Generation Hymn StoriesSample

He Leadeth Me (Beside the Quiet Waters)

Joseph H. Gilmore wrote the words of this hymn during America’s civil war. It was inspired by Psalms 23, where scripture speaks of God as our shepherd who is leading us. The hymn's first line says, “He leadeth me, oh blessed thought,” and it is a blessed thought that the God of all power, wisdom, and love is ultimately in control. I’ve heard it said that God’s shepherding is like being in the middle of the ocean on a big ship. We have the free will to go wherever we want and do whatever we want on the ship, but God ultimately guides it to its predetermined destination.

We will never fully comprehend the sovereignty of God on this side of heaven. But when we're amid difficult and impossible-to-understand situations, it is wonderful to know that the good shepherd ultimately guides us and can bring purpose to our joy and pain.

– Tommy Walker