About the song
“It Is No Secret (What God Can Do).” This beloved gospel hymn, penned by Stuart Hamblen in 1950, has been a source of inspiration for countless individuals, but Jim Reeves’ rendition stands as one of its most cherished and enduring interpretations. While not a typical pop chart-topper, it was a significant recording within his extensive gospel catalog, appearing on albums such as Twelve Songs of Christmas and My Cathedral. It’s far more than just a popular song; it’s a serene declaration of faith, a timeless reassurance that the power of belief is an open book, available to anyone who seeks it.
The lyrics of “It Is No Secret (What God Can Do)” offer a clear, simple, and incredibly inviting message about the power of faith and prayer. The song emphasizes that divine miracles and the comfort of spiritual connection are not hidden mysteries, but rather readily available experiences for those who believe. It’s a gentle encouragement, suggesting that one doesn’t need special knowledge or privilege to connect with a higher power. Phrases like “It is no secret what God can do / What He’s done for others, He’ll do for you” and “With arms wide open, He’ll pardon you / It is no secret what God can do” perfectly capture this sense of unconditional acceptance and accessible grace. The song speaks to the universal human desire for hope, guidance, and a sense of belonging in a larger spiritual plan. It’s about the profound peace that comes from trusting in a benevolent force and the quiet joy of realizing that divine love is freely given. It resonates deeply with anyone seeking solace, reaffirming that spiritual truth is indeed an open secret.
Jim Reeves’ vocal performance on “It Is No Secret (What God Can Do)” is simply masterful in its understated sincerity and profound warmth. His voice, renowned for its smooth, velvety baritone and often called “Gentleman Jim” for its comforting quality, delivers the lyrics with an almost conversational ease and a deep, abiding conviction. He doesn’t just sing the words; he embodies the messenger of peace, making the listener feel the profound comfort and quiet certainty of the spiritual message. There’s a perfect blend of gentle vulnerability and unwavering faith in his phrasing, a subtle emotional resonance that makes the song incredibly personal and universally profound. Reeves’ brilliance lies in his unparalleled ability to infuse such a deeply spiritual narrative with authentic feeling, connecting with audiences on a deeply empathetic level through the sheer warmth and controlled power of his vocal instrument. It is a masterclass in conveying sacred emotion with exquisite, gentle command.
The musical arrangement of “It Is No Secret (What God Can Do)” in Jim Reeves’ rendition is characteristically clean, simple, and deeply respectful of the song’s gospel origins. It typically features a gentle, melodic acoustic guitar or piano that provides a warm, inviting foundation, often complemented by subtle string flourishes that add a layer of comforting warmth without ever becoming overly dramatic. Background vocals, often a choir, provide harmonious support, swelling gently to underscore key phrases, amplifying the song’s uplifting message. The instrumentation is tasteful and precise, never overpowering Reeves’ voice but instead providing a rich, supportive bed for his profound emotional delivery. The production is clean, warm, and remarkably clear, allowing every instrumental nuance and, crucially, Reeves’ incredible vocal to be heard with pristine clarity, enhancing the song’s spiritual impact and its undeniable accessibility. It’s an arrangement that feels both intimate and expansive, perfectly suited for a heartfelt message of universal faith.
“It Is No Secret (What God Can Do)” resonated profoundly with audiences because its universal themes of faith, hope, and accessible grace are deeply understood and intensely felt. It became one of Jim Reeves’ most iconic gospel recordings, a true signature performance that continues to offer comfort and inspiration to countless individuals. It remains a timeless classic, a powerful and exhilarating reminder that for those who seek it, the profound power of faith is indeed, It Is No Secret.
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Lyrics
The chimes of time ring out the news, another day is through
Someone slipped and fell, was that someone you?
You may have longed for added strength your courage to renew
Do not be disheartened, I have news for you
It is no secret what God can do
What he’s done for others he’ll do for you
With arms wide open, he’ll pardon you
It is no secret what God can do
There is no night for in his light you’ll never walk alone
You’ll always feel at home, wherever you may roam
There is no power can conquer you while God is on your side
Take him at his promise, don’t run away and hide
It is no secret what God can do
What he’s done for others he’ll do for you
With arms wide open he’ll pardon you
It is no secret what God can do
