Faith In God: Rediscovering Hymns, Rediscovering Devotion

The Church Hymnal, commonly known as the red-back hymnal due to its distinctive red cloth hard cover, is a timeless classic that continues to be sung across America. First published in 1951 by the Tennessee Music Printing Company, the hymnal is often featured in gospel music conventions and local church red-back hymnal singings. One of the hymns included in the collection is Have Faith in God, written by V.B. (Vep) Ellis in 1944. The song encourages Christians to have faith in God and believe in Jesus, emphasising that God answers prayers and provides comfort in times of sorrow and uncertainty. The hymn has resonated with many people, as seen in the online comments where individuals share how the hymn has brought them comfort and hope during difficult times.

The importance of faith in Christianity

The Church Hymnal, commonly known as the "Red-Back Hymnal" due to its red cloth hard cover, is a timeless classic that includes hymns about the importance of faith in Christianity. One such hymn, "Have Faith in God," emphasizes the fundamental role of faith in the Christian faith and encourages believers to "Have faith in God, believe on Jesus."

Faith is essential in Christianity because it is the means by which Christians can please God and be reckoned as righteous. Without faith, it is impossible to please God, as stated in Hebrews 11:6. Abraham, for example, was accounted as righteous due to his faith. Similarly, Christians are regarded as sons of God and heirs of God's promises through their faith in Jesus Christ.

Faith is also a source of protection, peace, and joy for Christians. It acts as a shield against the wickedness of the world, providing freedom from fear, worries, and dangers. Additionally, faith is necessary for prayers to be answered. Jesus emphasized the importance of faith in Mark 11:22, saying, "Have faith in God," and teaching that with faith, believers can move mountains.

Furthermore, faith is crucial for the forgiveness of sins and for entering the kingdom of heaven, as Jesus assured in Mark 10:15 that those without faith will not enter the Kingdom of God.

The Red-Back Hymnal, with its hymns about faith, serves as a reminder of the central role that faith plays in the Christian life and the assurance of salvation that it brings. It encourages Christians to live a life of faith, emulating the heroes of the Bible who demonstrated great faith, such as Enoch, Noah, Abraham, and Moses.

The link between faith and fear

On one hand, faith can be seen as a way to cope with the unknown and unpredictable aspects of life. Religious beliefs can provide a sense of certainty and hope, especially in the face of life's challenges and tragedies. For many, faith offers a sense of community and connection, fostering feelings of belonging and support. This is exemplified by the enduring popularity of the "Red-Back" hymnal, which has sold over 6 million copies and is regularly featured in gospel music conventions and local church "red back hymnal singings".

On the other hand, critics of religion, such as philosopher Bertrand Russell, argue that fear is a driving force behind religious belief. Russell suggests that religion stems from "the terror of the unknown" and the desire for a protective "elder brother" figure. This view is echoed by Buddhist nun Pema Chödrön, who compares religious faith to a bird's nest—a safe haven that people cling to out of fear of facing life's challenges directly.

Furthermore, a lack of faith can lead to fear and anxiety. Jesus himself rebuked his disciples for their lack of faith, stating, "Why are ye so fearful? How is it that ye have no faith?" (Mark 4:40). In this context, faith is presented as a remedy for fear and uncertainty.

Additionally, it is important to distinguish between healthy fear and phobias when discussing the link between faith and fear. While fear is a natural and universal emotion, phobias are mental health conditions characterized by intense, irrational fear. Certain phobias, such as ecclesiophobia (fear of churches) or theophobia (fear of religion), can have a religious component. These phobias may be triggered or exacerbated by traumatic experiences related to religion or spiritual crises.

In conclusion, the link between faith and fear is complex and multifaceted. While faith can provide comfort and hope for some, it can also be influenced by underlying fears and uncertainties. The interplay between faith and fear varies across individuals and religious traditions, and it is essential to approach this topic with sensitivity and nuance.

The power of faith

The first verse of the hymn sets the tone, urging believers to "Have faith in God, believe on Jesus". It assures them that God will answer their prayers and relieve them of their cares. This theme of perseverance in the face of adversity is echoed in the subsequent verses. The second verse calls on Christians to cast aside doubt and trust in the power of their faith, which can sever the bonds of sin. The songwriter emphasizes that God heals the crippled, deaf, and blind, and those who render true benevolence will find answers to their prayers.

The third verse of "Have Faith in God" acknowledges the pain and sorrow that people may experience in life. It encourages believers to cast all their cares and burdens upon God, leaving them at His feet. This verse highlights the comforting and supportive nature of faith, which can provide solace during difficult times. The fourth verse reinforces the idea that even when everything else fails, God remains steadfast. He provides for His own and rules upon His throne, unshaken by the perishing of kingdoms.

The chorus of the hymn is a powerful reminder of God's presence and care: "Have faith in God, He's on His throne / Have faith in God, He watches o'er His own / He cannot fail, He must prevail / Have faith in God, have faith in God". These words reinforce the message that God is always watching over His children and that they can find strength and solace in their faith.

The impact of this hymn and its message of faith can be seen in the personal testimonies shared by people who have been comforted by its words during challenging times. In the comments section of a website where people were searching for the lyrics to "Have Faith in God", individuals shared how the hymn had helped them through tough times, giving them hope and reminding them of God's care and presence. One person wrote, "God has used it to get me through some tough times in my life!", while another shared, "I felt the Lord was talking to me through it".

In conclusion, the power of faith is a central theme in the Red-Back Hymnal, particularly in the hymn "Have Faith in God". Through its lyrics, the hymn encourages Christians to trust in God, even in the midst of loneliness, unanswered prayers, pain, and sorrow. The personal testimonies shared by those who have been touched by the hymn demonstrate the very real and tangible impact that faith can have on people's lives, providing them with strength, comfort, and hope.

The size of one's faith

The first verse of the hymn, penned by V. B. (Vep) Ellis, sets the tone: "Have faith in God, believe on Jesus/ He'll answer ev'ry earnest prayer/ Of all our care, He will relieve us/ Come to the Cross, He'll meet you there." Here, we see the connection between faith and prayer, with the assurance that God is listening and will provide comfort and support.

The second verse addresses doubt and uncertainty: "Have faith in God, and doubting never/ The precious Blood still has its pow'r/ The bonds of sin, He'll quickly sever/ And send a Pentecostal show'r." In this verse, the songwriter calls on believers to cast aside doubt and remember the power of faith, which can break the chains of sin and bring spiritual renewal.

The third verse highlights God's compassion and presence during times of pain and sorrow: "Have faith in God in your pain and your sorrow/ His heart is touched with your grief and despair/ Cast all your cares and your burdens upon Him/ And leave them there, oh, leave them there." Here, the size of one's faith is about surrendering one's burdens to God, trusting in His ability to provide comfort and peace.

The final verse offers reassurance and hope, even in the face of life's challenges: "Have faith in God tho' all else fail about you/ Have faith in God/ He provides for His own/ He cannot fail tho' all kingdoms shall perish/ He rules He reigns upon His throne." This verse reminds believers that even when everything else seems to be falling apart, their faith in God remains a constant source of strength and provision.

The persistence of faith

The well-loved hymn, "Have Faith in God", featured in the "old Red-Back book" Church Hymnal, is a testament to this enduring theme of faith. Written by V. B. (Vep) Ellis in 1944, the song encourages Christians to have faith in God and believe in Jesus, knowing that He will answer their prayers and relieve their cares. The song's message resonates with many, helping them through tough times and reminding them of God's everlasting care and promises.

The story of the Church Hymnal's creation is also an inspiring demonstration of faith. In the 1940s, with the growth of the Church of God and the success of the Tennessee Music Printing Company, ministers and laity requested the publication of a hymnal for their denomination. After much discussion, a hymnal committee was formed, and in November 1951, the Church Hymnal was finally published. The initial printing of 25,000 copies sold remarkably well, with over 14,000 sold in the first three months, and it has continued to be a beloved resource for congregations, choirs, and soloists ever since.

As Christians, we are called to have faith in God, even when faced with unanswered prayers, pain, sorrow, or doubt. By trusting in His Word and rendering true benevolence, we can find solace in knowing that He understands our struggles and will provide for us. This persistence of faith is what carries us through life's trials and brings us closer to God.

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