What A Friend We Have in Jesus

“What a friend we have in Jesus” is a beautiful song which allows many who sing it to find peace and comfort in the arms of Christ.  In addition understanding why a song was written and the circumstances to which the author was led to write it can give even greater appreciation to those who sing it.  That is certainly the case when it comes to this song and its author Joseph Scriven.  Mr. Scriven was born in Ireland and suffered great pain early in his adult life.  He was engaged to be married and the night before his wedding his bride to be drowned.  Due to the pain of the loss Joseph sold all his earthly possessions and gave it to the poor of Ireland then he moved to Canada.  While living in Canada he became engaged again but shortly before he was to be married his fiancé came down with pneumonia and died.  

Later in 1855 Joseph’s mother became ill in Ireland and he penned this poem to give her encouragement and comfort in her last days.

It is hard to imagine the depth of pain this man went through.  And like most long lasting songs one person’s pain becomes another person’s hope.

What a Friend we have in Jesus, all our sins and grief’s to bear.What a privilege to carry, everything to God in Prayer.O what peace we often forfeit, O what needless pain we bear,All because we do not carry, everything to God in Prayer.

Have we trials and temptations? Is there trouble anywhere?We should never be discouraged; take it to the Lord in prayer.Can we find a friend so faithful, who will all our sorrows share?Jesus knows our every weakness; take it to the Lord in prayer.

Are we weak and heavy laden, cumbered with a load of care?Precious Savior, still our refuge, take it to the Lord in prayer.Do thy friends despise, forsake thee? Take it to the Lord in prayer;in his arms He'll take and shield thee, thou wilt find a solace there.

Blessed Savior, Thou hast promised, Thou wilt all our burdens bearMay we ever, Lord, be bringing, all to Thee in earnest prayer.Soon in glory bright unclouded, there will be no need for prayerRapture, praise and endless worship, will be our sweet portion there.

Cameron Holland