Thursday, August 31, 2006

A Hymn on the Sword

As a follow up to the sermon on knowing and using your sword, here's a hymn penned years ago by Jon Bloom, executive director at Desiring God. (HT: David Sunday)

[David tells me it can be sung to the tune of Thy Word Is Like a Garden, Lord.]

It is a sword, this word of God,
A weapon strong and good.
It has been forged by Sovereign grace,
Prophetic fire and blood.
It's double-edged and there exists
No other blade so fine,
But skillful use is only learned
Through active use and time.

It is a sword with which to fight,
A saber for the war.
For frequent are the battles and
Its use will bring its scar.
Designed as an offensive tool,
Not merely to defend,
Attack the enemy with it
And put him to an end!

And yet be warned! This sword we wield
Becomes the Surgeon's knife.
And ruthlessly reveals our sin;
It wounds to save our life.
It lives and acts and pierces deep,
A paradox indeed;
The very sword that slays our foe
In mercy makes us bleed.

Grip tight the sword and keep it poised
When come the times of test.
Remain alert, its hilt in reach,
In times of peace and rest.
It is our hope, our confidence
When facing pain or strife;
Our glory, strength, our faithful friend –
Indeed, it is our life!

© Jon Bloom