This hymn-prayer, written in 1898 and loosely based on Paul’s testimony in Philippians 3, was written by Johnson Oatman, author of “Count Your Blessings” and thousands of other hymns.

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Special thanks to Don for giving his permission to use his recording of this great hymn on today’s show. Please help show your gratitude by supporting him at his website.

Higher Ground
Lyrics: Johnson Oatman, Jr.
Music: Charles H. Gabriel

Performed by: Don Francisco

I’m pressing on the upward way,
New heights I’m gaining every day;
Still praying as I’m onward bound,
“Lord, plant my feet on higher ground.”

Refrain

Lord, lift me up and let me stand,
By faith, on Heaven’s table land,
A higher plane than I have found;
Lord, plant my feet on higher ground.

My heart has no desire to stay
Where doubts arise and fears dismay;
Though some may dwell where those abound,
My prayer, my aim, is higher ground.

Refrain

I want to live above the world,
Though Satan’s darts at me are hurled;
For faith has caught the joyful sound,
The song of saints on higher ground.

Refrain

I want to scale the utmost height
And catch a gleam of glory bright;
But still I’ll pray till Heav’n I’ve found,
“Lord, plant my feet on higher ground.”

Refrain