Joseph Henry Gilmore (1834–1918) was a Baptist minister, educator, and hymn writer, best known for penning the beloved hymn He Leadeth Me.
Born in Boston, Gilmore graduated from Brown University and Newton Theological Institution.
He served as a pastor before becoming a professor of English at the University of Rochester, where he taught for over 40 years
About the Song
The hymn conveys a sense of peace and trust in God’s guidance through every aspect of life.
The lyrics highlight the steady, unwavering presence of God, assuring believers that they are never alone. This song encourages faith in God’s leadership, reminding us to place our trust in His hands.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Release Date | 1862 |
| Writer | Joseph H. Gilmore |
| Composer | William B. Bradbury |
Complete Lyrics of He Leadeth Me
He leadeth me: O blessed thought!
O words with heavenly comfort fraught!
Whate’er I do, where’er I be,
still ’tis God’s hand that leadeth me.
He leadeth me, he leadeth me;
by his own hand he leadeth me:
his faithful follower I would be,
for by his hand he leadeth me.
Sometimes mid scenes of deepest gloom,
sometimes where Eden’s flowers bloom,
by waters calm, o’er troubled sea,
still ’tis God’s hand that leadeth me.
Lord, I would clasp thy hand in mine,
nor ever murmur nor repine;
content, whatever lot I see,
since ’tis my God that leadeth me. Refrain
And when my task on earth is done,
when, by thy grace, the victory’s won,
e’en death’s cold wave I will not flee,
since God through Jordan leadeth me.
Similar Songs Like He Leadeth Me
If you enjoyed He Leadeth Me by Joseph H. Gilmore, you might appreciate these other hymns:
- Come, Unto Me, Ye Weary: For those feeling weighed down by life’s burdens, this hymn offers a peaceful refuge.
- I Am Not Skilled to Understand: Accepting the mystery of God’s ways, this hymn encourages us to trust His wisdom, even when we cannot fully comprehend His plans.
- The Lord’s My Shepherd: In this hymn, we are reminded of the profound tenderness with which God shepherds us.
- O for a Faith That Will Not Shrink: Longing for an unshakable faith, this hymn calls us to remain steadfast in our trust in God, no matter the trials or doubts we face.
Similar Songwriters Like Joseph Henry Gilmore
Here are some similar songwriters who have created timeless music reflecting these themes of faith and spiritual assurance:
- Isaac Watts
Genre: Hymn writer, Christian music
Top Albums: The Psalms of David (1719), Hymns and Spiritual Songs (1707), The Complete Works of Isaac Watts (1775) - Fanny J. Crosby
Genre: Hymn writer, Gospel music
Top Albums: Fanny Crosby’s Greatest Hymns (1999), Fanny Crosby: The Hymns (2007), The Hymns of Fanny Crosby (2013) - Charles Wesley
Genre: Hymn writer, Christian music
Top Albums: Hymns and Sacred Poems (1739), The Complete Works of Charles Wesley (1872), Charles Wesley: A New Collection (2014) - William Cowper
Genre: Hymn writer, Christian music
Top Albums: The Works of William Cowper (1835), Hymns of William Cowper (2000), The Best of William Cowper (2008) - John Newton
Genre: Hymn writer, Christian music
Top Albums: Amazing Grace: The Hymns of John Newton (2010), The Works of John Newton (1866), Amazing Grace (1997)
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is He Leadeth Me a Popular Hymn?
The hymn’s reassuring message of God’s care and guidance continues to resonate with people, making it a favorite in many churches.
Is there a Specific Bible Verse that Inspired He Leadeth Me?
Yes, the hymn is inspired by Psalm 23:2-3, where it speaks of the Lord as a shepherd leading His people to rest and guiding them.
How is He Leadeth Me Typically Performed?
It is often performed in church settings, with piano or organ accompaniment, and sometimes with choir arrangements to enhance its peaceful tone.
