He Who Would Valiant Be (Hymn)

He Who Would Valiant Be is a powerful hymn that encapsulates the themes of perseverance, faith, and the Christian journey as a pilgrimage. The song encourages believers to follow Christ steadfastly, rely on divine strength, and hold onto the promise of eternal life amid life’s challenges.

VERSE 1
He who would valiant be
‘Gainst all disaster,
Let him in constancy
Follow the Master.
There’s no discouragement
Shall make him once relent
His first avowed intent
To be a pilgrim.

VERSE 2
Who so beset him round
With dismal stories,
Do but themselves confound
His strength the more is.
No foes shall stay his might,
Though he with giants fight;
He will make good his right
To be a pilgrim.

VERSE 3
Since, Lord, Thou dost defend
Us with Thy Spirit,
We know we at the end
Shall life inherit.
Then, fancies, flee away!
I’ll fear not what men say,
I’ll labor night and day
To be a pilgrim.

Story Behind the Song

“He Who Would Valiant Be,” also known as “To Be a Pilgrim,” is a hymn that originates from John Bunyan’s 17th-century allegorical work, The Pilgrim’s Progress. In the second part of this narrative, Bunyan introduces a character named Mr. Valiant-for-Truth, who recites a poem encapsulating the essence of Christian perseverance and the pilgrim’s journey. [1]

The poem was later adapted into a hymn by Percy Dearmer in 1906 for inclusion in The English Hymnal. Dearmer’s revisions aimed to make the text more suitable for congregational singing, removing archaic terms like “hobgoblin” and “foul fiend.” [2]

Musically, the hymn has been set to various tunes. One notable melody is “Monk’s Gate,” adapted by Ralph Vaughan Williams from an English folk song he collected in the early 20th century. This tune was introduced in The English Hymnal alongside Dearmer’s adaptation of the text. [3]

The hymn’s enduring popularity stems from its vivid portrayal of the Christian journey as a pilgrimage, emphasizing themes of steadfastness, courage, and the ultimate reward of eternal life. Its inclusion in various hymnals and its performance in numerous worship settings attest to its lasting impact on Christian worship and devotion.

Discover the Strength of Faith

This song explores the themes of discipleship, divine strength, and the hope of eternal life through a faithful walk with Christ. “Follow the Master” emphasizes the call to steadfast discipleship, inviting believers to commit to Jesus amid life’s challenges.

This concept is supported by Matthew 16:24, where Jesus instructs His followers to deny themselves and take up their cross. The lyrics encourage a resolve to remain devoted, illustrating that true discipleship involves consistent dedication to God’s teachings and example.

“His strength the more is” highlights the necessity of relying on God’s power, especially during difficult times. This aligns with Philippians 4:13, which affirms that believers can do all things through Christ who strengthens them.

The lyrics express that when facing adversity, believers should not become discouraged but instead draw strength from God. This principle reinforces the biblical teaching that human limitations can reveal God’s sufficiency.

As Paul writes in 2 Corinthians 12:9, God’s power is made perfect in our weakness, reminding us that our reliance on Him is essential.

“We know we at the end shall life inherit” reflects the assurance of eternal life that comes from faith in Christ. This statement resonates with Romans 8:17, where believers are described as heirs of God, destined to inherit eternal life through their relationship with Him.

The lyrics capture the essence of Christian hope, emphasizing that the promise of salvation motivates believers to persevere in their faith journey.

This hope is further underscored in John 3:16, which assures that those who believe in Jesus will not perish but have everlasting life.

Through these key phrases, the song articulates fundamental principles of the Christian faith. It encourages believers to remain steadfast in their commitment to Christ, to rely on His strength during trials, and to hold onto the promise of eternal life.

In a world filled with uncertainty, these truths offer profound comfort and guidance. By embracing the call to follow Christ, believers can navigate life’s challenges with confidence, knowing that their faith and reliance on God will lead them to the ultimate reward of eternal life.

This message serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring nature of faith in the face of adversity, urging believers to remain focused on their journey as pilgrims in a transient world.

Blessed are those who endure when they are tested. When they succeed in passing such a test, they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him. James 1:12 GNB

I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. 2 Timothy 4:7 GNB

So we must keep on holding firmly to our faith until the end. Hebrews 3:14 GNB

But the one who endures to the end will be saved. Matthew 24:13 GNB

Not only that, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. Romans 5:3-4 GNB

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Related themes you might want to include He Who Would Valiant Be in your list of songs for worship that centered around God The Father, Faithfulness of God, Glory of God, Grace of God.

He Who Would Valiant Be lyrics by John Bunyan and music by Percy Dearmer (1684) Public Domain

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