Daily Devotion - Thursday, July 9

Another Old Hymn Story

Here is a story about a hymn that has sustained people of faith for several centuries! On the other side of the Atlantic in the country of Wales (about 1740), there was a young preacher named Howell Harris. He inspired William Williams to change his career from medicine to ministry. Williams traveled by horseback across the countryside of Wales, logging over 100,000 miles in his 43 years of ministry.

The hymn “Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah” was inspired by William’s preaching and addresses the theme of God’s guidance in our daily living. The text draws on the imagery of the wilderness journey of the Hebrew people:

“Guide me, O Thou great Jehovah, pilgrim thru 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.

“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.

“When I tread the verge of Jordan, bid my anxious fears subside;
Bear me thru the swelling current; land me safe on Canaan’s side:
Songs of praises, songs of praises, I will ever give to Thee.”

Today is another day we need guidance from the One who is our rock and our fortress. Today is another day where we may encounter persons with anxious fears or persons who are looking for a healing stream to replenish their aching soul. Rest assured that God will strengthen you for your work. May songs of praises flow from deep within you throughout the day!

--Ben Keckler
07.09.09