by Church @ 434 | Sep 3, 2026 | Hit in the Head with a Hymn Book
Did you know that one of the most beloved children’s hymns in history actually began as a Civil War ballad? In this episode of “Don’t Get Hit in the Head with a Hymnal,” we dive into the fascinating history of “Jesus Loves the Little Children.” Discover how the musical genius George Frederick Root—who originally published patriotic Union songs under a pseudonym to protect his classical reputation—composed a melody for a soldier’s song titled “Tramp, Tramp, Tramp.” Learn how this tune, originally written about a prisoner of war, was transformed by lyricist Charles Herbert Woolston into the timeless Sunday School classic we still sing today. It is a remarkable journey from the battlefield to the church pew that you won’t want to miss!
#HymnHistory #JesusLovesTheLittleChildren #CivilWarHistory #ChurchHistory #GeorgeFrederickRoot #Hymnology #ChristianHistory #FaithStories
by Church @ 434 | Aug 27, 2026 | Hit in the Head with a Hymn Book
In this episode of Hit in the Head with a Hymnbook, host Jeff Dixon dives into the 1883 classic “There Shall Be Showers of Blessing.” While many of us remember this song from Sunday mornings spent flipping through physical hymnals, its true power is revealed through the incredible survival story of Howard Rutledge. Held as a prisoner of war in Vietnam for seven years, Rutledge had no Bible and no pastor—only the memories of the gospel choruses he learned as a child in Tulsa. Discover how a sudden monsoon in a dark prison camp brought the lyrics of Ezekiel 34 back to his mind, providing the spiritual “showers” he needed to endure the unthinkable. It is a powerful reminder that the truths we store in our hearts today may become our greatest lifeline tomorrow.
#HymnStories #FaithUnderFire #ShowersOfBlessing #ChristianHistory #POW #HopeInTheDarkness #Ezekiel34
by Church @ 434 | Jan 19, 2026 | Hit in the Head with a Hymn Book
What does a drunken encounter with a fortune teller have to do with one of the most powerful hymns ever written? On this episode of “Hit Me in the Head with a Hymn Book,” we uncover the dramatic and unexpected origins of “Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing.” Journey back to 1758 to meet a rebellious 17-year-old named Robert Robinson, whose life was irrevocably changed by the convicting words of a famous preacher. This is the story of a three-year spiritual struggle, a life-altering conversion, and the creation of a hymn that captures the endless “streams of mercy” in a way that still resonates today.
#Hymn #StoryBehindTheSong #Christianity #Faith #ConversionStory #RobertRobinson #SpiritualJourney
by Church @ 434 | Dec 5, 2025 | Hit in the Head with a Hymn Book
Maltby Babcock was the “Superman” of the early 1900s—a star athlete, a brilliant musician, and a beloved pastor who seemed to have it all. But beneath his winning personality lay a soul deeply connected to nature and the struggle of the ministry.
In this episode of “Hit in the Head with the Hymn Book”, we explore the fascinating life of the man behind “This Is My Father’s World.” From his scenic runs in upstate New York to his tragic, untimely death in Italy at age 42, discover how a private poem found in a desk drawer became a global anthem of praise—a song the author himself never got the chance to sing on earth.
#ThisIsMyFathersWorld #HymnHistory #StoryBehindTheSong #ChristianHistory #MaltbyBabcock
by Church @ 434 | Nov 6, 2025 | Hit in the Head with a Hymn Book
In a world that loves dramatic stories, the history of “Great Is Thy Faithfulness” is a quiet lesson in authentic faith. The author, Thomas Chisholm, admitted there was “no dramatic story” behind his famous hymn. And that’s exactly what makes it so powerful.
From a log cabin in Kentucky to a quiet retirement by the sea, Chisholm lived a life of constant ups and downs. It was in that persistent, everyday struggle that he discovered the truth of Lamentations 3: God’s mercies are new every morning. This is the story of how that simple, profound realization created a song that would touch millions, proving that God’s faithfulness isn’t just for the big moments—it’s for every single one.
#GreatIsThyFaithfulness #Hymns #StoryBehindTheMusic #FaithfulnessOfGod #ChristianLiving #InspirationalStory
by Church @ 434 | Sep 9, 2025 | Hit in the Head with a Hymn Book
Experience the mighty triumph of “Christ Arose” like never before. On “Hit in the Head with a Hymnal,” we explore the profound journey behind this iconic Easter anthem, penned by pastor Robert Lowry. Discover how deep devotion and a late-night inspiration from Luke 24 brought forth a hymn that captures the very essence of resurrection. From its powerful call-and-response in worship to Lowry’s surprising legacy, prepare to be moved by the story of a song that echoes victory over foes. Join us for a mini worship service that reminds us of the journey, the truth, and the enduring power of faith!
#ChristArose #ResurrectionPower #EasterMessage #HymnsOfFaith #RobertLowry #WorshipExperience #GospelHymns #FaithStory #TriumphOverDeath
