Be Still, My Soul: A Reflective Journey Through a Timeless Hymn
Anne GraceOverview of 'Be Still, My Soul'
"Be Still, My Soul" dates back to the 18th century. Written by Katharina von Schlegel during the German revival known as Lutheran Pietism, this movement sought to ignite a transformation that went beyond the doctrinal focus of the early Reformation, aiming to renew the spiritual life of individuals. In 1855 Jane L. Borthwick translated it into English, bringing its truth-filled verses to a wider audience in her collection, Hymns from the Land of Luther, Series 2. The hymn's melody was later set to Jean Sibelius’s symphonic poem, "Finlandia," which beautifully complements the text with its own narrative of Finnish resilience and patriotism.
As we dive deeper into this blog, we will explore the history of the hymn and its author, delve into a verse-by-verse reflection, and reflect on how its messages can inspire and comfort us in our daily lives. For those who cherish physical reminders of such inspiring messages, our Hymns Christian Wall Art Collection offers a beautiful piece featuring "Be Still, My Soul," perfect for bringing a sense of peace and faith into your home.
Historical Context Behind the Hymn
Catharina von Schlegel, the original author, remains somewhat enigmatic with little known about her life. However, her words speak volumes about her deep spiritual insight and capacity for profound faith in adversity. The hymn's translator, Jane Laurie Borthwick, chose to render Schlegel’s German text into English, bringing the hymn to a wider audience and enabling it to resonate with countless souls across generations.
The tune, borrowed from Sibelius’s Finlandia, was originally a piece symbolizing national struggle and eventual peace. This integration of text and music creates a powerful anthem that supports the Christian belief in the sovereignty of God over all life's tempests.
Verse-by-Verse Reflection
Verse 1
"Be still, my soul: the Lord is on thy side; bear patiently the cross of grief or pain; leave to thy God to order and provide; in ev'ry change He faithful will remain."
Drawing from Psalm 37:7, where we are urged to "Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for him," this verse reminds us that God is with us throughout the trials of life and that he is faithful through it all.
Verse 2
"Be still, my soul: thy God doth undertake to guide the future as He has the past. Thy hope, thy confidence let nothing shake; all now mysterious shall be bright at last."
When we remember how God has brought us through our past we can look with Hope to our future knowing that the same God, who has brought us safely so far will lead us in every step that we take.
Verse 3
"Be still, my soul: when dearest friends depart, and all is darkened in the vale of tears, then shalt thou better know His love, His heart, who comes to soothe thy sorrow and thy fears."
In this verse we can reflect on God as our comforter. Isn't it strange how often in the darkest of trials it's an invitation of seeking the presence of God more? But, we have this promise that when we seek God, we will find Him. And, often, when we go through the darkest of times we realise that it is He alone that can, and will, sustain us.
Verse 4
"Be still, my soul: the hour is hast’ning on when we shall be forever with the Lord, when disappointment, grief, and fear are gone, sorrow forgot, love’s purest joys restored."
The concluding verse offers a vision of hope knowing that our current struggles are temporary and will culminate in an everlasting union with God where joy is restored and sorrows will be no more.
Applying the Hymn to Our Lives
In our everyday lives, the call to "be still" can often be the hardest to heed. Yet, this hymn teaches us that stillness doesn't signify inaction but a deep, trusting patience in God. And how can we achieve stillness? I believe, only when we fix our eyes on Jesus, through the help of the Holy Spirit. It can be hard, especially in the depths of the storms of life but, when we look to Jesus we can remember that He is in control
Discover 'Be Still, My Soul' Print in Our Christian Wall Art Collection
If you have been inspired by the words and meaning of this Hymn I have created a design that pairs the words from 'It Is Well' with this stunning artwork by Childe Hassam. Discover the 'Be Still Print' as part of our Hymn Wall Art Collection.
