Generation Hymn StoriesSampl

At The Cross (At the Cross, Where My Sins Were Washed Away)

Isaac Watts (1674–1748) wrote this wonderful hymn. He is recognized as the "Godfather of English Hymnody," aptly so since he is credited with writing around 750 hymns. Just a few include "When I Survey the Wondrous Cross,” "Joy to the World,” and "Our God, Our Help in Ages Past.” It is widely believed that most of these hymns were written when Watts was in his early twenties. Though this hymn focuses on the most important message of the cross, consider that Isaac Watts did much of his greatest work at such a young age. Let this inspire and remind us that God wants us to be used by Him at this point in our Christian journey.

We all have our reasons and excuses for why we should wait to carry out God’s plan for us. Or we wait to be disqualified as if He originally overestimated our abilities and will soon discover His mistake. But you can be certain of this truth: God wants to use both our abilities, inabilities, strengths, and weakness.

When I was in my twenties, my mom offered me one of the greatest pieces of advice I have ever received. She said, “Tommy, don’t wait for that perfect moment when God will use you. Make sure, in some small way, you begin serving and giving your gifts away today.”

– Tommy Walker