Lyrics
Glorious things of Thee are spoken,
Zion, city of our God!
He, Whose Word cannot be broken,
Formed thee for His own abode.
On the Rock of Ages founded,
What can shake thy sure repose?
With salvation's walls surrounded,
Thou may'st smile at all thy foes.
See! The streams of living waters,
Springing from eternal love;
Well supply thy sons and daughters,
And all fear of want remove:
Who can faint while such a river
Ever flows their thirst t'assuage?
Grace, which like the Lord, the Giver,
Never fails from age to age.
Round each habitation hovering,
See the cloud and fire appear!
For a glory and a cov'ring
Showing that the Lord is near.
Thus deriving from our banner
Light by night and shade by day;
Safe they feed upon the manna
Which He gives them when they pray.
Savior, if of Zion's city,
I through grace a member am,
Let the world deride or pity,
I will glory in Thy Name.
Fading is the worldling's pleasure,
All his boasted pomp and show;
Solid joys and lasting treasure
None but Zion's children know.
Song History & Meaning
Composer / Hymnodist: John Newton
When the world around us feels unpredictable and fragile, this hymn reminds us of the unshakeable city of God. Founded on the Rock of Ages and surrounded by salvation, our lives are grounded in His unbroken promises. We are continuously sustained by streams of living water—His endless love and grace flowing directly to our hearts. Today, as you sing, rest deeply in the security of belonging to a God who holds you safe and supplies your every need.
📖 Related Scripture Passages:
- Psalm 87:2-3: “Yahweh loves the gates of Zion more than all the dwellings of Jacob. Glorious things are spoken of you, city of God. Selah.”
- Isaiah 26:1: “In that day, this song will be sung in the land of Judah: “We have a strong city. He appoints salvation for walls and bulwarks.””
- Matthew 16:18: “I also tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my assembly, and the gates of Hades will not prevail against it.”