He'll Understand and Say, "WELL DONE!"

By Lucie Eddie Campbell

Lyrics

1. If when you give the best of your service,
Telling the world that the Savior is come,
Be not dismayed when they do not believe you;
He understands, he'll say, "Well done."

Refrain:
Oh, when I come to the end of my journey,
Weary of life and the battle is won;
Carrying the staff and the cross of redemption,
He'll understand and say, "Well done."

2. Misunderstood, the Savior of sinners,
Hung on the cross; He was God's only Son;
Oh! hear him calling his Father in Heaven,
"Let not my will, but yours be done."

3. If when this life of labor in ended,
And the reward of the race you have run;
Oh! the sweet rest that's prepared for the faithful
Will be their blest and last "Well done."

4. But if you try and fail in your trying,
Hands sore and scarred from the work you've begun,
Take up your cross and run quickly to meet him;
He'll understand, he'll say, "Well done."

Bible Reference

Matthew 25:21

About This Hymn

“He’ll Understand and Say Well Done” is a moving and heartfelt gospel hymn written by Lucie Eddie Campbell, one of the most influential African American female composers and music directors in the early 20th century. First published in 1933, this hymn reflects Campbell’s deep commitment to creating songs that would encourage and uplift African American congregations during a time of social struggle and spiritual perseverance. The hymn’s message is one of encouragement and assurance: when believers serve faithfully, often in obscurity and through trials, God sees their faithfulness, and they will one day hear His commendation, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant.”

Lucie Eddie Campbell, often called the “Mother of Gospel Music,” was a trailblazing songwriter, singer, and music director who introduced many now-legendary gospel singers, including Thomas A. Dorsey and Mahalia Jackson, to wider audiences. Campbell’s compositions bridged traditional hymns with the emerging gospel style, adding depth, soul, and accessibility to church music. “He’ll Understand and Say Well Done” is a perfect example of this, with its heartfelt melody and lyrics that speak of endurance and the Christian hope of eternal reward. The hymn resonates with Matthew 25:21, reminding believers that even unnoticed acts of service are precious in the sight of God, and those who serve Him faithfully will be honored in eternity.

The hymn gained popularity throughout African American churches and became a staple in gospel hymnals. It has been recorded by numerous artists, further cementing its place as a timeless spiritual classic. Its simplicity and sincerity continue to touch hearts, encouraging believers to press forward in service, regardless of life’s challenges. Campbell’s gift of merging strong theology with music that spoke deeply to her community is evident here. “He’ll Understand and Say Well Done” continues to be sung not only as a hymn of hope but also as a testimony of the faith and resilience of the African American church tradition.