Lord as Thou Wilt Deal Thou with Me
Lord as Thou wilt deal Thou with me
This hymn expresses the Lutheran principle of Christian freedom through submission to God's providential will rather than human preference. It reflects the doctrine that faith accepts God's governance of life with confidence and peace.
History & Background
This hymn was written by Cornelius Elven, an English clergyman and hymnodist, and first published in 1859. It appeared in The Lutheran Hymnal (1941) as hymn 406 and has remained a staple of Lutheran hymnody.
Hymnal Appearances
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 406
Bulletin Note
Written by English hymnologist Cornelius Elven in 1859, this L.M. hymn recovers the medieval tradition of Christian freedom through obedience—not as bondage, but as liberation into God's fatherly will and providence.
Preaching Connection
This hymn embodies the Lutheran paradox: the Law exposes our willfulness and pride, while the Gospel offers the comfort of divine fatherly care for those who yield—making it a perfect devotional response to preaching about surrender and trust in God's providence.
Stanza Arc
The narrative or theological arc traced by this tune's stanzas: From divine calling to missionary commission: the believer receives God's Word, develops compassionate hearts for the lost, practices faithful intercession, and participates in God's redemptive work until all creation glorifies Him
Themes
Surrender to God's will Trust in divine providence Acceptance of suffering Christian submission