Classic Christian Hymns · Public-domain text

Am I a Soldier of the Cross?

Isaac Watts

Recognized as the 'Father of English Hymnody' (1674–1748), Watts revolutionized congregational worship. As a young man, he complained about the dull and awkward metrical psalms sung in church, prompting his father to challenge him: 'Give us something better, then.' Watts did exactly that, writing over 750 hymns. He pioneered the practice of writing 'hymns of human composure' that expressed personal Christian experience, culminating in masterpieces like 'When I Survey the Wondrous Cross' and the triumphant Christmas anthem 'Joy to the World'.

Source: Sermons on Various Subjects

Am I a soldier of the cross,
a foll'wer of the Lamb,
and shall I fear to own His cause,
or blush to speak His name?
Must I be carried to the skies
on flow'ry beds of ease,
while others fought to win the prize,
and sailed thro' bloody seas?
Are there no foes for me to face?
Must I not stem the flood?
Is this vile world a friend to grace,
to help me on to God?
Sure I must fight, if I would reign;
increase my courage, Lord!
I'll bear the toil, endure the pain,
supported by Thy word.
The saints in all this glorious war
shall conquer, though they die;
they see the triumph from afar
by faith's discerning eye.
When that illustrious day shall rise,
and all Thine armies shine
in robes of vict'ry thro' the skies,
the glory shall be Thine.