October 28, 2019 (Monday)
When you attend a high school or college football game, cheerleaders are always there, leading the crowd to encourage the players with their cheers. This song accomplishes that purpose for the church.
As the Christian puts on his armor and takes his stand for Christ against evil, the words of this hymn cheer him on.
As Jesus speaks to his disciples, encouraging them to know they are on the winning side, he says, “Upon this Rock I build my church and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it!”
Victory is promised! “They that sow in tears shall reap in joy. He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him” (Psalm 126:5-6).
Rise up, O Church of God! Have done with lesser things; Give heart and mind and soul and strength To serve the King of kings.
Rise up, O Church of God!
Author: William Pierson Merrill
Tune: FESTAL SONG
1911
Rise up, O Church of God!
Have done with lesser things;
Give heart and mind and soul and strength
To serve the King of kings.
Rise up, O Church of God!
His kingdom tarries long;
Bring in the day of brotherhood,
And end the night of wrong.
Rise up, O sons of God!
The Church for you doth wait,
Her strength unequal to her task;
Rise up and make her great.
Lift high the cross of Christ;
Tread where His feet have trod;
As foll’wers of the Son of man,
Rise up, O Church of God!