Jeremiah Eames Rankin was an American pastor, educator, and hymn writer born in New Hampshire. He served as a Congregational minister and later became the president of Howard University.
Throughout his life, Rankin was deeply committed to spreading messages of hope and trust. He used both preaching and music as ways to connect people with God.
God Be with You Till We Meet Again became one of his best-known works. Its words highlighted the deep belief he held that no matter where life takes us, God’s hand will guide and protect.
About the Song
God Be with You Till We Meet Again is a beautiful and timeless hymn that has brought comfort to generations. Written in the late 19th century, this song quickly became a cherished part of church services and prayer meetings across many denominations.
Its gentle melody and hopeful words have inspired countless listeners. The song conveys feelings of belonging, trust, and deep affection, making it ideal for moments of separation, endings, and farewells.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Released | 1882 |
| Writer | Jeremiah Eames Rankin |
| Notable Recordings | The Mormon Tabernacle Choir, The Gaither Vocal Band, The King’s Heralds |
Complete God Be with You Till We Meet Again Lyrics
God be with you till we meet again;
loving counsels guide, uphold you,
may the Shepherd’s care enfold you;
God be with you till we meet again.
Refrain:
Till we meet, till we meet,
till we meet at Jesus’ feet.
Till we meet, till we meet,
God be with you till we meet again.
God be with you till we meet again;
unseen wings, protecting, hide you,
daily manna still provide you;
God be with you till we meet again. [Refrain]
God be with you till we meet again;
when life’s perils thick confound you,
put unfailing arms around you;
God be with you till we meet again. [Refrain]
God be with you till we meet again;
keep love’s banner floating o’er you,
smite death’s threat’ning wave before you;
God be with you till we meet again. [Refrain]
Background and Meaning of the Hymn
God Be with You Till We Meet Again is a Christian hymn written. Rankin was inspired by learning that “goodbye” comes from the phrase “God be with you,” and wanted to create a hymn that gives a blessing when people say farewell.
The music was composed by William G. Tomer, who wrote a melody that starts gently, showing the sadness of parting, but becomes hopeful in the chorus.
This hymn is often sung at farewells, funerals, and the end of church services. Its main message is to ask for God’s guidance, protection, and care until people meet again.
The lyrics show trust in God during times of separation. The repeated line, “God be with you till we meet again,” brings comfort and hope of reunion.
The hymn helps turn goodbyes into moments of blessing. It is loved for its gentle words and comforting tune. Many people find peace and assurance in its message.
Similar Songs Like God Be with You Till We Meet Again
You’ll enjoy these other songs that share the same warmth, trust, and deep belief in God’s guiding hand.
- Tell It to Jesus Alone: A quiet and sincere hymn that reminds listeners to pray openly. It encourages trust in sharing every worry and finding strength.
- Jesus, Saviour, Pilot Me: It is a calm and hopeful hymn that reminds listeners to trust Jesus to guide their path. Its words bring comfort in moments of doubt.
- Rest for the Weary: This hymn is a quiet and soothing piece that speaks to tired hearts. Its melody reassures listeners that peace is found in God.
Similar Artists Like Jeremiah Eames Rankin
Below is a list of similar artists like Jeremiah Eames Rankin with their genre and top albums:
- Fanny J. Crosby
Genre: Hymn / Gospel
Top albums: Blessed Assurance (1873), To God Be the Glory (1875), Near the Cross (1869) - Philip P. Bliss
Genre: Hymn / Gospel
Top albums: It Is Well with My Soul (1876), Hallelujah, What a Savior! (1875), Let the Lower Lights Be Burning (1871) - Frances Ridley Havergal
Genre: Hymn / Sacred Music
Top albums: Take My Life and Let It Be (1874), Like a River Glorious (1876), I Gave My Life for Thee (1858) - William B. Bradbury
Genre: Hymn / Gospel
Top albums: Jesus Loves Me (1862), Just as I Am (1864), He Leadeth Me (1864) - Ira D. Sankey
Genre: Gospel / Hymn
Top albums: The Ninety and Nine (1874), Faith Is the Victory (1883), A Shelter in the Time of Storm (1885)
Frequently Asked Questions
Where was God Be with You Till We Meet Again First Sung?
It was first sung at the First Congregational Church in Washington, D.C., where Rankin was minister.
Who Commonly Uses God Be with You Till We Meet Again As a Farewell?
It became the official closing hymn for the Christian Endeavor Convention and is often sung at church farewells, funerals, and as a benediction.
How Many Verses does the Original Hymn God Be with You Till We Meet Again have?
The original hymn had eight verses, but typically only a few (such as verses 1, 2, 4, and 7) are sung today.
