"Singing the Devil Away" (9)

Still singing to the TLH tune for "Come, Ye Faithful, Raise the Strain"...

Jesus is my innocence,
righteousness, and glory.
He has gained from me a place
where I live in safety,
like a fortress so secure
that no foe can conquer.
Even hell's artillery
cannot break and take it.

Dr Kleinig pointed out that Gerhardt lived during the time of the Thirty Years War. Previously, fortresses provided protection during war. But gunpowder and cannon had been developed to such a point by this time that cannon would break down the thick walls of castles. So this verse hearkens back to the idea that there actually is an impenetrable fortress where we can find security and safety from our enemy.