Follow, Gladly Follow

By Anna Richarde

Lyrics

1. Follow the steps of Jesus,
Follow ev'ry day;
Turn not aside nor falter,
Keep the narrow way.
Jesus the meek and lowly
Walked thro' life below,
Marking a beaten pathway,
O in that pathway go.

Refrain:
O follow, follow gladly,
In the path your Lord has trod,
He is your light
By day and night,
He leadeth you to God;
O follow, follow gladly,
There are blessings on the way;
Turn not aside,
But watch your Guide,
Who leads you to endless day.

2. Oft on a lonely mountain;
Oft 'neath olive's shade,
Jesus your great Example,
King and Saviour prayed.
Now in His footsteps follow,
Lead a life of pray'r,
He is a home preparing,
You shall His glory share.

3. Helping the weak and weary,
Christ your Saviour went,
Seek now to be His stewards
On His work intent.
Seek out the heavy hearted,
Seek the lost one too;
Follow the steps of Jesus,
Do what He'd have you do.

Bible Reference

Luke 9:23–24; John 13:15; 1 Peter 2:21

About This Hymn

"Follow, Gladly Follow" is a Christian hymn written by Anna Richarde in 1903. The hymn emphasizes the believer's call to follow the steps of Jesus, reflecting His example of humility, prayer, and service. Its lyrics encourage Christians to walk in the path that Jesus has laid out, leading a life of prayer, helping others, and sharing in His glory. The refrain, "O follow, follow gladly, In the path your Lord has trod," reinforces the theme of discipleship and obedience to Christ's teachings.

Musically, the hymn is set to a tune also titled "Follow the steps of Jesus," composed by Fred C. Pullin. This melody complements the hymn's message and has been widely used in Christian worship settings. The hymn has been included in various hymnals, particularly those focused on Sunday school and youth groups, reflecting its enduring appeal and relevance in Christian worship.