Happy Soul, Thy Days Are Ended Song Meaning, Biblical Reference and Inspiration
Charles Wesley, one of the most prominent hymn writers in Christian history, penned a beautiful and uplifting hymn titled "Happy Soul, Thy Days Are Ended." This song encapsulates the joyous anticipation of a believer reaching the end of their earthly journey and entering into the glorious presence of Jesus.
I. The Meaning of "Happy Soul, Thy Days Are Ended":
The song's title, "Happy Soul, Thy Days Are Ended," immediately conveys a sense of fulfillment and contentment. It speaks to the joy that awaits a soul as it completes its earthly pilgrimage and enters into the eternal bliss of heaven. The lyrics celebrate the believer's triumph over sin and death, as they are received by Jesus and granted eternal rest.
II. The Inspiration or Story Behind the Song:
While the exact inspiration or story behind the song is not explicitly documented, it resonates with the Christian hope and assurance found in the Scriptures. Charles Wesley, drawing from his deep knowledge of the Bible, crafted this hymn as an expression of the believer's longing to be united with Christ in heaven.
III. Bible Verses Related to the Song:
1. Revelation 14:13: "Then I heard a voice from heaven say, 'Write this: Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on.' 'Yes,' says the Spirit, 'they will rest from their labor, for their deeds will follow them.'"
This verse echoes the sentiments of the song, emphasizing the blessedness of those who die in the Lord. It speaks of rest from earthly toil and the assurance that their righteous deeds will be remembered and rewarded.
2. 2 Corinthians 5:8: "Yes, we are of good courage, and we would rather be away from the body and at home with the Lord."
The Apostle Paul's words affirm the desire to depart from the earthly body and be united with the Lord. This verse underpins the song's theme of longing for the eternal home and the joy of being in the presence of Jesus.
3. Philippians 1:21-23: "For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know! I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far."
The Apostle Paul's words express the conflict between the desire to continue serving Christ on earth and the longing to be with Him in heaven. This passage resonates with the song's theme of the soul's readiness to leave this world and be united with the Savior.
IV. Exploring the Lyrics of "Happy Soul, Thy Days Are Ended":
1. Stanza 1:
"HAPPY soul, thy days are ended,
All thy mourning days below:
Go, by angel guards attended,
To the sight of Jesus, go!"
This opening stanza sets the tone for the entire hymn, rejoicing in the completion of the soul's earthly journey and its entrance into the presence of Jesus. It emphasizes the soul's happiness and the angelic guardianship that accompanies its journey to heaven.
2. Stanza 2:
"Waiting to receive thy spirit,
Lo! the Saviour stands above;
Shows the purchase of his merit,
Reaches out the crown of love."
This stanza describes the soul's anticipation of being received by Jesus. The Savior, who waits to welcome the departing soul, reveals the price of His sacrifice and extends the crown of love as a symbol of eternal reward.
3. Stanza 3:
"Struggle through thy latest passion
To thy dear Redeemer's breast,
To his uttermost salvation,
To his everlasting rest."
In this stanza, the hymn acknowledges the challenges and struggles the soul may face in the final moments of life. However, it encourages the soul to persevere, knowing that the ultimate destination is the loving embrace of the Redeemer and the everlasting rest found in Him.
4. Stanza 4:
"For the joy, he sets before thee,
Bear a momentary pain;
Die, to live the life of glory,
Suffer, with thy Lord to reign."
The final stanza emphasizes the temporary nature of the pain or suffering the soul may endure on its journey to heaven. It encourages the soul to embrace this momentary pain, knowing that it leads to eternal life and the privilege of reigning with the Lord.
Conclusion:
"Happy Soul, Thy Days Are Ended" is a powerful hymn that encapsulates the joy and anticipation of a believer's journey from this earthly life to the eternal presence of Jesus. It conveys the longing to be united with the Savior and emphasizes the assurance of rest, reward, and eternal glory. This hymn serves as a reminder of the hope Christians have in Christ and the promise of everlasting life.
