Scripture Verse

Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends. John 15:13

Introduction

portrait
Charles C. Converse
1834–1918

Words: Jo­seph M. Scri­ven, 1855. Scri­ven wrote this hymn to com­fort his mo­ther, who was across the sea from him in Ire­land. It was orig­in­al­ly pub­lished ano­ny­mous­ly, and Scri­ven did not re­ceive full cre­dit for al­most 30 years.

Music: Er­ie Charles C. Con­verse, 1868 (🔊 pdf nwc). In World War I, the tune was paired with the words to When This Bloody War is Ov­er.

Alternate Tunes:

If you know where to get a bet­ter pho­to of Scri­ven,

portrait
Joseph M. Scriven
1819–1886

Lyrics

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.

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 your friends despise, forsake you?
Take it to the Lord in prayer!
In His arms He’ll take and shield you;
You will find a solace there.

Blessèd 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.