In 1674, an Anglican priest wrote a simple song of praise for his students at England’s Winchester College. The understated lyrics expressed praise to God for His wonderful blessings, but he was careful to warn the boys to only sing the hymn in the privacy of their dorm rooms during their personal devotions.

Why all the secrecy?

At that time, the church believed hymns should only include words directly from the Bible. Using your own lyrics was like adding words to Scripture itself.

Is this blasphemy?

Nope.

Praise should be words consistent with Scripture. And these words are!

But what beautiful and simple words they are. The hymn shouts praise to the Source of all our blessings, announced with joy and passion for all God’s glory. Fortunately, this hymn, which is today referred to as the “Doxology,” was soon taken from the shadows and saw its popularity quickly spread. Do you catch the irony here?

The “Doxology,” first used in secret, quickly became the one of the most frequently sung pieces of music used in public worship!

Just before you dive into your Thanksgiving feast on Thursday, consider singing these joyful words of praise as your Thanksgiving prayer:

Praise God, from whom all blessings flow.
Praise Him, all creatures here below.
Praise Him, above ye Heavenly Host.
Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost!
Amen.