To God Be the Glory: Fanny Crosby’s Hymn of Praise and Wonder
Fanny Crosby’s hymn “To God Be the Glory” is a triumphant declaration of the greatness of God and the wonders He has accomplished through the gift of His Son, Jesus Christ. The opening line sets the tone for the entire hymn, calling us to give all glory to God for the marvelous things He has done.
The first verse highlights the immense love God has for the world, a love so great that He sacrificed His only Son for our salvation. It speaks of Christ’s atoning work on the cross, His life given freely to pay the penalty for our sins. Through His sacrifice, Jesus has opened the “lifegate,” providing access to eternal life for all who believe.
The chorus is a joyful call to praise, urging all the earth to lift their voices in worship and the people to rejoice in the Lord. It invites us to come to the Father through Jesus, emphasizing that He alone is the way to God. We are encouraged to give God the glory He deserves for the great things He has accomplished on our behalf.
The second verse celebrates the perfect redemption available through Christ’s shed blood. It offers the promise of God to every believer, assuring us that even the vilest sinner can receive immediate pardon and forgiveness the moment they truly believe in Jesus.
The third verse reflects on the great things God has taught us and done for us, stirring our hearts to rejoice in Jesus, the Son. Yet it also points forward to an even greater joy that awaits us when we finally see Jesus face to face. Crosby anticipates the wonder and transport of that glorious moment, recognizing that our worship and praise will reach new heights in His presence.
Having experienced the miracle of salvation in her own life, Fanny Crosby poured her gratitude and love for God into this powerful hymn. “To God Be the Glory” has endured as a beloved worship anthem because it so beautifully captures the awe and adoration we feel as we contemplate the incredible mercy and grace of God demonstrated through the cross. May we never cease to marvel at the great things He has done!
