“O Brother, Be Faithful” is a hymn that encourages believers to remain steadfast and faithful in their Christian journey. The lyrics serve as a reminder of the importance of perseverance, loyalty, and dedication to one’s faith, even in the face of challenges and trials. This hymn is often used as a call to commitment and endurance in the Christian life.
The hymn was written by Mary Artemisia Lathbury, an American hymn writer and Methodist. Lathbury lived in the 19th century and was known for her contributions to hymnody. “O Brother, Be Faithful” was first published in 1877.
The melody and overall tone of “O Brother, Be Faithful” are uplifting, creating an atmosphere of encouragement and resolve. The hymn is often used in worship services, particularly in settings that emphasize commitment, discipleship, and the Second Coming of Christ.
While there may be variations in musical arrangements and renditions, the core message of the hymn remains consistent across different performances. “O Brother, Be Faithful” serves as a timeless exhortation for believers to persevere in their faith journey and to eagerly await the fulfillment of God’s promises.
O Brother, Be Faithful (Christian Hymn) Lyrics
1 O brother, be faithful! soon Jesus will come,
For whom we have waited so long;
O, soon we shall enter our glorious home,
And join in the conqueror’s song.
O brother, be faithful! for why should we prove
Unfaithful to him who hath shown
Such deep, such unbounded and infinite love
Who died to redeem us his own.
2 O brother, be faithful! the city of gold,
Prepared for the good and the blest,
Is waiting its portals of pearl to unfold,
And welcome thee into thy rest,
Then, brother, prove faithful! not long shall we stay
In weariness here, and forlorn,
Time’s dark night of sorrow is wearing away,
We haste to the glorious morn.
3 O brother, be faithful! He soon will descend,
Creation’s omnipotent King,
While legions of angels his chariot attend,
And palm-wreaths of victory bring.
O brother, be faithful! and soon shalt thou hear
Thy Saviour pronounce the glad word,
Well done, faithful servant, thy title is clear,
To enter the joy of the Lord.
4 O brother, be faithful! eternity’s years
Shall tell for thy faithfulness now,
When bright smiles of gladness shall scatter thy tears,
And a coronet gleam on thy brow.
O brother, be faithful! the promise is sure,
That waits for the faithful and tried;
To reign with the ransomed, immortal and pure,
And ever with Jesus abide.
