HYMN DAY! The exact origins of “We Shall Not Be Moved” aren’t known. One of the earlier printings available is in Spirituals Triumphant Old and New (1927), compiled by African American composer, choral conductor, and singer Edward Boatner (1898–1981). Boatner heard many spirituals from his father, an itinerant Methodist minister, who learned them from Boatner’s enslaved grandparents. This may have been one of the spirituals that was passed down through the generations.
Jesus is my Savior, I shall not be moved;
In His love and favor, I shall not be moved,
Just like a tree that’s planted by the waters,
Lord, I shall not be moved.
Chorus
I shall not be, I shall not be moved;
I shall not be, I shall not be moved;
Just like a tree that’s planted by the waters,
Lord, I shall not be moved.
In my Christ abiding, I shall not be moved;
In His love I’m hiding, I shall not be moved,
Just like a tree that’s planted by the waters,
Lord, I shall not be moved.
Chorus
If I trust Him ever, I shall not be moved;
He will fail me never, I shall not be moved,
Just like a tree that’s planted by the waters,
Lord, I shall not be moved.
Chorus
On His word I’m feeding, I shall not be moved;
He’s the One that’s leading, I shall not be moved,
Just like a tree that’s planted by the waters,
Lord, I shall not be moved.
Chorus