For Thy Mercy and Thy Grace
For Thy mercy and Thy grace
The hymn reflects Lutheran emphasis on God's prevenient grace and unmerited favor as foundational to Christian life and worship. It expresses the believer's response to divine mercy as motivation for daily obedience and praise.
History & Background
Written by English hymnodist Henry Downton in the 19th century and published in various hymnal collections. The hymn expresses thanksgiving for God's mercy and grace in a straightforward, devotional manner suited to morning worship.
Hymnal Appearances
- Lutheran Worship — 350
- Trinity Hymnal — 461
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 121
Bulletin Note
Written by Henry Downton in 1860, this hymn stands in the Anglican evangelical tradition but resonates deeply with Lutheran theology of grace. Its long meter invites sustained reflection on unmerited favor.
Preaching Connection
This hymn crystallizes the Gospel response to proclamation: when we hear of God's prevenient grace, gratitude and obedience flow naturally from a heart already moved by mercy rather than driven by fear.
Stanza Arc
The narrative or theological arc traced by this tune's stanzas: Christ's Lenten self-denial models our repentance; His victory over Satan empowers our spiritual triumph; His presence sustains us through suffering toward Easter joy and eternal paradise.
Themes
God's mercy Divine grace Gratitude Morning devotion Praise