I read this account in Stories Behind Popular Hymns. Years ago there lived near Kansas City, Missouri, a man by the name of G. A. Young. He wrote a hymn, "God Leads His Dear Children Along," which has for years been a blessing to the Lord's people. It is said that the head of a music publishing company sought to know the history behind the writing of this hymn so he set out to find Mr. Young, only to discover the dear man had departed to be with the Lord. Upon hearing that Mrs. Young was still alive, the publisher set out to find her with the hopes of discovering what motivated her husband to write such a stirring hymn. The man was utterly surprised to learn that the writer's widow was living on a poor farm not far from the city. Back in those days (the 1800's), poor farms were maintained at public expense for the support and employment of needy people. At first the man was hesitant about visiting the lady. "How awkward it would be," he thought, "to go and talk to her about a hymn pertaining to divine providence when she was obviously very poor." In time, however, he laid aside his reluctance, made his way to the farm, found her room, introduced himself and explained the reason for his visit. He was shocked to find a radiant, enthusiastic little woman who was thrilled to be visited. She began to tell her story, which, for the sake of brevity, I will paraphrase. "My husband and I were married while we were very young. God gave us a wonderful life together. We were both joyful in Christ. The Lord led us from day to day, which inspired him to write his famous hymn. But one day God took my husband home to glory, and now this is where I live. God has led me here and I'm so excited and glad about it! Isn't it wonderful that God leads His children day by day and step by step? Many people come to this place and they are so sad and in such great need. They need help and comfort and I am here to cheer many of them and tell them about Christ and His perfect salvation. How thankful I am that God has brought me to this place, where I can be of so much help to these people."
What words of faith, to live on a poor farm and yet be able to say, "God brought me to this place." Children of the Lord, let us ever be mindful of and rejoice in the providential grace of our all-wise heavenly Father. Our steps are ordained of the Lord and shall surely lead in the way that is best for us. I'm reminded of our Savior's words to Peter, "What I do thou knowest not now; but thou shalt know hereafter" (John 13:7). I may not understand how my present circumstances are under the directive hand of my Lord, nor how they will work together for my good, but someday it will all be plain to me. For now, it is my duty to trust Him completely.