Lyrics
What a fellowship,
What a joy divine,
Leaning on the everlasting arms;
What a blessedness,
What a peace is mine,
Leaning on the everlasting arms.
Leaning, leaning,
Safe and secure from all alarms;
Leaning, leaning,
Leaning on the everlasting arms.
O how sweet to walk
In this pilgrim way,
Leaning on the everlasting arms;
O how bright the path
Grows from day to day,
Leaning on the everlasting arms.
Leaning, leaning,
Safe and secure from all alarms;
Leaning, leaning,
Leaning on the everlasting arms.
What have I to dread,
What have I to fear,
Leaning on the everlasting arms;
I have blessed peace
With my Lord so near,
Leaning on the everlasting arms.
Leaning, leaning,
Safe and secure from all alarms;
Leaning, leaning,
Leaning on the everlasting arms.
Song History & Meaning
Composer / Hymnodist: Elisha A. Hoffman
Life often pressures us to rely on our own strength, leaving us exhausted and anxious. Yet this beloved hymn gently reminds us that we are held by an eternal, unchanging Heavenly Father whose strength never fails. When we lean into His presence, our worries fade into a divine joy and deep peace that surpasses understanding. Today, let go of the need to carry it all yourself, and rest securely in the safe embrace of your Savior’s everlasting arms.
📖 Related Scripture Passages:
- Deuteronomy 33:27: “The eternal God is your dwelling place, and underneath are the everlasting arms. He thrust out the enemy from before you; He said, ‘Destroy!’”
- Psalm 91:1-2: “He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of Yahweh, “He is my refuge and my fortress; my God, in whom I trust.””
- Philippians 4:6-7: “In nothing be anxious, but in everything, by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your thoughts in Christ Jesus.”