Lyrics Page
Down To The River To Pray
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Aug 17, 2026 updated
Verified editorial review
Michael W. Smith performs the traditional American gospel hymn "Down to the River to Pray," a song that invites believers to gather at the river for prayer and reflection. The lyrics call on sisters, brothers, fathers, mothers, and sinners to come down to the water, seeking God's guidance and the way to salvation. The repeated refrain emphasizes the communal act of going to the river to pray, while the verses ponder who will wear the starry crown, symbolizing eternal reward. The song's simple, reverent tone encourages humility and dependence on God, making it a timeless expression of faith and devotion.
Lyrics Verified by Editorial Team
As I went down to the river to pray
Studying about that good old way
And who shall wear the starry crown
Good Lord, show me the way!
O sisters, let's go down
Let's go down, come on down
O sisters, let's go down
Down to the river to pray
O sisters, let's go down
Let's go down, come on down
O sisters, let's go down
Down to the river to pray
Down to the river
Down to the river
Down to the river to pray
Down to the river
Down to the river
Down to the river to pray
Down to the river
Down to the river
Down to the river to pray
Down to the river
Down to the river
Down to the river to pray
As I went down to the river to pray
Studying about that good old way
And who shall wear the robe and crown
Good Lord, show me the way!
O brothers, let's go down
Let's go down, come on down
O brothers, let's go down
Down to the river to pray
O brothers, let's go down
Let's go down, come on down
O brothers, let's go down
Down to the river to pray
As I went down to the river to pray
Studying about that good old way
And who shall wear the robe and crown
Good Lord, show me the way!
O fathers, let's go down
Let's go down, come on down
O fathers, let's go down
Down to the river to pray
O mothers, let's go down
Let's go down, come on down
O mothers, let's go down
Down to the river to pray
O sinners, let's go down
Let's go down, come on down
O sinners, let's go down
Down to the river to pray
O sinners, let's go down
O come on down, just as you are
Come on down
Down to the river to pray