In Tenderness He Sought Me

By W. Spencer Walton

Lyrics

1. In tenderness He sought me,
Weary and sick with sin,
And on His shoulders brought me
Back to His fold again.
While angels in His presence sang
Until the courts of heaven rang.

Refrain:
O the love that sought me!
O the blood that bought me!
O the grace that brought me to the fold,
Wondrous grace that brought me to the fold!

2. He washed the bleeding sin-wounds
And poured in oil and wine;
He whispered to assure me,
“I’ve found thee, thou art Mine;”
I never heard a sweeter voice;
It made my aching heart rejoice!

3. He pointed to the nail prints,
For me His blood was shed,
A mocking crown so thorny
Was placed upon His head:
I wondered what He saw in me
To suffer such deep agony.

4. I’m sitting in His presence,
The sunshine of His face,
While with adoring wonder
His blessings I retrace:
It seems as if eternal days
Are far too short to sound His praise.

5. So while the hours are passing,
All now is perfect rest;
I’m waiting for the morning,
The brightest and the best,
When He will call us to His side,
To be with Him, His spotless bride.

Bible Reference

Luke 15:4

About This Hymn

"In Tenderness He Sought Me" is a hymn of testimony written by the British evangelist W. Spencer Walton, who served as a missionary in South Africa. First published in 1894, this hymn draws its imagery directly from the parable of the lost sheep, beautifully portraying the personal experience of salvation. Walton’s words depict the sinner as a lost sheep, wandering in danger, yet sought and rescued by the tender love of Christ. The opening line speaks of Christ’s compassionate initiative: “In tenderness He sought me, weary and sick with sin.” The hymn moves from the hopeless state of the lost soul to the glorious joy of redemption, stressing the believer’s security in the Shepherd’s care. Each stanza magnifies the mercy of God, the power of Christ’s atonement, and the believer’s eternal gratitude. The refrain bursts with praise, expressing the unending love for the One who saved the sinner at such great cost.

Historically, Walton’s ministry was deeply evangelistic, and this hymn became widely used in revival services, particularly in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Its simple melody and deeply personal text made it easy for congregations to learn and sing with conviction. Scripturally, it reinforces the truth that salvation is entirely the work of Christ, who not only seeks and saves the lost but also carries them home rejoicing. Today, "In Tenderness He Sought Me" remains a moving reminder of the Good Shepherd’s relentless pursuit of His sheep and the believer’s call to respond with lifelong devotion.