Soldiers of the Cross, Arise! (Waterbury)

Soldiers of the cross, arise!
Lo! your Leader from the skies
Waves before you glory’s prize,
The prize of victory.
Seize your armor, gird it on;
Now the battle will be won;
See, the strife will soon be done;
Then struggle manfully.

Jesus conquered when He fell,
Met and vanquished earth and hell
Now He leads you on to swell
The triumphs of His cross.
Though all earth and hell appear,
Who will doubt, or who can fear?
God, our strength and shield, is near;
We cannot lose our cause.

Onward, then, ye hosts of God!
Jesus points the victor’s rod;
Follow where your Leader trod;
You soon shall see His face.
Soon, your enemies all slain,
Crowns of glory you shall gain;
Soon you’ll join that glorious train
Who shout their Savior’s Name.

Author: William F. Lloyd

Year: 1830

The hymn is commonly attributed to William Freeman Lloyd (1791-1853). It first appeared in his 1830 collection 'Hymns for the Poor of the Flock' or related publications around that time. The subtitle '(Waterbury)' in the title likely refers to the tune name rather than the author.