Title: Trust and Obey
Hymn Number: SS&S 642 (Sacred songs and solo)
1 When we walk with the Lord
In the light of His Word,
What a glory He sheds on our way !
While we do His good will.
He abides with us still,
And with all who will trust and obey.
Trust and obey, for there’s no other way
To be happy in Jesus but to trust and obey.
2 Not a shadow can rise
Not a cloud in the skies,
But His smile quickly drives it away ;
Not a doubt nor a fear,
Not a sigh nor a tear,
Can abide while we trust and obey.
3 Not a burden we bear,
Not a sorrow we share,
But our toil He doth richly repay ;
Not a grief nor a loss,
Not a frown nor a cross,
But is blest if we trust and obey.
4 But we never can prove
The delights of His love,
Until all on the altar we lay ;
For the favour He shows,
And the joy He bestows,
Are for them who will trust and obey.
5 Then in fellowship sweet
We will sit at His feet,
Or we’ll walk by His side in the way ;
What He says we will do,
Where He sends we will go,
Never fear, only trust and obey.
About The Hymn
The hymn “Trust and Obey”, numbered 642 in Sacred Songs and Solos, was written by John H. Sammis in 1887. It is a beloved hymn of encouragement and instruction, urging believers to walk in faithful obedience to God. Each of its five verses explores the joy, peace, and blessings that come from a life of trusting and obeying God’s commands. The refrain serves as a constant reminder that the fullness of life in Christ is found in trust and obedience.
Verse 1: The Joy of Walking with God
“When we walk with the Lord in the light of His Word, what a glory He sheds on our way! While we do His good will, He abides with us still, and with all who will trust and obey.”
The first verse emphasizes the blessings of walking closely with God and following His Word. His presence is described as a “glory” that lights the believer’s path, bringing clarity and guidance.
The verse also highlights the conditional nature of God’s abiding presence: it remains with those who trust Him and obey His will. This reflects the relational aspect of faith, where obedience is a demonstration of trust.
Verse 2: Peace Amid Trials
“Not a shadow can rise, not a cloud in the skies, but His smile quickly drives it away; not a doubt or a fear, not a sigh or a tear, can abide while we trust and obey.”
The second verse speaks of the peace that comes from trusting God, even in times of trial or uncertainty. Shadows and clouds symbolize challenges and doubts, but they are dispelled by God’s presence, represented as His “smile.”
This verse assures believers that when they trust and obey, they experience divine comfort and peace that overcomes fear and sorrow.
Verse 3: The Rewards of Obedience
“Not a burden we bear, not a sorrow we share, but our toil He doth richly repay; not a grief or a loss, not a frown or a cross, but is blest if we trust and obey.”
The third verse acknowledges that the Christian life is not free of burdens or sorrows but assures believers that their labor and suffering are not in vain. God rewards their faithfulness, turning even grief and loss into blessings.
This verse reflects Romans 8:28, which promises that God works all things together for good for those who love Him.
Verse 4: The Fellowship of Surrender
“But we never can prove the delights of His love until all on the altar we lay; for the favor He shows, and the joy He bestows, are for them who will trust and obey.”
The fourth verse teaches that the fullness of God’s love and blessings is experienced only through complete surrender. The imagery of laying “all on the altar” reflects total submission to God’s will.
This verse invites believers to trust God completely, promising that such surrender leads to joy and divine favor.
Verse 5: Eternal Fellowship with God
“Then in fellowship sweet we will sit at His feet, or we’ll walk by His side in the way; what He says we will do, where He sends we will go—never fear, only trust and obey.”
The final verse looks forward to the ultimate fellowship with God, both in this life and in eternity. Sitting at His feet and walking by His side symbolize intimacy and guidance.
The verse concludes with a commitment to follow God’s direction without fear, trusting in His perfect plan and obeying His commands.
Refrain: The Path to Joyful Obedience
Each verse is followed by the refrain:
“Trust and obey, for there’s no other way to be happy in Jesus, but to trust and obey.”
The refrain is the heart of the hymn’s message, emphasizing that true happiness in Christ is found in a life marked by trust and obedience. It serves as both a reminder and an encouragement to rely on God’s guidance and follow His will.
Overall Message and Significance
“Trust and Obey” is a hymn of profound simplicity and truth. Its five verses explore the relationship between trust in God, obedience to His Word, and the blessings that result.
The hymn reassures believers that God’s presence and peace are available to those who trust Him and follow His commands. It acknowledges life’s challenges but points to the joy, comfort, and ultimate reward of faithful living.
With its timeless message and memorable refrain, “Trust and Obey” continues to inspire believers to deepen their faith, surrender fully to God’s will, and walk confidently in the light of His Word.