How Can I Keep from Singing

This hymn was recorded for the people of St. Francis Church, Staunton, Virginia, as virtual music for the weekend of June 21, 2020. Since congregational singing in church is currently not allowed, this is a way to bring the hymns into people's homes.

Text: Robert Lowry, 1826-1899; adapted and with additional text by Doris Plenn

Tune: HOW CAN I KEEP FROM SINGING, Robert Lowry, harm. by Robert J. Bastiani


Recorded at Augusta Stone Presbyterian Church, Fort Defiance, Virginia


My life flows on in endless song
Above earth's lamentation.
I hear the real though far-off hymn
That hails a new creation.


Refrain:
No storm can shake my in-most calm,
While to that rock I'm clinging.
Since love is Lord of heaven and earth,
How can I keep from singing?


Through all the tumult and the strife, I hear that music ringing;
It sounds and echoes in my soul;
How can I keep from singing?


Refrain


What though the tempest 'round me roar,
I hear the truth it liveth.
What though the darkness 'round me close,
Songs in the night it giveth.


Refrain


When tyrants tremble, sick with fear,
And hear their death knells ringing;
When friends rejoice both far and near,
How can I keep from singing?


Refrain


The peace of Christ makes fresh my heart,
A fountain ever springing.
All things are mine since I am his;
How can I keep from singing?


Refrain