Be Still, My Soul, before the Lord
Be still, my soul, before the Lord
The hymn embodies Lutheran piety centered on patient trust in God's care and the discipline of prayer, reflecting the Small Catechism's emphasis on calling upon God in all needs. It presents the Gospel's assurance that God hears and answers prayer through Christ.
History & Background
Carl Boberg wrote this hymn in Swedish as 'Var stilla för Herren' in 1885. Andrew L. Skoog translated it into English in 1921, and it has become a beloved meditation hymn in Lutheran hymnals.
Hymnal Appearances
- Glory to God — 757
- Lutheran Service Book — 771
Translation
Bulletin Note
Written by Swedish pastor Carl Boberg in 1885, this hymn expresses the Lutheran conviction that prayer is not mere sentiment but the discipline of faith—calling upon God in every circumstance, assured He both hears and answers through Christ.
Preaching Connection
This hymn transforms the Law's command to cease from anxiety into the Gospel's invitation to rest in Christ's intercession, embodying the comfort that flows from understanding God as the One who listens and responds to our deepest needs.
Themes
Trust in God Prayer and meditation Divine providence Surrender and faith