"Amazing Grace" is a well-known Christian hymn written by English poet and clergyman John Newton in the late 18th century. The lyrics of this hymn have deep spiritual meaning and have resonated with people around the world for centuries. Let's dive into the lyrics of this beautiful song:
Amazing grace! (how sweet the sound)
That saved a wretch like me!
I once was lost, but now am found,
Was blind, but now I see.
These opening lines set the tone for the entire hymn, emphasizing the incredible and transformative power of God's grace. The use of the word "amazing" conveys a sense of awe and wonder at the depth of God's love and forgiveness.
1. Amazing grace! How sweet the sound
that saved a wretch like me!
I once was lost, but now am found;
was blind, but now I see.

2. 'Twas grace that taught my heart to fear,
and grace my fears relieved;
how precious did that grace appear
the hour I first believed.

3. Through many dangers, toils, and snares,
I have already come;
'tis grace hath brought me safe thus far,
and grace will lead me home.

4. The Lord has promised good to me,
his word my hope secures;
he will my shield and portion be,
as long as life endures.

5. Yea, when this flesh and heart shall fail,
and mortal life shall cease,
I shall possess, within the veil,
a life of joy and peace.

6. When we've been there ten thousand years,
bright shining as the sun,
we've no less days to sing God's praise
than when we first begun.

'Twas grace that taught my heart to fear,
And grace my fears relieved;
How precious did that grace appear
The hour I first believed!
In these verses, Newton reflects on the personal impact of God's grace in his life. He acknowledges that it was through God's grace that he came to recognize the weight of his sins and the need for repentance. The phrase "How precious did that grace appear" highlights the significance of the moment of his conversion, when he first believed in the transformative power of God's grace.
Through many dangers, toils, and snares,
I have already come;
'Tis grace hath brought me safe thus far,
And grace will lead me home.
These lines express the assurance and confidence that Newton has in God's grace. He acknowledges the challenges and obstacles he has faced throughout his life but attributes his ability to overcome them to God's grace. The repetition of the word "grace" emphasizes its continuous presence and guidance in his life.
The Lord has promised good to me,
His word my hope secures;
He will my shield and portion be,
As long as life endures.
Here, Newton affirms his trust in God's promises and declares that God is his protector and provider. The mention of God as a shield and portion signifies the comfort and security that comes from a relationship with Him.
When we've been there ten thousand years,
Bright shining as the sun,
We've no less days to sing God's praise
Than when we'd first begun.
In the final verse, Newton contemplates the eternal nature of praising God. He imagines a future where believers will continue to sing God's praise for eternity, highlighting the everlasting impact of God's grace.
These are the powerful and moving lyrics of "Amazing Grace." The hymn serves as a reminder of the transformative and redemptive power of God's grace, offering hope and comfort to countless individuals throughout history.
References:
https://www.hymnsite.com/lyrics/umh378.sht
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amazing_Grace