When in the Hour of Deepest Need
When in the hour of deepest need
This hymn expresses the Lutheran confidence that God hears the prayers of the afflicted and responds with mercy, emphasizing supplication as the proper Christian response to suffering. It reflects the Reformation understanding that prayer is the believer's direct access to God's throne of grace without mediatorial barriers.
History & Background
Martin Behm composed this German hymn in the early 17th century as a prayer for times of spiritual distress and affliction. It was first published in German hymnals and later translated into English by Catherine Winkworth in 1863, becoming widely adopted in Lutheran and other Protestant traditions.
Hymnal Appearances
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 660
- Lutheran Book of Worship — 303
- Lutheran Service Book — 615
- Lutheran Worship — 428
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 522
Translation
Bulletin Note
Martin Behm (1610) anchors this prayer-hymn in Lutheran confidence in direct access to God's grace. A Reformation conviction: in our greatest need, supplication—not performance—is the Christian's truest response.
Preaching Connection
This hymn embodies Law and Gospel perfectly: it names our helplessness in affliction (Law) while proclaiming God's faithful, merciful hearing to all who cry out in faith (Gospel).
Stanza Arc
The narrative or theological arc traced by this tune's stanzas: Law to Gospel: from separation and judgment to gracious invitation, communion, and eschatological hope
Themes
Prayer in affliction Divine mercy and comfort Trust in God's faithfulness Supplication and deliverance