M. E. Abbey, whose full name is Mason Ellis Abbey, was an American Baptist pastor born in 1812 in Pennsylvania. He is best known for writing the hymn Life Is Like a Mountain Railroad, which uses the image of a train journey to describe life’s challenges and faith.

He spent much of his life serving church communities in the United States during the 19th century. His hymns and spiritual leadership were valued in his time, especially in gospel and church music circles.

Abbey passed away in 1892, leaving a legacy through his well-loved hymn and his work as a preacher.

About the Song

Life Is Like a Mountain Railroad is about life’s journey being like a train ride, full of ups and downs. It encourages people to stay strong and trust God as their guide. The hymn reminds listeners that faith and courage can help them reach their final destination safely.

Life Is Like a Mountain Railroad Lyrics

Life is like a mountain railroad,
With an engineer that’s brave;
We must make the run successful
From the cradle to the grave;
Watch the curves, the fills, the tunnels,
Never falter, never quail;
Keep your hand upon the throttle,
And your eye upon the rail.

Refrain

Blessed Savior, Thou wilt guide us,
Till we reach the blissful shore,
Where the angels wait to join us
In Thy praise forevermore.

You will roll up grades of trial,
You will cross the bridge of strife;
See that Christ is your conductor
On this lightning train of life;
Always mindful of obstruction,
Do your duty, never fail;
Keep your hand upon the throttle,
And your eye upon the rail.

Refrain

You will often find obstructions,
Look for storms and wind and rain;
On a fill or curve or trestle,
They will almost ditch your train;
Put your trust alone in Jesus;
Never falter, never fail;
Keep your hand upon the throttle,
And your eye upon the rail.

Refrain

As you roll across the trestle,
Spanning Jordan’s swelling tide;
You behold the Union Depot
Into which your train will glide;
There you’ll meet the Sup’rintendent,
God the Father, God the Son,
With the hearty, joyous plaudit,
“Weary pilgrim, welcome home.”

Refrain

Similar Songs Like Life Is Like a Mountain Railroad

Here are some similar songs that share their hopeful, faith-filled themes and traditional gospel style:

• Blessed Assurance: A well-loved gospel hymn expressing confidence in salvation and God’s guidance, similar in spiritual reassurance.
• He Leadeth Me: This hymn about trusting God’s guidance through life’s challenges echoes the theme of divine direction found in “Life Is Like a Mountain Railroad.”
• Amazing Grace: It is a classic hymn that speaks of redemption and hope, sharing the inspiring spirit and faith-based message.
• Keep on the Sunny Side: A traditional gospel song encouraging perseverance and optimism despite hardships, similar to the encouragement in Life’s Railway to Heaven.

Similar Artists Like M. E. Abbey

Fans of M. E. Abbey’s traditional gospel style will likely find inspiration in the music of these other classic hymn writers.

• Ira D. Sankey
  Genre: Gospel, Sacred Hymns, Evangelical
  Top Albums: Sacred Songs and Solos, Gospel Hymns Nos. 1–6, The Finest of the Sacred Songs
• Fanny J. Crosby
  Genre: Gospel, Hymnody, Spiritual Songs
  Top Albums: Blessed Assurance, Near the Cross, Safe in the Arms of Jesus
• Philip P. Bliss
  Genre: Gospel, Sacred Songs
  Top Albums: Hold the Fort, It Is Well with My Soul, Almost Persuaded
• Horatio G. Spafford
  Genre: Hymns, Devotional Music
  Top Albums: It Is Well with My Soul (various renditions), Hymns of Peace, Christian Classics

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Hymns Like Life Is Like a Mountain Railroad Still Popular Today?

Yes, classic hymns remain beloved for their timeless spiritual messages and musical simplicity.

What Other Names is this Hymn Life Is Like a Mountain Railroad known by?

It is also called Life’s Railway to Heaven.

Is Life Is Like a Mountain Railroad Used Outside Church Settings?

Yes, it is popular in railroading communities and has been recorded by many gospel and country artists.