Abide with Me (#74) LUKE 24:13-35

Background of the Song Henry Francis Lyte (1793-1847) was a preacher in Lower Brixham, a little fishing town in Devonshire for 23 years. He suffered chronic respiratory diseases all his life. He worked as a preacher, taking care of his family, and writing poems and hymns. In 1844, Henry was diagnosed with Tuberculosis. His physical condition deteriorated until he stood in the pulpit for the last time to deliver his farewell message on September 4, 1847.

Background of the Song That same afternoon, after taking a walk on the beach, Henry retired to his room. He emerged about an hour later with a written copy of Abide With Me. He then went to Italy, to get away from the cold, damp English weather. On the way to Italy, he mailed a revised copy of Abide With Me to his wife. He died in Nice, France Nov. 20, 1847

Background of the Song Abide With Me was put to other music by William H. Monk (1823-1889), and made its debut at Henry Lytle's memorial service. Favorite hymn of King George V and Gandhi. It was sung at the weddings of King George VI and of Queen Elizabeth II. It is sung before kick off at every FA Cup Final since 1927 and Rugby League (1929), and various annual celebrations in Austria, New Zealand, Canada and the United Kingdom.

Abide with Me Abide with me; fast falls the eventide; based on Luke 24:29 the darkness deepens; Lord, with me abide. God promises not to forsake us Heb. 13:5-6 When other helpers fail and comforts flee, Matt. 26:31,56; 2 Tim. 4:16,17 Help of the helpless, O abide with me. Deut. 10:18, Psalm 68:4-6

Abide with Me Swift to its close ebbs out life's little day; symbolic of lifetime John 9:4-5; 12:35-36 Earth's joys grow dim; its glories pass away; Eccl. 12:1-7; 1 John 2:15-17 Change and decay in all around I see; men, animals, plants die; metal rusts Matt. 6:19 O Thou who changest not, abide with me. God is eternal, faithful Num.23:19-21

Abide with Me I need thy presence every passing hour. Exodus 33:12-16 What but thy grace can foil the tempter's power? 2 Cor. 12:7-10; 1 Cor. 10:13 Who, like thyself, my guide and stay can be? Jeremiah 10:23; Prov. 16:1,9 Through cloud and sunshine, Lord, abide with me. Eccl. 7:13-14; James 4:5-10,13-17