Walk Humbly With God

Throughout my adult life I have chosen walking as one of my go-to exercises. I can go at my own pace and stop when I get tired. After several weeks of sitting around I finally feel sure enough of my steps that I pulled out my walking shoes once again. Starting with a loop around our cul-de-sac, I try to add a few steps every day. 

"He has showed you, O man, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God. " (Micah 6:8 NIV).

My favorite hymn growing up was "O Master, Let Me Walk With Thee." I don't remember if it was the tune or the words that I loved most, but my heart is moved by it still.

Written by Washington Gladden, 1836-1918, and H. Percy Smith, 1825-1898, in 1879. America was in the middle of the Industrial Revolution. Gladden was know as a leader in the social gospel movement. A book about hymns* says Gladden was convicted, "that it was the duty of the Christian Church to "elevate the masses not only spiritually and morally, but to be concerned  about their social and economic welfare as well"."

This hymn reminds us that our service for God must always be based on an intimate relationship with Him.

"O Master, let me walk with Thee in lowly paths of service free; tell me Thy secret--help me bear the strain of toil, the fret of care.

Help me the slow of heart to move by some clear, winning word of love; teach me the wayward feet to stay and guide them in the homeward way.

Teach me Thy patience! still with Thee in closer, dearer company, in work that keeps faith sweet and strong, in trust that triumphs over wrong.

In hope that sends a shining ray friar down the future's broadening way, in peace that only Thou canst give, with Thee, O Master, let me live.

(refrain) O Master, let me walk with Thee In lowly paths of Service free; Tell me Thy secret--help me bear The strain of toil, the fret of care."

Heavenly Father, Thank You for the songs that ring so true, and move us to worship You and walk with You. May each step we take bring us closer to You. We are humbled by Your presence so we bow on our knees in worship and in praise to You alone. We pray in the name of Jesus, Amen.

To God Be the Glory!

*"Amazing Grace 366 Inspiring Hymn Stories for Daily Devotions" by Kenneth W. Osbeck, 1990.