Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs. Psalm 100:2
Difference Between Praise and Worship Songs
Christian praise and worship songs or Christian devotional songs are an integral part of church services worldwide. The distinction between “Praise Songs” and “Worship Songs” is usually governed by the tempo— praise songs usually being more up-tempo while worship songs are slower and focused more earnestly on the loving relationship between the worshipers and God. One of the greatest devotional songs “Guide Me O Thou Great Redeemer” was written by Welsh priest William Williams Pantycelyn.
Guide Me O Thou Great Redeemer Lyrics
Guide me, O Thou great Redeemer,
Pilgrim through this barren land,
I am weak, but Thou art mighty,
Hold me with Thy powerful hand,
Bread of heaven, bread of heaven,
Feed me now and evermore,
Feed me now and evermore.
Open now the crystal fountain,
Whence the healing stream doth flow,
Let the fire and cloudy pillar,
Lead me all my journey through,
Strong deliverer, strong deliverer,
Be Thou still my strength and shield,
Be Thou still my strength and shield.
When I tread the verge of Jordan,
Bid my anxious fears subside,
Death of death, and hell’s destruction,
Land me safe on Canaan’s side,
Songs of praises, songs of praises,
I will ever give to Thee,
I will ever give to thee.
Brief Biography of William Williams Pantycelyn
William Williams Pantycelyn also known as William Williams, is Wales’ premier hymnist, and his ability earned him the accolade “Y pêr ganiedydd” (“The Sweet Songster”). He was one of the leaders of the 18th-century Welsh Methodist revival. One of his most famous songs is “Arglwydd, arwain trwy’r anialwch” (“Lord, lead thou through the wilderness”). This has been translated into the English-language hymn: “Guide Me, O Thou Great Redeemer”or “Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah.” He is one of the great literary figures of Wales, as a writer of poetry and prose.
Devotional songs take us to deeper levels of worship and reflection on God. These songs lift our hearts to a place of praise and thanksgiving and add a new dimension to our quiet time with God.
For more awesome Christian Music check our Hymns Collection. You will find the background stories behind the hymns very interesting and informative. Sing along with the lyrics understanding the meaning of each song and fill your heart with joy.
