I Would Be, Dear Savior, Wholly Thine

“I Would Be, Dear Savior, Wholly Thine” is a devotional hymn of consecration written by Frank E. Belden, a well known American hymn writer of the late nineteenth century whose works often focused on personal commitment, revival, and Christian living. This hymn reflects the spirit of earnest surrender that characterized much of Belden’s writing. It invites the believer into a prayerful posture, expressing a heartfelt desire to belong completely to Christ in thought, will, and action.

The text centers on the biblical theme of consecration. Drawing from Romans chapter twelve, the hymn echoes the call to present oneself as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable unto God. Belden’s language emphasizes willingness rather than compulsion. The singer does not claim perfection or strength, but instead offers a sincere desire to be shaped by the Savior’s will. This humility gives the hymn its pastoral warmth, making it accessible to believers at every stage of spiritual growth.

A key strength of the hymn is its balance between devotion and dependence. While the believer expresses the longing to be wholly the Lord’s, the hymn also acknowledges that such devotion is only possible through divine grace. This aligns with the teaching of Galatians chapter two, where the Christian life is described as one lived through faith in the Son of God. The hymn therefore avoids self reliance and directs the heart toward Christ as the source of both forgiveness and strength.

Musically, the hymn is often paired with a gentle and reflective tune that supports its prayerful tone. It is well suited for moments of quiet dedication, communion services, or invitations to renewed commitment. “I Would Be, Dear Savior, Wholly Thine” continues to speak to believers because it gives voice to a timeless prayer. It reminds the church that true discipleship flows from loving surrender and that the Christian life is most fruitful when it is wholly placed in the hands of the Savior who gave Himself in love.