Hymns of Hope and Comfort: Stand Up, Stand Up for Jesus

During this time of fear and uncertainty in the COVID-19 wilderness, I’ve decided to do something a little different. I’m going to be daily using my blog to share texts and videos of hymns that pass along hope and comfort until the restrictions are lifted, and we can worship in our buildings once again. I hope you find them to be encouraging and edifying during this time.

Take care, everyone. Wash your hands. And keep the faith.

Sorry, not sorry about this one.

People love to hate it, sure. I don’t care. Just like its more oft-denigrated hymnal neighbor, “Onward, Christian Soldiers,” this one is fine. Because #Paul. Because the battle is not against flesh and blood, but against evil and death and hell.

So anyway, this is one of the first hymns I learned as a child. You’ve probably heard it sung to WEBB, which is a predictable, yet rousing tune. Here it is done well by the beautiful St. John’s Church in Detroit.

If you were ever a real Baptist, though, you know that you can sing it to the circus-y GEIBEL. I don’t suggest it, but it can be done.

Stand up, stand up, for Jesus,
ye soldiers of the cross;
lift high his royal banner,
it must not suffer loss:
from victory unto victory
his army shall he lead,
till every foe is vanquished
and Christ is Lord indeed.

Stand up, stand up, for Jesus;
the trumpet call obey;
forth to the mighty conflict
in this his glorious day:
ye that are men now serve him
against unnumbered foes;
let courage rise with danger,
and strength to strength oppose.

Stand up, stand up, for Jesus;
stand in his strength alone;
the arm of flesh will fail you,
ye dare not trust your own:
put on the Gospel armor,
and watching unto prayer,
when duty calls, or danger,
be never wanting there.

Stand up, stand up, for Jesus;
the strife will not be long:
this day, the noise of battle;
the next, the victor’s song.
To valiant hearts triumphant,
a crown of life shall be;
they with the King of glory
shall reign eternally.