Ancient Words

Lynn DeShazo is a prolific American songwriter and worship leader who has been a central figure in the contemporary worship movement since the early 1980s. Born in 1956 and raised in Birmingham, Alabama, she became one of the first and most influential female writers associated with Integrity’s Hosanna! Music, a label that helped define the sound of modern praise and worship. DeShazo's work is characterized by its scriptural depth, melodic simplicity, and a focus on personal devotion, making her songs staples in diverse denominational settings worldwide.

She is perhaps most widely recognized for the 1982 worship chorus "More Precious than Silver." Written during a time of personal reflection and prayer, the song’s intimate lyrics—"Lord, You are more precious than silver / Lord, You are more costly than gold"—resonated with a global audience seeking a more personal, "heart-felt" expression of faith. The song has been translated into dozens of languages and remains one of the most performed worship songs of the late 20th century, often used as a quiet moment of "centering" in various liturgical contexts.

Another of her major contributions is the anthem "Ancient Words," which she wrote in 2001. The song celebrates the enduring power and relevance of the Bible, with the recurring refrain: "Ancient words ever true / Changing me and changing you." It has been recorded by numerous artists, including Michael W. Smith, and is frequently sung during scripture readings or as a call to discipleship. Her writing often bridges the gap between contemporary "praise" styles and traditional hymnody, as seen in the contemplative "Ancient of Days" (co-written with Gary Sadler) and the evocative "Behold the Lamb."

Throughout her career, DeShazo has written or co-written over 350 songs, many of which appear in major hymnals and digital worship resources today. Notable works include:

• "Stand Up and Give Him the Praise"

• "Turn My Heart"

• "We Are a Moment (Ancient of Days)"

• "Flow to You"

Beyond her songwriting, DeShazo is a respected teacher and author, having written More Precious Than Silver: The Heart-Stories Behind the Songs to document her creative and spiritual journey. She has spent decades traveling globally to lead worship and mentor emerging songwriters, emphasizing that worship music should be both artistically sound and theologically grounded. Today, she continues to be celebrated as a "writer's writer," whose compositions have provided a voice for the church’s devotion for over four decades.