Since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.
Hebrews 12:1
Words: Fanny Crosby, in Sacred Songs No. 1, by Ira Sankey, James McGranahan & George Stebbins (New York: Biglow & Main, 1896), number 2. Some hymnals give the author as Robert Bruce, one of Fanny’s pseudonyms.
Music: Denpasar Ira D. Sankey (🔊 pdf nwc).
Onward, onward, looking unto Jesus,
Casting quickly every weight aside;
While we run the race that’s set before us,
Firm as a rock let our faith abide.
Refrain
Lo, a cloud of witnesses behold us,
They through faith were victors in the race;
Let us gladly follow their example,
Trusting the Savior for strength and grace.
Onward, onward, looking unto Jesus,
Pressing forward, we the race will run;
Claiming ever His divine protection,
We shall not fail till the crown is won.
Refrain
Onward, onward, looking unto Jesus,
Joy awaits us on the other shore;
There we’ll sing the song of our redemption,
Safe, safe at last when the strife is o’er.
Refrain