Hymn of the Month - "Lord, Keep Us Steadfast in Your Word"

This month's hymn is "Lord, Keep Is Steadfast in Your Word."  This hymn was written by Martin Luther and translated by Catherine Winkworth.  While many reading this blog will already know a great deal about Martin Luther, the history here is important to this song.  Luther was writing this hymn at a time of church turmoil.  (Sound familiar?)  The Roman Catholic Church was placing its authority in the papacy, instead of in Scripture.  Luther was faced with excommunication and even death.  In all of this adversity, it would have been tempting for Luther to turn his back on the Word of God and just go along with the Roman Catholic Church.  It certainly would have made things much easier for him.  However, Luther understood the power of Scripture and that death and resurrection of Jesus are at the center of his faith.  So, Luther wrote this hymn.  May it be your prayer today.

Lord, keep us steadfast in your Word;
Curb those who by deceit or sword
Would wrest the kingdom from your Son
And bring to nought all he has done.

Lord Jesus Christ, your power make known,
For you are Loud of lords alone;
Defend your holy Church that we
May sing your praise triumphantly.

O Comforter of priceless worth,
Send peace and unity on earth;
Support us in our final strife
And lead us out of death of life.