What a Friend We Have in Jesus
Author: Joseph M. Scriven (1855)·Music: Charles C. Converse·Scripture: 1 Peter 5:7·Topic: Meditation and Prayer
Meaning & History
Scriven wrote these words to comfort his mother in Ireland after losing his own fiancée on the eve of their wedding. It has become the hymn believers reach for when burdens are heaviest — a reminder that prayer is a privilege and Christ is a friend who never fails.
Tonic Sol-fa — Stanza 1
Movable-do sol-fa auto-derived from the public-domain melody in F. A rehearsal aid — check it against the score before printing.
Lyrics
Verse 1
What a friend we have in Jesus, All our sins and griefs to bear! What a privilege to carry Everything to God in prayer!
Verse 2
Have we trials and temptations? Is there trouble anywhere? We should never be discouraged; Take it to the Lord in prayer.
Verse 3
Are we weak and heavy laden, Cumbered with a load of care? Precious Saviour, still our refuge — Take it to the Lord in prayer.