Hymn Story: God Leads Us Along

Near the turn of the twentieth century, a poor man named George Young struggled to provide for his family while serving as a preacher and a carpenter. After years of saving and sacrifice he was finally able to move his family into a small home they built for themselves.

They were delighted with their new home but it was short lived comfort. When George and his family were away during one of his preaching trips, a group of vandals burned their home to the ground. The loss was great and the hurt was deep and yet George continued to serve the Lord and wrote the hymn, “God Leads Us Along.”

Years later, after George’s passing, hymn writer Haldor Lillenas was so moved by the lyrics, he decided to track down Mrs. Young and finally found her in what was known then as a poor house.

Upon meeting her, she radiated with joy and exclaimed, “Dr. Lillenas, God led me here!” I’m so glad He did, for you know, about every month someone comes into this place to spend the rest of their days….So many of them don’t know my Jesus. I’m having the time of my life introducing them to Jesus! Dr. Lillenas, isn’t it wonderful how God leads!”

God Leads Us Along

by George Young

In shady, green pastures, so rich and so sweet,
God leads His dear children along;
where the water’s cool flow bathes the weary one’s feet,
God leads His dear children along.

Refrain:
Some through the waters, some through the flood,
Some through the fire, but all through the blood;
Some through great sorrow, but God gives a song,
In the night season and all the day long.

Sometimes on the mount where the sun shines so bright,
God leads His dear children along;
Sometimes in the valley, in darkest of night,
God leads His dear children along.

Though sorrows befall us and Satan oppose,
God leads His dear children along;
Through grace we can conquer, defeat all our foes,
God leads His dear children along.

Away from the mire and away from the clay,
God leads His dear children along;
Away up in glory, eternity’s day,
God leads His dear children along.