All to Jesus, I surrender

Words by Judson W. Van DeVenter, 1896
Music by Winfield S. Weeden, 1896

Judson had been seeking God's guidance whether to pursue art or to go into full time ministry. God confirmed that he should serve Him and the outcome of his decision was the composition of this hymn and for the composer, the discovery of a talent, hitherto, unknown.

When we put God first, his blessings come, one after another. We'll be amazed and overwhelmed by His goodness and generosity. And yet, we ought not to, for if He can give us the one closest to His heart - His Son, Jesus Christ, what else is there to withhold Him?

May we mean the words of this hymn when we sing it this Christmas season.

All to Jesus, I surrender;
All to Him I freely give;
I will ever love and trust Him,
In His presence daily live.

I surrender all, I surrender all,
All to Thee, my blessèd Savior,
I surrender all.

All to Jesus I surrender;
Humbly at His feet I bow,
Worldly pleasures all forsaken;
Take me, Jesus, take me now.

I surrender all, I surrender all,
All to Thee, my blessèd Savior,
I surrender all.

All to Jesus, I surrender;
Make me, Savior, wholly Thine;
Let me feel the Holy Spirit,
Truly know that Thou art mine.

I surrender all, I surrender all,
All to Thee, my blessèd Savior,
I surrender all.

All to Jesus, I surrender;
Lord, I give myself to Thee;
Fill me with Thy love and power;
Let Thy blessing fall on me.

I surrender all, I surrender all,
All to Thee, my blessèd Savior,
I surrender all.

All to Jesus I surrender;
Now I feel the sacred flame.
O the joy of full salvation!
Glory, glory, to His Name!

I surrender all, I surrender all,
All to Thee, my blessèd Savior,
I surrender all.