Come, O Come, Our Voices Raise

“Come, O Come, Our Voices Raise” is a hymn by George Wither, a seventeenth century English poet and devotional writer known for his metrical psalms and hymns. Wither had a strong desire to promote congregational singing and to place scriptural truths into forms that could be easily sung and remembered by the church. This hymn reflects his commitment to joyful and reverent praise.

The hymn is a call to worship, inviting believers to lift their voices together in thanksgiving and adoration. Psalm 95:1-2 declares, “O come, let us sing unto the Lord: let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation” (KJV). Wither echoes this invitation, encouraging the gathered people of God to unite in praise, not as individuals only, but as a congregation offering collective worship.

Psalm 98:4-6 further reinforces this theme by calling all the earth to make a joyful noise unto the Lord, to break forth in song, and to rejoice. The hymn reflects this spirit of celebration, presenting worship as both a duty and a delight. It emphasizes that praising God is not merely a formal act but a joyful response to His goodness and greatness.

Colossians 3:16 teaches believers to let the word of Christ dwell richly in them, teaching and admonishing one another with psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs. Wither’s hymn serves this purpose by embedding biblical truths within poetic language, enabling worshippers to learn and express their faith through song.

Hebrews 13:15 describes praise as a continual sacrifice offered to God, the fruit of lips giving thanks to His name. The hymn reflects this idea by urging persistent and heartfelt worship, not limited to special occasions but as a regular expression of devotion.

“Come, O Come, Our Voices Raise” stands as a simple yet meaningful example of early English hymnody. It calls the church to joyful participation in worship, reminding believers that their voices are instruments of praise to God. Through its scriptural foundation and inviting tone, the hymn encourages all who sing it to glorify God with unity, gratitude, and reverence.