It was written by American Evangelical minister and gospel song-writer Virgil P (Prentiss) Brock (1887-1978).
The text uses the imagery of running a race, which is expressed by Paul in 2 Timothy 4:6-8 - but from the perspective of the start of the race rather than the end.
The song was published in Action Songs for Boys and Girls, Volume 4 Singspiration 1955 - no other publications or recordings have been located. But it has been requested on this website a number of times.
It is set to an unnamed tune, written by Brock's wife, composer and pianist, Blanche Kerr Brock nee (1888-1958). This has a 4/4 time signature. In the key of C, the first few notes are G #F G z G G z G A GEC.
The text uses the imagery of running a race, which is expressed by Paul in 2 Timothy 4:6-8 - but from the perspective of the start of the race rather than the end.
The song was published in Action Songs for Boys and Girls, Volume 4 Singspiration 1955 - no other publications or recordings have been located. But it has been requested on this website a number of times.
It is set to an unnamed tune, written by Brock's wife, composer and pianist, Blanche Kerr Brock nee (1888-1958). This has a 4/4 time signature. In the key of C, the first few notes are G #F G z G G z G A GEC.
Downloads
This section may contain affiliate links: I earn from qualifying purchases on these. Free downloads are provided where possible (eg for public domain items).
Examples
No on-line examples have been found. If you know where to find one, please leave a message in the Comments box near the bottom of the page.Lyrics
Toe the mark get set, run the race of life;
There's a prize awaiting you;
Lay aside every weight, each besetting sin,
keep the heavenly goal in view.
Witness all around, watching as you run,
Never falter, never fail;
Toe the mark get set, run the race of life;
There's a prize awaiting you.
I sang this song in vacation bible school growing up, and I was just singing it this morning at age 48. I love how songs stick with you and how they can impact a child for the gospel.
ReplyDeleteI agree! Woke up singing this song this morning ~ with a couple minor
ReplyDeletedifferences: "There's a crown awaiting you....You'll be champions for Christ!" I'm 75! Background music through the years?!