Pray without Ceasing

The Hymn "What a friend in Jesus" was originally written by Joseph Scriven as poem which was entitled "Pray without ceasing". It wasnt until he was on his deathbed that his carer discovered the the poem and was later put to music by Charles Converse (1832-1918) . Joseph knew trials and tradegy as he was nearly married twice but the twice the bride died a day or so before the wedding. This hymns is a real encouragement for us to bring all to such a faithful friend:

What a Friend We have in Jesus
All our Sins and griefs to bear!
What a privelege to carry
Everything to God in prayer
O what peace we often forfeit,
O what needless pain we bear
All because we do carry
Everything to God in prayer!

Have we trials and temptations?
Is there trouble anywhere?
We should never be disocuraged:
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 saviour 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!

Joseph Scriven (1819-86)