GHS 165 : Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah Lyrics
GHS 165, “Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah,” is one of the great pilgrim hymns of the Christian tradition. Written by William Williams in Welsh in 1745 and later translated into English by Peter Williams, the hymn draws on the imagery of Israel’s wilderness journey in the book of Exodus: the weak pilgrim in a barren land, the bread of heaven as daily sustenance, the crystal fountain of living water, the fiery cloudy pillar leading the way, and the swelling torrent of the Jordan to be crossed before reaching Canaan’s side.
Every image from that Exodus narrative becomes a picture of the Christian life, making the hymn a comprehensive prayer for God’s provision, guidance, and final deliverance. This hymn appears as number 165 in the Gospel Hymns and Songs (GHS) collection, used in Deeper Life Bible Church and related assemblies across West Africa, and it is among the most beloved pilgrim hymns in the collection.
Hymn Lyrics – GHS 165: Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah
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Guide me, O Thou Great Jehovah! Pilgrim thro’ this barren land; I am weak, but Thou art mighty, Hold me with Thy pow’rful hand: Bread of heaven, bread of heaven, Feed me now and ever more.
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Open now, the crystal fountain, Whence the healing stream doth flow: Let the fiery, cloudy pillar Lead me all my journey through: Strong Deliverer, strong Deliverer, Be Thou still my strength and shield.
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If I tread the verge of Jordan, Bid my anxious fears subside: Bear me through the swelling torrent, Land me safe on Canaan’s side: Songs of praises, songs of praises, I will ever give to Thee.
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Saviour, come! we long to see Thee, Long to dwell with Thee above; And to know in full communion, All the sweetness of Thy love. Come, Lord Jesus! come, Lord Jesus! Take Thy waiting people home.
