209. Arise and shine! 'Gainst darkness fight!

Arise and shine! ’Gainst darkness fight!
Go forth to lands afar!
Tear strongholds down with God’s pure light,
Till leveled ground they are!
/: For Satan’s pow’r blinds people’s sight.
Proclaim God’s Word with might! :/

Chorus:

Go forth—the Lord will lead!
Hasten to those in need!
God will give pow’r as on you go,
Each foe to overthrow!
Go! Man of faith—don’t fear;
God gives direction clear.
His banner lift in bold display.
All rubble clear away!

If they your message will receive,
’Twill be a joy, indeed.
But if they don’t, then let them leave;
’Tis but the few we need.
/: By faith Christ from the grave arose!
By faith God’s kingdom grows! :/

To father, mother, say farewell—
Leave friends and land behind.
You know not where God’s chosen dwell,
But seek and you will find.
/: Your vision lift and take good heed!
The Spirit then will lead. :/

Written in 1930 by Johan O. Smith (published in 1932)Composed by Even SkogsrudText and melody © Stiftelsen Skjulte Skatters ForlagNorway ⋅ G