Classic Christian Hymns · Public-domain text

Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus

Helen Howarth Lemmel

A British-born American singer, author, and choral director (1863–1961). She traveled widely as a soloist and teacher. In 1918, a missionary friend gave her a tract containing the phrase: 'Turn your eyes upon Him, look full in His face, and the things of earth will grow strangely dim.' Deeply moved, Lemmel sat down and immediately composed both the lyrics and the haunting melody for 'Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus'. Her life was a testament of using her voice and musical talents to point others to the peace of Christ in a chaotic world.

Source: Classic public-domain hymn

O soul, are you weary and troubled?
No light in the darkness you see?
There’s light for a look at the Savior,
And life more abundant and free!
Turn your eyes upon Jesus,
Look full in His wonderful face,
And the things of earth will grow strangely dim,
In the light of His glory and grace.
Through death into life everlasting
He passed, and we follow Him there;
Over us sin no more hath dominion,
For more than conqu’rors we are!
Turn your eyes upon Jesus,
Look full in His wonderful face,
And the things of earth will grow strangely dim,
In the light of His glory and grace.
His Word shall not fail you. He promised;
Believe Him, and all will be well:
Then go to a world that is dying,
His perfect salvation to tell!
Turn your eyes upon Jesus,
Look full in His wonderful face,
And the things of earth will grow strangely dim,
In the light of His glory and grace.