I was just made aware of the hymn, “Never Give Up”, a few minutes ago. To my recollection, I don’t think I’ve ever heard it. The lyrics were written by Fanny Crosby, a blind hymn writer of over 8,000 hymns. Of her blindness, Fanny said:

“It seemed intended by the blessed providence of God that I should be blind all my life, and I thank him for the dispensation. If perfect earthly sight were offered me tomorrow I would not accept it. I might not have sung hymns to the praise of God if I had been distracted by the beautiful and interesting things about me.”

(Just a little thought right here – I know it was only the grace of God that enabled Fanny to say the above. But, I wonder…are there “beautiful and interesting things” that God is lovingly keeping from us – knowing they would only be hindrances to our usefulness for Him?)

Here are the lyrics to the hymn – I pray they will be an encouragement to you today. Knowing a little bit about the author makes the words more meaningful, don’t you think?

Never be sad or desponding,
Only have faith to believe;
Grace, for the duties before thee,
Ask of thy God and receive.

Never give up, Never give up,
Never give up to thy sorrows,
Jesus will bid them depart;
Trust in the Lord, Trust in the Lord,
Sing when your trials are greatest,
Trust in the Lord and take heart.

What if thy burdens oppress thee?
What tho’ thy life may be drear?
Look on the side that is brightest,
Pray, and thy path will be clear.

Never be sad or desponding,
Lean on the arm of thy Lord;
Dwell in the depths of His mercy,
Thou shalt receive thy reward.

Never give up, Never give up,
Never give up to thy sorrows,
Jesus will bid them depart;
Trust in the Lord, Trust in the Lord,
Sing when your trials are greatest,
Trust in the Lord and take heart.

(Fanny J. Crosby)