What a friend I have in Jesus, His name is the Light, the lyrics of this beautiful hymn resonate deeply within the hearts of believers around the world. These words, filled with hope and faith, speak of the comfort and strength that Jesus provides to His followers. In this article, we will delve into the meaning behind the lyrics and explore how they inspire countless individuals to rely on Jesus in their daily lives.
The hymn “What a Friend I Have in Jesus” was written by Joseph Medlicott Scriven in 1855. It was inspired by Scriven’s own experiences of loss and sorrow. As a young man, he lost his mother at a young age, and the pain of her absence deeply affected him. In his quest for comfort and solace, he turned to Jesus, finding a friend who would never leave him or forsake him.
The opening line, “What a friend I have in Jesus,” sets the tone for the entire hymn. It speaks of the profound friendship that believers have with Jesus Christ. This friendship is not one that is based on human emotions or circumstances, but on the unchanging love and grace of God. Jesus, as the friend, is always present, always faithful, and always ready to offer comfort and support.
In the second verse, the lyrics describe Jesus as the Light of the world. This metaphor highlights the role of Jesus in guiding believers through the darkest times. Just as a light can dispel darkness, Jesus illuminates the path for His followers, helping them to navigate through life’s challenges with hope and courage. The line “No darkness can hide Him from my view” emphasizes the belief that Jesus is always visible to those who have faith in Him.
The third verse of the hymn focuses on the strength that Jesus provides. The lyrics state, “He is my strength from childhood, and He is my guide along the way.” This line acknowledges that Jesus has been a constant source of strength for the believer since their earliest days. Jesus not only guides us through life’s journey but also empowers us to face the trials and tribulations that come our way.
The fourth verse speaks of the eternal love that Jesus has for His followers. The lyrics say, “He holds me close in His embrace, and I know that I am His own.” This verse reinforces the belief that Jesus is not only a friend but also a loving father figure who cares deeply for His children. The assurance of Jesus’ love and acceptance is a source of immense comfort and joy for believers.
The final verse of the hymn returns to the theme of Jesus as a friend. The lyrics state, “What a friend I have in Jesus, all my sorrows He bore; what a privilege to carry everything to God in prayer!” This verse highlights the importance of turning to Jesus in times of need. By carrying our burdens to God in prayer, we can find solace and strength in the knowledge that Jesus is always there to support us.
In conclusion, the lyrics of “What a Friend I Have in Jesus” offer a powerful reminder of the unbreakable bond between believers and Jesus Christ. This hymn encourages us to rely on Jesus in all aspects of our lives, knowing that He will never leave us or forsake us. As we sing these beautiful words, let us be reminded of the comfort and strength that Jesus provides, and let us share this message of hope and faith with others.
