Sister Sheri Peterson
Ward Music Director
The words command and commandment usually carry stern connotations. This lovely hymn reminds us that those who obey the Lord find their load lighter, not heavier. This is the paradox of obedience: when we seek obedience rather than happiness, the result is happiness after all.
The hymn's original title (1755) "God's Care a Remedy for Ours", echoes 1 Peter 5:7: "Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you."
In his entry for "Commandments" in Mormon Doctrine, Elder Bruce R. McConkie stated emphatically, "It is God's right to command, he is not restricted to sending requests or petitions.......(and) in his infinite wisdom he orders us to do what will further our interests and his." (2nd ed.[Salt Lake City, Utah: Bookcraft, 1966], p.149) The security and joy described in the hymn text are the reward of obedience.
The tune, named DENNIS, was not associated with this hymn when it was originally written, although it flows beautifully in harmony with the text. Most Protestant hymnals print DENNIS as the tune for the well-known John Fawcett text, "Blest Be the Tie That Binds."
The flowing and soothing tune has such lovely melodic and harmonious tones that support the tender and gentle message of the hymn musically. The video I've selected is of a beautifully done viola & piano duet. Once upon a time I played viola in both high school and college symphony orchestras and hearing this reminds me of the beauty of this lovely instrument as the message of the hymn is so exquisitely portrayed here.
Here is the text to the hymn so you may read along as you listen if you'd like:
How gentle God's commands!
How kind his precepts are!
Come, cast your burdens on the Lord
And trust his constant care.
Beneath his watchful eye,
His Saints securely dwell;
That hand which bears all nature up
Shall guard his children well.
Why should this anxious load
Press down your weary mind?
Haste to your Heav'nly Father's throne
And sweet refreshment find
His goodness stands approved,
Unchanged from day to day;
I'll drop my burden at this feet
And bear a song away.
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