How Can I Keep From Singing?

The Elementary Music program at our school this week is on the theme of music in our world, which got me to thinking about how God has revealed himself through the beauty of the world around us and my spirit’s response to it. When we were in Turkey last year, we visited an area in the interior of the country called Cappadocia. The landscape was breathtaking, and Don commented that it was as if ethereal music rose from the very ground and echoed in our spirits. I ’ve often felt my heart sing when looking at the night sky, the ocean, or majestic mountains. When we view such things, how can we keep from singing? I hope you enjoy the video at the end of this post.

How Can I Keep From Singing?


Traditional Shaker Hymn
Public domain


My life goes on in endless song

above earth's lamentations,

I hear the real, though far-off hymn

that hails a new creation

Through all the tumult and the strife

I hear its music ringing

It sounds an echo in my soul

how can I keep from singing?


While though the tempest loudly roars

I hear the truth, it liveth!

And though the darkness 'round me close

songs in the night it giveth.

No storm can shake my inmost calm

while to that rock I'm clinging.

Since Love is Lord of heaven and earth

how can I keep from singing?


When tyrants tremble in their fear

and hear their death knell ringing,

when friends rejoice both far and near

how can I keep from singing?

In prison cell and dungeon vile

our thoughts to them are winging when

friends by shame are undefiled

how can I keep from singing?