Words by Thomas O. Chisholm (1923)
Music by William M. Runyan
A Timeless Hymn of Hope and Mercy
Few hymns have touched as many hearts as “Great Is Thy Faithfulness.” With its message of God’s unwavering love and provision, this song has been a beacon of comfort through generations.
Penned in 1923 by Thomas O. Chisholm, the lyrics are based on Lamentations 3:22–23:
“The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.”
Let’s explore the full lyrics, the meaning behind them, and how they continue to inspire worship today.
Great Is Thy Faithfulness – Full Lyrics
Verse 1:
Great is Thy faithfulness, O God my Father,
There is no shadow of turning with Thee;
Thou changest not, Thy compassions, they fail not;
As Thou hast been, Thou forever wilt be.
Chorus:
Great is Thy faithfulness! Great is Thy faithfulness!
Morning by morning new mercies I see;
All I have needed Thy hand hath provided—
Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me!
Verse 2:
Summer and winter and springtime and harvest,
Sun, moon and stars in their courses above
Join with all nature in manifold witness
To Thy great faithfulness, mercy and love.
(Repeat Chorus)
Verse 3:
Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth,
Thine own dear presence to cheer and to guide;
Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow,
Blessings all mine, with ten thousand beside!
(Repeat Chorus)
The Meaning Behind the Lyrics
“Thou changest not, Thy compassions, they fail not”
This reminds us that while people and circumstances change, God remains the same—loving, merciful, and trustworthy.
“Morning by morning new mercies I see”
Drawn from Lamentations, this line is a beautiful reminder that every day brings fresh mercy, regardless of yesterday’s failures.
“All I have needed Thy hand hath provided”
It emphasizes gratitude—acknowledging God’s provision in every aspect of life.
Devotional Reflection
This hymn isn’t just for Sunday services—it’s a daily declaration of trust.
In moments of doubt, pain, or fear, the words “Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow” provide deep encouragement. It’s a call to rest in God’s promises, not our performance.
Whether you’re singing this in a congregation, whispering it in prayer, or reading it as a morning devotion—it reminds us: God is faithful yesterday, today, and forever.
“Great Is Thy Faithfulness” is more than just a song—it’s a life anthem. Whether you’re walking through a season of joy or sorrow, these lyrics speak truth: God’s mercies are new every morning.
Let them wash over your heart as a reminder that He is always near, always good, and always faithful.
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