I Will Praise Him

“When I Saw The Cleansing Fountain” was written by Margaret Jenkins Harris, a prolific hymn writer and musician whose work was often used in holiness and revivalist movements at the turn of the 20th century. The hymn is a heartfelt expression of thanksgiving for salvation, centered on the believer’s complete surrender to God. Harris uses the metaphor of an altar of sacrifice to depict the moment of consecration when the heart is yielded entirely to Christ. In that moment of surrender, the “fire” of the Holy Spirit descends, cleansing and filling the believer with divine joy.

The text moves from the personal testimony of salvation to a universal call for all redeemed people to join in praise. The refrain repeats the declaration “I will praise Him!” as a constant vow, mirroring the psalmist’s determination to give glory to God as long as life endures. The words echo Psalm 146:2 and other biblical exhortations to praise without ceasing. The imagery of washing in the “crimson flood” connects directly to the atoning work of Christ’s blood, a central theme in evangelical hymnody of the time.

First published in 1898, the hymn gained wide circulation in holiness camp meetings and revival gatherings, often accompanied by a testimony service where believers would share their experience of God’s sanctifying power. Its simple yet powerful message made it easily memorable, and the melody invites congregational participation. “I Will Praise Him” remains a beloved testimony song, reminding Christians that true praise springs from a heart that has been cleansed, sanctified, and wholly dedicated to the Lord. Through every season of life, the hymn affirms the believer’s unshakable commitment to glorify God in word, song, and deed.