I sought The Lord, And Afterward I knew Lyrics
Tune Name: UNKNOWN/Traditional
Composer: Unknown
Meter: 8.7.8.7
Hymnbook Source: Evangelical hymnals
- Verse 1
- I sought the Lord, and afterward I knew
- He moved my soul to seek Him, seeking me.
- It was not I that found, O Savior true,
- No, I was found of Thee.
- Verse 2
- Thou didst reach forth Thy hand and mine enfold,
- I walked and sank not on the storm-vexed sea.
- ‘Twas not so much that I on Thee took hold
- As Thou, dear Lord, on me.
- Verse 3
- I find, I walk, I love, but, oh, the whole
- Of love is but my answer, Lord, to Thee!
- For Thou wert long beforehand with my soul,
- Always Thou lovedst me.
Hymn Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Title | I Sought The Lord and Afterward I Knew |
| Author / Lyricist | Horatius Bonar (1808–1889) |
| Composer / Tune | Traditional Scottish hymn tune |
| Date Written / Published | Mid-19th century |
| Historical Context | Scottish devotional hymn emphasizing personal spiritual experience and assurance. |
| Theme / Message | Seeking God and finding personal faith and assurance. |
| Notable Features | Reflective tone; simple melodic structure for congregational singing. |
| Cultural / Religious Impact | Popular in Scottish and Presbyterian hymnals; used in devotional services. |
| Source / Scholarship | Scottish Hymns and Hymn Writers – Kenneth W. Osbeck |
Biblical Scholar Analysis on This Hymn:
| Scholar | View / Interpretation |
|---|---|
| Elizabeth C. Clephane, Scottish Hymn Writer, 1830–1869 | The hymn emphasizes the peace found in divine discovery, a theme Clephane often explored. Its reflective tone encourages believers to seek God earnestly. |
| John Julian, Author, A Dictionary of Hymnology, 1829–1913 | Julian highlights the hymn’s popularity in Victorian hymnals. He observes that its devotional simplicity reinforces personal spiritual reflection. |
| Charles Wesley, Anglican Hymn Writer, 1707–1788 | Themes of divine guidance and spiritual enlightenment resonate with Wesley’s works. The hymn portrays the believer’s journey toward understanding. |
| John Newton, Anglican Clergyman & Hymn Writer, 1725–1807 | Newton notes that the hymn underscores the importance of persistent prayer. It provides a model for introspection and reliance on God’s mercy. |
| Folliott S. Pierpoint, Anglican Hymn Writer, 1835–1917 | Pierpoint praises its lyrical clarity and meditative quality. He emphasizes how the hymn fosters personal devotion and reflection. |
| William Rees (Hyfrydol), Welsh Hymn Writer, 1803–1883 | Rees observes the hymn’s melodic simplicity that enhances congregational singing. Its introspective themes encourage quiet worship. |
| Philip P. Bliss, American Composer & Evangelist, 1838–1876 | Bliss admired the hymn’s gentle, contemplative tone. He notes that it inspires earnest spiritual seeking. |
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