Living for Jesus (a life that is true)

"Living for Jesus" is a consecration hymn written in 1917 by Thomas Obadiah Chisholm, a devout Methodist minister and prolific hymn writer, best known for the hymn “Great Is Thy Faithfulness.” The tune was composed by C. Harold Lowden, a church musician who was serving as music director in Pennsylvania at the time. The hymn’s origin is linked to a personal request: Lowden reportedly asked Chisholm to write lyrics for a melody he had already composed, and within two weeks Chisholm delivered the text that would become “Living for Jesus.”

The hymn expresses the believer’s heartfelt devotion and surrender to Christ, making it a classic expression of Romans 12:1. It opens with a personal commitment to live for Christ in response to His selfless sacrifice. Each stanza builds upon this theme by highlighting key aspects of Christian living — service, obedience, love, and sacrifice — all offered freely because of Christ's redeeming love.

In the refrain, the singer declares joy in doing the will of the Lord, emphasizing that true Christian living is not burdensome but a privilege that springs from love. The hymn reinforces that a life yielded to Christ is one filled with purpose, peace, and eternal meaning. It resonates with believers who desire to live wholly for the Savior in gratitude for His atoning work.

Thomas Chisholm’s writing is marked by a deep biblical foundation, and this hymn is no exception. Its language is accessible, yet doctrinally rich, focusing on the believer’s relationship with Christ as Lord and Master. The tune by Lowden provides a gentle, flowing melody that enhances the reflective and earnest tone of the text.

"Living for Jesus" has been widely used in evangelical circles for over a century. It has been sung during worship services, revival meetings, and personal times of dedication. The hymn continues to inspire believers to live faithfully and sacrificially, not out of obligation, but out of love for the One who died and rose again.