Must I Go, and Empty-Handed?

By Charles C. Luther

Lyrics

1. “Must I go, and empty handed,”
Thus my dear Redeemer meet?
Not one day of service give Him,
Lay no trophy at His feet?

Refrain:
“Must I go, and empty handed?”
Must I meet my Savior so?
Not one soul with which to greet Him:
Must I empty handed go?

2. Not at death I shrink or falter,
For my Savior saves me now;
But to meet Him empty-handed,
Thought of that now clouds my brow.

3. O the years in sinning wasted,
Could I but recall them now,
I would give them to my Savior,
To His will I’d gladly bow.

4. O ye saints, arouse, be earnest,
Up and work while yet ’tis day;
Ere the night of death o’ertake you,
Strive for souls while still you may.

Bible Reference

1 John 2:28

About This Hymn

Must I Go, and Empty-Handed? was inspired by the testimony of a young man who had come to faith but passed away shortly after, with regret that he had no opportunity to serve Christ. Charles Luther, a former journalist and pastor, wrote the poignant lyrics reflecting on the sorrow of entering eternity with no souls won for Christ. George Stebbins, a prominent gospel composer, added the moving melody shortly afterward.

The hymn became a compelling call to Christian service and soul-winning, often used in evangelistic meetings and revival settings.