Verse 1
Guide me, O Thou great Redeemer,
Pilgrim through this barren land;
I am weak, but Thou art mighty;
Hold me with Thy powerful hand.
Bread of Heaven, Bread of Heaven,
Feed me till I want no more,
Feed me till I want no more.
Verse 2
Open now the crystal fountain,
Whence the healing stream doth flow;
Let the fire and cloudy pillar
Lead me all my journey through.
Strong Deliverer, Strong Deliverer,
Be Thou still my strength and shield,
Be Thou still my strength and shield.
Verse 3
When I tread the verge of Jordan,
Bid my anxious fears subside;
Death of death, and hell’s destruction,
Land me safe on Canaan’s side.
Songs of praises, songs of praises,
I will ever give to Thee,
I will ever give to Thee.
William Williams (1717–1791), also known as "Pantycelyn," is one of Wales’ most celebrated hymnwriters and a key figure in the 18th-century Great Awakening. Known as the "Sweet Singer of Wales," his hymns, particularly Guide Me, O Thou Great Redeemer, have been sung across generations, bringing comfort and spiritual strength to countless believers.
William Williams
Early Life and Calling
Born in the small village of Pantycelyn, Wales, Williams initially pursued a career in medicine but felt a divine calling to serve God. After a transformative experience while listening to a sermon by a traveling preacher, he turned to ministry. Williams became an itinerant preacher, traveling on foot throughout Wales and spreading the gospel during the Methodist revival.
His Contributions to Hymnody
William Williams wrote over 800 hymns in Welsh and English, earning a place among the greatest hymnwriters of his time. His work is deeply theological, emphasizing God’s guidance, grace, and the believer’s journey of faith.
His most famous hymn, Guide Me, O Thou Great Redeemer, originally written in Welsh (Arglwydd, arwain trwy’r anialwch), draws heavily on imagery from the Israelites’ journey through the wilderness, reminding Christians of God’s steadfast provision and guidance.
Legacy and Influence
Williams’ hymns transcended cultural and linguistic boundaries, cementing his legacy as a spiritual leader and musician. His songs played a significant role in shaping worship practices during the Great Awakening, a period of renewed faith and revival across Europe and America.
Today, Guide Me, O Thou Great Redeemer is often referred to as the "Welsh national hymn" and is beloved by congregations worldwide. It has been sung at royal weddings, funerals, and major Christian gatherings, highlighting its enduring impact.
Interesting Facts About William Williams
- He was a poet as well as a hymnwriter: His works included lyrical poetry that expressed both theological insights and personal reflections.
- His itinerant ministry covered thousands of miles: Williams is said to have walked over 95,000 miles during his preaching journeys.
- He wrote in both Welsh and English: This allowed his hymns to reach a broader audience across linguistic divides.
Why William Williams Still Matters
William Williams’ hymns, particularly Guide Me, O Thou Great Redeemer, continue to inspire faith, hope, and perseverance in believers. His ability to capture biblical themes and translate them into powerful worship songs makes him a timeless figure in Christian hymnody.
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