How Firm a Foundation (PDF)
SATB choir, Piano, optional Cello (Cello Part)
Text attr. to Robert Keen, Music attr. to J. Ellis
Arranged by M Ryan Taylor

A reverential setting of this hymn for SATB choir and an optional cello part. It starts and ends pianissimo with a grand forte section in the middle: The flame shall not hurt thee, I design thy dross to consume and thy gold to refine. This arrangement appropriate for any service - the text illustrates perfectly the tender mercies of the Savior.

The Text:
How firm a foundation ye Saints of the Lord
is laid for your faith in his excellent word!
What more can he say than to you he hath said,
who unto the Savior for refuge have fled?

When through firey trials thy pathway shall lie,
My grace, all sufficient, shall be thy supply.
The flame shall not hurt thee; I only design
Thy dross to consume and thy gold to refine.

Fear not, I am with thee; oh, be not dismayed,
For I am thy God and will still give thee aid.
Ill strengthen thee, help thee and cause thee to stand,
Upheld by my righteous omnipotent hand.

When through the deep waters I call thee to go,
The rivers of sorrow shall not thee oerflow,
For I will be with thee, thy troubles to bless,
And sanctify to thee thy deepest distress.