Leaning On The Everlasting Arms

When we sing "Leaning on the Everlasting Arms", we sing it like it's an upbeat hymn that gives us the feeling of lifted up because any leading brother usually starts off in fast tempo. Lifted up as in encouraged and fear driven out of our hearts. It is rightly so. The lyrics reflects the promises made by God.

But what if we sing it in slow tempo? Somehow, it elates the sense of peace and awe.

When you listen to it, it might give a new spin on the well-beloved hymn. It starts with simple piano melody then adds the string orchestra, and lastly, the raw Southern folk woman's voice genuinely exudes the soul that seeks everlasting promises of God.

What a fellowship, what a joy divine, leaning on the everlasting arms.
The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.

What a blessedness, what a peace is mine, leaning on the everlasting arms.
He makes me lie down in green pastures.
He leads me beside still waters.

O how sweet to walk in this pilgrim way, leaning on the everlasting arms.
He restores my soul.

O how bright the path grows from day to day, leaning on the everlasting arms.
He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake.

What have I to dread, what have I to fear, leaning on the everlasting arms.
Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil,

I have blessed peace with my Lord so near, leaning on the everlasting arms.
for you are with me;
your rod and your staff, they comfort me.

Leaning, leaning, safe and secure from all alarms;
You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies;
you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.

Leaning, leaning, leaning on the everlasting arms.
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life,
and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever.