Hymn of the Week: Victory Is Nigh

After seeing the jubilant winners of today's football games (Go Steelers!!), I wanted to choose a hymn with a victory theme. This one crossed my path.

I am not familiar with the tune, or the author (F.H. Shaul), but the words convey an optimism that spiritual victory—a far more important type of victory than more mortal football—can be had if we "follow our Captain" as "we are faithful to our duty." Note the optimism!

Victory Is Nigh

Marching on to battle ’gainst the hosts of wrong,
Following our Captain with a happy song,
Heeding not the many who are loit’ring by,
For victory is nigh, yes, victory is nigh.

Refrain

Victory is nigh! yes, victory is nigh!
Shout with voice triumphant to the vaulted sky;
Victory is nigh! yes, victory is nigh!
We will win the battle for the King on high.

Shouting loud hosannas as we onward go,
With determination sin to overthrow;
Satan’s hosts are trembling, foes before us fly,
For victory is nigh, yes, victory is nigh.

Refrain

“Volunteers are wanted,” hear the Master say,
Will you be enlisted in the mighty fray?
Ev’ry Christian answer, saying, “Here am I,”
Then victory is nigh, yes, victory is nigh.

Refrain

Faithful to your duty, halt not by the way,
Keep the banner floating for the King alway,
Great reward He’ll give His soldiers by and by,
For victory is nigh, yes, victory is nigh.

Refrain