I AM THINE, O LORD

Dearly Beloved, I AM THINE, O LORD “Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water” (Hebrews 10:22 NKJV). The hymn, “I AM THINE, O LORD”, written by Fanny Jane Crosby (1820-1915) is one of the most popular hymns of consecration. It was composed out of inspiration from the discussion of the blind Crosby and William Doane about the blessedness of enjoying the nearness of God. As they were discussing at length about this, Crosby started writing the words of the hymn - line by line, verse by verse, and then the refrain. Doane later arranged the stanzas and composed the tune. Like so many of Crosby’s hymns, this hymn is written in the first person - a personal testimony of her relationship with Christ. Stanza one begins with a total surrender to Christ and the desire to be closer drawn to God. The second stanza aptly draws upon the closeness of this relationship as a thrust of service, a desire for consecration to the service of Lord. Stanza three defines the relationship further as one centred in prayer. In the final stanza, Crosby acknowledges that her relationship will not be complete until she reaches heaven and then she will find rest in peace with God. The refrain is the focal point around which the stanzas all connect. This hymn is indeed a hymn of consecration. Do you really belong to God? How close are you to Him? Are you ready to totally surrender yourself for the service of the Lord? If the blind Fanny Jane Crosby could make this commitment in spite of her predicament, it is a big challenge to the contemporary Christian to commit him/herself to God no matter the situation. Apostle James summed it up: “Draw near to God and He will draw near to you” (James 4:8 NKJV). In His service, Bayo Afolaranmi (Pastor). Prayer Point: Sincerely commit yourself to God and ask Him to consecrate you for His service.