This edition was prepared by Barry Johnston — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
Bitter Sweet
Staff Notation • Sacred
Preview
0
0
3 editions of this piece
Different typesettings and voicings of the same work. This page shows the main edition; the others are below.
Subscribed as
Want Sunday picks sent to another address too?
Free weekly email
Your choir should not be left out in what's trending
Sunday mass selections, psalms, and trending songs in your area — straight to your inbox.
Bitter Sweet by Oliver Holden — Lyrics
Resignation, or God our portion
1. My times of sorrow and of joy,
Great God, are in Thy hand;
My choicest comforts come from Thee
And go at Thy command.
2 If thou should take them all away,
Yet would I not repine;
Before they were possessed by me,
They were entirely thine.
3. Nor would I drop a murmuring word,
Though the whole world were gone,
Read full lyrics
About Bitter Sweet
The text of Oliver Holden's Bitter Sweet speaks of profound spiritual resignation, acknowledging that both joys and sorrows are divinely appointed. The composer sets these reflective English words for an STB choir. The lyrics explore the transient nature of earthly comforts, contrasting them with the enduring peace found in unwavering faith. The imagery of a rose with thorns, and honey mixed with gall, highlights the 'bitter-sweet' nature of worldly experience. The singers will find opportunities to express a deep sense of trust and acceptance, focusing on an 'enduring happiness' found 'in Thee, and Thee alone'.
