Standing on the Promises

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 1886

“Standing on the Promises” — History of the Hymn

“Standing on the Promises” is a beloved 19th-century evangelical hymn written by Russell Kelso Carter in 1886.

✍️ The Author

R. Kelso Carter (1849–1928) was an American Methodist minister, professor, musician, and hymn writer. Before entering ministry, he worked as:

  • A teacher and professor

  • A coach (including early American football involvement)

  • A musician and composer

He later became a Methodist minister and wrote several hymns, but “Standing on the Promises” became his most famous.

📖 Inspiration Behind the Hymn

Carter wrote the hymn after experiencing serious health problems. During his illness, he turned to Scripture and focused deeply on the promises of God. His renewed faith and trust in biblical promises inspired the hymn’s theme of spiritual confidence and assurance.

The lyrics emphasize:

  • Trust in God’s Word

  • Victory over doubt and fear

  • Spiritual steadfastness

  • Assurance of salvation

🎵 Musical Style & Structure

  • Written in 1886

  • Composed by Carter himself

  • Upbeat, marching rhythm

  • Repeating refrain:
    “Standing, standing,
    Standing on the promises of God my Savior…”

The marching quality made it especially popular in revival meetings and evangelistic campaigns of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

⛪ Popularity & Legacy

The hymn became widely used in:

  • Methodist churches

  • Revival movements

  • Evangelical hymnals

  • Gospel song collections

It remains a staple in many Protestant hymnals today and is particularly associated with traditional American gospel singing.

📚 Theological Emphasis

Unlike some hymns that focus on emotional experience, this hymn stresses:

  • The reliability of Scripture

  • God’s covenant faithfulness

  • Active, confident faith

Its repeated declaration of “standing” reflects firmness, perseverance, and unwavering belief.

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