Reminding us that no part of the Christian’s life is exempt from devotion to God, hymn 281 is one of our Pastors favorite hymns. Sung weekly at a drug and alcohol rehab center in Los Angeles, where Scott served as a Chaplain, this song brought conviction and change to incarcerated peoples lives. If it can do that for them imagine how this hymn can be an inspiration of change for you.
The hymn “Take My Life and Let It Be” was written by Frances Ridley Havergal in 1874 Frances was a British poet and hymn writer who grew up in a Christian family. From a young age, she loved reading the Bible and writing poems about her faith. She believed that her life should completely belong to God, and she wanted her words to inspire others to live for Him too.
Frances wrote this hymn during a time when she faced challenges in her health and daily life. Even though she had physical struggles, her faith remained strong. The hymn expresses her deep desire to give every part of her life to God. It became popular because it showed a simple but powerful idea: living a Christian life means offering everything you have to God, not just believing in Him. People around the world have sung it in churches, prayer meetings, and personal devotion, inspired by its message of surrender and dedication.
The meaning of the hymn is about total surrender to God. Frances wanted to show that a Christian’s life should be fully devoted to God in every action, thought, and gift. Each verse focuses on a different part of life. For example, the body is dedicated to God’s work, hands and feet are used to serve Him and others, time is given to His purposes, and talents or skills are offered to help in God’s work. Even the heart and mind are included—our thoughts, desires, and feelings should be guided by God’s will.
The repeated message in the hymn is that God should guide and use everything in a person’s life. It is a prayer asking God, “Take my life and let it be fully Yours.” The hymn teaches that faith is not only about words or belief but also about action. It reminds Christians that serving God means living in a way that reflects His purposes in every choice and action.
Today, “Take My Life and Let It Be” is still a favorite hymn because it inspires people to live fully for God. It shows that true Christian life is active, personal, and complete—offering all of oneself to God. The hymn continues to encourage believers to dedicate their entire lives, talents, and hearts to serving Him.