sdahymnal Archive

The story behind: God Himself Is With Us

The origins of the hymn “God Himself Is With Us” can be traced back to Gerhard Tersteegen, a notable German theologian and hymn writer of the early 18th century. Tersteegen’s hymn, initially titled “Gott ist gegenwärtig” in German, gained prominence when it was …

Gerhard Tersteegen

Gerhard Tersteegen, born on November 25, 1697, in Moers, Germany, was a prominent figure in German religious history. He is best known as a hymnwriter, spiritual poet, and mystic whose works had a profound impact on Christian spirituality during the 18th century. Tersteegen …

Francis of Assisi

Francis of Assisi, born Giovanni di Pietro di Bernardone in 1181 or 1182, was an Italian Catholic friar and preacher who became one of the most revered figures in Christian history. He is widely known for his devotion to poverty, his love for …

The story behind : Blessed Assurance, Jesus is Mine!

“Blessed Assurance” is a beloved Christian hymn that was written by Fanny Crosby in 1873. Fanny Crosby was a prolific hymn writer, known for penning thousands of hymns during her lifetime. Despite being blind from infancy, her faith and poetic gifts allowed her …

The story behind : Praise to the Lord, the Almighty

The story behind “Praise to the Lord, the Almighty, the King of Creation” involves the contributions of two individuals: Joachim Neander and Catherine Winkworth. Joachim Neander, a German Reformed theologian and hymn writer, composed the original hymn in German titled “Lobe den Herren, …

Joachim Neander

Joachim Neander (1650-1680) was a German Reformed (Calvinist) theologian, hymn writer, and pastor. He is best known for his hymn writing and his significant contributions to Protestant hymnody. Neander was born in Bremen, Germany, and studied theology at the University of Bremen. Neander …

Anne Steele

Anne Steele (1717-1778) was an English poet and hymn writer known for her significant contributions to Christian hymnody. She was born in Broughton, Hampshire, England, into a devout Baptist family. Her father, William Steele, was a timber merchant and the pastor of the …

Fanny J. Crosby

Fanny J. Crosby, born as Frances Jane Crosby, was an American hymnist and poet. She is best known for her prolific hymn writing, having composed thousands of hymns during her lifetime. Fanny Crosby was born on March 24, 1820, in Brewster, New York, …

700 – Oh, Sing to the Lord a New Song

Psalm 96, N.K.J.V Oh, sing to the Lord a new song! Sing to the Lord, all the earth. Sing to the Lord, bless His name; Proclaim the good news of His salvation from day to day. Declare His glory among the nations, His …