Jennie Wilson was a prolific American hymn writer from the late 19th to early 20th century, known for her faith-filled and inspirational lyrics.
Despite being confined to a wheelchair due to illness, she wrote hundreds of gospel hymns that conveyed hope, perseverance, and trust in divine guidance.
Her words often show personal strength and spiritual strength, making her hymns enduring favorites in churches and gospel circles alike.
About the Hymn
Hold to God’s Unchanging Hand is a beloved gospel hymn encouraging faith in God amid life’s changes. It reminds listeners to rely on eternal truths rather than temporary worldly things.
With uplifting lyrics and a steady, reassuring melody, the hymn offers comfort during hardship, highlighting themes of trust, endurance, and divine constancy.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date | 1905 |
| Album | New Hosannas hymnal (1906) |
| Writer | Jennie Wilson |
Lyrics of Hold to God’s Unchanging Hand
Time is filled with swift transition,
Naught of earth unmoved can stand,
Build your hopes on things eternal,
Hold to God’s unchanging hand.
Refrain
Hold to God’s unchanging hand,
Hold to God’s unchanging hand;
Build your hopes on things eternal,
Hold to God’s unchanging hand.
Trust in Him who will not leave you,
Whatsoever years may bring,
If by earthly friends forsaken
Still more closely to Him cling.
Covet not this world’s vain riches
That so rapidly decay,
Seek to gain the heav’nly treasures,
They will never pass away.
When your journey is completed,
If to God you have been true,
Fair and bright the home in glory
Your enraptured soul will view.
Other Artists
Several artists have offered unique renditions of the hymn Hold to God’s Unchanging Hand, each bringing their distinct musical style and interpretation to this timeless piece.
Here’s an overview of three notable versions:
1. Roy Acuff
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Genre:Country Gospel
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Notable Work:Featured on the album Favorite Hymns by Roy Acuff (1958)
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Variation:Roy Acuff’s rendition embodies the traditional country gospel style, characterized by straightforward instrumentation and heartfelt vocals.
2. The Oak Ridge Boys
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Genre:Southern Gospel / Country
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Notable Work:Included in the album Rock of Ages: Hymns and Gospel Favorites (2015)
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Variation:The Oak Ridge Boys infuse the hymn with their signature four-part harmonies, blending traditional gospel elements with contemporary country influences.
3. Mississippi John Hurt
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Genre:Delta Blues / Folk
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Notable Work:Recorded in The Library of Congress Recordings (1963)
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Variation:Mississippi John Hurt presents the hymn through a Delta blues lens, featuring his distinctive fingerpicking guitar style and gentle, melodic vocals.
Similar Hymns Like Hold to God’s Unchanging Hand
These hymns echo the same faith-filled spirit and enduring trust in God found in Hold to God’s Unchanging Hand:
- The Touch of His Hand on Mine: This hymn offers comfort through divine presence. It speaks of peace in trials, knowing God’s gentle hand leads the way.
- All the Way: A hymn of lifelong trust, it expresses confidence in God’s plan. Each step, even through sorrow, is made lighter by faith in His perfect guidance and unending care.
- Cling to the Bible: Urging believers to hold Scripture close, this hymn honors the Bible as an anchor of truth. It emphasizes devotion to God’s Word in a changing and uncertain world.
Similar Authors Like Jennie Wilson
These hymn writers, like Jennie Wilson, inspired generations with heartfelt lyrics rooted in faith, trust, and perseverance.
- Fanny J. Crosby
Genre: Gospel / Christian Hymns
Notable Hymn: Blessed Assurance - Frances R. Havergal
Genre: Sacred / Devotional Hymns
Notable Hymn: Take My Life and Let It Be - Eliza E. Hewitt
Genre: Gospel Hymns / Sunday School Songs
Notable Hymn: When We All Get to Heaven
Frequently Asked Questions
Who Wrote Hold to God’s Unchanging Hand?
Jennie Wilson wrote the lyrics, while Franklin L. Eiland composed the music. Together, they created a hymn of comfort and trust that has lasted over a century.
Why is the Hymn Still Popular Today?
Its timeless message of faith, simple melody, and emotional reassurance continues to align, making it a staple in churches, funerals, and gospel recordings.
What Makes the Hymn Emotionally Powerful?
Its emotional power lies in its simplicity—repeating the call to “hold on” while assuring listeners of God’s steadfast presence through hardship, loss, and uncertainty.
Have Popular Artists Recorded the Hymn?
Yes, various gospel and country artists have recorded it over the years, keeping Jennie Wilson’s legacy alive through heartfelt renditions and spiritual performances.
