Sabine Baring-Gould was a 19th-century English Anglican priest, author, and hymnodist known for his literary and spiritual insight.
A prolific writer of both fiction and theology, he also penned many hymns that continue to offer quiet comfort and enduring faith.
With a gift for devotional writing, Baring-Gould combined simplicity with sincerity, crafting lyrics that have shown across generations.
About the Song
Now the Day Is Over is an evening hymn that gently leads to rest. Written in 1865, it shows gratitude for the day’s blessings while seeking peace and protection through the night.
Set to a gentle melody by Joseph Barnby, the hymn’s childlike lyrics bring about trust and peace, making it a timeless favorite for prayer and quiet consideration.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Released | 1865 (Written) |
| Album | Now the Day Is Over |
| Writer | Sabine Baring-Gould |
| Composer | Joseph Barnby |
Now the Day Is Over Lyrics by Sabine Baring-Gould
Now the day is over,
Night is drawing nigh;
Shadows of the evening
Steal across the sky.
Now the darkness gathers,
Stars begin to peep,
Birds and beasts and flowers
Soon will be asleep.
Jesus, give the weary
Calm and sweet repose;
With Thy tend’rest blessing
May mine eyelids close.
Grant to little children
Visions bright of Thee;
Guard the sailors tossing
On the deep blue sea.
Comfort every sufferer
Watching late in pain;
Those who plan some evil
From their sins restrain.
Through the long night watches,
May Thine angels spread
Their white wings above me,
Watching round my bed.
When the morning wakens,
Then may I arise
Pure and fresh and sinless
In Thy holy eyes.
Glory to the Father,
Glory to the Son,
And to Thee, blest Spirit,
Whilst all ages run.
Amen.
Similar Songs Like Now the Day Is Over
If you love the moody vibe and spiritual thought, here are some similar hymns like Now the Day Is Over you might enjoy:
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Forward! said the Prophet: This is a processional hymn encouraging spiritual progress and steadfastness, showing Baring-Gould’s themes of Christian perseverance and mission.
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My Lord, in Glory Reigning: A hymn focusing on the exaltation and reign of Christ, suitable for worship of Christ’s sovereignty.
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Daily, Daily Sing the Praises: A hymn of continual praise and devotion, echoing the gentle, comforting nature of Now the Day Is Over, but with a focus on daily worship.
Similar Songwriters Like Sabine Baring-Gould
Each of these writers, like Sabine Baring-Gould, blended great faith with lyrical artistry to shape the foundation of modern hymnody and devotional song:
- John Mason Neale
Genre: Hymnody / Sacred Choral
Top Collection: Hymns Ancient and Modern (Contributor, 1861) - Fanny J. Crosby
Genre: Gospel / Hymnody
Top Collection: Blessed Assurance and Other Hymns - Horatius Bonar
Genre: Sacred Poetry / Hymnody
Top Collection: Hymns of Faith and Hope (1860) - Isaac Watts
Genre: Christian Hymnody / Classical Worship
Top Collection: Hymns and Spiritual Songs (1707)
Frequently Asked Questions
What Inspired the Hymn Now the Day Is Over?
Baring-Gould wrote it as an evening hymn for children, drawing on his faith and a desire to create a peaceful, prayerful mood for bedtime.
What Themes are Present in Now the Day Is Over?
The hymn includes themes of rest, divine care, gratitude, and peace, creating a gentle closure to the day through trust in God’s night-long protection.
Is Now the Day Is Over, Used in Churches Today?
Yes, it remains a popular evening or closing hymn, especially in traditional services, children’s choirs, and worship settings seeking calm and spiritual rest.
