Jesus Has Lifted Me

“Out of the Depths to the Glory Above” by Avis B. Christiansen is a hymn of testimony that reflects the believer’s journey from sin and despair into the glorious light of salvation through Jesus Christ. Christiansen, a prolific hymn writer in the early 20th century, often captured the personal experience of grace in her poetry. This hymn expresses the spiritual transformation that comes when Christ delivers the sinner from the depths of sin and raises them into the assurance of eternal life.

The text highlights the power of God’s redeeming love, describing how He lifts His children from hopelessness into joy, from darkness into light, and from bondage into freedom. It resonates deeply with the imagery of Psalm 40, where David speaks of being rescued from the miry clay and set upon a firm foundation. Christiansen’s hymn captures this theme in a lyrical way, reminding singers that salvation is not only a rescue but also a transformation into glory and purpose.

Like much of her work, the hymn is marked by simplicity and heartfelt devotion, making it easy for congregations to sing while carrying profound truth. It serves both as a testimony of personal salvation and a call to rejoice in the unfailing love of Christ. For those who have been delivered, the hymn becomes an anthem of praise. For those still searching, it becomes an invitation to trust the Savior who alone can bring them from the depths to the glory above.