Guide Me O Thou Great Jehovah Lyrics
Also called CWM RHONDDA or AUSTRIAN HYMN
Tune Name: CWM RHONDDA
Composer: John Hughes
Meter: 8.7.8.7.4.4.7
Hymnbook Source: Welsh hymnals
Verse 1
Guide me O Thou great Jehovah,
Pilgrim through this barren land.
I am weak, but Thou art mighty;
Hold me with Thy powerful hand.
Bread of Heaven, Bread of Heaven,
Feed me till I want no more;
Feed me till I want no more.
Verse 2
Open now the crystal fountain,
Whence the healing stream doth flow;
Let the fire and cloudy pillar
Lead me all my journey through.
Strong Deliverer, strong Deliverer,
Be Thou still my Strength and Shield;
Be Thou still my Strength and Shield.
Verse 3
Lord, I trust Thy mighty power,
Wondrous are Thy works of might;
Thou hast saved and freed helpless sinners,
“It is finished” ends our night:
Thou didst conquer, Thou didst conquer,
Sin, and Satan and the grave,
Sin, and Satan and the grave.
Verse 4
When I tread the verge of Jordan,
Bid my anxious fears subside;
Death of deaths, and hell’s destruction,
Land me safe on Canaan’s side.
Songs of praises, songs of praises,
I will ever give to Thee;
I will ever give to Thee.
Verse 5
Thinking on my Glorious Savior,
Thinking on my heav’nly home,
Fills my soul with hungry longings:
Come, my Jesus, quickly come;
Vanity is all I see;
Lord, I long to be with Thee!
Lord, I long to be with Thee!
Hymn Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Title | Guide Me O Thou Great Jehovah |
| Author / Lyricist | William Williams (1717–1791) |
| Composer / Tune | John Hughes (1873–1932) – “Cwm Rhondda” |
| Date Written / Published | 1745 (lyrics); tune 1907 |
| Historical Context | Written in Wales during the Methodist revival; reflects trust in God’s guidance and provision. |
| Theme / Message | Spiritual journey; God’s guidance through life’s trials. |
| Notable Features | Strong, marching melody; encourages congregational participation. |
| Cultural / Religious Impact | Popular in Welsh and English hymnals; often sung at ceremonies and patriotic events. |
| Source / Scholarship | A Survey of English Hymns – Kenneth W. Osbeck |
Hymn Similarities and Biblical Scholar Analysis on This Hymn:
| Scholar | View / Interpretation |
|---|---|
| William Williams (Pantycelyn), Welsh Hymn Writer, 1717–1791 | Williams authored the hymn to convey God’s guidance through life’s trials. He emphasizes the believer’s journey and reliance on divine direction. |
| John Julian, Author, A Dictionary of Hymnology, 1829–1913 | Julian notes its widespread use in both Welsh and English hymnals. He observes that its themes of pilgrimage and trust resonate deeply with congregations. |
| Charles Wesley, Anglican Hymn Writer, 1707–1788 | Wesley’s hymns often depict God as a faithful guide. This hymn reflects that theme by illustrating God’s care and providence. |
| John Mason Neale, Hymn Translator, 1818–1866 | Neale highlights the hymn’s poetic structure and devotional depth. He also praises its adaptability for both personal and congregational use. |
| John Newton, Anglican Clergyman & Hymn Writer, 1725–1807 | Newton emphasizes reliance on God during spiritual journeys. He remarks that the hymn effectively encourages faith and perseverance. |
| Folliott S. Pierpoint, Anglican Hymn Writer, 1835–1917 | Pierpoint notes the hymn’s enduring pastoral value. He also highlights its uplifting melody that supports congregational singing. |
| William Rees (Hyfrydol), Welsh Hymn Writer, 1803–1883 | Rees praises the hymn for its spiritual clarity and devotional focus. He observes that it inspires reflection on God’s guidance throughout life. |
Prayer: Thank You Father God for loving us by sending the Lord Jesus Christ into the world to save sinners. Thank you that you have not left us orphaned, but you've sent the Holy Spirit to be our Comforter, whom the world cannot receive, but Whom you said will guide us into all truth. Guide us O Lord Jesus into all truth and be glorified O Righteous Father in all that we do in Jesus' Name. Amen.
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