Christian
Hymn
He Who Would Valiant Be
The
hymn "He Who Would Valiant Be" is a well-known Christian hymn with
lyrics written by John Bunyan, the author of the famous Christian allegory
"The Pilgrim's Progress." The hymn captures the essence of the
Christian journey and encourages believers to remain steadfast and courageous
in their faith despite the challenges and trials they may face.
Verse
1:
The
first verse sets the tone for the hymn by emphasizing the importance of being
valiant in the face of disaster. It encourages the listener to follow the
example of the Master, who is Jesus Christ. The phrase "He who would
valiant be" suggests that those who desire to be courageous and faithful should
persevere and remain resolute in their commitment to Christ. The mention of
being a pilgrim implies that the Christian life is a journey towards a heavenly
destination.
Verse
2:
In
this verse, the hymn addresses the potential obstacles and discouragements that
may arise on the Christian's path. The line "Who so beset him round with
dismal stories" refers to those who surround the believer and share
negative tales or try to discourage them. However, these discouragements only
serve to strengthen the resolve of the believer. The lyrics affirm that no
matter the size of the enemies or the challenges faced, the strength of the
believer will not waver. The right to be a pilgrim, a faithful follower of
Christ, will be upheld.
Verse
3:
The
final verse acknowledges the presence and protection of God. It acknowledges
the Lord's defense through His Spirit and the assurance that believers will
inherit eternal life at the journey's end. The hymn rejects the fleeting
fancies and opinions of others, choosing instead to focus on the work and
dedication required to be a pilgrim. The lyrics express a commitment to
persevere, not being swayed by the opinions or criticisms of others, and being
diligent in living out the Christian faith.
Overall,
"He Who Would Valiant Be" is a hymn that encourages Christians to
remain steadfast, unyielding, and committed to their faith in the face of
adversity. It emphasizes the need to follow the example of Christ, not being
discouraged by challenges, and relying on God's defense and guidance throughout
the journey.
He Who Would Valiant Be
Verse
1
He
who would valiant be
‘Gainst
all disaster
Let
him in constancy
Follow
the Master
There’s
no discouragement
Shall
make him once relent
His
first avowed intent
To
be a pilgrim.
Verse
2
Who
so beset him round
With
dismal stories,
Do
but themselves confound —
His
strength the more is.
No
foes shall stay his might,
Though
he with giants fight:
He
will make good his right
To
be a pilgrim.
Verse
3
Since,
Lord, Thou doest defend
Us
with Thy Spirit,
We
know we at the end
Shall
life inherit.
Then
fancies flee away!
I’ll
fear not what men say,
I’ll
labor night and day
To
be a pilgrim.
