Take My Hand, Precious Lord

Jonathan Anderson • September 29, 2025

“Take My Hand, Precious Lord” is a hymn of surrender and comfort. It’s a cry from a weary soul, asking God for guidance and peace in the middle of suffering or loss. With simple words and an aching melody, this hymn has walked with countless people through some of their hardest moments — reminding them that Jesus is near, even in the darkest hours.

The Story Behind the Hymn

This hymn was written by Thomas A. Dorsey in 1932, often called the “father of gospel music.” Dorsey wrote it after a devastating personal tragedy — the sudden death of his wife during childbirth, followed shortly by the death of his newborn son. In the middle of that heartbreak, he sat at a piano and poured his grief into this hymn.


He said he felt God’s presence during that moment, gently bringing peace to his soul. That deep, personal encounter with God shaped the hymn’s lyrics and music. It became one of the most beloved gospel hymns in the world, sung by artists like Mahalia Jackson and even performed at the funeral of Martin Luther King Jr.


What Makes It Powerful

The power of this hymn is in its honesty. It doesn’t hide pain — it brings it to Jesus. It reminds us that God isn’t far away when we suffer. He’s the one reaching out, offering His hand, walking with us step by step through every trial.


A verse that reflects the heart of this hymn is Isaiah 41:13 (NIV):

For I am the Lord your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you.

That’s the promise this hymn holds on to — that even when we can’t see the path, God is holding our hand.


My Violin Cover

When I arranged “Take My Hand, Precious Lord” for violin, I kept the tone slow and soulful, allowing the emotion to breathe through every note. It’s a melody that needs room — not to impress, but to comfort. I tried to honor the original spirit of the song: one of deep sorrow met by even deeper trust.

With Violin Hymns, I always aim to carry the emotion of each hymn. This one is about resting in God when strength is gone.



Listen and Reflect

The video is below. As you listen, let this hymn be your prayer — especially if you're tired, overwhelmed, or unsure of what’s next. Jesus isn’t just a distant Savior — He’s the one who gently takes your hand and leads you home. Take my hand, precious Lord — lead me on, let me stand.

Lyrics


When my way groweth drear 

Precious Lord, linger near 

When my light is almost gone 

Hear my cry, hear my call 

Hold my hand lest I fall 

Take my hand, precious Lord 

Lead me on


Precious Lord, take my hand 

Lead me on, let me stand

I am tired, I'm weak, I am worn

Through the storm, through the night

Lead me on to the light 

Take my hand, precious Lord 

Lead me home


When my work is all done 

And my race here is won

Let me see by the light Thou hast shown

That fair city so bright 

Where the lantern is the light 

Take my hand, precious Lord

Lead me on

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