Lord, Make Us More Holy

“Lord, Make Us More Holy” is a traditional African American spiritual that reflects the deep longing of believers for sanctification and inward transformation. Rooted in the lived faith of enslaved Christians and their descendants, the hymn expresses a prayerful desire not merely for outward religion, but for a heart and life increasingly shaped by God’s holiness. The repeated petition for holiness emphasizes that spiritual growth is a continuing work of grace rather than a single moment of decision.

The hymn draws strongly from biblical teaching that God’s people are called to be holy because He Himself is holy (Leviticus 20:7-8; 1 Peter 1:15-16). In the spiritual tradition, holiness was not understood as moral perfection achieved by human effort, but as a life set apart unto God, dependent on His mercy and power. The simple and repetitive structure of the hymn reinforces this theology, showing persistence in prayer and reliance upon the Lord for spiritual renewal.

Within the African American worship context, this hymn often functioned as both confession and hope. It acknowledged human weakness while affirming faith that God continues to work in His people. The plea for holiness aligns with David’s prayer for a clean heart and a renewed spirit (Psalm 51:10), revealing a shared biblical foundation across generations and cultures.

“Lord, Make Us More Holy” is frequently paired with petitions for humility, faithfulness, and love, reflecting the holistic nature of Christian sanctification. Holiness here is relational and practical, shaping character, conduct, and devotion. The hymn ultimately directs attention away from self-improvement and toward God’s transforming grace, reminding worshipers that true holiness flows from walking daily with the Lord and yielding to His Spirit (Matthew 5:48).

Through its simplicity and depth, the hymn continues to serve as a timeless prayer for believers who desire to grow in Christlikeness and live lives that honor God in both heart and action.