God Will Take Care of You

"God Will Take Care of You" is a tender and comforting hymn written by Civilla Durfee Martin in 1904, with music composed by her husband, Walter Stillman Martin. Together, this husband-and-wife team gave the Christian world one of the most beloved gospel hymns of trust in God's providence. Inspired by personal experience and rooted in the promises of Scripture, the hymn continues to minister peace to those who are burdened, fearful, or uncertain.

The origin of this hymn is deeply personal. Civilla Martin shared that while she was ill and her husband was preparing to leave town to fulfill a preaching engagement, she encouraged him to go ahead with the help of their young son. Upon seeing her concern, the boy said, “Don’t you think God will take care of us?” Touched by his words, Civilla began to write the lyrics of the hymn. By the time her husband returned later that day, he had composed a melody to fit the words she had written — and thus the hymn was born in a single day.

The hymn opens with a direct statement of divine care: "Be not dismayed whate’er betide, God will take care of you." These opening lines echo 1 Peter 5:7, which exhorts believers to cast their cares upon God, and Isaiah 41:10, which reassures the believer not to fear, for God is with them. The message is clear: no matter what happens — in sorrow, sickness, loss, or uncertainty — God's care remains constant.

The subsequent verses unfold this theme in practical ways. The second verse speaks to God’s guidance along life’s narrow path: "Through days of toil when heart doth fail, God will take care of you." The hymn acknowledges human frailty and the inevitability of discouragement, yet offers divine reassurance that the Lord's strength is available to the weary. It connects beautifully with Psalm 46:1, "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble."

The third verse reminds believers that no matter what burden they bear or sorrow they feel, God knows and provides: "All you may need He will provide, God will take care of you." These words reflect the promises of Philippians 4:19 and Matthew 6:25–34, affirming God’s perfect provision for His children. The hymn does not promise a life free from trials, but it does promise that in every trial, God is faithful.

The final stanza gently assures that "Nothing you ask will be denied," pointing to God’s goodness and sovereign care. The line "No matter what may be the test" echoes Romans 8:28 and reminds us that even trials serve His perfect purpose. The believer is encouraged to trust implicitly, knowing that God's care is not only sufficient but loving, wise, and unceasing.

Walter Martin’s melody is gentle, flowing, and deeply singable. The musical structure complements the hymn’s message of peace and rest in God. The key is often set in F major or E-flat major, providing a warm and comforting tone. The 6/8 meter adds to the hymn’s lullaby-like quality, making it a favorite for times of personal reflection, prayer, or communal encouragement.

"God Will Take Care of You" has been included in hundreds of hymnals and sung in countless settings — from church services and funerals to hospital rooms and family devotions. It is a hymn that meets the Christian in their weakness and points them to a loving Father who never forgets, never fails, and never forsakes.

In a world full of stress, suffering, and instability, this hymn provides timeless assurance. Its simple but profound message remains true: God is not distant or passive — He actively watches over His people, day by day, moment by moment. Whatever the need, whatever the burden, God will take care of you.