Commit Whatever Grieves Thee
Commit whatever grieves thee
This hymn expresses the Lutheran emphasis on faith's reliance on God's sovereignty and loving providence, particularly during suffering and uncertainty. It reflects the consolation of the Gospel message that God's perfect will encompasses all human concerns and anxieties.
History & Background
Paul Gerhardt's German hymn 'Befiehl du deine Wege' was first published in his Geistliche Andachten in 1653. John Wesley's English translation appeared in 1737 and became widely used in Methodist and Lutheran hymnals.
Hymnal Appearances
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 749
- Lutheran Service Book — 754
- Lutheran Worship — 427
- Trinity Hymnal — 671
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 520
Translation
Bulletin Note
Written by Paul Gerhardt (1653), this Lutheran hymn anchors faith in God's sovereignty during suffering. Its tune, BEFIEHL, has comforted believers through centuries of trial and consolation.
Preaching Connection
This hymn transforms the Law's exposure of our anxious hearts into the Gospel's promise that Christ's redemptive work frees us to trust God's providential care completely.
Stanza Arc
The narrative or theological arc traced by this tune's stanzas: From God's eternal love hidden before creation, through Christ's incarnation and atoning sacrifice, to the believer's joyful response in Christ
Themes
Providence Trust in God Surrender to divine will Comfort in affliction Faith