God Lead Us Along (Hymn)

Discover the profound message of God Leads Us Along, a cherished hymn that emphasizes divine guidance, faith, and the comfort found in God’s presence through life’s trials. The song beautifully encapsulates themes of God’s unwavering support, the reality of life’s challenges, and the transformative power of grace, reminding believers of His constant leading and love.

VERSE 1
In shady, green pastures, so rich and so sweet,
God leads His dear children along;
Where the water’s cool flow bathes the weary one’s feet,
God leads His dear children along.

CHORUS
Some through the waters, some through the flood,
Some through the fire, but all through the blood;
Some through great sorrow, but God gives a song,
In the night season and all the day long.

VERSE 2
Sometimes on the mount where the sun shines so bright,
God leads His dear children along;
Sometimes in the valley, in darkest of night,
God leads His dear children along.

VERSE 3
Though sorrows befall us and evils oppose,
God leads His dear children along;
Through grace we can conquer, defeat all our foes,
God leads His dear children along.

VERSE 4
Away from the mire, and away from the clay,
God leads His dear children along;
Away up in glory, eternity’s day,
God leads His dear children along.

Story Behind the Song

George A. Young, a humble preacher and carpenter, dedicated his life to serving small rural communities in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Despite financial hardships, he and his wife managed to build a modest home.

Tragically, while George was away preaching, their house was set on fire by individuals opposed to his gospel message, leaving it in ruins. This devastating event inspired George to pen the hymn “God Leads Us Along” in 1903, reflecting his unwavering faith in God’s guidance through life’s trials. [1]

Years later, hymn writer Haldor Lillenas, who had fond memories of the song from his childhood, sought to learn more about its origins. He discovered that George Young had passed away, but his widow was still alive, residing in a nearby poorhouse. Upon visiting her, Lillenas was moved by her testimony.

She expressed gratitude for God’s leading, even in her circumstances, and joyfully shared the gospel with fellow residents. Her unwavering faith and dedication to serving others exemplified the very essence of the hymn her husband had written.[2]

“God Leads Us Along” continues to resonate with believers, offering comfort and assurance of God’s constant presence and guidance through all of life’s challenges. The hymn’s enduring message reflects the profound faith of its creators and the timeless truth of God’s leading.

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