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
by Church @ 434 | Aug 28, 2025 | Hit in the Head with a Hymn Book
You know the melody, you’ve sung the words, but do you know the astonishing story behind “All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name”? Join Jeff Dixon on “Hit in the Head with a Hymn Book” as we reveal why this iconic hymn was once BANNED, the fascinating life of its author, Edward Perronet, and its incredible impact on missionary history. You’ll be surprised at what you discover about this enduring anthem of faith!
#HymnHistory #AllHailThePower #BannedHymn #ChristianHistory #EdwardPerronet #WesleyBrothers #HymnStories
by Church @ 434 | Jul 26, 2025 | Hit in the Head with a Hymn Book
Ever heard a hymn title so strange you had to know the story? Join Jeff Dixon on “Hit in the Head with a Hymn Book” as he unravels the mystery behind “Beulah Land”—a song he once thought was about a woman named Beulah!
Discover the incredible journey of this hymn, from its author—a Mayflower descendant, Civil War veteran, and riverboat pilot—to its biblical roots in the book of Isaiah. Learn how the Hebrew word for “married” became a powerful metaphor for Heaven, and why writing it brought its creator, Edgar Stites, to his knees in tears.
It’s a story of faith so profound, we just had to share it… though you’ll want to stick around to see what happens when we try to perform it!
#HymnHistory #BeulahLand #StoryBehindTheSong #ChristianHistory #ChurchHistory #EdgarStites #FaithJourney #OldHymns
by Church @ 434 | Jul 19, 2025 | Hit in the Head with a Hymn Book
The hymn “I Am Thine, O Lord” is a prayer for deeper intimacy with God. But what does a life dedicated to that prayer actually look like? The answer is found in the incredible life of its author, Fanny Crosby.
Join us in this moving episode of “Hit in the Head by a Hymn Book” as Jeff Dixon shares how a blind woman’s devotion—memorizing scripture, serving the poor, and writing thousands of hymns—became the ultimate expression of drawing near to God. Her story gives new meaning to the words we sing and challenges us to live them out.
#DrawNearToGod #SpiritualGrowth #ChristianLife #FannyCrosby #Hymns #FaithInAction #Testimony
