Hail Him the King of Glory

“Teach Me, Father, What to Say” is a prayerful and instructive hymn by A. D. Ellington that reflects the believer’s humble dependence upon God for wisdom, guidance, and faithful speech. The hymn is framed as a direct petition to the Father, acknowledging that right words and right actions do not arise naturally from the human heart, but must be taught by God Himself. Its tone is quiet, sincere, and deeply devotional, making it well suited for moments of reflection, commitment, and guidance in worship.

The hymn draws strongly upon the biblical theme of divine instruction. Scripture repeatedly affirms that God is the One who teaches His people how to walk and how to speak. The psalmist’s prayer, “Teach me, O LORD, the way of thy statutes; and I shall keep it unto the end” (Psalm 119:33, KJV), finds clear resonance in the hymn’s request for direction in both speech and conduct. The desire expressed is not merely for knowledge, but for obedience shaped by God’s truth.

A central emphasis of the hymn is the surrender of personal will. The singer asks not only for words to say, but for thoughts to think and paths to follow, placing every aspect of life under God’s authority. This reflects the wisdom literature’s call to commit one’s works unto the Lord so that thoughts may be established (Proverbs 16:3, KJV). Such surrender is presented as the foundation for faithful Christian living and service.

The hymn also echoes Christ’s promise to His disciples that they would not be left to rely on their own ability when speaking in His name. Jesus assured them that “it is not ye that speak, but the Spirit of your Father which speaketh in you” (Matthew 10:19-20, KJV). In this light, the hymn becomes a prayer for Spirit-led speech, wisdom, and discernment, especially in moments of witness or difficulty.

“Teach Me, Father, What to Say” endures as a simple yet profound expression of trust in God’s guidance. It reminds believers that true wisdom is a gift from above and that those who ask in faith may confidently look to God, who gives wisdom liberally and without reproach (James 1:5, KJV).