Lord, Speak To Me That I May Speak

By Frances Ridley Havergal

Lyrics

1. . Lord, speak to me that I may speak
In living echoes of your tone;
As you have so't, so let me seek
Your erring children, lost and lone.

2. . Oh, lead me, Lord, that I may lead
The wand'ring and the wav'ring feet;
Oh, feed me, Lord, that I may feed
Your hung'ring ones with manna sweet.

3. . Oh, teach me, Lord, that I may teach
The precious things that you impart,
And wing my words, that I may reach
The hidden depths of many a heart.

4. . Oh, grant my spirit to renew,
That I may speak with soothing pow'r
A word in season, as from you,
To weary ones in needful hour.

5. . Oh, fill me with your fullness, Lord,
Until my very heart o’erflow
In kindling thought and glowing word,
Your love to tell, your praise to show.

6. . Oh, use me, Lord, use even me
Just as you will, and when, and where,
Until your blessèd face I see,
Your rest, your joy, your glory share.

Bible Reference

1 Corinthians 2:4–5

About This Hymn

“Lord, Speak to Me That I May Speak” is one of the most enduring hymns of Frances Ridley Havergal, composed in 1872. Havergal, a dedicated Victorian-era hymn writer and poet, often emphasized personal consecration, service, and the intimate relationship between God and the believer. This hymn is written as a prayer, asking God to fill the singer with His Spirit so that their words, deeds, and life might echo Christ to others. From the opening line, it establishes the theme of divine guidance for Christian witness, highlighting the importance of being a faithful instrument in God’s hands.

The hymn progresses through multiple petitions, each requesting that the Lord’s presence, love, and power shine through the believer. Havergal stresses that human wisdom or eloquence is insufficient for true ministry; rather, the Spirit must empower every word and action. Each stanza emphasizes the believer’s role as a vessel of God’s truth, encouraging faithful service, patient endurance, and the sharing of Christ’s love with others. The text captures both the humility and the boldness required in Christian witness, blending devotion with practical application.

Over the decades, “Lord, Speak to Me That I May Speak” has been widely used in worship services, prayer meetings, missionary gatherings, and personal devotion. Its simple yet profound language allows congregations to engage fully with the hymn’s prayerful tone. Drawing on Havergal’s own life of dedication and spiritual discipline, the hymn continues to inspire Christians to seek God’s guidance in daily interactions, demonstrating that true influence comes from reflecting Christ rather than relying on personal ability. It remains a treasured hymn for those seeking to align their speech, conduct, and ministry with the Spirit of God.