Take My Hand, Precious Lord

Songbook Hymn Sermons

Take My Hand, Precious Lord

A Sermon based on the Hymn by Thomas A. Dorsey

Introduction:
“Take My Hand, Precious Lord” is a cry from the depths of suffering and weakness, lifting the soul toward the comfort of God's presence. Born from heartbreak, this hymn has become an anthem of faith amid sorrow. It reminds us that when we are too weary to walk alone, Jesus reaches down, takes our hand, and leads us safely through. Rooted in Psalm 73:23–24 and Isaiah 41:13, it speaks to every Christian who has known pain and found peace in the guiding hand of the Savior.

Stanza 1: “Precious Lord, take my hand, lead me on, let me stand…”
These words echo the soul’s plea in times of trouble. Life often brings moments when our strength fails. In those moments, we lean on God’s promise: “I will uphold you with My righteous right hand” (Isaiah 41:10). He does not abandon His people. He walks with us, holds us up, and carries us when needed.

Stanza 2: “When my way grows drear, Precious Lord, linger near…”
There are seasons when the path ahead seems dark and uncertain. Yet, even when our way is dim, the Lord is near. Psalm 23:4 reminds us, “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me.” God’s presence is our comfort in every shadowed valley.

Stanza 3: “When the darkness appears and the night draws near…”
This verse confronts the reality of death. As the day ends and eternity nears, the Christian does not fear. Christ has already passed through death and emerged victorious (1 Corinthians 15:54–57). He walks with us to the very end and beyond, promising eternal life to all who trust Him.

Chorus: “Take my hand, precious Lord, lead me home.”
This refrain captures the heartbeat of every Christian’s hope—not just to be strong in this life, but to be led home. Philippians 3:20 says, “Our citizenship is in heaven,” and Christ is the One who will bring us there. Until then, we pray for His guiding hand each day.

Take My Hand, Precious Lord Sermon Outline:

Stanza 1 – Leaning on God's Strength

• Isaiah 41:10 – God upholds with His right hand

• Psalm 73:23–24 – “You hold me by my right hand”

• 2 Corinthians 12:9 – God’s strength is made perfect in weakness

Stanza 2 – Finding Peace in His Nearness

• Psalm 23:4 – You are with me in the valley

• Hebrews 13:5 – I will never leave nor forsake you

• Matthew 28:20 – I am with you always

Stanza 3 – Facing Death Without Fear

• 1 Corinthians 15:54–57 – Death swallowed up in victory

• 2 Corinthians 5:1 – A house not made with hands

• Revelation 14:13 – Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord

Chorus – Trusting Jesus to Lead Us Home

• Philippians 3:20 – Our citizenship is in heaven

• John 14:2–3 – I go to prepare a place for you

• Psalm 48:14 – This God is our God forever; He will guide us

Call to Action:
Do you know the hand that leads home? In sorrow, weakness, and death, there is only one sure Guide—Jesus Christ. To walk with Him, you must first obey Him: believe in His name (John 8:24), repent of sin (Acts 3:19), confess Him (Romans 10:9–10), and be baptized (Acts 2:38). Then take His hand daily, and He will never let go.

Scripture Reference List:
Isaiah 41:10 – God upholds us with His hand
Psalm 73:23–24 – You hold my hand and guide me
2 Corinthians 12:9 – Strength in weakness
Psalm 23:4 – You are with me in the valley
Hebrews 13:5 – Never will I leave you
Matthew 28:20 – I am with you always
1 Corinthians 15:54–57 – Victory over death
2 Corinthians 5:1 – Eternal house from God
Revelation 14:13 – Blessed are the dead in the Lord
Philippians 3:20 – Our citizenship is in heaven
John 14:2–3 – A prepared place
Psalm 48:14 – God is our guide forever
John 8:24 – Believe to avoid dying in sin
Acts 3:19 – Repent and be converted
Romans 10:9–10 – Confess Christ
Acts 2:38 – Be baptized for the remission of sins

Song Author Credit:
Thomas A. Dorsey wrote “Take My Hand, Precious Lord” in 1932 following the tragic death of his wife and newborn son. Known as the father of gospel music, Dorsey merged deep sorrow with unwavering faith in this beloved hymn.

Song History:
Born out of personal tragedy, “Take My Hand, Precious Lord” became a favorite hymn of comfort and hope for countless Christians. It was a favorite of Martin Luther King Jr., and has been sung at funerals and worship services worldwide. Its enduring message continues to offer peace through Christ’s presence and guidance.

Prepared by David Hersey of the church of Christ at Granby, MO

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