He will be our guide even to the end.
Psalm 48:14
Words: Marcus M. Wells, 1858, alt. The words were first published in the New York Musical Pioneer, edited by Isaac B. Woodbury: On a Saturday afternoon in October, 1858, while at work in my cornfield near Hardwick, New York, the sentiment of this hymn came to me. The next day, I finished the hymn and wrote a tune for it and sent it to Professor I. B. Woodbury.
Music: Guide Marcus M. Wells, 1858 (🔊 pdf nwc).
If you know where to get a good photo of Wells (head & shoulders, at least 200×300 pixels),
Holy Spirit, faithful guide,
Ever near the Christian’s side;
Gently lead us by the hand,
Pilgrims in a desert land.
Weary souls fore’er rejoice,
While they hear that sweetest voice,
Whispering softly, Wanderer, come,
Follow Me, I’ll guide thee home.
Ever present, truest friend,
Ever near Thine aid to lend,
Leave us not to doubt and fear,
Groping on in darkness drear.
When the storms are raging sore,
Hearts grow faint and hopes give o’er.
Whispering softly, Wanderer, come,
Follow Me, I’ll guide thee home.
When our days of toiling cease,
Waiting still for sweet release,
Nothing left but Heaven and prayer,
Wondering if our names are there;
Wading deep the dismal flood,
Pleading naught but Jesus’ blood,
Whispering softly, Wanderer, come,
Follow Me, I’ll guide thee home.