Ye are My friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you.
John 15:14
Words: Paul Gerhardt, 1656 (Ist Gott für mich, so trete). Translated from German to English by Catherine Winkworth, 1855.
Music: Greenwood (Sweetser) Joseph E. Sweetser, A Collection of Church Music (New York: John Wiley, 1849), number 161 (🔊 pdf nwc).
Since Jesus is my friend,
And I to Him belong,
It matters not what foes intend,
However fierce and strong.
He whispers in my breast
Sweet words of holy cheer;
How they who seek in God their rest
Shall ever find Him near.
My heart for gladness springs;
It cannot more be sad;
For very joy it laughs and sings,
Sees naught but sunshine glad.
The Sun that lights mine eyes
Is Christ, the Lord I love;
I sing for joy of that which lies
Stored up for me above.