As I continue to ponder how we as Christians deal with trials (James 1:2) and wrestle with life in this disordered world, the hymn “Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah” has continually come to mind. I love its realism as it speaks of us as pilgrims, walking in a barren land, weak and in need of healing. I also am encouraged by its reminder to look to our God, our strength and shield, our strong deliverer, for what we need and not to our own wisdom and power. And my hope for the future is sustained as the hymn casts my eyes to the future and to the safety of the world to come.

The hymn has several tunes to which it is sung. The traditional one, such as found in the Trinity Hymnal, strikes a more confident note of hope. The version by Indelible Grace is no less confident but carries with it a stronger sense of pleading and longing. Regardless of which version you listen to, I commend the hymn to you for your spiritual edification. The lyrics are listed below. May we all be encouraged to fix our eyes once again on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith.

1. Guide me, O Thou great Jehovah,

Pilgrim through this barren land.

I am weak, but Thou art mighty;

Hold me with Thy powerful hand.

Bread of heaven,

Feed me now and evermore;

Bread of heaven, Feed me now and evermore.

2. Open now the crystal fountain,

Whence the healing stream doth flow;

Let the fire and cloudy pillar

Lead me all my journey through.

Strong Deliverer,

Be Thou still my Strength and Shield.

Strong Deliverer,

Be Thou still my Strength and Shield.

3. When I tread the verge of Jordan,

Bid my anxious fears subside;

Death of deaths, and hell’s destruction,

Land me safe on Canaan’s side.

Songs of praises, I will ever give to Thee;

Songs of praises, I will ever give to Thee.