Lead Me, Lord

“Lead Me, Lord” is a short but deeply devotional hymn drawn directly from the language of the Psalms, set to music by Samuel Sebastian Wesley, an English composer of the nineteenth century. The text is taken from the psalmist’s prayer for divine guidance and protection, expressing a believer’s heartfelt longing for God’s direction in life. Rather than presenting complex theology, the hymn uses simple, biblical language to articulate a profound spiritual truth: the Christian life is lived by following the Lord’s way, trusting His wisdom, and finding safety in His care. This humble prayer reflects the biblical pattern of seeking God’s guidance at every turn and acknowledging that without the Lord’s leading, human effort alone cannot secure true righteousness or peace. The words mirror the psalmist’s cry to God to make His way plain before the believer’s face, a request that recognizes human inadequacy and divine sufficiency. By repeating the plea “Lead me, Lord,” worshipers are invited to adopt an attitude of dependence upon God’s grace moment by moment, asking Him to shape their steps, guard their hearts, and keep them on the path of righteousness.

Samuel Sebastian Wesley’s music reinforces the patient and prayerful tone of the text. The melody supports congregational singing with a dignified and reflective character, enabling worshipers to enter into the psalmist’s devotion with sincerity. Because the text emerges from Scripture itself, the hymn naturally aligns with the devotional life of God’s people, connecting personal petition with biblical prayer. In this way, “Lead Me, Lord” serves both as an expression of individual longing for divine direction and as a corporate prayer for the church gathered in worship. Its message remains relevant across generations, reminding believers that true guidance comes from the Lord alone, that His way leads to life, and that trusting Him brings assurance and peace.