“To God Be the Glory” stands as a monumental hymn, celebrated for its powerful declaration of gratitude and praise to God. Written by the prolific hymn writer Fanny J. Crosby, this song has resonated through generations, becoming a staple in churches and Christian gatherings worldwide. Its journey to global recognition is as compelling as its message, reflecting a story of initial obscurity in its homeland followed by widespread acclaim across continents.
Fanny Crosby, a name synonymous with gospel hymnody, penned “To God Be the Glory” in 1870. Despite her vast contributions to hymn literature, this particular piece initially lingered in relative obscurity in the United States. It wasn’t until its inclusion in Ira D. Sankey’s “Sacred Songs and Solos” in 1903 and later, its significant use during the Billy Graham Crusades starting in 1954, that the To God Be The Glory Song truly began to capture hearts globally. The Billy Graham Crusades served as a pivotal platform, propelling the hymn into widespread use in Britain, Australia, and eventually back to the United States, securing its place in the global Christian songbook.
What distinguishes “To God Be the Glory” from many other gospel hymns, including a significant portion of Crosby’s own work, is its central focus. Instead of emphasizing personal experiences or individual testimonies, this hymn directs our gaze firmly towards the divine. It is a hymn of pure adoration, magnifying God’sAttributes and actions. The lyrics eloquently express profound theological truths: God’s immeasurable love for the world, demonstrated through the gift of His Son for atonement; the promise of pardon and redemption for all who believe in Christ; and the anticipation of eternal joy in His presence. The repeated refrain, echoing the spirit of the Old Testament Psalms, reinforces this unwavering praise for the “great things he has done.”
The line “when Jesus we see” in the third verse carries a particularly poignant meaning when considered in the context of Fanny Crosby’s life. Blinded in infancy at just seven weeks old, the prospect of seeing Jesus in eternity must have held an especially profound and personal significance for her. This personal element, while subtle, adds depth to the hymn’s universal message of hope and redemption.
Fanny Jane Crosby’s life story is as remarkable as her hymnody. A graduate and later a teacher at the New York City School for the Blind, Crosby’s poetic talent emerged early, with her first volume of poetry published at the age of twenty-four. Even after marrying Alexander Van Alstyne, a fellow musician who was also blind, her creative output flourished. She began writing hymns in her forties, embarking on a career that would result in over eight thousand hymns, sometimes written at an astonishing pace of several per day under various pen names. Her collaborations with leading gospel music composers like William B. Bradbury, William H. Doane, and Ira D. Sankey ensured her hymns reached a broad audience, becoming integral to evangelistic services across America and Great Britain. Fanny Crosby’s impact extended beyond music; she was a highly respected woman in her time, befriending numerous prominent figures, including U.S. presidents.
“To God Be the Glory” is more than just a song; it’s a powerful anthem of worship suitable for diverse liturgical settings. It serves as a magnificent hymn of praise for God’s redemptive acts in Christ, making it appropriate for moments of baptism, profession of faith, and assurance of pardon. Its enduring appeal lies in its simple yet profound message: a call to recognize and glorify God for His immeasurable grace and love. The to god be the glory song continues to inspire and uplift, reminding believers across the globe to ascribe glory to God for all He has done.
