One of my goals this year (and beyond) is to learn old hymns as I only recently discovered this heritage of our faith. God must have approved because He providentially put Then Sings My Soul by Robert J. Morgan on my path. I didn’t know such a book existed; I didn’t even know to look for it. But somehow, I found it, and it turned out to be precisely what I needed.
About the book
Then Sings my Soul is a collection of 150 of the most cherished hymns of the faith, as well as the background story that led to its writing, the music sheet, the lyrics, the author, and a related Bible verse.
The design of the book is unique. It has a soft cover called a French flap cover, which I can only describe as a hybrid between a paperback and a hardcover (see pictures on my Instagram). It’s a pretty neat design and can serve as a bookmark. The pages are ivory, which gives it an antique look and it comes with jagged edges. When I initially saw the edges, I thought the book was damaged, and it mildly upset me. It’s only after rereading the description of the book that I realized it was intentional. It is supposed to give it a classy feel, but I don’t know if I like it.
As for the material, the book comprises of 150 hymns arranged chronologically with a table of content with that order. However, the hymns are also indexed alphabetically, by the author, and by the first line of the hymn.
My thoughts
I have had it for over a month now, and I love it!
I thoroughly enjoy learning the story of a hymn as I learn it. It makes for a more profound experience especially since Morgan wrote it as a devotional style to help us reflect on the hymns we sing. So far, the background stories of the hymns seemed to be all accurate from the few I already knew, and they are well written.
Some of the featured stories are more about the author than any particular circumstances, and that’s fine with me. I didn’t expect every hymn to have a grandiose backstory, and the lives of the authors are equally interesting.
However, I am a bit concerned that the book might not tell the full story of some hymns since Morgan limited each story to one page. But I guess I can always look up more information if need be.
I am a little disappointed that some hymns do not give the full lyrics. For instance, Amazing Grace only has four verses out of seven. Again, it might be due to the author’s decision to make everything fit on one page. I do understand that some hymns are quite long; for example, All Glory, Laud, and Honor has 78 verses! But I wished shorter ones like All Creatures of Our God and King, were complete.
Lastly, I was also a little sad that my two favorite hymns (O Sacred Head Now Wounded and How Deep the Father’ Love For Us) are not in the book, but it’s not a big deal. Moreover, there is a second volume with 150 more hymns, so maybe they are in there.
My Recommendation
I recommend all Christians to get a copy of Then Sings My Soul! Not only will you learn precious hymns of the faith to worship our God, but you will also learn some of the extreme circumstances that prompted these writings.
It will inspire you and encourage you in your faith.
Favorite quotes
But as we sing a new song to the Lord, let’s not forget the old ones.
Introduction
Hymns especially those full of theology, such as Watts’ and Wesley’s, permeate our souls with the timeless veracities of Scriptures.
Introduction
Hymns help us praise God. They’re shafts of brilliant sunlight through the clouds. They provide an almost mystical connection with the endless anthems of praise raising at this very moment before the Heavenly Throne. They unite the Lord’s earth-bound church in heavenly harmony.
Introduction
