Farther Along (Tempted and Tried)

“Farther Along (Tempted and Tried)” is a deeply comforting gospel hymn by W. B. Stevens that speaks to believers wrestling with suffering, injustice, and unanswered questions. Written in the early twentieth century, the hymn has endured because it gives honest voice to human struggle while firmly anchoring hope in God’s future revelation. Its message is simple but profound, affirming that while much in life remains confusing now, clarity and justice will be fully revealed in God’s time.

The hymn opens with the realistic acknowledgment that God’s people are often tempted, tried, and perplexed by the apparent success of evil and the suffering of the righteous. This honesty reflects the biblical tension found in passages such as Psalm 37, where believers are urged to trust the Lord even when circumstances seem unfair. Rather than offering shallow explanations, the hymn allows space for lament while gently redirecting the heart toward trust.

The recurring refrain, “Farther along we’ll know all about it,” captures the central theme of the hymn. It expresses confidence that present confusion is temporary and that future understanding awaits the faithful. This aligns with Paul’s teaching in Romans 8:18, where present sufferings are set in contrast to future glory. The hymn reassures believers that God’s purposes, though hidden now, are wise and good.

A strong eschatological hope runs throughout the hymn. Drawing on the promise that believers now see only in part, but one day will see clearly, it echoes 1 Corinthians 13:12. The anticipated day of rejoicing points forward to the eternal state described in Revelation 21:4, when sorrow, pain, and tears will be removed. This future perspective strengthens perseverance and encourages patient faith.

“Farther Along” has been especially cherished in times of hardship, funerals, and revival meetings, where its message of hope speaks powerfully to hurting hearts. Its enduring strength lies in its balance of realism and assurance. The hymn does not deny suffering, but it refuses to let suffering have the final word. Instead, it invites believers to walk by faith, trusting that farther along, God’s truth, justice, and goodness will be made perfectly clear.