What a Friend We Have in Jesus is a timeless hymn that celebrates the comfort, peace, and companionship found in Christ. This article of What a Friend We Have in Jesus – Lyrics & Meaning provides full lyrics, verse-by-verse meaning, devotional reflections, and worship insights. It is a Hymn of Friendship and Comfort. Few hymns communicate the intimate relationship believers can have with Christ as clearly as What a Friend We Have in Jesus. Written by Joseph M. Scriven, it reminds worshippers that Jesus is always available to listen, comfort, and guide.
This article of What a Friend We Have in Jesus – Lyrics & Meaning provides the full lyrics and a detailed explanation, helping believers understand and apply the song’s message of peace and trust.
The Story Behind the Hymn in this article of What a Friend We Have in Jesus – Lyrics & Meaning
Joseph M. Scriven wrote this hymn in the 1850s to comfort his mother, who lived far away in Ireland. It reflects a deep, personal faith and the joy of knowing that Jesus is always a dependable friend.
The hymn was written to:
Encourage prayer and dependence on Jesus
Remind believers of God’s faithful presence
Inspire trust and peace in all circumstances
Celebrate the comfort of a personal relationship with Christ
Its message continues to resonate with millions of worshippers worldwide.
What a Friend We Have in Jesus – Full 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!
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.
Meaning of “What a Friend We Have in Jesus
Meaning of “What a Friend We Have in Jesus”
This hymn highlights five key truths about Jesus in this What a Friend We Have in Jesus – Lyrics & Meaning article
1. Jesus Is Our Friend
He is approachable, loving, and willing to carry our burdens.
2. Prayer Is Powerful
We are encouraged to bring all our worries, temptations, and griefs to God.
3. Comfort in Trials
The song reminds believers that Jesus provides peace and guidance during difficult times.
4. God Understands Our Weakness
He knows our struggles intimately and supports us through every trial.
5. Refuge in God
Jesus is a safe haven, giving solace, hope, and restoration to every believer.
This message connects with songs like:
Jesus Is Tenderly Calling You Home – Gospel Hymn
Blessed Assurance – Fanny J. Crosby
Way Maker – Sinach
Verse-by-Verse Explanation of What a Friend We Have in Jesus – Lyrics & Meaning
Verse 1
“What a friend we have in Jesus…”
The opening verse emphasizes that Jesus gladly bears our sins and worries through prayer, highlighting the privilege of a personal relationship with Him.
Verse 2
“Have we trials and temptations…”
The second verse reminds believers not to be discouraged but to rely on prayer during trials, knowing that Jesus is faithful and understands our struggles.
Verse 3
“Are we weak and heavy-laden…”
The final verse offers comfort and hope, reminding worshippers that God is refuge and shield, even when others fail or forsake us.
Image of What a Friend We Have in Jesus – Lyrics
Devotional Thought (What a Friend We Have in Jesus – Lyrics & Meaning Article)
Singing What a Friend We Have in Jesus is a declaration of trust and reliance on Christ:
Bring every burden to God in prayer
Rest in His faithfulness and love
Find solace and peace in His presence
Trust Him to carry your worries, even when life feels heavy
Meditating on this hymn strengthens faith and encourages believers to remain close to Jesus daily.
Bible Verses Related to This Hymn in What a Friend We Have in Jesus – Lyrics & Meaning Article
Psalm 34:17 – “The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; He delivers them from all their troubles.”
1 Peter 5:7 – “Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.”
Hebrews 4:16 – “Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence…”
John 15:13-15 – “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends…”
Tips to Sing & Meditate on This Hymn (What a Friend We Have in Jesus – Lyrics & Meaning Article)
1. Use it during personal prayer or reflection to draw close to Jesus.
2. Memorize the chorus as a reminder of God’s constant presence.
3. Meditate on specific times when God has carried your burdens.
4. Encourage others by sharing the hymn in worship or devotional settings.
Reflection: A Friend Who Never Fails
In every season — joy, struggle, or sorrow — Jesus remains a faithful friend.
Just as Blessed Assurance affirms salvation, What a Friend We Have in Jesus affirms God’s comforting presence in our lives.
Join the Conversation
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