Come, My Soul, Thou Must Be Waking

This morning hymn, attributed to the German poet Friedrich von Canitz, is a gentle and reverent call to begin the day with renewed devotion. Rooted in the truth found in Lamentations chapter three verses twenty two to twenty three, the hymn reflects on God’s mercies that are new every morning. Canitz invites the soul to rise not only from physical sleep, but also into spiritual awareness, gratitude, and obedience. Morning light becomes a reminder of divine faithfulness, and waking becomes an act of worship.

The hymn encourages the believer to start the day by remembering the presence of God, whose kindness sustains every moment. Canitz guides the mind away from worldly distraction and toward the One who grants breath, strength, and purpose. There is a spirit of quiet instruction throughout the text. The singer is urged to align heart and conduct with the will of God, to resist temptation, and to walk in holiness. The rising sun symbolizes renewed opportunities to live in righteousness and to shine as a witness before others.

Historically, this hymn belongs to a long tradition of morning songs used in both private devotion and congregational worship. Canitz writes with the reflective tone typical of early German pietism, calling believers to approach each day with sobriety, gratitude, and trust. The hymn’s steady rhythm and thoughtful wording help shape a prayerful mindset. It encourages the singer to begin the day with praise and to depend on divine guidance for all that follows.

Through its gentle admonitions, the hymn nurtures a mindful start to the believer’s daily walk. It reminds the Christian that each new day offers fresh tokens of God’s mercy and fresh opportunities for faithful living, making it a fitting companion to morning meditation and prayer.