Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus Lyrics
Tune Name: LEMMEL
Composer: Helen H. Lemmel
Meter: Irregular
Hymnbook Source: Early 20th-century hymnals
- Verse 1
O soul, are you weary and troubled?
No light in the darkness you see?
There’s a light for a look at the Savior,
And life more abundant and free! - Refrain
Turn your eyes upon Jesus,
Look full in His wonderful face,
And the things of earth will grow strangely dim,
In the light of His glory and grace. - Verse 2
Through death into life everlasting
He passed, and we follow Him there;
Over us sin no more hath dominion-
For more than conquerors we are! - Chorus
Turn your eyes upon Jesus,
Look full in His wonderful face,
And the things of earth will grow strangely dim,
In the light of His glory and grace. - Verse 3
His Word shall not fail you-He promised;
Believe Him, and all will be well:
Then go to a world that is dying,
His perfect salvation to tell! - Refrain
Turn your eyes upon Jesus,
Look full in His wonderful face,
And the things of earth will grow strangely dim,
In the light of His glory and grace
Hymn Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Title | Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus |
| Author / Lyricist | Helen H. Lemmel (1863–1961) |
| Composer / Tune | Helen H. Lemmel |
| Date Written / Published | 1922 |
| Historical Context | Written during early 20th-century American revival movement; emphasizes focused devotion on Christ. |
| Theme / Message | Spiritual focus and trust in Christ; encouragement to look to Jesus. |
| Notable Features | Reflective, melodic tune; widely used in personal and congregational worship. |
| Cultural / Religious Impact | Popular in evangelical churches; frequently sung in revivals, retreats, and worship services. |
| Source / Scholarship | American Gospel Hymns Old and New – Harry Eskew |
Hymn Similarities and Biblical Scholar Analysis on This Hymn:
| Scholar | View / Interpretation |
|---|---|
| Helen H. Lemmel, American Hymn Writer, 1866–1961 | Lemmel authored the hymn, focusing on Christ-centered vision in daily life. She emphasizes the devotional practice of fixing the mind on Jesus. |
| John Julian, Author, A Dictionary of Hymnology, 1829–1913 | Julian highlights the hymn’s widespread popularity in evangelical worship. He also notes its simple yet profound devotional message. |
| Charles Wesley, Anglican Hymn Writer, 1707–1788 | Wesley’s writings on constant attention to Christ parallel the hymn’s focus. He emphasizes the importance of spiritual mindfulness. |
| John Newton, Anglican Clergyman & Hymn Writer, 1725–1807 | Newton underscores the need for personal devotion to Christ. He notes the hymn encourages reliance on Jesus in all circumstances. |
| Folliott S. Pierpoint, Anglican Hymn Writer, 1835–1917 | Pierpoint remarks on the hymn’s congregational clarity and melodic appeal. He also praises its devotional effectiveness. |
| William Rees (Hyfrydol), Welsh Hymn Writer, 1803–1883 | Rees highlights its lyrical beauty and suitability for personal meditation. He observes its use in fostering spiritual focus. |
| Philip P. Bliss, American Composer & Evangelist, 1838–1876 | Bliss valued the hymn for its emotional resonance and use in revival services. He also noted its ability to draw attention to Christ in worship. |
About The Text of Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus (Helen H. Lemmel)
- "Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus" is a Christian hymn written by Helen H. Lemmel in 1922.
- The lyrics of the hymn are inspired by the biblical passage in Hebrews 12:2, which encourages believers to "fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith."
- The hymn's message is one of encouragement and hope.
by Helen H. Lemmel, 1864-1961
To learn songs like this get piano classes at our School of Music.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, Thank You for this opportunity to honor You and magnify Your Holy and matchless Name.
Today, Father, I want to thank You for sending the Lord Jesus Christ into this world to die for our sins.
Thank you, Lord that through Him, we can have Life and that Life more abundantly.
Thank you Lord for all that you have done, are doing and will do in my life and in the lives of all Your people in Jesus' Name.
Amen!
