Living for Jesus, a life that is true,
Striving to please Him in all that I do;
Yielding allegiance, glad hearted and free,
This is the pathway of blessing for me.
Refrain
O Jesus, Lord and Savior,
I give myself to Thee,
For Thou, in Thy atonement,
Didst give Thyself for me.
I own no other master,
My heart shall be Thy throne.
My life I give, henceforth to live,
O Christ, for Thee alone.
Living for Jesus who died in my place,
Bearing on Calvary my sin and disgrace;
Such love constrains me to answer His call,
Follow His leading and give Him my all.
Refrain
Living for Jesus, wherever I am,
Doing each duty in His holy name;
Willing to suffer affliction and loss,
Deeming each trial a part of my cross.
Refrain
Living for Jesus through earth’s little while,
My dearest treasure, the light of His smile;
Seeking the lost ones He died to redeem,
Bringing the weary to find rest in Him.
Refrain
This past week was Cadet Sunday at the church my son attends Cadets at. He was one of the flag bearers for the service.
This hymn was written by Thomas O. Chisholm. Chisholm was a self-educated man, born in Kentucky, who became a teacher, associate newspaper editor, pastor, hymn writer and insurance saleman. He didn't serve as a pastor long due to ill health. By the time he retired, he has written over 1200 poems, many which were set to music.
Chisholm once stated his purpose for writing songs: “I have sought to be true to the Word, and to avoid flippant and catchy titles and treatment. I have greatly desired that each hymn or people might have some definite message to the hearts for whom it was written.” (source)
In 1915 I wrote a "light and summery" type of gospel song entitled 'The Sunshine Song" for children's services. It became quite popular, and many pastors wrote to me that the music should be saved, and more general words wedded to it. I came across a copy of it in my files in 1917 and played it over. The rhythm and tempo suggested the words "Living for Jesus." . . . I decided to ask T. O. Chisholm to write the words. I mailed him a copy of the music and suggested the title and the type of refrain which I thought it deserved. In a day or so, Mr. Chisholm returned it to me, saying he didn't have the slightest idea as to the method used in writing words to music. I sent the material back to him immediately, telling him I believed God had led me to select him, and suggesting that he permit God to write the poem. Within a couple of weeks he had completed the writing of the words. (source)
Lapbook on the life of Jesus.
To be like Jesus. (PDF)
Following Jesus. (PDF)
Jesus for Children. (PDF)
Sources:
Psalter Hymnal. Discipleship Ministries. Hymntime.