1. Lord Jesus, I long to be perfectly whole; I want Thee forever to live in my soul. Break down every idol, cast out every foe Now wash me and I shall be whiter than snow. 2. Lord Jesus, look down from Your throne in the skies And help me to make a complete sacrifice. I give up myself and whatever I know Now wash me and I shall be whiter than snow. 3. Lord Jesus, for this I most humbly entreat; I wait, blessed Lord, at Thy crucified feet. By faith, for my cleansing I see Your blood flow Now wash me and I shall be whiter than snow. 4. Lord Jesus, before You I patiently wait; Come now and within me a new heart create. To those who have sought You, You never said "No" Now wash me and I shall be whiter than snow. Chorus: Whiter than snow, yes, whiter than snow Now wash me and I shall be whiter than snow.
Lyrics: James L. Nicholson
Music:
William Gustavus Fischer
Tune: WHITER THAN SNOW/FISCHER
Meter: 11.11.11.11. with Refrain
James Nicholson, c. 1828–1876
This hymn text was written by James Nicholson, who worked as a clerk in the post office in Philadelphia. He was active in the work of the Wharton Street Methodist Episcopal Church. The hymn was first published in a pamphlet titled “Joyful Songs” in 1872. The hymn’s popularity greatly increased with its inclusion in the well-known Gospel Hymns series published by Ira Sankey and Philip Bliss.