Scripture Verse

Strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it. Matthew 7:14

Introduction

Words & Mu­sic: George F. Root, in The Charm, by Phi­lip P. Bliss (Chi­ca­go, Il­li­nois: Root & Ca­dy, 1871), pag­es 78–79: Writ­ten for the young men of Am­er­ica (🔊 pdf nwc).

portrait
George F. Root (1820–1895)

Lyrics

Which road are you choosing, young friends?
Which road are you choosing to take?
Just stop here and think what depends
Upon the decision you make;
You know that one leadeth as­tray,
And ends in destruction at last,
And that in the straight, narrow way
You’re safe when the trials are past.

Refrain

Then why are you doubtful, young friends?
Which road of these two should you take?
Oh, think of the life that depends
Upon the decision you make.

The witnesses gather around,
And earnestly, tremblingly wait
To see who among us have found
The way to the beau­ti­ful gate.
The evil ones also are here,
And point to the way which is broad;
Belovèd, whate’er may appear,
That way leads to death’s dark abode.

Refrain

Oh, where are you going, young friends?
Which road are you choosing to take?
The Sav­ior in mercy descends;
Choose rightly for His own dear sake;
’Tis only with Him we can go;
We must cling alone to His hand;
But He will lead past every foe,
Safe, safe to His heavenly land.

Refrain