"The favor he shows and the joy he bestows are for them who will trust and obey."

"The favor he shows and the joy he bestows are for them who will trust and obey."

Hymn: “Trust and Obey” – John H. Sammis (1846-1919)
Tune: TRUST AND OBEY

This is sort of staple hymn for evangelical churches… those who sing hymns-as-written and those who sing updated settings. That common usage is probably attributable to the simplicity of the text… and the different ways it approaches the subject of obedience that springs from trust.

I have heard many say that this hymn’s title pretty much sums up what becoming a follower of Jesus means: trust AND obey. That all-important conjunction makes a huge difference. You’ve probably seen those Ford commercials that spoof “bed or breakfast” and “nuts or bolts.” In every case, the people involved say they prefer “and”! It seems that is also what God prefers!

Today’s hymnline indicates some of what is in store for those who obediently trust God: on them God pours out his favor (approval) and a joy available through no other source. That approval or endorsement of God is high on most of our lists; we want to be pleasing in his sight – we want to stand unashamed in his presence. We seek the joy that becomes our strength, our undergirding, our overflowing fountain; we need look no further than God in Christ Jesus.

As this hymnwriter puts it, the favor and joy are not extended to those who are distrustful and disobedient – but only those who trust and obey, who walk with the Lord in the light of his Word. Available to all, but not acknowledged by all.

Join the couples in those Ford commercials: trust AND obey is to be preferred over trust OR obey any day!

Chelsea Moon Sings This Hymn a la Bluegrass!

Gary Chapman Talks about and Sings This Hymn