Take the Name of Jesus With You - Lyrics

1. Take the name of Jesus with you,
Child of sorrow and of woe;
It will joy and comfort give you;
Take it then where'er you go.

Refrain:
Precious name, oh how sweet!
Hope of Earth and joy of Heav'n.
Precious name, oh how sweet!
Hope of Earth and joy of Heav'n.

2. Take the name of Jesus ever,
As a shield from ev'ry snare;
If temptations round you gather,
Breathe that holy name in prayer.


3. Oh! the precious name of Jesus,
How it thrills our souls with joy,
When his loving arms receive us,
And his songs our tongues employ. 


4. At the name of Jesus bowing,
Falling prostrate at his feet,
King of kings in Heav'n we'll crown him,
When our journey is complete. 

"Take the Name of Jesus with You" is a comforting and evangelistic hymn written by Lydia Baxter in 1870, with music composed by William H. Doane. Lydia Baxter, despite being bedridden for much of her life due to chronic illness, wrote many hymns filled with joy and hope. This particular hymn reflects her strong belief in the sustaining power of Jesus’ name, encouraging believers to carry it with them wherever they go as a source of strength, comfort, and victory.

The hymn opens with an exhortation to take the name of Jesus “child of sorrow and of woe,” highlighting that the name of Jesus is especially powerful in times of trial. Each verse presents a different aspect of the benefits found in His name: solace in sorrow, protection in temptation, joy in fellowship, and reverence in worship. The repetition of the phrase “Take the name of Jesus with you” reinforces the idea that Christ's presence is not limited to church or formal prayer, but is available to believers in every moment of life.

The chorus shifts into a tone of exaltation: “Precious name, O how sweet! Hope of earth and joy of Heaven.” This refrain captures the central message of the hymn—that the name of Jesus is not only a present help but also a future hope. It lifts the heart from the struggles of life and directs the soul toward the eternal glory to come. This dual focus—earthly encouragement and heavenly anticipation—has made the hymn a lasting favorite across generations.

Set to a gentle and singable melody, the hymn has been used in worship services, evangelistic meetings, and personal devotionals. Its universal message transcends age and circumstance, offering peace to the troubled and assurance to the faithful. Lydia Baxter, though physically confined, used her pen to encourage others to walk daily with the sustaining power of Jesus’ name—and her words continue to inspire that same walk today.