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The United Methodist Hymnal · No. 526 · Words: Joseph M. Scriven · Tune: CONVERSE
What a Friend We Have in Jesus
Create PowerPoint slides from this hymn →Written ca. 1855 by Irish-Canadian poet Joseph Scriven, reportedly as a poem to comfort his mother, this beloved hymn invites believers to bring every burden and sorrow to God through prayer. It became widely known after being set to music by Charles Converse in 1868.
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!
O what peace
we often forfeit,
O what needless
pain we bear,
all because we do not 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.
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.
Verse 3
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.
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