Standing on the Promises

The Story Behind the Hymn

This hymn was written in 1886 by Russell Kelso Carter, a man who wore many hats — teacher, coach, military man, and pastor. But it was during a season of personal illness that he began to truly lean on the truths he had taught for years. With his health failing, Carter turned to the Bible and chose to stand on the promises he found there — not just mentally, but with his whole heart.

Out of that conviction, he wrote this hymn. The music and lyrics came together as a powerful declaration of what it means to trust God completely. It quickly became a favorite at revivals and church gatherings for its upbeat energy and unwavering message.

What Makes It Powerful

“Standing on the Promises” isn’t a passive hymn — it’s active. It doesn’t just talk about hope or faith in vague terms. It declares that because God has spoken, we can live boldly, without fear or doubt. It reminds us that the foundation of our faith isn’t feelings — it’s truth.

A verse that perfectly fits this hymn is 2 Corinthians 1:20 (NIV):

For no matter how many promises God has made, they are “Yes” in Christ. And so through him the “Amen” is spoken by us to the glory of God.

This hymn calls us to live like we believe that — not wavering, but standing.

My Violin Cover

When I arranged “Standing on the Promises” for violin, I wanted to capture its steady rhythm and victorious tone. It has a marching quality to it — not rushed, but full of movement and purpose. I kept the notes strong and clear, letting the melody reflect the confidence of the message.

With Violin Hymns, I try to express the heart of each piece — and this one is about assurance. So I let the playing speak that steady, hopeful strength.

Listen and Reflect

The video is below. As you listen, think about the promises of God that you’re standing on right now — and if you’re unsure, go back to His Word. Let this hymn remind you that His Word doesn’t shift, and His love never fails. Standing on the promises of Christ my King — through eternal ages let His praises ring.

Lyrics

Standing on the promises of Christ, my King!

Through eternal ages let His praises ring.

"Glory in the highest!" I will shout and sing,

standing on the promises of God.

Standing, standing,

standing on the promises of God, my Savior;

standing, standing,

I’m standing on the promises of God.

Standing on the promises that cannot fail!

When the howling storms of doubt and fear assail,

by the living Word of God I shall prevail,

standing on the promises of God.

Standing on the promises, I now can see

perfect, present cleansing in the blood for me;

standing in the liberty where Christ makes free,

standing on the promises of God.

Standing on the promises of Christ, the Lord,

bound to Him eternally by love’s strong cord,

overcoming daily with the Spirit’s Sword,

standing on the promises of God.

Standing on the promises I cannot fall,

list'ning ev'ry moment to the Spirit’s call,

resting in my Savior as my all in all,

standing on the promises of God.

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