TRUST & OBEY

The inspiration for the hymn, TRUST AND OBEY, came in 1886 during a series of meetings conducted by D.L. Moody in Brockton, Massachusetts. 

During a testimony meeting one night, a young man rose and testified that he was not sure how things would work out for him.  Then he added, “but I am going to trust and I am going to obey.”  In attendance at the meeting was Daniel Towner and he jotted that comment down.  Later, he sent it with the story to Rev. John Sammis who subsequently wrote the hymn.

Rev. Sammis was born in 1846 in Brooklyn, New York.  He became a successful business man and an active Christian Layman.  Later, he gave up his business career and followed the call of God into full time Christian ministry and pastored several Presbyterian churches.  He died in June, 1919, having completed a lifetime of fruitful service for the Lord.

Daniel Towner composed the music for this hymn.  His influence on the music in evangelical churches and in music leadership was strong and profound.  Daniel was chosen as the first music department head at the newly formed Christian leader training centre called the Moody Bible Institute.

This favourite gospel hymn has long been cited as a choice example for a balanced biblical view of a believer’s faith in Jesus Christ.  This faith in God will grow and strengthen as we learn to TRUST AND OBEY His guidance.