I Surrender All
| I Surrender All | |
|---|---|
First publication of "I Surrender All", in Gospel Songs of Grace and Glory (1896) | |
| Text | Judson W. Van DeVenter |
| Meter | 8.7.8.7 with refrain |
| Melody | Winfield S. Weeden |
| Published | 1896 |
"I Surrender All" is a Christian hymn, with words written by American art teacher and musician Judson W. Van DeVenter (1855–1939), who subsequently became a music minister and evangelist. It was put to music by Winfield S. Weeden (1847–1908), and published in 1896.
Van DeVenter said of the inspiration for the text:
For some time, I had struggled between developing my talents in the field of art and going into full-time evangelistic work. At last the pivotal hour of my life came, and I surrendered all. A new day was ushered into my life. I became an evangelist and discovered down deep in my soul a talent hitherto unknown to me. God had hidden a song in my heart, and touching a tender chord, He caused me to sing.