Today’s hymn comes from my favourite hymn writer, John Newton. In Olney HymnS, this hymn is prefaced with Luke 22:31-32: “Simon, Simon, behold, Satan demanded to have you, that he might sift you like wheat, but I have prayed for you that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned again, strengthen your brothers.” May you remember that the Lord Jesus himself is praying for you so that you may win the battle against sin; enjoy!
Simon, beware! the Saviour said,
Satan, your subtle foe,
Already has his measures laid
Your soul to overthrow.
He wants to sift you all, as wheat,
And thinks his vict’ry sure;
But I his malice will defeat,
My prayer shall faith secure.
Believers, tremble and rejoice,
Your help and danger view;
This warning has to you a voice,
This promise speaks to you.
Satan beholds, with jealous eye,
Your privilege and joy;
He’s always watchful, always nigh,
To tear and to destroy.
But Jesus lives to intercede,
That faith may still prevail,
He will support in time of need,
And Satan’s arts shall fail.
Yet, let us not the warning slight,
But watchful still be found;
Though faith cannot be slain in fight,
It may receive a wound.
While Satan watches, dare we sleep?
We must our guard maintain;
But, Lord, do thou the city keep,
Or else we watch in vain.
Hymn of the Day 