A Charge to Keep I Have

Hymn lyrics and .mp3 Download

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1. A charge to keep I have, a God to glorify, a never-dying soul to save, and fit it for the sky.

2. To serve the present age, my calling to fulfill; O may it all my powers engage to do my Master's will!

3. Arm me with jealous care, as in thy sight to live, and oh, thy servant, Lord, prepare a strict account to give!

4. Help me to watch and pray, and on thyself rely, assured, if I my trust betray, I shall forever die.

Words by: Charles Wesley
Music by: Lowell Mason

This 1762 hymn by Charles Wesley was heard in the gospel camp grounds from the rows of tents in the morning. The title of President George Bush's autobiography A Charge to Keep was drawn from this hymn.
Video so you can sing along to A Charge to Keep I Have

⚔️ The Story Behind “A Charge to Keep I Have”

✍️ Who Wrote It?

The hymn text was written by Charles Wesley in 1762, one of the most prolific hymn writers in Christian history and a co-founder of the Methodist movement alongside his brother John Wesley.
Charles wrote over 6,000 hymns in his lifetime.
His hymns were deeply rooted in Scripture and theology, meant to teach and inspire.

📖 What Does the Title Mean?

"A charge to keep I have, A God to glorify, A never-dying soul to save, And fit it for the sky."
The word “charge” refers to a divine commission or duty. It’s not about a burden, but a sacred responsibility—to serve God with all one’s heart and to live in a way that reflects His purpose.
The hymn challenges the believer to:

• Live a holy life
• Serve faithfully
• Resist temptation
• Glorify God in all things

📜 Biblical Inspiration

The hymn was likely inspired by Leviticus 8:35 (KJV), a verse Charles Wesley included in the original publication:
"Therefore shall ye abide at the door of the tabernacle... and keep the charge of the Lord, that ye die not: for so I am commanded."
It’s a reminder of the priestly calling—a sacred duty that requires obedience, focus, and purity. John Wesley, Charles' brother, used this hymn to close a sermon titled “On the Ministerial Office.” In doing so, he emphasized that all believers, not just clergy, are called to serve God diligently.

🎵 Musical Setting

The tune most commonly used today is "Boylston", composed by Lowell Mason in the 19th century. Mason was a key figure in American church music and helped popularize many hymns in U.S. congregations.
This pairing gave the hymn a strong, marching rhythm—fitting for its theme of duty and devotion.

🕊️ Why It Matters Today

“A Charge to Keep I Have” reminds Christians that faith is not passive—it’s an active, daily commitment.
It calls us to:

• Live with purpose
• Be good stewards of our lives and talents
• Serve others as an expression of serving God

This hymn continues to be sung in churches—especially Methodist, Holiness, and Baptist traditions—and has also been referenced by historical figures, including President George W. Bush, who quoted it in his memoir, describing it as a personal motto.

🙏 Final Verse (Reflection):

"Help me to watch and pray, And on Thyself rely, Assured, if I my trust betray, I shall forever die."

It’s a sobering reminder that we need God’s strength to stay faithful—and that our lives are meant to count for something greater!