Just as I Am, Thine Own to Be

“Just as I Am, Thine Own to Be” is a gentle and sincere hymn of consecration that reflects the evangelical devotion of the nineteenth century and the deeply personal faith expressed in the writings of Marianne Farningham. While it naturally recalls the well known hymn “Just as I Am,” this text stands on its own as a prayer of yielding and belonging. It moves beyond the initial coming to Christ and speaks of the believer’s desire to live wholly and continually in His grace.

The hymn is rooted in the biblical truth that God receives His people not on the basis of merit, strength, or worthiness, but through grace alone. By affirming “just as I am,” the hymn acknowledges human weakness and imperfection, yet it does not remain there. It presses forward into the believer’s response of devotion, obedience, and trust. The phrase “Thine own to be” expresses belonging rather than achievement, emphasizing that the Christian life flows from relationship with Christ, not performance.

Throughout the hymn, the tone is prayerful and humble. The singer offers the heart, the will, and the whole life to Christ, seeking transformation through His love. This surrender is not forced or fearful, but willing and affectionate, grounded in the assurance that Christ welcomes and sustains those who come to Him. The hymn quietly teaches that sanctification is not a sudden attainment, but a daily yielding of oneself to the Savior.

Theologically, the hymn reflects a balanced evangelical faith that unites justification and consecration. Salvation is assumed as a gift already received, and the response is a life offered back to God in gratitude. This aligns with the biblical call to present ourselves as living sacrifices, holy and acceptable unto God. The hymn avoids emotional excess, choosing instead a steady and thoughtful expression of commitment.

“Just as I Am, Thine Own to Be” has been valued in moments of personal devotion, confirmation services, and quiet recommitment. Its simplicity allows it to speak across generations, while its depth continues to challenge believers to live out what they confess. The hymn gently reminds the church that Christ does not merely call sinners to come, but invites His redeemed people to belong to Him fully, to walk with Him daily, and to rest in the grace that both saves and sustains.