Before the Throne

Yesterday in church the music was wonderful. All songs written in the 16th & 17th centuries, which means to me beautiful, rich lyrics. We ended the service with a breathtaking rendition of "Before the throne of God above," which left me pondering the lyrics more than ever. What a great view of justification: "For God the just is satisfied, to look on him and pardon me." And comfort and hope: "My life is hid with Christ on high." Here are the words, I hope you find them encouraging too.

Before the throne of God above
I have a strong and perfect plea.
A great high Priest whose Name is Love
Who ever lives and pleads for me.
My name is graven on His hands,
My name is written on His heart.
I know that while in Heaven He stands
No tongue can bid me thence depart.

When Satan tempts me to despair
And tells me of the guilt within,
Upward I look and see Him there
Who made an end of all my sin.
Because the sinless Savior died
My sinful soul is counted free.
For God the just is satisfied
To look on Him and pardon me.

Behold Him there the risen Lamb,
My perfect spotless righteousness,
The great unchangeable I AM,
The King of glory and of grace,
One in Himself I cannot die.
My soul is purchased by His blood,
My life is hid with Christ on high,
With Christ my Savior and my God!