Hymn Library / Hymn Library

A Safe Stronghold

Martin Luther (1529) • Thomas Carlyle (1831) • English

Primary Scripture: Genesis 15:1

Verse 1

A safe stronghold our God is still, a trusty shield and weapon; he'll keep us clear from all the ill that hath us now o'ertaken. The ancient prince of hell hath risen with purpose fell; strong mail of craft and power he weareth in this hour; on earth is not his fellow.

Verse 2

With force of arms we nothing can, full soon were we down-ridden; but for us fights the proper Man whom God himself hath bidden. Ask ye, who is this same? Christ Jesus is his name, the Lord Sabaoth's Son; he, and no other one, shall conquer in the battle.

Verse 3

And were this world all devils o'er, and watching to devour us, we lay it not to heart so sore; not they can overpower us. And let the prince of ill look grim as e'er he will, he harms us not a whit; for why? His doom is writ; a word shall quickly slay him.

Verse 4

God's word, for all their craft and force, one moment will not linger, but, spite of hell, shall have its course; 'tis written by his finger. And though they take our life, goods, honour, children, wife, yet is their profit small; these things shall vanish all: the city of God remaineth.

Scripture References

Reference 1

  • genesis 15:1

Reference 2

  • 1-samuel 17:47

Reference 3

  • job 1:6-22

Reference 4

  • psalms 24:8-10

Reference 5

  • psalms 33:16

Reference 6

  • psalms 44:6

Reference 7

  • psalms 46

Reference 8

  • psalms 48:8

Reference 9

  • isaiah 25:1-9

Reference 10

  • isaiah 55:11