I’m Gonna Live So God Can Use Me

This joyful African American spiritual is believed to have been passed down by oral tradition among West and Central African people enslaved in the United States. With its lively rhythm and repeated phrases, this song invites us to live each day helping Heavenly Father with His work of salvation and exaltation. The recurring words “I’m gonna live,” “I’m gonna work,” “I’m gonna pray,” and “I’m gonna sing” cheerfully encourage active belief. The use of the word “gonna” for “going to” reflects the dialect in which the song was originally sung.

The earliest known recording of “I’m Gonna Live So God Can Use Me” appeared in 1928, sung by Blind Benny Paris and his wife, Pauline. More recently, the song was sung by a children’s choir in a 2022 Friend to Friend broadcast. The simple, memorable lyrics resound with happy faith.

Find lyrics, sheet music, and recordings for I’m Gonna Live So God Can Use Me

Scriptures

Principles

The Lord wants us to give Him a willing heart and mind.
We strive to follow the example of Jesus Christ because He always did His Father’s will.
The Lord invites us to labor with Him in the work of salvation and exaltation.
When we strive to serve God and His children, we are promised heaven’s help and guidance.

Questions to Ponder

What opportunities do you have to serve others as an instrument in God’s hands?
Why is it important to seek and follow the promptings of the Holy Ghost?
How can your efforts to serve others help you draw nearer to God?

Related Gospel Study Guides

From Topics and Questions, Gospel Library:

Activities for Families

Tap and feel the beat. African American spirituals are known for their strong rhythms, and “I’m Gonna Live So God Can Use Me” is no exception. To follow the beat, naturally sway the body from side to side while singing or speaking the lyrics. While swaying, lightly clap on the offbeat. Try it slow at first. Sway and clap with the music. Moving and clapping with the beat and offbeat makes singing fun and memorable!
Teach about being an instrument in God’s hands. While working with tools or instruments—for example, while cooking, doing a home repair, sewing, or gardening—sing the hymn. Talk about how God can use us as instruments in His hands. Ask family members how they can live in a way that allows God to work through them. You might discuss how the repentant sons of Mosiah lived so they could be instruments in God’s hands (see Alma 17:9).