I AM THINE,O LORD

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 1875


🎵 “I Am Thine, O Lord” – History of the Hymn

“I Am Thine, O Lord” is one of the most beloved devotional hymns in Protestant Christianity. It expresses a deep desire for closeness with God and surrender to His will.

✍️ Author: Fanny Crosby

The hymn was written in 1875 by Fanny Crosby, one of the most prolific hymn writers in history. Though blinded in infancy, Crosby wrote over 8,000 hymns. Her works emphasize personal faith, trust, and intimacy with Christ.

🎼 Composer: William Howard Doane

The melody was composed by William H. Doane, a frequent collaborator of Crosby. He set her poem to music shortly after she wrote it.

📜 Background of the Hymn

The hymn was inspired by Crosby’s meditation on Scripture—especially James 4:8:

“Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you.”

Crosby reportedly wrote the text after reflecting on this verse during a quiet time of prayer. The theme centers on spiritual closeness, consecration, and longing for deeper communion with Christ.

It was first published in 1875 in a gospel song collection compiled by Crosby and Doane.

✝️ Key Themes

  • Personal surrender to Christ

  • Spiritual intimacy (“Draw me nearer…”)

  • Consecration and holiness

  • Faith in Christ’s atoning sacrifice

The refrain is especially well known:

Draw me nearer, nearer blessed Lord,
To the cross where Thou hast died…

📖 Musical and Church Impact

  • Widely used in revival meetings during the late 19th century.

  • Common in Baptist, Methodist, and other evangelical hymnals.

  • Often sung during altar calls or moments of personal commitment.

Its simple melody and heartfelt lyrics helped it become a staple of gospel hymnody.

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