Abide with Me

Words: H F Lyte (1793-1847) Music: W H Monk (1823-89)

Abide with me; fast falls the eventide;
The darkness deepens; Lord with me abide;
When other helpers fail, and comforts flee
Help of the helpless, O abide with me.

Swift to its close ebbs out life’s little day;
Earth’s joys grown dim, its glories pass away;
Change and decay in all around I see;
O Thou who changest not, abide with me.

I need Thy presence every passing hour;
What but Thy grace can foil the tempter’s pow’r?
Who, like Thyself, my guide and stay can be?
Through cloud and sunshine, Lord, abide with me.

I fear no foe, with Thee at hand to bless;
Ills have no weight, and tears no bitterness;
Where is death’s sting? Where, grave, thy victory?
I triumph still, if Thou abide with me.

Hold Thou Thy cross before my closing eyes;
Shine through the gloom and point me to the skies;
Heav’n’s morning breaks, and earth’s vain shadows flee;
In life, in death, O Lord, abide with me.

About This Music

Abide with Me is a well-known Christian hymn often chosen for funerals, memorial services and remembrance occasions. The words speak of comfort, faith and asking God to remain close in times of loss and sorrow. For many people, it brings a sense of peace and familiarity, especially if they have known it from church services or national occasions.

It may be particularly suitable for a religious funeral or for someone with a Christian faith. Its slow and solemn tune works well at the start or end of the service, or during a quiet moment of reflection. The hymn’s message of presence and support can be especially comforting when saying goodbye.

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