This week I want to share a hymn with you that is near and dear to my heart.
- The most repeated line in the hymn is, “Take it to the Lord in prayer.” What a great reminder that when we don’t know what to do in any situation, we can always turn to the Lord and lift our requests, our burdens and our hearts to Him.
- It reminds me that Jesus is a friend to me. It is always good to remember that I always have a present, faithful and willing-to-listen friend, no matter where I am or what’s going on in my life.
- The author of the hymn, Joseph M. Scriven, seems well acquainted with grief and sorrow, and it is from some of his life experiences that this song was written. His anchor was his faith, and it reminds me that whatever season of life I find myself in that I have access to the same balm for my soul through Jesus, whatever trials, temptations, and sorrows I may experience
- We can cling to the promise of eternal life and that one day every tear will be wiped from our eyes, every body healed, and for all who believe and trust in Jesus His glory will be with us forevermore.
Thank you, Jesus, for being a wonderful friend and for your kindness, care and love.
What a friend we have in Jesus,
All our sins and griefs to bear!
What a privilege to carry
Everything to God in prayer!
Oh, what peace we often forfeit,
Oh, 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 bear;
May we ever, Lord, be bringing
All to Thee in earnest prayer.
Soon in glory bright, unclouded,
There will be no need for prayer—
Rapture, praise, and endless worship
Will be our sweet portion there.